Episode 39: The Luxury Cruise Ship’s Departure
The boarding procedures went more smoothly than I had expected. It seemed Josuke had prepared the necessary documents in advance, and Tsuyoshi had arranged for us to be treated as VIPs and have our processing prioritized. After checking our luggage and receiving our boarding passes, our group was guided by a staff member and stepped into the large ship.
“It’s huge inside too!”
Riku’s voice echoed, and even the adults couldn’t help but look up. The lobby ceiling was high, and a chandelier sparkled. Many foreign tourists could be seen around us, and various languages were being spoken.
“First, let’s attend the safety briefing.”
Guided by a staff member, our group moved to a small theater room. Here, we watched an instructional video about emergency procedures. I focused and firmly committed the information to memory.
Once the explanation was over, we were permitted to move freely about the ship.
“We will show you to your rooms.”
Our group decided to split up. Josuke and I, Riri and Seika, and the Tetsumura family would use a family room.
“Alright then, let’s meet up in the main dining hall after we drop off our luggage,” Tsuyoshi suggested before we separated.
“Lunchtime will be starting soon, you know.”
Josuke’s and my room was located slightly aft of the ship’s center. When we opened the door, a space larger than I had expected unfolded before us.
“Whoa.”
“This is incredible.”
Josuke checked out the spacious room item by item. There were two large beds, a TV and desk, and even a comfortable sofa. The toilet and washstand area were also spacious, and there was even a shower room with a bathtub.
And what was most impressive was the balcony. Opening the glass door revealed a private space with a panoramic view of the outside, furnished with chairs that had ottomans.
“We haven’t departed yet, so the view is just this for now,” Josuke said, looking out at the vast parking lot visible from the balcony. I predicted that the ocean view from here would be truly wonderful.
“You’re right,” I agreed. “Once we’re out at sea, the view will surely be great.”
For a while, the two of us just gazed out absentmindedly. A luxurious time of doing nothing.
“Well, shall we get going soon?” Josuke said, checking his watch.
“It’s time for lunch to start in the main dining hall.”
“Let’s go.”
The two of us moved to the deck where the main dining hall was located. Many passengers had already gathered in the spacious dining area. A waiter guided us to a wonderful table by the window.
“Please enjoy yourselves at this table.”
The waiter presented us with menus.
“What would you like to drink?”
“Umm, well then… what should I get?” I hesitated, looking over the menu.
“I’ll have this.”
Josuke ordered sparkling wine without hesitation. I ended up ordering the same. Shortly after we ordered our drinks, the Tetsumura family joined us.
“The room was amazing!” Riku, Tsuyoshi’s son, began to speak excitedly.
“Oh really? How was it amazing?”
“Our room has a kids’ room too! And it has a TV and games!”
“I see. That’s great.”
I smiled at the child’s innocent joy. Then, Riri and Seika finally arrived, and our entire group was assembled.
“How was it? Your room?” I asked, and Riri’s eyes sparkled.
“It’s wonderful! The bathroom is so spacious, and the amenities are fantastic,” Riri said with excitement.
“I’m so excited, it looks like we’ll see an even more amazing view once we’re out at sea!”
Her face showed a pure, girlish joy, different from her time adventuring in the other world.
“Seika-san, you travel overseas a lot for work, so you must be used to this kind of travel, right?”
“I fly often, but it’s been a while since I’ve been on a ship. It’s also been a while since I’ve been able to relax and enjoy myself like this,” Seika replied with a smile. Though she was usually engrossed in her research, today she seemed more relaxed.
The waiter brought the appetizers. Shrimp cocktails were beautifully arranged, adorning the table. Next, a hearty American-style meat dish was served.
“Delicious,” I let out an honest remark.
“I heard the chef on this ship trained at a Michelin-starred restaurant,” Josuke explained, sounding well-informed.
“Mama, this is yummy!” Aoi said, looking up at her mother.
“Yes it is, Aoi. It’s delicious, isn’t it?”
Seeing the sight, we all felt a sense of happiness. A sense of gratitude welled up in me for being able to share such a peaceful daily life.
“Apparently, tomorrow will be a full day at sea, and we’ll arrive at our first port of call the day after tomorrow,” Josuke said, explaining as he checked the schedule, and everyone listened.
Then, the conversation naturally shifted to our travel plans. Seika suggested we tour the ship’s attractions, Riri shared information she had researched beforehand, and the children insisted they wanted to go to the aquarium said to be on board.
As we were talking, dessert—strawberry shortcake—was brought out. It looked simple, but one bite revealed an exquisite balance of tartness and sweetness. The adults enjoyed coffee, and the children had juice.
“I think it’s about time for departure,” Josuke said, checking his watch.
“Alright then, shall we go to the deck and watch the moment we set sail?”
“Sounds good.”
At my suggestion, our group moved to the ship’s deck. People seeing us off could be seen at the terminal. Beneath the blue sky, the sea breeze pleasantly caressed our cheeks.
Just then, the sound of a gong echoed throughout the ship. It seemed to be the signal for departure. Following that, a loud ship’s horn blared, and the massive hull slowly began to move.
“We’re off!” Riku and Aoi shouted.
The ship left the port on schedule and slowly began to set its course towards the open sea.
I leaned against the deck railing alongside my companions, watching the port scenery gradually recede into the distance. My anticipation for the journey ahead swelled.