As the sun sets behind the Dirusaldo mountain range to the west of the royal capital, Waarus, the air remains tepid. Although it's too early to hear the whispers of autumn, the days are undeniably growing shorter. Regrettably, the moon hasn't risen yet, but in its stead, the twinkling stars gradually multiply.
"Ah~~~"
On such a summer evening, an uncharacteristically loud exclamation of a maiden echoes through the air.
Right now, I wish to forget the demeanor expected of a noble lady. Why? Because I'm luxuriating in a hot spring. I had always enjoyed the spacious baths in our mansion since childhood, so I'd forgotten how much I loved natural hot springs.
It's been 12 years since I reincarnated into this world, and I've decided to savor my first hot spring experience to the fullest. Not even Fran can stop me today.
The location is an inn situated south of the royal capital, just across the river. The water, which springs close to the sea, is rich in minerals, especially salt. This saline-rich water has high antiseptic properties, aiding in the healing of minor wounds, neuralgia, and even dermatitis. It's also said to help with gastrointestinal issues, constipation, poor circulation, mild hypertension, glucose intolerance, mild asthma, and autonomic nervous system instability.
It's practically medicine! And the best part? You don't have to swallow bitter pills or capsules. Just soak and enjoy the therapeutic benefits. The salt also helps prevent skin dryness, ensuring a moisturized complexion. The seawater hot spring retains heat well, warming you to the core. Transitioning from the brink of overheating to a cold bath and then warming up again is an indescribable pleasure.
However, as I was passionately discussing the merits of hot springs, I noticed Aurelia and Fran giving me peculiar looks.
"I understand that you appreciate the hot springs, my lady," Fran remarked, her tone dry.
Don't you want to know the wonders of hot springs too?
"If I had known you'd be this delighted, I would've chosen accommodations with hot springs during our inspections. I'll make a note for next time," she added.
"Great thinking, Fran! Let's go on a hot spring tour when we return!"
"...If we don't return to the mansion soon, the master will be distraught, you know?"
Perhaps we should just make a brief detour to some hot springs on our way back. A hot spring tour spanning two worlds sounds amazing, doesn't it?
"You sure know a lot about this, Leti. Thanks to you, I've come to appreciate the wonders of hot springs a bit more," Aurelia chimed in.
I'm glad. It feels like my passionate explanation was worth it.
By the way, the permission for the training attire was easily granted. While the profits from our territory are crucial, strengthening the military is also indispensable, especially in times of crisis. It seems discussions are underway to establish an experimental unit involving the Warlord. Aurelia will be the first to test it.
It's been 10 days since we arrived in the royal capital. Even though it took me five days to get here, a reply from my father has already arrived. It's evident how crucial our relationship with Count Caroneia is.
Given the confidential nature of our territory's affairs, Aurelia's training attire will bear no insignia and will be transported when my father visits the capital. At that time, a lord's conference, including me and Lady Aurelia, is scheduled. I'll also have the opportunity to greet Aurelia's father, whom I've heard is quite busy.
The attire, which I thought of to impress Kamin, has become a significant matter. Meeting Aurelia has expedited many plans.
I wonder if the civil servant who took over is overwhelmed by the workload.
Regardless, Aurelia and I have become fast friends. The day after we met, she offered to show me around the capital, claiming she knew it well. She accompanied me during the school registration process, introduced me to delightful pastry shops and chic cafes, and even went shopping with me for discreet clothing and swimsuits. We've been practically inseparable these past 10 days.
I always thought that if I could hang out and get along with someone, they'd be my friend.
"Miss Scarlett, would you be my friend?" Aurelia asked, her voice tinged with hope.
I was taken aback, feeling as if she had confessed her feelings. It took all my willpower not to react impulsively.
She told me she had little interaction with peers her age, focusing solely on studies and training. Her acquaintances were mostly soldiers she met during training.
Our circumstances were similar. In my case, the number of civil servants assisting with work increased, but the proportion of women was slightly better on my side. I never felt lonely because I had Fran.
So, I invited her to the beach, a plan I had since arriving in the capital. What was supposed to be a playful frolic in the waves turned into a serious swimming session. I struggled to keep up with her, even with enhancement magic.
After a day of fun, we decided to stay overnight at this hot spring inn.
"By the way, Leti," Aurelia began, her voice hesitant.
"Yes? What is it?"
"Why have you been touching my chest this whole time?"
I was taken aback. I had been holding onto Aurelia's chest while discussing the hot springs. Her soft, smooth skin felt so comforting that I couldn't let go.
"I thought if I touched it enough, maybe my chest would grow too," I replied sheepishly.
Aurelia's face turned a shade redder, "If you're aiming for growth, wouldn't touching Fran's be more effective?"
"...That's a different dimension altogether. It feels so unattainable that I doubt it would have any effect."
I tried to shift the blame onto Fran, but unfortunately, I had already tested that theory, and it didn't work.
"When you stopped touching me during baths recently, I wondered why. So that was the reason," Aurelia mused.
Yes, that's right. I've never experienced the sensation of my chest floating in water, not even in my previous life. I've always envied Fran for that. I've given up on high hopes, but can't something be done?
Upon hearing that I had also touched Fran's chest, Aurelia tensed up. For the record, I've touched my mother's too. It didn't have any effect, but still.
"Could it be... Leti, do you prefer girls?" she asked cautiously.
"Well, I adore both cute and beautiful girls," I admitted.
Aurelia distanced herself, her face a deep shade of crimson. Fran looked at me with a puzzled expression. Did I say something wrong?
"Miss Scarlett, do you... not have any interest in men?" Fran inquired, her voice filled with concern.
Why does Fran look so serious? Should I cool her down?
Wait a minute...
Are they misunderstanding something?
Do they think I'm a lesbian?
Why?
In my previous life, I wasn't just infatuated with cute girls like Nezuko or Azusa; I also had a thing for guys like Sangozuki and Shou.
This is problematic. I'm supposed to marry into nobility in the future, and that's my job. If I'm perceived as being attracted to the same gender, I won't have any marriage prospects. Even a mere rumor could be disastrous. I wouldn't be able to face my father.
Fran might understand, but I can't just leave it at that. I can always find time to explain to her. But with Lady Aurelia, it's different. I can't let her go thinking that. Even if she doesn't spread rumors, our friendship could be strained. The distance that's already formed between us is painful.
"No, no, no, wait. Please wait. It's not like that, really. Please let me explain! Believe me!"
I apologized with all my might, even bowing at a 90-degree angle. It was the first time I had to do that.
It's just physical affection! I didn't touch her with any romantic or sexual intent! It's friendship. Yes, friendship. While there's affection, there's no romantic love! I just found her cute, that's all. I wasn't excited or anything!
I haven't experienced my first love in this life yet, but that doesn't mean I'm not attracted to men. I do like men in suits, with glasses, with husky voices, and even the cute types.
It's just... I haven't met the right one yet!
After much pleading and explaining, she finally seemed to understand. I might have misspoken a few times, but I hope she forgets those parts.
"I just find cute things precious and want to adore them, that's all."
"..."
"..."
The silence was deafening. She did understand, right? That look wasn't one of disbelief, was it?
"If you say it's a misunderstanding, then please refrain from any inappropriate behavior in the future."
"...Yes."
I had no words to respond.