The air is alive with the mouthwatering scent of sizzling street food, mingling with the symphony of bargaining and haggling. Carriages rattle by, sending pedestrians scurrying, while nobles in lavish attire stand out amidst the sea of commoners.
The Noble Consort had given them more than enough to spend. Jiggling the coin-filled pouch, Erya grins wickedly. "Shall we visit that uncultured restaurant owner?"
They tweak their brows in agreement before they start marching forward. As they enter deeper into the bustling street, their gait transforms into the refined steps of noble ladies. No one would believe that just a few days ago, they were two beggars running across the streets. With their current appearance, they blend seamlessly with the nobles.
Yetsune is wearing a purple dress with delicate flower embroidery. A white sash cinches her waist, accentuating her figure, while a jade tassel pendant dangles from it. Erya's blue dress is also of similar design. The top half of their hair is woven into silver rings, complemented by tiny strings of beads. As they walk through the streets, they are captivated by the interesting merchandise across the stalls.
"I want these!" Yetsune bubbles with excitement, pointing at matching bracelets and jade tassel pendants. "They'd look stunning on us both!"
She hops to another stall before Erya finishes paying. They flit from stall to stall, then to larger shops, with Yetsune constantly pointinh items for Erya to purchase.
"Why bother buying these when you have the same in Aisin? We've still got a long way to the restaurant," Erya grumbles, weighed down by bags in both hands from the spree.
Yetsune giggles. "It's our first time buying what we want for ourselves. Plus, how often do we get to buy matching items?" Erya sighs deeply as she pays for another item, but Yetsune vanishes before she can turn around.
"Erya!" Yetsune's voice carries across the street. With another sigh, Erya makes her way over.
"I heard these are very sweet," she says, holding up two bamboo skewers of what looks like candy.
"What is that?" Erya asks.
"Sugar-coated hawthorn," Yetsune replies, Her eyes sparkle with anticipation. "The vendor said they are a delicacy unique to Aushasal."
Yetsune takes a bite, closing her eyes in bliss as she savors the delightful crunch and sweetness.
"Hey, you have not paid yet!" The vendor yells at her. Erya hastily retrieves coins from her pouch to settle the debt.
"Here." Yetsune offers the skewers to Erya, who stares blankly, prompting Yetsune to look down at her hands. She realises she has bought so many things that Erya's hands are now filled.
"Sorry," she hurriedly apologises, putting both skewers in one hand as she tries to take some of the bags from Erya but she side-steps.
"I can't let you carry these. We may be playing sisters, but you're still my mistress," Erya says, walking away. Stunned by her tone, Yetsune catches up and seizes a bag.
"Your Highness," Erya protests.
"Stop calling me that before we're caught. If we're playing sisters, let's do it properly," Yetsune grins, offering the skewer again. Erya's hesitation melts into a smile as she accepts.
Yetsune continues to walks ahead while Erya stays back to watch her. It is a shame they will eventually have to return to Aisin. She worries Yetsune might struggle with the restrictive life after tasting freedom. Even Erya is almost getting fooled by their fake sibling relationship. Now she is buying items in pairs for them, they might not even get the chance to use this things once they return to Aisin.
"What a waste," Erya murmurs to herself.
Further down the street, a grand building catches Yetsune's eye. It bustles with finely dressed patrons and guarded by armed men. Two women in sultry red dress stand at the entrance, their seductive smiles beckoning men inside. The entire building is draped in bright red and purple linens, while glowing red lanterns cast a warm and inviting glow.
Yetsune halts, reading the plaque: "House of Fragrance."
"What are you looking at?" Erya asks. She had overtaken Yetsune but turned only to find she is not behind her.
Yetsune goes to pull Erya close. "Wow," Erya breathes when she sees the building, admiring the beauty of the women and the opulence of the building. "I've never seen anything like it."
"Let's dine here instead," Yetsune decides. She pulls Erya by the wrist as she climbs the short stairs leading to the entrance.
As they approach, a towering guard blocks their path. Erya instinctively moves to protect Yetsune. He is so tall that they have to raise their gaze from his muscular chest to his ugly frowning face.
"How uncultured, obstructing our way," Erya spits, recalling the previous incident.
The guard looms menacingly, but Erya's glare doesn't waver while Yetsune clings to her waist. A courtesan, noticing the situation, intervenes.
"I can tell you're noble ladies," she remarks with a smile.
"So?" Erya responds.
"Places like this could ruin your reputation," the courtesan warns coyly.
Erya scoffs, unfastening her money pouch. "Our reputation is our concern. We have ample funds to indulge ourselves." She jiggles the pouch with confidence. To say that seeking entertainment or dining out could tarnish one's reputation in Aushasal seems preposterous.
The courtesan's demeanor shifts instantly. "Please, esteemed customers, do come in," she says, bowing and gesturing towards the entrance.
Inside, the strong scent of alcohol mingles with jasmine and sandalwood. Music and laughter fill the air. Courtesans in vibrant silks and sparkling jewels entertain male clients on plush cushions. Musicians play in the background as dancers twirl gracefully.
Yetsune and Erya stand speechless, eyes wide with wonder at the luxurious spectacle. A waiter approaches, breaking their trance.
"Good afternoon, ladies. Where would you like to sit?" he asks.