Basil
It was our second day in Japan, and the start of our guided tour. The destination? Joetsu Kukosai, one of the largest ski resorts in the country, where we would consume the day gliding on the snow. We are currently outside of the hotel in the cool morning air, waiting for our service to arrive. A small number of other travelers, all following the same itinerary and accommodations patiently spread around us.
I shifted my attention to the woman beside me. With a bright smile, Amara was lost in her own world. Her excitement was obvious, a clear contrast to my more reserved manner. Her glee was nearly childish as she play with her gloves while looking at the snow-capped mountain peaks from afar.
Her voice was filled with enthusiasm as she whispered to herself, "This is going to be remarkable."
I crossed my arms and rested my back against the bus station railing to watch her. I wasn't used to how her eyes glow with excitement and enthusiasm. Amara is usually cautious, her proud self-confidence concealed her true side. She was raw now, though, like a child who has never seen snow before.
I laughed quietly and shook my head. "What's making you so excited?"
Her smile grew as she twisted to face me. "I've never gone skiing before! It's something I've always wanted to do."
The way she expressed herself made it appear as if this vacation was an eagerly anticipated dream that just got granted.
Despite my cautious behavior, I couldn't help but to smile. "I just realized that every time your desires are satisfied, you react like a toddler in a candy store."
In a reckless gesture, Amara flashed her middle finger at me. Absolutely unconscious of the looks it was beginning to attract from the other travelers around us. My mood suddenly changed. I instantly moved forward, took her hand, and slid it into my hoodie pocket, sealing it there.
With a low but forceful tone, I said, "What do you think you're doing?"
She pretended to be innocent as she stared up at me. "What? You deserved it."
"Amara," I murmured, gritting my teeth and bending slightly, "you can't just flash that at me—or anybody, for it is considered offensive here."
She cracked a grin undoubtedly thrilled by my reaction. "Oh, come on. It's not like they even noticed."
I raised an eyebrow and shot a sharp glance at a pair near who were chatting in low tones while staring at us. "Yeah? Tell that to them."
She made an effort to mask it with a giggle, but her cheeks blushed a little. "Fine, fine. I'll behave. Happy now?"
"Not yet," I whispered as I returned to my position, holding her hand tightly in my pocket. "You're staying like this until you learn some control."
Amara lightly tugged her locked hand while faking sadness. "Let me go." She demanded in a low but firm tone.
I smirked and looked her in the eye. She let out a dramatic moan, but didn't resist more. "Try me, princess. It's either this or I'll make you sit in the bus' front row with the tour guide."
"You're the worst."
My attention shifted as the blue bus pulled up smoothly in front of us, giving Amara a chance to escape without being seen. As soon as I climb aboard, I looked around the cabin to search for her. She was seated in the fourth row near the window, mutely giggling to herself. I arched an eyebrow as I approached her.
I paused next to her chair slightly bending. With a playful and deep tone, I uttered. "Enjoying the show, are we?"
Amara suppressed another laugh as she glanced up at me. "You looked so lost out there. I thought you'd never get on the bus."
I let out a hollow laugh while shaking my head as I sat into the seat next to her without waiting for an invitation, saying, "I'm glad my struggle was so entertaining for you."
A frown took the place of her happiness. "I didn't say you could sit here."
I moved a little closer and laid one arm over the back of the seat. "What, were you hoping I'd sit somewhere else so you could keep laughing at me in peace?"
Amara turned her head away to the window to cover her smile. "You're ridiculous."
"And you," I replied in a softer tone, "are fortunate that I'm feeling giving today. Cherish your victory princess. It won't last."
Amara snapped her head back at me to give me an annoyed expression. In an irritated tone, "Enough with the whole 'princess' thing. I'm not some spoiled royal in a fairytale, and you're definitely not my knight in shining armor."
I chuckled, her angry face completes my day. "Oh, but it matches you so well," I joked. "The way you carry yourself, the attitude... it just fits."
She lifted an eyebrow and crossed her arms. "If you keep calling me that, I'll start calling you... old grumpy Hawthrone. How does that sound?"
I opened my mouth to respond to Amara, but my words were interrupted by the tour guide who stepped forward, catching our attention by clearing his throat aggressively.
He smiled brightly and shouted, "Mina san, ohayo gozaimasu!" Effortlessly wiping out the light conversations in the bus. "I'm Saito Yuta, your guide for today. Welcome to the Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort Tour! I hope you're well-prepared for an exciting day on the slopes."
Some of the attendees responded with whispers, while others were more excited. Amara leaned forward like an interested student, sitting confidently in her seat. My forehead wrinkled but I remained silent.
"As we get closer the resort," Yuta went on, "let me give you a brief description. Joetsu Kokusai is among the most well-known ski destinations in Japan, with a variety of slope selection suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts. So, don't worry if it's your first time skiing—our instructors are here to guide you every step of the way."
Amara pushed my arm as her eyes brightened. "Did you hear that? Beginners are welcome. This is going to be fun," she said in a whisper, her enthusiasm evident.
I laughed. "Just don't fall flat on your face, prin—" I paused when she gave me a sharp look. "Amara."
Yuta brought our focus back with a clap from his palms. "A few reminders before we arrive. First, safety is our top priority. Always follow the directions of the ski instructors and pay attention to the marked trails. Second, wear the right gear: waterproof jackets, snow pants, gloves, and goggles. If you didn't bring your own, rentals can be found at the resort. And third, most importantly—have fun! Skiing is an incredible experience, and I'm sure you will all enjoy it."
"Sounds straightforward enough." Amara muttered, moving closer to me, "I think I'll do just fine."
I muttered a little chuckle. "Let's see how confident you are after your first crash."
She ignored me and returned her focus to Yuta, who was now stating the resort's amenities. As I looked at Amara's glowing face, I sat back in my chair and allowed the guide's words flow into the background. She appeared on a cloud nine—totally in her own world—and for a split second, I couldn't avoid but to smile at her devotion.
She caught me staring, instantly raising her eyebrow suspiciously. "What?"
"Nothing," I responded, grinning slightly as I shook my head. "Just wondering if you'll still be excited after rolling down the slope."
She gave me another arrogant glare. "Keep imagining things, old grumpy Hawthrone. You'll be the one eating snow before me."
I blurted out, "Challenge accepted," as Yuta concluded his remarks and the bus started to slow down.
The bus stopped smoothly in front of Joetsu Kokusai Ski Resort's main entrance. The resort's snow-covered grounds were visible through the windows, alive with activity—vibrant groups of skiers navigating the snowy terrain, the sound of lifts climbing the mountain, and a shower of snowflakes falling from the sky.
As Amara craned her neck to take it all in, she almost jumped in her seat from excitement. She muttered, "This is going to be fun," though I didn't want to show it, her joy was infectious.
Along with the rest of the passengers, we exited the bus and proceeded into the main lobby. With polished hardwood floors and a raging fireplace that seemed to take the chilly temperature out of the air, the interior was cozy and inviting.
After checking in and claiming our tickets, we were instructed to go to our designated rooms to change into our skiing gear. However, since Amara and I didn't have the proper equipment, went to the rental place.
The area was well arranged, with racks of boots, gloves, snow pants, and jackets. I just picked the first pair that suited me, but Amara took a significant amount of time choosing a jacket, arguing it had to match her red helmet.
As I watch her analyze a pair of gloves, I questioned, "Do you always make everything into a fashion phrase?"
She gave me a glance. "I'm not about to look like a snowman in the photos, Basil."
With a dry response, "Trust me, no matter what you wear once you're buried in the snow, you'll look like one." I obtained an eye roll.
Once we're finally prepared, we made our way to the open training area, where a number of instructors were waiting to help newcomers. The charming young man, Yuta approaced us, wearing a bright orange vest that said "Instructor."
He smiled warmly and added, "Welcome to Joetsu Kokusai!" in flawless English. "Are you both first-timers?"
I gave him a slow head shake. "Not me," I responded, turning my head slightly and gesturing to Amara. "She is the one in need of assistance."
Amara glared at me. "Thank you, Basil, for the vote of confidence."
Yuta turned to face her and chuckled, his smile growing. "That's totally ok!" He looked back to face me and said, "If you are already familiar with the basics, you can practice alone while I help her in getting started. I'll see to it that she's prepared for the slopes quickly."
"Good luck," I smiled as I moved aside to give them open space. "Avoid knocking him over."
Amara looked at me sighing and tightening her gloves. "Get lost! I'm not that stupid."
With a chuckle, Yuta moved slightly close to Amara. "Don't worry, miss. Skiing is all about rhythm and balance. I'll walk you through the basics. Let's begin by getting acquainted to the skis."
I took another few steps back and started warming up as Yuta showed her how to stand correctly and slide forward. I glided over the snow with ease, looking back at them every now and then.
Amara attempted to follow Yuta's instructions while stumbling on her skis. Yuta offered encouragement, "You're doing great!" As Amara slid a few feet before halting uncomfortably.
"I wouldn't use the word 'great,'" I whispered to myself laughing as I saw her nearly fall once more.
Amara glanced at me, sticking her tongue out, then returned her attention to Yuta. "I'm going to destroy him. Let's continue, Yuta."
"That's what I'm talking about," Yuta nodded positively.
Despite Amara's repeated falls he patiently walked her through basic movements like turning, slowing down, and keeping her balance. Since I was already familiar about skiing, I didn't mind them at first. I occupied myself doing some warm-ups to prepare my muscles for the next terrain while Amara was practicing. I watched her progress out of the corner of my eye. She was still having trouble remaining her balanced, stumbling awkwardly whenever she tried to advance on her skis.
With a smile and an endlessly optimistic tone, Yuta added, "Don't lean too far forward, Amara-san! Relax your body and let the skis lead you."
Amara laughed, a chuckle that was half amusement and half frustration. "It's simple for you to say! These objects can think for themselves!"
With a kind laugh, Yuta reached out and grabbed her arm. "In fact, you're doing better than the majority of newbies. You'll be a pro at skiing by the end of today, I promise."
For some reason, Amara's laughter, which was light and carefree, completely distracted me from what I was doing. I slowed down and turned to observed them more attentively.
With his hand remaining on her arm, Yuta helped her into a proper position by pressing lightly against some part of her body, but he stood a bit too near for my comfort. Amara seemed quite comfortable in his company, smiling up at him, her cheeks flushed—not simply from the cold. Something I couldn't quite put my finger on surged in my chest, something strange and annoying. As I watched them, I frowned and balled my hands into fists at my sides.
"Like this?" Amara asked, her eyes wide and eager as she looked up at Yuta.
"Yes, precisely!" Yuta answered with obvious excitement. "Now you're getting it! Let's try sliding ahead; if you fall, don't worry, I'll be right here to catch you."
I muttered a laugh, as I transferred myself from one ski to the other. He wasn't supposed to touch her and stand over her like that. She would ultimately work it out on her own, wouldn't she? Unfortunately, I was unable to turn away. My jaw hardened for some reason as she laughed with him so naturally. It wasn't exactly jealousy. I couldn't quite understand why, but it seemed more like irritation.
I yelled, "Enjoying yourself?" raising my voice above what was needed, as I slid closer to them.
Startled by my unexpected interruption, Amara twisted her head and almost stumbled. Her eyes narrowed at me as she swung her arms but remained standing. "What's your problem, Hawthorne?"
I stopped a few feet away, crossed my arms, and said, "No problem at all," with ease. I spoke casually, but my eyes momentarily wandered to Yuta, who was smiling politely but a little confused at me.
"I just wanted to check on you. You've been doing this for a long time.
With a sigh, Amara set her sticks firmly in the snow. "Some of us don't have years of skiing experience to rely on like you do."
Yuta laughed uncomfortably. "Amara-san is doing really well for an amateur. All she needs is a little more practice."
"She'll learn," I responded calmly, meeting Amara's eyes. "She is overly confident."
With her cheeks flushing even more, she snapped back, "Call it determination."
I grinned, but as I turned away and started to glide down the short part of the slope, the tense feeling in my chest lasted. For the first time, I hoped Yuta would finish his lecture quickly so she could resume her struggles alone. Their effortless friendship disturbed me more than I cared to acknowledge.
After what seemed like an age, Yuta finally let Amara go from his guidance. She waved at him playfully and turned to face me, her skis cutting through the snow with ease as she come closer. Her eyes sparkled with excitement, her face reddened, and her breathing was visible in the clear air.
"Come on, Basil!" She cried out in a thrilled manner, pointing to the ski lift. "Let's proceed to the Panorama course."
I placed my stick deeply on the snow and hesitated. I don't know why, but I suddenly felt something strange in my stomach. In particular for someone with a previous experience, the Panorama course wasn't that difficult. However, I felt worried when I saw Amara's excitement flashing in her eyes, wild and careless.
"Are you sure you're ready?" With a hint of suspicion in my voice, I asked. "You barely made it through the Family Course."
She gave me an eye roll. "Stop underestimating me. Hurry up!"
I nodded and sigh, "Fine. But, if ever something bad happened, I won't carry you back down the mountain."
Amara smiled. "Deal."
The lift made an eerie creaking sound as it transported us to the top of the Panorama course. Amara sat beside me humming with excitement, ignoring the light fear in her eyes as she look down at the slope.
"Are you sure about this?" I glanced at her sideways and asked. "We could stick to the Family Course. It's safer and you won't have to fall into the snow headfirst."
Amara held the safety bar as she rolled her eyes. "For the last time, Basil, I can do it. You just simply fear that I will succeed over you in this."
I gave a little chuckle. "Better at what? Dropping?"
She smirked and shot back, "Keep talking, and I'll leave you behind."
As soon as the lift reached the top, we dropped off onto the snow. Amara's confidence suddenly weakened as she looked at the slope in front of us, which was steeper than she had attempted earlier. Her skis dug into the snow as she froze.
I noticed her discomfort and stepped forward, my voice now softer. "Calm down. You'll be alright. Just follow my lead."
Amara nodded slightly after biting her lip. "All right, but it's your fault for making me scared if I fall."
I grinned as I glide off carefully, teaching her how to manage her speed. "Sure, blame me," I said. "Just keep your knees bent and follow my movements."
I was surprised at how quickly Amara picked it up. After a few wobbly starts, she was giggling in the clear mountain air as she slid down the slope behind me with increasing confidence.
"You see? It's not that hard, is it?" I called, over my shoulder.
"No!" She shouted back, smiling broadly.
However, she flipped backward after her ski caught a slanted pile of snow. I stopped a few meters in front of her and looked back just to find her lying on the ground with her hair dusted with snow. The scene was too much for me to handle, therefore I bursted out laughing.
"Oh, shut up!" Amara yelled as she grab a handful of snow and threw it at me.
I straightened, pretending to be upset, as the snowball smacked me in the chest. "You've started a war, Princess."
"Go for it!" She picked up another bunch and teased.
I intentionally missed when I tossed one back, and before long, we were running down the slope like children, throwing snowballs at one another. Amara's laugh was loud and uncontrollable, then I found myself disregarding the cold, the slopes, and even the rest of the day. Just then, a snap echoed in the air as I was gliding down to toss a final snowball. I lost my balance and fell backward into the snow after my skis gave up.
Amara slowed as she skied in my direction, still laughing. "What happened? Has the powerful Basil fallen at last?"
I raised my ski so she could see the cracked edge. "No, but I lost my equipment."
She started laughing once more. "Your ski broke? How on earth does that happen?"
I shook the snow off my gloves blankly, "Years of practice." I answered. "Come on, I have to go back down and replace this."
Amara crossed her arms. "You leave. I'm going to stay here.
I gave her a sharp look. "You can't just stay here by yourself, Amara."
"There are a lot of people around, Basil," Amara replied casually. "I'll be alright—"
From a few meters away, Yuta's lively voice interrupted her sentence with a call. "Amara-san!"
He had a big smile on his face and was waving as he approached closer. Amara smiled as she turned to face me and tilted her head.
"You see? Yuta is here. I'm going to have my own teacher."
I glared at her while crossing my arms. "All right," I answered unwillingly, in an uneasy tone. "Just stay close to the people and never wander too far."
She gave me a dramatic roll of her eyes, "Copy, old grumpy," with a mocking sense of obedience, then turned to wave back at Yuta.
I shook my head as I watched her approach him, a slight concern still nagging in the back of my mind. All I could do was pray that letting him handle Amara wouldn't result in any danger. Yuta seemed to be a decent man—patient, positive, and obviously skilled at his work. However, regardless of how capable those around her were, trouble always found Amara. In the end, I let it go with a sigh.
Upon entering the lodge, I was welcomed by its warmth. I went right to the rental shop to pick up a replacement ski, desperate to get back on the slopes as soon as possible. However, my phone started vibrating in my pocket as I waited for the staff to examine the damaged ski. When I took it out, a notification from instagram lit up the screen—a message from Tatiana.
Tatiana:
I can't wait any longer. I'm having sukiyaki at the restaurant on the ground floor. Come meet me when you have some free time.
I was frozen in place, staring at the message. The noises of skiers rushing through the resort and the clicking of boots on the hardwood floor were all blocked for a time. Tatiana is here.