Horitake, guided by the old woman, donned the purple cloud-patterned men's kimono.
Men's kimonos were far simpler to wear than Mitsuri's. He dressed quickly, stepped out, and presented himself to her.
When Mitsuri saw Horitake, her eyes sparkled, mirroring the awe he'd felt seeing her.
His choice proved perfect, accentuating his understated yet striking presence.
As a soul from Huaxia, Horitake wasn't fond of kimonos.
But seeing Mitsuri's captivated gaze, he thought… This isn't bad.
It was great for showing off, after all.
And even better for showcasing his charm.
Both in their new kimonos, their allure and presence elevated.
Horitake thanked the old woman earnestly:
"Thank you so much, ma'am."
She waved it off:
"My honor to serve Demon Slayer heroes.
Shall I prepare lunch?"
Horitake considered, then declined.
He glanced at Mitsuri, who shared his thought.
With such stunning kimonos, how could they not show them off?
It was nearly noon, and Kusatsu's hot spring and food streets were bustling. Not wearing these out would be a waste.
Horitake decided:
"No lunch, thank you. But we'll trouble you for dinner."
"Understood. What would you like for dinner?"
"Whatever you arrange. We'll follow your lead."
"Then I'll handle it."
As she turned to leave, Horitake added:
"Oh, whatever we eat, please prepare enough for at least eight people. Otherwise, it won't be enough!"
"Huh? Oh… I understand."
Puzzled but noting it, the old woman took their old clothes and left.
Next, Horitake and Mitsuri set out to explore Kusatsu!
As they'd said, what's the point of fine clothes if not worn out?
In their dazzling kimonos, they left the room and Wisteria Springs.
At the inn's entrance, they ran into the old man heading out to work. He was stunned by their attire, showering them with praise.
Horitake accepted it fully; Mitsuri was shy yet delighted.
Together, they stepped out to stroll Kusatsu.
As expected, their striking looks and aura drew many eyes. Passersby marveled at the perfect pair.
But the attention was fleeting. In crowded areas, it faded, letting them enjoy freely.
They'd explored one hot spring street before, but Kusatsu had more!
Today, Horitake led Mitsuri through others.
From tasty snacks to flowing hot springs, they savored everything, sampling along the way.
Perhaps satisfied from yesterday, Mitsuri was more restrained, tasting lightly at each stall.
Though she ate less per stop, the variety added up.
Beyond food, they wandered along hot spring streams and wooden bridges, exploring pools with their legends and reputed benefits.
They spent half the morning and all noon like this.
By afternoon, they returned to the inn, greeted by the old couple, and retired to their room for a nap.
After a sleepless night of fighting and a long day of fun, they needed rest.
A good nap to recharge for the evening… ahem.
After a refreshing sleep, they woke revitalized.
It was dusk, nearing evening.
Tidying up and chatting, the sun set, the moon rose, and dinner time arrived.
The old woman prepared a lavish dinner, delivered to their room.
Indeed, enough for eight.
Tonight's meal was sukiyaki.
Sukiyaki, akin to hotpot, used a wide, shallow pot heated over charcoal. Fragrant sukiyaki sauce was cooked in, followed by succulent beef slices, then grilled tofu, mushrooms, vegetables, and sweet onions. Covered and simmered for minutes.
Meanwhile, a raw egg was beaten in a bowl for dipping.
When ready, the lid lifted, revealing a rich, aromatic feast!
Dipping beef and veggies in egg, it was smooth, fresh, and divine.
Horitake and Mitsuri dove into the culinary delight!
The sukiyaki was delicious; they ate joyfully, no need for details.
After, the old woman cleared the table and left.
Now, only Horitake and Mitsuri remained.
Gazing at the elegant courtyard and steaming hot spring pool, how could Horitake not be tempted?
He looked at the blushing Mitsuri and said simply:
"Such a fine hot spring—shouldn't we enjoy it together, Mitsuri?"
Mitsuri, shy, lowered her head and nodded silently.
After a few whispered words, Horitake boldly led the way to the courtyard, approaching the hot spring.
Soaking required care—you couldn't jump in; the water was hot.
Using a bamboo ladle, Horitake scooped water, pouring it slowly over himself to adjust.
Once ready, he eased into the pool.
"Ahh… blissful!"
His genuine reaction.
Truly blissful—how could such warmth and comfort not be?
Horitake soaked, only his shoulders, neck, and head above water.
Mitsuri, hesitating shyly, made her choice.
Following the same steps, she poured water to acclimate, then cautiously entered the pool.
"Ah… it's great!"
Her feelings echoed his.
Horitake grinned widely, but…
He was at one end of the pool, Mitsuri at the other—quite a distance apart.
After giving her time to adjust and chatting a bit, Horitake, thick-skinned, swam closer.
What followed needn't be detailed—nor can it be.
All that's known is the hot spring water flowed like a small waterfall, its sound masking everything.
All that's known is the moonlight and surrounding lights reflected on the pool's surface, shimmering ripples hiding all sights.
This author knows nothing—imagine as you will.
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That chapter ended on a bit of a cliff, didn't it? 😅 Don't worry, the next one's already on Patreon! [If you'd like to support my work, check out my: patreon.com/DaoistRoeoNQ]