Kaiten, Land of Hot Springs, was dyed with the vivid colors of autumn…-.
On a clear day, three princes meet by chance and immerse themselves in the hot water of the same open-air bath.
Vega: “It’s fun with all the different hot springs around. The hot water here feels like it’s making my skin all nice and smooth.”
Kanoe: “Your skin…? I came here because I heard this water was supposed to wash away fatigue.”
Vega: “It seems that it has multiple effects then. Besides, your skin is already very beautiful Prince Kanoe. What’s your skin care routine?”
Kanoe: “I don’t do anything, and I never really cared about it before.”
Vega held Kanoe’s arm and stared at it with unabashed fascination, and Kanoe just curiously tilted his head to the side.
Vega: “I’m so jealous that you can achieve this kind of look without having to do anything. What’s your routine Prince Ruber? You said your travels are always rough, but your skin is quite beautiful too.”
Kanoe: “You can maintain that physique while being a doctor. I bet you know how to fight as well.”
Ruber: “…don’t stare at me like that. It makes me uneasy.”
Ruber turned away as if trying to avoid their gazes.
Vega: “Haha, sorry about that. Actually, Prince Kanoe, you came to Kaiten at a request, right?”
Kanoe: “Yeah. I told them it wasn’t necessary, but my retainers strongly recommended it. Well, it’s not like I dislike long baths. I took advantage of the offer because of that.”
Kanoe’s expression was soft as he spoke, and it was clear how much he cared for his retainers.
Kanoe: “Ruber, didn’t you get a personal invitation from Prince Nayuta?”
Ruber: “Yeah. I maintain my own physical health, but I was interested in the different medicinal baths here in Kaiten. The fame of the hot springs that can heal wounds has even reached Remedium.”
Ruber nodded, scooping up some hot water from the bath and pouring it over his shoulder.
Glancing at him, Kanoe turned his attention back to Vega.
Kanoe: “And what about you?”
Vega: “The timing worked out well with the end of this year’s Star Festival, so I came to the surrounding area when it was recommended I accept the invitation. Actually, this isn’t the first time I’ve been to Kaiten but… I feel like it’s especially important to relax one’s body and soak in the hot water like this.”
Vega turned his eyes to the autumn colors, as if he were yearning for something.
A refreshing breeze blew by, shaking the multicolored leaves from the trees, dropping them so they vibrantly adorned the water.
Kanoe: “You’re right. We need to have the time to recharge ourselves so that we can focus and give our utmost on government affairs and training. I’ll make more of an effort to do that when I return to my country.”
Ruber: “…water than can heal the heart too huh.”
Ruber let out a deep sigh and quietly closed his eyes.
Leaning his back against the edges of the bath, he seemed to be very relaxed…
Vega: “…yeah, it really feels good.”
After he murmured those soft words, a peaceful silence fell.
The three princes who happened to be there shared this simple, quiet time of relaxation and calm.
END