Twenty minutes later, they arrived at their destination.
Asakusa Private Onsen Club.
This was the name of the building standing majestically before them. This building felt like it had a long history, radiating a classic aura that only buildings or ancient artifacts that had passed through decades possessed. The wood composing it appeared dark with age, but that's exactly what added to its aesthetic value.
From the outside, this building truly looked like a nobleman's private villa—with a vast sprawling area, a neatly arranged Japanese garden, and stone pavilions scattered here and there. However, behind its appearance as a private residence, this place was actually an upscale business establishment serving a limited clientele.
Naoki and Tenka had only been admiring the exterior view for a few moments when a group of people immediately emerged from the building. Judging from their clothing—neat formal black-and-white uniforms—all these people were staff members.
Among them, several people dressed like servants with simple long gowns, while others wore formal Western suits. However, the most striking was a man walking at the very front, leading the entourage with firm yet unhurried steps.
His figure radiated an authority that made others automatically follow him.
The man appeared to be around fifty or sixty years old—difficult to determine precisely. His face was still handsome with aging lines that actually added to his charisma. His body posture was perfectly upright, unlike most people his age who began to stoop.
And most importantly, his distinctive clothing—a perfect black suit with white gloves—immediately revealed his identity.
"Welcome, honored guests from afar." The man bowed deeply, his movement graceful. "I am merely a simple butler here, and also the person responsible for your stay. Please call me Urataro."
Urataro bowed once more to both of them. Every word and every movement showed perfect manners—flawless, not excessive. A true head butler, without a doubt.
Tenka had made a reservation well in advance, and with her identity as an Anti-Demon Corps Unit Commander, it wasn't surprising if the staff treated her with such full respect.
Tenka stepped forward, returning the bow politely.
"I'm Izumo Tenka. And this is Kamikawa Naoki, my boyfriend."
She glanced briefly at Naoki before looking back at Urataro.
"I've long heard about the specialness of this place, and seeing it myself today further confirms its reputation. I'm truly delighted to be able to visit here."
She bowed slightly.
"I must trouble Urataro-san to look after us while we're here."
Tenka's manner of speaking was very polite, showing elite etiquette ingrained since childhood. There wasn't the slightest arrogance despite her status as a Commander.
Naoki, watching from the side, could only admire—this girl truly knew how to carry herself in various situations.
Although Asakusa Private Onsen Club was a privately managed institution, this place had a very strong background. There were close ties with old aristocratic circles, and it was widely recognized as a dream destination for many upper-class individuals—a place that couldn't be entered by just anyone, no matter how rich they were, if they didn't have the right connections.
Urataro smiled thinly—a professional smile that was warm yet not excessive. "You are too kind to give praise. You both must be tired after a long journey."
He bowed again, his movement as smooth as flowing water.
"Tenka-sama, Naoki-sama, please follow me~"
He led the way with slow steps, slow enough for guests to enjoy the scenery, but fast enough not to feel drawn-out.
Seeing that, Naoki reached for Tenka's soft hand and grasped it tightly. Their fingers intertwined intimately. Tenka turned, smiled sweetly, then they walked side by side following Urataro.
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"On the left here is the Veiled Moon Pavilion." Urataro pointed to a small building in the distance. "Since it's currently winter, it might be less attractive. But if you both have time to come see it at night, I'm sure you'll find insight there. Moonlight reflects on the small pond in front of the pavilion, creating an illusion as if the moon is trapped in the water—that's the origin of its name."
He continued, pointing in another direction.
"On the right here is the Soul-Calming Pond. Legend has it, this is a blessing left by the god of wind, thunder, and fire for future generations. Its water is believed to have spiritual energy." His tone changed slightly, becoming more friendly. "This pond is also considered a treasure at this place—believed to bring success in career and love for those who bathe with a sincere heart."
Naoki and Tenka exchanged glances briefly, small smiles blooming on their lips.
Urataro continued, his tone returning to professional, "Of course, the most attractive feature of this place for you both is our private hot spring bath. Each villa has an exclusive onsen that isn't mixed with other guests."
He emphasized the word 'private' with a slight meaningful smile.
"I'm sure that open-air hot spring will eliminate all your weariness~"
While walking, Urataro continued introducing the place to both of them. He had worked here for almost thirty years, and his knowledge of every corner of this building was so deep.
When dealing with businesspeople, he might emphasize meeting room facilities and internet connection. When serving families, he would talk more about children's play areas and safety. But this time, with guests who were clearly a young couple, he cleverly emphasized romantic spots.
Along the way, other staff members lined up on both sides, bowing silently as if they had no right to speak. They escorted the two guests through corridors without uttering a word—only the sound of footsteps and rustling fabric could be heard.
Tenka had seen behavior like this quite often. The servants at her family home also followed the same etiquette—silent presence, soundless service, hierarchy that needn't be spoken.
(It seems this is still a private hot spring resort focused on typical aristocratic elegance. Not a new, more casual place) She thought to herself.
As they truly stepped inside the main building, both immediately felt their view open wide.
The Great Wave off Kanagawa!
The first thing that came to Naoki's mind was that world-famous ukiyo-e masterpiece. The painting hanging on the central hall wall was a reproduction of Hokusai's work—a giant wave ready to crash into fishermen's boats, with Mount Fuji towering in the distance. Although this was most likely just a copy, its quality was very high, almost indistinguishable from the original.
Looking further to the left, there was a statue of an eight-legged horse—Sleipnir, the Nordic mythological horse belonging to the god Odin. That statue radiated a sense of freedom and majesty, its muscles carved with extraordinary detail, its mane and tail seeming to flutter in the wind despite being still.
On the right side, a vintage Steinway piano stood gracefully. Although it looked old and simple, even slightly worn in some corners. That piano was the perfect finishing touch, completing the visual harmony of this room.
These three elements—Japanese painting, Nordic statue, European piano—despite being a cultural blend from very different countries, actually radiated an understated luxury impression.
Nothing felt forced.
Nothing felt excessive.
Everything showed that this place was designed very carefully, by people who truly understood aesthetics.
The interior design was unique, blending elegant European style with traditional Japanese nuances. The dark color scheme—dark brown, black, muted gold—perfectly complemented the hot spring bath theme.
This place wasn't cluttered or excessive. Every corner, every viewpoint, everything was pleasant to look at. More importantly, even the air here felt different.
Indoor ventilation worked very well. The central air purification system and central air conditioning worked soundlessly, maintaining ideal temperature and humidity. Naoki, who had once visited the magnificent Tenth Unit headquarters, could immediately compare—the facilities here were far superior.
"Wow..." Naoki murmured softly, his eyes still exploring every corner of the room.
Tenka smiled seeing her boyfriend's expression. "Impressive, right?"
"Very." Naoki nodded. "Honestly, I don't know much about art. That painting is The Great Wave, right? I know it's famous, but I can't judge whether this is a good copy or not. That horse statue too... I know it's Sleipnir from Nordic mythology, but honestly I don't understand why it's displayed here, side by side with a Japanese painting."
"I'm a layman about this stuff. For me, what's important is it looks expensive and good."
Tenka laughed softly, her voice gentle. "It's okay. Art is indeed subjective."
She gazed at the painting with a more trained eye.
"But even though all this is just copies, the layout is impressive. Look at how those three objects are positioned." Tenka pointed one by one. "The Great Wave in the center as the focal point. Sleipnir on the left, symbolizing strength and journey. Piano on the right, symbolizing beauty and gentleness. The three create balance—masculine and feminine, east and west, nature and culture."
"Someone with deep art understanding arranged this. Not just displaying expensive items."
Naoki nodded, though half of him didn't fully understand. "So basically, this is a real high-class place, not just pretentious."
"Exactly." Tenka smiled proudly. "I chose this place because of its reputation, and it turns out not to disappoint."
"..."
Meanwhile, Urataro stood a bit far from both of them, speaking softly into a walkie-talkie hidden behind his jacket.
"This is Urataro, go ahead."
"This is the head chef. Dinner is ready. Over."
The voice from the walkie-talkie sounded faint, barely audible.
"Received, over."
Urataro ended communication, then returned to observing his two guests.
While Naoki and Tenka were chatting intimately, Urataro had quietly completed coordination through wireless communication. However, seeing the two guests being affectionate—their hands still intertwined, occasionally exchanging loving glances—he chose to quietly step aside.
His monocle suddenly reflected light from the crystal chandelier on the ceiling. A small smile unconsciously appeared on his lips.
As head butler, of course he couldn't disturb his guests at will. Protocol required him to be present when needed and disappear when not.
However... was it permissible to secretly peek from behind and sigh about how beautiful it was to be young?
After all, these two were practically a perfect example of a couple in love! They weren't just showing affection.
The way they held hands. The way they exchanged glances. The way Naoki leaned his body slightly every time Tenka spoke, and the way Tenka smiled slightly every time Naoki responded.
This was very captivating. The longer Urataro watched, the more it reminded him of himself in his youth—of his long-deceased wife, of his unforgettable first love.
"Alright." Urataro took a slow breath, returning his expression to professional neutrality. "Honored guests."
"Dinner is ready. When would you both like to have it?"
Hearing that, Naoki and Tenka exchanged glances. Without needing to say anything, they arrived at the same answer.
"Now."
They hadn't even had breakfast this morning—too excited to depart immediately. As healthy young people, their stomachs were already growling.
Urataro smiled thinly, nodding. "Very well, please follow me."
He turned around, leading the way with the same steps—steady, not too fast, not too slow.
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The dining room they entered was no less luxurious than the lobby. A polished solid wood table, fine porcelain tableware with gold motifs, crystal glasses that sparkled caught by candlelight. The view from the large glass window showed a neatly arranged Japanese garden, with garden lights beginning to glow as dusk approached.
"Please sit." Urataro pulled out a chair for Tenka with a graceful movement.
Naoki sat beside her, not across. They leaned against each other, as if feeling that eating would taste better that way. Their shoulders touched, occasionally their hands touched each other on the table.
Unlike ordinary hot spring hotels that only provided rooms and onsen, this place had complete facilities—massage room, game room, fitness center, even a meditation room.
Many people from upper circles chose to book this place for long vacations, sometimes for weeks. Naoki and Tenka were only enjoying it for a few days, but that was already enough.
Not long after, one delicious dish after another was served.
The servants moved like shadows—entering, placing plates, explaining dishes in soft voices, then disappearing.
As Naoki had guessed before, the most classic dish at hot spring resorts was sushi and sashimi.
Fresh fish was cut with perfect thickness, arranged on contrasting black porcelain plates. There was fatty tuna that melted in the mouth, bright orange salmon, sweet shrimp, shellfish, and various types of fish whose names he couldn't mention.
Of course, there were also desserts they both liked—pudding, red bean ice cream, and small financiers that were Tenka's favorite. They both agreed that enjoying desserts while enjoying the main course was the best way to enjoy a meal.
Without saying a word, both quickly picked up chopsticks and began enjoying the luxurious dishes heartily.
"So delicious." Naoki mumbled with his mouth full.
Tenka giggled seeing him. "Chew first, then talk."
They enjoyed every bite, feeling satisfaction that could only be given by high-quality ingredients processed with perfect technique. Naoki estimated this meal would cost more than 200,000 yen—maybe more.
The dishes were very diverse, featuring more than ten types of seafood. Each prepared carefully—some grilled, some boiled, some raw. Plus a full plate of sushi with various flavors—all tempting to try.
(Ah... So this is what it feels like to be supported by a rich woman? No wonder those hosts at night clubs live hedonistic lives. This... Is truly amazing.) Naoki thought to himself, hiding a smile behind his glass.
Although they both couldn't finish all the food, that wasn't a problem. The advantage of ordering a lot was they could try various flavors, a little wasted food didn't matter. Besides, Tenka wasn't short of money!
"Naoki-kun." Tenka pointed to a plate of sashimi across the table. "I want to eat that~ Bring it for me!"
Naoki extended his chopsticks, picked up a piece of fatty toro, and extended it in front of Tenka's mouth.
"Open your mouth."
"Ah~"
Tenka opened her mouth, accepting that bite with a happy expression. Her eyes narrowed, her cheeks flushed.
"Delicious~" She chewed slowly. "Being fed always tastes better, doesn't it."
Naoki laughed softly. "You're spoiled."
"It's allowed, right? You're my boyfriend."
During their time together, they often did things like this—feeding each other, caring for each other. Habits formed during living together, which made their relationship feel increasingly close.
Naoki took another piece, this time for himself. Beside him, Tenka rested her head on his shoulder, enjoying the warmth.
Urataro, watching from afar, smiled satisfied. He glanced at his watch—there were still several hours before the hot spring bath was fully ready to use. But seeing this young couple, he was sure they would find their own way to enjoy the night.
"Young love." He murmured softly, then turned and disappeared behind the kitchen door.