After walking through the fields for a bit, we finally reached the wooden building I’d spotted in the distance—Rosmiel's house. It was a charming little cottage nestled alone in a sea of flowers. Though it wasn't particularly large, the exterior blended perfectly with the surrounding blossoms.
When I stepped inside, I found myself in an equally stylish space. The furniture was a consistent, calming wood tone, accented by tastefully arranged decor. It was a magnificent room that felt vibrant and airy rather than cramped.
It was the kind of space that could only be created by someone with exceptional taste. I knew that even if I had access to the exact same furniture and decor, I’d never be able to replicate this sophisticated atmosphere.
"This is such a stylish, beautiful room," I remarked.
"Do you think so? Hearing you say that makes me happy. Ah, Kaito-kun, please, have a seat. I’ll brew us some tea."
"Thank you... Oh, that’s right!"
"Yes?"
Since the timing was perfect, I decided to present the gift I’d brought along.
"Actually, Nebula and Illness-san have taken up pottery lately. When they heard I was coming here, they crafted a teacup specifically for you, Rosmiel-san."
"Oh? Really?"
"Yes. Here, please accept it."
"Thank you! I’m so happy... Wow, it’s gorgeous. And you say they only started doing this recently? The design is clearly tailored for Black Tea, and the rose pattern is stunning. It’s so well-made I’d believe it was the work of a master craftsman."
As she took the cup adorned with the beautiful rose, a genuinely delighted smile spread across Rosmiel-san's face.
Seeing her this happy made the gesture feel worthwhile. Of course, Nebula and Illness-san were the ones who had actually done the work...
"...By the way, what makes a design specifically for Black Tea?" I asked.
"Well, cups for Black Tea are generally thin, with a wider rim and a shallower depth. That shape is best for bringing out the tea's aroma and highlighting its color. On the other hand, coffee cups are usually thicker with a cylindrical rim and a taller profile."
"I see..."
That was news to me. Now that she mentioned it, I did recall the cups looking different. I’d just never paid much attention before; back in Japan, I usually just drank my coffee out of a mug.
"...Well then, I’ll put this cup to use right away. It looks like there are two of them, luckily."
"Yes, please do."
"Kaito-kun, are you alright with Rose Tea?"
"Um... I’ve hardly ever had it. I have an acquaintance who loves Herb Tea and mentions using roses in blends, but..."
"I see. In that case, maybe a Pink Rose variety would be best? The fragrance isn't too overwhelming."
I had plenty of opportunities to drink Black Tea, but Herb Tea was a rarity. I usually only had it when I was being treated at Fia-sensei's place. I was fairly certain I’d never had a proper tea made entirely from roses.
"...I’ve had Rosehip Tea before. Is that different?"
"It is. Rose Tea is made from the petals, while Rosehip Tea uses the small red fruits that remain after the roses have finished blooming."
"Do they taste different too?"
"Rosehip Tea is more acidic and has a slightly heavier flavor. Rose Tea is lighter with a natural sweetness, but it's most famous for its intense fragrance."
As she explained, Rosmiel-san set about preparing the Rose Tea with practiced, graceful movements. Using dried petals, she brewed a liquid with a stunning reddish-purple hue. Inside the transparent teapot, it looked incredibly elegant.
"Sorry for the wait. Now, let me pour it into the cup... Oh, wow! Look at that. As the Black Tea goes in... the rose bud on the porcelain is blooming."
"If I recall, they mentioned it has a gimmick where the pattern changes with the heat."
"I see. That’s incredible... Oh, sorry. Here you go."
"Thank you very much."
"Try it plain first. If you find the flavor too light, you can add some of this honey. It’ll make the sweetness richer and easier to enjoy."
I watched as the rose on the souvenir cup blossomed the moment the tea hit the porcelain. I couldn't take my eyes off the vivid transformation.
"...Wait, huh? Is it just me, or is the color of the rose itself changing too?"
"Ah, you’re right! Maybe it doesn't just react to the temperature, but changes over time as well? It blooms when you pour the tea, and then you can enjoy the shift in the rose's color as the minutes pass. This is truly remarkable."
"It really makes the whole experience feel like an event."
"Yes. Having something so beautiful to look at is wonderful."
I found myself momentarily captivated by Rosmiel-san's smile. When she wasn't paralyzed by nerves, she was such a kind, gentle woman. She gave off a very "cute" impression.
When she was tense and her expression was sharp, she looked more "cool" and dignified, but this version of her was different.
Lost in these thoughts, I took a sip of the Rose Tea she had brewed. The floral scent bloomed across my palate—elegant and soothing. It felt like my entire mind was beginning to relax.
Serious-senpai: "I don't know why, but the lovey-dovey energy coming off these two is off the charts. Is it because Rosmiel is so clearly comfortable around Kaito?"