Regarding the plan to give the hard-working Anima some much-needed rest—though Caraway had consulted me about it in advance, there had been so little time to prepare that I decided to enlist an acquaintance's help with the arrangements.
I truly felt it was necessary to physically distance her from her work. While I was debating where exactly to take her, I recalled something I’d heard once before. I reached out to the person in question, and when they readily agreed to help, we headed for our destination.
"M-Master? Isn't this the Royal Palace of the Hydra Kingdom? Why are we in a place like this...?"
"I'm meeting someone here—"
"Ooooh, Kaito! Over here!"
Perhaps because we had arrived in the Hydra Kingdom so suddenly via Teleportation Magic, Anima looked completely bewildered. Just as I was about to explain my intentions to her, the person I was looking for... Laguna-san, appeared.
"Laguna-san, I'm sorry for making such an unreasonable request on such short notice."
"Think nothing of it! We're friends, aren't we? There is no need for such reserve between us. You may rely on me whenever you wish... Well now, let's skip the small talk. Here, this is the key."
When I apologized for the sudden request, Laguna-san gave me a bright smile and told me not to worry about it. She handed me a key embedded with a Magic Crystal, which I accepted.
"Once you're finished with it, simply place the key in the box at the entrance before you leave. It is a special Magic Tool; as long as there is something inside, the door cannot be opened except by someone holding the paired Magic Tool. Oh, and the preparations for the Teleportation Magic are complete as well."
"Thank you for everything."
"A key? Teleportation Magic? U-Um, Master... just where on earth are we going?"
Anima looked so utterly confused as she tried to follow the exchange between Laguna-san and me that it was actually quite adorable. I couldn't help but let out a wry smile.
I decided to resume the explanation I had cut short earlier.
"I thought a trip would be the best way to make sure you got a proper rest—one that physically separates you from your work. Since it was so sudden, I couldn't think of a good location right away, but then I remembered Laguna-san telling me about a place perfect for a private getaway. I asked her if she could arrange it for us."
"Indeed. It is a place typically used by nobles, wealthy merchants, and others of high standing when they wish to travel incognito. It is a Marine Cottage with its own private beach. I highly recommend it if you desire peace and quiet."
"...I see."
That’s right. When Laguna-san had invited me and my lovers for a beach trip previously, she had recommended several other seaside resort-like spots.
At the time, we had only gone for a day trip, so we never used them. However, remembering her mention of cottages suited for incognito travel, I’d reached out to see if one was available.
"Since it is a Marine Cottage, the atmosphere is wonderful. The exterior is simple, but as it targets the wealthy, the interior is equipped with various Magic Tools to ensure a comfortable stay... If you find it to your liking, you are welcome back anytime. I shall always keep it ready for you."
"Thank you very much. If the opportunity arises, we'll take you up on that."
"Umu. Now then, the teleportation to the site is this way..."
And so, even though it was a last-minute decision, we were off to stay at a Marine Cottage for a one-night, two-day trip. The primary goal was to make sure Anima rested, so I planned to have her take a nap as soon as we arrived... but after that, since we were lovers, I figured we should take the time to enjoy a nice, quiet little vacation together.
Serious-senpai: "I-It's starting... A private beach? Oh no, I have a bad feeling about this..."