Shiga Kogen

Once they all exited the vehicle and their feet landed on the snowy floor, Takeda said the words they were all waiting to hear: “We have arrived.”

“Finally!” Rentarou said while stretching out his arms and legs. “What time is it, boss man?”

“It’s 2:17 a.m. So, let’s hurry and get to our hotel, and don’t forget to put on your jackets.” After Takeda said this, he let out a short yawn, and that sentiment was shared by the group, except for one person. Rentarou, brimming with energy, ran ahead of the group toward the hotel’s entrance.

“Not too bad. Not too shabby,” Rentarou said as he reached the entrance first. The others groggily followed after him a minute later. “What took you guys so long? Aren’t y’all trying to sleep?”

“We are. But we’re also tired.” Takeda let out another yawn as he held the door open for the four behind him to enter the hotel. Shin stowed his right hand in his pocket to protect it from the biting cold; he would do the same for the other, but the left hand was dragging his luggage. Hanako passed through the door, her eyes barely awake, leaving Rentarou’s voice to guide her inside the hotel. Yukimura arrived last, her eyes focused on the luggage-stamped snow, and her face dipping more into her scarf.

Upon their entrance, the group could see the luxurious interior of the hotel. However, despite its quality, there was a lack of people. It may have been a late hour, but besides their group and the suited man at the counter, Shiga Kogen was empty.

“Where is everyone?”

“Didn’t I tell you guys? We have the entire central area to ourselves. So, besides the Onmyoji working as staff in case of emergencies, no one but us will be here.”

“And that means I can choose any room, right?”

“Yes, Rentarou.” He didn’t say any words after that; his excitement did the talking for him. He only pulled his sister and his luggage by hand as he searched for the perfect room. Yukimura followed shortly behind them, leaving Takeda and Shin still alone at the reception.

Instead of following Yukimura, Takeda rested his hands on Shin’s shoulders. “Listen, Shin. Don’t get distracted by the fact that we’re here; remember why we’re here. You can have all the time in the world for skiing once you have proper control over the K-word.”

“Okay, Takeda.”

“I’ll be going to my room now. Make sure you get some proper rest.”

“I will…I’m just a bit thirsty.” So, to satisfy his thirst, Shin dragged himself over to the nearest vending machine. He intended to get water, but Shin was barely able to make out the options or their price.

“Which one should I choose?” Shin dragged his fingers through the options until he finished his sentence, and bought the drink his finger happened to land on. It simplified his choice. However, it definitely wasn’t water. It was coffee.