Rainy Day at the Inn
Today was a rainy day. A fine drizzle fell outside, and the inn's eaves dripped unhelpfully.
I didn't have anything special planned—just wanted to make some hot matcha. The packet of matcha powder in the kitchen had been left by a traveling kappa some time ago. He said it could "clear the heart and dispel worries," though he'd added so much sugar to his own cup that he took only one sip before packing up and leaving.
I didn't mind if it was too sweet. A little extra sugar was fine, especially with the gloomy weather lately. A bit of sweetness was just what the mood needed.
Just as I was about to pour the hot water into my cup, a small, furry creature poked its head out from the corner of the kitchen.
"...What are you doing?"
It was the "Dust-Shadow Beast" that lived in the rafters of the inn. It rarely showed itself—supposedly, it preferred dry spaces. But today, it had actually crawled out on its own, shaking off the dampness with obvious discomfort.
"Rainy day, huh? Even you can't stand it?"
It snorted but still hopped onto the dining table. Its fur, slightly damp, puffed up in all directions, making it look like a grumpy dandelion.
I set the freshly made matcha in front of it.
"Want some? Kappa brand."
The Dust-Shadow Beast stretched out a paw to touch the cup, then turned its head away—but didn't leave. Reluctantly, it took a small lick, its eyes narrowing in what was unmistakably enjoyment.
"Oh? So you like the taste."
It didn't answer, just curled up on my lap instead.
Outside, the rain continued, but inside the inn, it was quiet and warm.
I sat on the wooden kitchen chair, holding my matcha, the steam from the cup fogging up the window and blurring the world outside. The little ball of fur nestled against me, breathing softly. The room held only the sound of rain, the scent of tea, and the faint rhythm of a small creature's breath.
At times like this, I always think—
The inn really is a wonderful place.
Humans and spirits, monsters and memories—none of it needs grand explanations.
Just sitting together like this, quietly passing a rainy day, is already more than enough.
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