The Merchant and Tavern Master

Future Plan

We headed to our respective sections in the public bath, finding only a handful of early risers present. It was uncommon for people to take morning baths, but the establishment of public baths was a result of the royal family's patronage. Rumor had it that the young King of Vermina had initiated the construction of these facilities, including public baths, privies, and hospitals, driven by his belief in the importance of hygiene and disease prevention. The king had even strongly advocated for citizens to wash their hands before meals and maintain regular personal hygiene practices. The design of the privies was particularly intriguing, as the king insisted on the inclusion of waterways for cleansing. This led to large-scale projects sponsored by the kingdom to construct underground waterways in cities, not only in Vermina but also in other cities as well. While the young king's thinking may have been difficult to comprehend for many, his policies were deemed beneficial and carried little burden for the citizens, thus gaining general acceptance.

As I immersed myself in the soothing waters of the large public bath, my mind began to clear, allowing me to contemplate my next steps. There were important matters that needed my attention after our intimate union. Cordelia and I had united not only our hearts but also our bodies, and it was crucial to follow through with the plans I had in mind, despite any reservations she might have. First and foremost, we needed to officially register ourselves as husband and wife. Then, it was essential for me to introduce her to my mother and brothers, as well as to Madam Ruth and Sofia. I couldn't help but wonder what their reactions would be to this unexpected development. However, it also meant that Cordelia would need to relocate her work to Goldkorb. I pondered whether she would be willing to make such a move, and it was a topic that required further discussion between us regarding our future plans.

As thoughts flooded my mind, one particular concern weighed heavily on my heart - the topic of children. Our passionate intimacy throughout the night and even this morning held the potential for a new life to blossom within Cordelia's womb. Being healthy adults, the likelihood of a child being conceived seemed inevitable. This realization prompted me to reassess my future travel plans and ensure that Cordelia would be well taken care of during her pregnancy. I contemplated seeking assistance from my mother or even Madam Ruth in Goldkorb to provide support and guidance. The complexities of raising children surfaced, accompanied by a cascade of questions. How would I fulfill my responsibilities as a father while constantly on the road? Would my children recognize me if I were absent for extended periods of time? And yet, as overwhelming as these thoughts were, the image of Cordelia cradling our child with a radiant smile painted a beautiful picture in my mind. It strengthened my resolve to excel in my trading endeavors, to secure a better life for Cordelia, our child, and our future together.

Finished with my own bath, I patiently waited outside the public bath building for Cordelia to emerge. As she stepped into the morning sunlight, her wet hair glistening and her face fresh and radiant, I couldn't help but be reminded of our intimate embrace earlier that day. She looked absolutely captivating, her allure heightened by the freshness of her appearance. I couldn't help but be entranced by her presence as she approached me.

"Sorry for keeping you waiting, Takahiko. Are you feeling alright? Your face appears flushed," she inquired, a hint of concern in her voice.

"Oh, it's nothing, I'm perfectly fine. I was just momentarily taken aback by your exquisite beauty," I confessed, unable to contain my admiration.

She was taken by surprise, yet her smile remained, radiating joy. "You flatter me too much! But thank you, your words make me incredibly happy," she responded, her cheeks blushing with delight.

As we strolled along, contemplating our choice of dining venue, Cordelia playfully posed a question that caught me off guard. "So, how does it feel after experiencing the touch of a woman for the first time?"

I paused for a moment, searching for the right words to convey my emotions. "Honestly, it was as if I had awakened from a dream," I began, my voice filled with a sense of wonder.

"I can't believe we embraced throughout the entire night without pause. The sensations from your body are still vivid in my memory—the warmth, the intoxicating scent, the softness. I find myself longing for more, and I worry that it may become an addiction."

Cordelia, feeling a mixture of amusement and bashfulness, responded, "I can't believe you can describe it so eloquently without feeling flustered, Takahiko." Despite her self-consciousness, a hint of a smile graced her lips.

"But I understand," she continued, delightfully taking hold of my left hand. "Because I felt the same way. It was the first time I experienced such profound happiness from being embraced by a man." She happily continued her words.

"I'm glad to see you happy. However, we need to discuss a serious matter, Cordelia," I said with a serious tone.

"A serious matter?" she replied, her curiosity piqued.

"Yes, it's regarding the children," I emphasized firmly.

Cordelia's face lit up with surprise, and I couldn't help but find her reaction quite amusing, I must admit.