!!! - EDITED - 12/30/24 (!! major adjustments and additions on the Dialogues to fit the current changes I've made and some major tweakings)
Disclaimer: I don't own Honkai Star Rail and any of their characters. All belonged to their rightful owners - Hoyoverse.
+++====+++
After a quick, final check-up at the medical department, I finally have permission to go back to my room. It brought a huge relief from me. Being in that room was like a nightmare. I thought at this point of the day, I would be free to clear my thoughts after everything that happened and use this time to consider what Dan Heng told me.
However, it seems I hit a bigger wall than I previously intended.
The wall?
Well, it was none other than….
"You're Ethan Almiyers, Personnel Number 541, correct?"
Madam Herta.
After Stelle and Dan Heng left the room, just twenty minutes later after the nurse quickly left, she arrived right after. One thing that was known in the station was that the Madam Herta you see around the station wasn't the actual Madam Herta. Rather it was her puppet. She has tons of puppets in the stations and some of her puppets work automatically, designed to prompt a response given by its code. But on special occasions, Herta, the real Herta, would go over the puppet and control it as her own. This Herta puppet I was talking to was definitely the real deal.
"Y-Yes, Madam Herta" I answered, quite nervously. It was my first time meeting her and quite the impression she left was rooted down my chest. She was terrifying.
Her analytical and calculating, yet somewhat cold gaze locked to mine. I firmly tried not to avert my gaze as it would probably seem rude to her. I didn't want to offend such an important person at the first meeting.
"Good. I've been looking for you."
'I could tell' I put out a friendly smile "Is there anything I can do for you?"
"In fact there is. I assume you already know what I came here for." Herta said, her gaze snapped to my left wrist. I followed her eyes and sure it was… "Show me your wrist"
I maintained my smile as I did what was told.
"You've got a pretty nice watch there," she commented with a smile.
"...." Is she playing with me?
"Having someone to compliment you and you don't even say thanks?" Herta rose a brow.
"Ah S-Sorry–"
"No need." Her puppet grabbed my arm, pulling me forward. For a puppet, she was surprisingly strong.
"This… is extraordinary. I can see why they took an interest in you. I can't believe such a piece of technology went past through my detection." she said, inspecting my watch. "Such complex technology for something so small…yet I don't recognize this piece of metal…." Her silence right after was deafening. "Oh, it even has a little kick to it. That explains why it was well hidden from me."
A kick? The way she smiled after saying that was puzzling me.
"Tell me, how did you come across this device?"
"Would you believe me if I said I don't know?"
She gave me a pointed look before mumbling something under her breath. "Hmmm, I wanted to run a few tests with this watch….however, I can tell it has a symbiotic relationship with you. That might pose a problem" She mumbled.
"Symbiotic?" I caught that word with an intriguing look.
"Simply saying it's stuck on you no matter what."
Ah, that explains the glue part I've been wondering about.
"It's truly problematic," She sighed "Unless…we find an alternative," She paused for a second, before lifting her head "Say, what if I cut off your arm?"
My expression shifted from surprise to horror, losing all the composure I built up "What?! NO!"
Herta frowned. "What if I were to replace your arm with cybernetics? How about that?"
I considered it for a brief moment but quickly shook my head. "Sorry, but my arm isn't for sale." As cool as a robotic arm might sound, nothing beats having a normal one. I have to consider having trauma by having my arm cut off.
"Tsk, fine," Herta grumbled. "I was willing to pay you about a million or more credits for it, but apparently, it's not for sale."
It would be a lie to say I wasn't tempted, one million credits, or more could allow me to live a care-free life. I love money as much as the next person, but… I don't think it's worth it, especially not for this watch. "Sorry, but I'll have to stick to my decision, Madam Herta."
"Fine, have it your way." Herta shrugged. "However, that doesn't mean you're out of the circle yet. If I can't have that arm then you will be part of the test."
"Pardon?"
"You're a researcher in the station thus you are obliged to do what is ordered by the administrator and don't forget the purpose of this Station. It is to unravel the mysteries of the universe." She pointed at me, "Today, you are one of those mysteries."
"So I can't say no?"
"Did you even hear my words?" She sent me an annoyed glance.
"What if…I decided to leave the station?"
"And join the Express? Then you will be just like that twerp. It will be completely voluntary." She responded.
I stared at her in complete disbelief. "Wait, how did you–"
"You were invited to join the Astral Express, right? I saw that Twerp looking downcast, so I assume you either refused or haven't decided yet."
"Twerp… wait, Stelle? You mean her right?"
"Who else would it be?" Herta replied with a flat look. "So?"
"...."
"Aren't you gonna answer?"
"I… I think so, yes." I hesitated before answering. Strangely, it was painful to say it aloud.
Herta smirked. "So, did that twerp way of doing things actually work on you?"
I furrowed my brows at her question. Wait, Stelle actually mentioned that…It didn't take me too long to connect the dots
"Wait, you're the one who suggested it?"
"Who knows?" She blinked innocently. Why did I feel like it was the case? "You have two options. Stay here and you will be obliged to do what I told you to do. It is signed upon the contract the moment you enter the space station." She held her finger upward. "Or you join the express, and you have the option to agree or disagree."
"...."
"Remember Ethan Almiyers, I am giving something that not even the IPC could beg of me to do. This could help you and I'm sure you are just as confused as to what device of yours as to me. Do pick your choice carefully"
"...."
"That will be all, Good day"
I stared at her departing figure with a contemplating look.
+++===++++
Back to my room, I took a quick shower and a change of clothes. It was a needed way to clear my thoughts.
"Shit, why do all the situations I put myself into lean on joining the express?" I chuckled myself "First, I was threatened, now I am threatened to be a lab rat by force unless I join the Express"
I sighed.
[The Host is experiencing a high amount of stress]
"Yeah, no shit." I rolled my eyes. "Surprisingly, you can sense that too huh?"
[All feelings and emotions are being examined and updated regularly to take into consideration the Host's overall Mental State]
"You are something, you know that?"
[Clarification: I am what you call SAIPS-]
"I know, I know. I wasn't talking literally," I sighed again and proceeded to sit at my bed. "Hey, is it alright if I ask you something?"
[The system is ready to address what the Host may question]
"Great. I know you've been observing me. So, what do you think of me going with the Astral Express?"
[The Host has full freedom of choice. The system isn't allowed to make decisions on behalf of that]
"But a second opinion won't hurt." I pointed out
[...]
[Analyzing all current variables…]
[Accessing all possibilities..]
[The system has concluded to suggest the host accept the offer.]
I blinked in surprise, raising my brows. "Why?"
[A new user of the Powerband requires experience. To gain experience, the host must travel across the unknown cosmos. This not only strengthens the host's mental fortitude but physical prowess and mastery of the powerband to dominate any foe and species.]
"So, I should go to get more powerful? Is that what you're saying?"
[Affirmative.]
"But the thing is that I don't want to become someone who wants to be a top which I doubt I will be, considering gods can eradicate an entire solar system in this universe without any effort" I chuckled at the last part. Seriously, the power scaling in this universe is beyond me.
[However, the system has concluded that the chances of surviving another disaster are close to zero. This is taken into an account if there are no variables to interfere]
"Even if I stay here?" I grew doubtful. I recalled what Dan Heng said regarding that.
[According to my calculations.]
[Yes]
"So you agree with him huh .. .so either way, I'm screwed," I let out a tired chuckle. My life might be a joke to whoever pulled my soul here.
[The system is always here to assist you with whatever is necessary]
"Like how you assisted me earlier with Stelle?"
"..."
" I know you heard me"
"...."
"Fine you don't have to answer," I said, shaking my head. Now it's three against zero. All three back up my decision to go to the Express while I have nothing to support the other.
I looked at my phone. However, I have one left.
++++=====++++
Changing to my regular clothes, a simple shirt and pants, I quickly made my way towards the cafeteria. It was located not so far from my room so the walk was rather short. However, before arriving there, I met an unexpected person on the way.
"Arlan?" I called out the person in question, who was surrounded by security personnel judging from their uniforms, and urned back at the mention of his name being called.
"Oh, Ethan, it's you!"
"What are you doing here?" I asked as I approached closer.
"Oh, we were just talking about the launch of the new program called "Project Revival". Arlan replied, shrugging a little.
I blinked. "Does it involve the aftermath of the invasion?"
Arlan nodded "This is a step-by-step plan to get back the space station at full capacity and it is also a post-disaster protocol for whenever another invasion will come, if they dare to that is, it won't be easier than last time."
He sounded so smug about that last part of his sentence. It must be a really good protocol guessing from that.
"That's good. So the progress so far?"
"It's… complicated. For now. Well, you could say we've run into some problems," he admitted, scratching the back of his head. "Lady Asta believes that the number of personnel needed exceeds our previous estimates, so we're running short on staff."
"That's quite concerning. Have you found a solution to that yet?"
"We are working on it, yes" Aslan affirmed with a nod.
I smiled "I wish you good luck on that Arlan"
"Thanks!" Arlan smiled back then a concerned expression took his features, "Also, I heard you were hospitalized recently. Are you feeling okay?"
"Feeling a lot better lately" I chuckled. "Could be better I suppose."
"Don't be too hard on yourself, Ethan."
"I won't"
" Well, I'll talk to you later then."
"Likewise"
++++===+++
The cafeteria wasn't very crowded when I arrived, which was a good thing by any means. I don't like crowded places especially those crowded places including the Cafeteria at rush hour.
I looked around and quickly spotted Abraham at a table on the right. He seemed to be dining alone so I made my way over him.
Abraham noticed me immediately and waved. "Ethan! Didn't expect to see you so soon…and why are you here?"
"You want me to be hospitalized longer?"
Abraham quickly held up his hands and shook his head profusely. "I would never!"
I chuckled at his reaction. Never gets old. "It's just a joke, relax."
"Ha-ha-ha," Abraham laughed stiffly, clearly not amused. "So, you never answer my question, why are you here? Wanna talk about something?"
I took a seat opposite him. "It's something concerning my fate in life."
"What? Did you get a girlfriend or something?"
I gave him a look. "Really?" What's up with his guess about my love life?
"What? I thought it concerned your fate. Isn't finding someone you love considered fate? My mother always says that" He shrugged
I was momentarily at a loss for words. "Dude, how many romance novels have you read?"
"Not many, apparently,"
"You're a lost cause, you know that?"
"Really? I think I'm on the right path in life."
I shook my head. "Right, anyway, it doesn't concern my personal life….it's about my own life."
Abraham raised a brow. "What do you mean?"
"What I'm gonna tell you stays between us, okay? And what I say after that, too."
Abraham nodded. "I'm listening."
"Between us," I repeated, my voice turning deadly serious.
"I know! I promise!" Abraham said resolutely. I examined his face for any hint of deceit but found nothing. Well, I already trust him well enough for him not to spell out the beans.
I took a quick glance around the cafeteria before taking a breath. "You know the Astral Express, right?"
"Yeah, what about them?" Abraham asked, taking a sip from his drink.
"They asked me to join them—"
"PFFTTT!" I felt hot liquid spray across my face. It was not technically burning, but the heat sensation was there, in addition to his saliva. Gross would be a way to put it.
"Cough Sorry, that was a lot to take in."
"You had to drink, didn't you?" I grabbed a napkin from the table and wiped my face.
Abraham coughed a few more times before calming down. " And you had to say that while I was drinking" He argued "Should have said that after I swallowed it down."
"Point taken"
"So how did you get invited to join them anyway?"
"By attempted murder."
"What?"
"I mean, they asked me to."
Abraham frowned. "That doesn't answer my question. What made you qualify to join them?"
"Aren't my redeeming and dashing qualities make me qualified enough?"
"Huh right?"
I take it that he didn't believe me. I chuckled. "Anyways, you can say I have something special"
"What? superpowers?" He laughed.
In response, I looked him dead in the eye.
"Wait, you're serious?" Abraham double-takes, his eyes widening slightly.
I nodded. "If you can call it that then…yeah"
His expression turned from surprise to absolute excitement. "Dude, you're a superhero?!" he shouted, slamming his hands on the table, bringing several people present in the cafeteria to attention.
"Wait, we haven't gone there yet, and lower your voice. People are looking at us weirdly again." I didn't want others labeling us as weirdos—if they hadn't already.
After noticing the many curious stares from around the cafeteria, Abraham quickly apologized for his outburst and sat back down. "Dude, how—what—how?"
"I'm as confused as you but it happened." I flicked my wrist and showed him my watch.
It took a moment for Abraham to catch on. "I've seen that watch on you but I didn't know you've got powers on it. Can it, what, slow time?"
I shook my head. "That would be a cool power to have, but no."
"Can you show it to me?"
"I haven't really tested it out yet," I admitted, much to his disappointment.
"Wait, seriously? That should be the first thing you do!" he exclaimed like it was a serious offense on his part.
"I know, I know, but I'm not really in a hurry," I said dismissively. Mostly, I didn't want to draw unwanted attention to myself, especially on a space station filled with researchers. I didn't want to end up as some kind of lab rat.
"Fine, your loss," Abraham sighed. "So, is that what you wanted to talk about? I doubt this talk is about showing off your powers."
"Partially, but I wanted your opinion on whether I should go with the Astral Express."
Abraham furrowed his brows. "Does it require that much thought?"
"If you know them, yes."
He took a moment to think. "If I were in your shoes, I'd accept without hesitation."
"Why?"
"Dude, really? Don't you think this smells like an opportunity? You're being given a chance to travel the universe, and visit planets, isn't that what the Astral Express does?"
"You forgot the dangerous part, the Stellaron," I pointed out with a flat look.
"Yeah, that too, but that's only one con against the many pros."
"I don't think we should judge that too early," I replied, crossing my arms.
"Still, if you want my suggestion, I say you accept it. Who knows? It might be beneficial for you in the long run," Abraham said, biting into his piece of bread.
I sighed, leaning back in my chair. "Both of you said the same thing."
Abraham stopped chewing and stared at me. "Who?"
I shook my head. "Never mind."
A moment of silence passed before Abraham broke it.
"So, are you still undecided?" he asked.
"Yeah." I nodded, staring up at the ceiling.
"Come on, dude. For many people, it's an easy decision. I don't understand why you're making such a fuss about it. I remember something my mom told me when I was a kid: 'Always look ahead without looking back. For ahead is an opportunity, but looking back is the end.'" He paused before continuing. "What I'm saying is, this is your chance to be something more than just some guy in a desk
"You do know that applies to you as well, right?"
"But I'm not the guy with a superpower."
"Touche" I considered his words before staring at him for a few moments. "You know, it's strange seeing you this wise since most of the time you can't get your words out when you're scared."
"Wow dude, never thought you would think of me so low."
I chuckled. "For all seriousness, thanks, Abraham. My head's a bit clearer now. You were the final nail of the coffin" It was now four against zero. What a great ratio.
Abraham smiled triumphantly. "I knew Mom's advice would help someone. Also, if you really went with them, don't forget about me, okay?"
"How could I?"
"Heh, you better. Anyways, are you really not planning on showing me how your watch works?"
I thought about it and looked at the time. "Probably some other time. I've got some catching up to do."
Abraham smiled faintly as he chuckled "Yeah, also aren't you forgetting something?"
I tilted my head as I stared at him curiously "What?"
"Miss Asta. Aren't you gonna inform the department beforehand?"
I opened my mouth appearing to say something but in the end, I merely sighed.
"Right, I forgot."
+++====+++
"Are you sure of this decision?"
"Yes"
"Double sure?"
"Yes," I said almost tiredly as the lady behind the desk kept asking for confirmation. Was it really uncommon for researchers here to leave that they have to doubt me so much?
The lady behind the desk, hair with the color azure together with glasses, pressed her lips. "Let me make a final verification. Ethan Almiyers. Personnel Number 541 from the Planet Kelta will leave the Station under the Rule of 54, am I correct?"
"Yes"
"Alright," The lady nodded and placed a piece of paper in front of me "Please sign this for your verification to leave the station."
Looking at the paper, doubt grew in me. I stared back at her. "That's it?"
The lady blinked. "You want more?"
"To be honest I was expecting more procedures honestly" I scratched my head, feeling a bit underwhelmed. Just a few signs of paper, that's it?
The girl hummed "I get what you mean but that's all there is to it. Of course, this is under Miss Herta's jurisdiction so we can't really do anything about it"
"Good point" With a pen in hand, I began signing the paper.
"Thank you. That will be all" After handing the paper to her, the lady wore a smile as she said her thanks
"Thank you too" I too expressed my gratitude. Just when I turned around to head towards the door, I didn't expect to be greeted by a person I least expected to come across.
"Oh, It's you, Ethan" There was no doubt about it. There was only one person on that station that had that kind of voice.
When I turned my head to the side "Lady Asta?"
She stared at me, expecting something.
"Asta," I scratched my head, sheepishly. "…Sorry, it's a habit."
She hummed in contentment. "What are you doing here? I thought you'd been in the Astral Express by now"
Was she also really expecting me to go with them?
"Uhm, I was filing to leave back there" I pointed towards the lady at the counter. My eyes widened shortly right after "Uhm, it doesn't mean that–"
Asta chuckled. "You don't have to worry Ethan. I take no offense to you leaving the station. In fact, I'm happy for you. Being one of the Astral Express is an opportunity that others sure wouldn't mind."
I couldn't help but want to disagree with that last part but eh.
"And I'm pretty sure it wasn't an easy decision for you." She said
"Well the odds were stacked against me," I replied. "But yeah, it wasn't."
"That said, you should really get going. The Astral Express will leave in about an hour by now"
"Wait, really?"
She nodded "You better be quick. I'm sure you have a lot of things to pack."
"Well, you're certainly right about that," I said. "Hey, Asta, I have a question."
"Yes?"
"Why are you….well..Uhm how do I say it.." I hesitated, finding no words to describe what I wanted to say
"Ethan." She mentioned my name, her voice stern and serious "If you think I'm that type of person. Well, you're wrong. I'm not some spoiled lady who thinks everyone is beneath her. Aeons no." She shook her head as if the thought disgusted her.
I stared at her as she added "We're friends, aren't we?"
"...." I fell silent, taken aback by her words before smiling "Yeah, we are"
"Great!" She exclaimed happily.
"Hey, Asta."
"Yes?"
"Thank you."
I could see a surprised expression on her face before it all broke down into a chuckle "Silly Ethan, you don't have to thank me. What did I do to deserve that?"
"Just felt like saying it," I shrugged. "After all, you deserve it."
"Hmm? What made you think so?" She asked, curiously tilting her head.
"Now that's a secret" I winked.
She shook her head in exasperation. "Fine. Keep your secrets, I won't pry."
You know, what's weird? Being comfortable with someone who is regarded as someone higher than you. I wasn't used to it. People like her mostly ignore me and don't acknowledge my existence. I guess that's why my classmates back in high school called me a loser and some names that I typically forgot as time passed.
Looking back at it, I guess, I've come this far. Was it fate? Luck?
"I guess I better get going."
"Mhm, I have tons of things to do with the aftermath of the invasion as well so I'll be really busy for the past few days." Asta frowned at the last part before smiling back. "So I'll see you soon?" She extended a hand
"Sure thing boss." I cracked a grin and shook her hand.
She blinked, before smiling.
Why do I feel like...
Then her grip on my hand tightened around my hand.
"Ow ow ow! Sorry!"
Well, I guess my life wasn't so bad here after all.
+++====+++
March hummed happily as she gazed out into the darkness of space. While it seemed dull and boring for others. But for her, it's different as she looks at the bright side of things. Especially to the tiny lights scattered across it. Even though she sees it every day, it never fails to amaze her. She just couldn't get enough of it! After all, a beautiful and charming girl like her deserves to admire the beauty of the stars. That's what she told herself every single day as she looked at the stars. She quickly pulled out her camera and captured a group of stars forming a unique shape.
As March was very content with what she was doing, she suddenly heard footsteps beside her. Curious, She glanced over and saw Stelle. Her shoulders were slumped, and her expression was one of sadness and disappointment. She quietly sat down on a nearby bench, saying nothing. Concerned, March decided to approach her.
"Stelle, are you okay?"
Stelle remained silent. March furrowed her brows, feeling more worried, and tried again.
"Stelle, I'm asking a question. I'm worried about you, you know?"
"It's Ethan."
"Ethan?" March blinked, and then a horrifying thought struck her "Did he do something to you? Is that why you're feeling down?!" She knew that guy was up to something, especially around beautiful and pure maidens like them! "Don't worry, I'll set things straight with him—"
"No, it's not that," Stelle interrupted, finally lifting her face. "It's because he doesn't want to come with the Express. I tried to ask him, but he seemed to have other thoughts."
March's anger quickly faded as she stared at her, confused. "Wait, you're upset because of that?"
Stelle nodded which brought a huge relief from her. "I was worried for nothing! Stelle, it's fine if he rejects the invitation. There's no need to be upset. It's a big decision for him, you know?"
Stelle's frown deepened. "I suppose so."
"Cheer up! What do you like? Do you want to play games or…" As March tried to think of something to brighten her mood. It was when she heard another voice.
"March, it seems you're both here."
March brightened up as she recognized the soft voice. She spun around, facing them directly "Miss Himeko! And Mr. Yang, Dan Heng too!"
"Hello March" Dan Heng greeted.
Himeko turned to Stelle. "Have you decided yet, Stelle?"
Stelle looked up at Himeko and nodded. "Yes, I want to join the Astral Express."
Himeko noticed the slight change of tone in her voice and couldn't help but question "Are you alright?"
Stelle nodded, smiling "I'm fine,"
"Wait!"
Upon hearing the voice, they all turned, surprised to see someone running toward them. March found the figure to be very familiar. She spared a glance at Stelle whose entire body seemed to stiffen, but then her frown shifted into a smile.
March shook my head, smiling as well. "I guess we don't need those games anymore."
+++++====+++
[Ethan, you're experiencing a low amount of oxygen in your system.]
"I know, I fucking know," I panted, feeling like my lungs were about to burst out of my chest. That being said, the bag I was holding was heavy, really heavy. I had to pack all my stuff, clothes, and all in less than five minutes after realizing that the Astral Express would be leaving soon. Not only that, I had to text all my…fewer choices of friends namely Abraham, Asta, and Arlan. Thankfully, I managed to bid them goodbye in person with the exception of Arlan.
"Wait!" I shouted, spotting the Astral Express crew on the platform just outside the train.
"I'm here—" Those were the only words I could manage before gasping for air. I had been running for three minutes straight.
"Ethan!" As I lifted my head, I saw Stelle running toward me. My eyes contracted. Oh, not again.
I felt a pair of arms wrap around me. At first, it was a soft and comforting embrace, but it quickly turned painful as the hug tightened. I could feel some of my bones popping. God, she's strong.
"Can't breathe,"
"Stelle, dear, I think you should let go now. Ethan seems to be having a hard time," Himeko's gentle voice chimed in.
Thanks to Himeko, Stelle eventually released me, though I noticed a hint of reluctance on her face. Did she really want me dead that badly? I shuddered at the thought.
"You came!" she said happily, her eyes brightening.
I was taken aback for a moment, but I quickly composed myself. "Yes, I came. Happy now?" My voice was flat, like cardboard, but it didn't seem to bother her one bit.
She nodded enthusiastically. I sighed and looked past her shoulder at the rest of the Astral Express crew. All had smiles on their faces, except Dan Heng and that Welt guy.
"I thought you refused to go. What made you change your mind?" March asked curiously.
I raised an eyebrow. "What? Not happy to see me? I could leave if you want."
March's eyes widened. "I didn't mean it like that!"
I chuckled. God, I loved teasing her. "Just messing with you." I proceed to wink at her, adding a bit of salt to the wound.
March pouted and looked away, grumbling something under her breath that I couldn't quite catch.
"It's good you agreed to join us, Ethan. It must've been a tough decision for you," Himeko said with a faint smile.
"It definitely was," It was the truth.
Himeko gave a nod of understanding. "Thank you for considering it, Ethan"
I blushed a bit at her words. It appears she noticed it and I could see her expression turned amused.
"An-Anyway, um, that's about it," I said, clearing my throat. On the side, I caught a glimpse of Stelle pouting while staring at me.
"What?"
"Stupid Ethan"
Eh? What did I do?
"Dan Heng, help Ethan with his bags. We've got no time to waste. Pom-Pom is starting to get impatient." Himeko told the boy beside her.
Dan Heng offered his hand. I stared at it before looking him straight in the face. "You think I can't do it?"
Dan Heng blinked. I saw him faltering for a moment.
I couldn't resist the urge as I practically laughed, "Just messing with you, dude. I can't pass up an offer like this." I tossed the bag to him, and he caught it quickly. "Thanks, by the way. That thing's been killing my shoulders."
I felt sharp glares from behind, but I didn't care.
We soon made our way inside the Astral Express. My first reaction was pure amazement.
"Why is this place so large?" Stelle seemed equally surprised. She was no doubt right about it. The first thing I saw were two large sofas opposite each other. They looked so comfy!
Speaking of her.. "Hey Stelle, I noticed that you haven't brought a bag with you. Have you really packed your things?" In response, she tilted her head at my question.
Knowing what that meant, I stared at her, deadpan. "You're serious? You haven't packed anything, not clothes? Underw–Ahem, I mean some stuff that is important for hygiene?"
Stelle shook her head, much to my shock. Before I could press further, Himeko's voice reassured me.
"Don't worry, Ethan. We'll take care of her belongings. I'm sure March has some spare clothes to share."
"I see." I nodded, finding her solution logical.
"Oh, look! Asta, Arlan, and even Madam Herta are here to say goodbye!" March brought our attention to the window
I saw Asta bowing her head in farewell, Arlan waving, and Herta…well, she seemed to be turning away already.
I blinked. Oh wait, did I tell her that I agreed to go with the Astral Express? Ah crap, I think I forgot. Maybe I could text Asta about it? I have no contact with Madam Herta.
"Something from your mind, Ethan?"
I turned my head to see Himeko's slightly concerned expression.
"Nothing…just feeling the moment." Regret? Well, It's not like I can go back now.
"I see, we have snacks here in case you're hungry. Oh, if you like Coffee, I could pour out one for you"
"I—I would like that very much."
And that's how I began my trailblazing journey….
God that sounded so wrong.