Abstract Abilities: Rei

8: He cheers her up

At school, since the first day, Rei's classroom has become relatively peaceful. Nobody dared to upset her because she was supposedly the Silver Emperor's wife.

But Rei herself did not notice this as her mind was always busy appreciating her surroundings. She wasn't as good as reading people as well, because her social skills lack tremendously. 

It wasn't so bad, however, as Hein came often to check up on her.

His attentiveness increased after the night of the first day, but Rei only thought Hein was similar to those guardian angels who protect the people and provide salvation to those who needed it. She felt especially safe and tranquil around him.

—

One morning, Hein came by around Rei's bedroom once again, to remind her of breakfast and he'd accompany her downstairs. Ever since he begun doing such mundane things, Rei has never been tardy.

She just came out of the bathroom and looking very fresh with the academy's uniform on. Her long hair was wet and dripping onto the floor, while her cheeks were rosy from the heat.

Looking at her charming appearance, Hein awkwardly turned his head away. But then he eventually fidgetly glanced up at her for a few moments. "Shall I brush your hair for you?" He quietly said.

Rei did not mind his actions and offered him the brush she was holding. She inwardly thought that whatever request Hein asked, she'd do her best to comply for all the care he's done for her. Unbeknownst to her, her actions only made Hein happier.

With a boost of morale, Hein gently begun combing Rei's long hair that fell up to her waist. It was straight and fragrant of lavender shampoo. He couldn't help but grab some strands in his hand and smell it to his nose.

"Are you having fun in school?" He suddenly asked, remembering it's already been a week since Rei begun attending classes.

"En." Was all she said, but Hein knew she was delighted with the current arrangements, so he smiled in satisfaction. "Do you want to go out this weekend?"

Rei blinked her eyes in confusion as it wasn't easy getting a pass to stay outdoors for a day. Without even saying a word, Hein understood her inner dilemma, so he calmly explained as he continued brushing her hair. 

"I'm close with the Headmaster, so I can easily get permission."

Rei felt there was more to it, but she didn't want to step over her bounds. She simply smiled cordially, which Hein knew it was an agreement. He saw her eyes expressed an excited luster, and he was very much happy to comply.

Once the two finished their morning ritual, they were off to school. And as usual, everyone couldn't help but glance at the two at least once. Hein still maintained his attitude of holding Rei's hand as they walked the distance from the dormitory to Rei's classroom. It was as if, he was afraid Rei would get lost if he didn't hold on to her every time they were outside.

It was a strange feeling, but he eventually became used to dragging Rei around. It might have been for his selfish satisfaction and that's why he always paid close attention to Rei, but it also cannot be denied that he felt more at peace knowing Rei was safe.

They were strangers who were strangely compatible. With one being so doting, while the other being doted. None of the two have yet to share their past, but when they do, they would both understand why it had to be the other.

____________

With Hein's arrangements, Rei could finally explore the outside world. Sophia wanted to tag along, but Hein refused adamantly. He did not want anyone to divide Rei's attention, nor his attention away from the outing. But he did not use this as an excuse to refuse Sophia outright, because if he did, it would have caused more trouble than good.

Hence, everyone else bid them goodbye at the gates with a look of longing, except for Tristan and Alph.

Holding Rei's hand securely in his', Hein leisurely led her to the bus stop. "Do you mind if we just walk around Downtown first?"

Rei glanced up at him with a small, almost unrestrained, smile on her face and shook her head gently. Her eyes foretold of happiness and completely reliant of Hein's schedule for the day.

With a doting smile, Hein gripped Rei's hand a little tighter for their silent tacit agreement. And as they were in the bus, Rei looked all over the place outside and inside, while Hein pointed at certain buildings telling her what they were briefly.

Rei enjoyed the outing very much. Then they arrived at the Downtown with Hein never letting go of their intertwined hands. They looked extremely compatible, looking like an harmonious young couple. And with their superior looks that both of them weren't aware of, several pair of eyes would glance their way.

"There are actually many students from the Academy who graduated and didn't pass up the government qualification; thus ending up as entrepreneurs. Sometimes, their latent Abstract Ability don't disappear even after several years into adulthood. Some are not so lucky."

"En."

"That store over there sells Mimicking Dolls as each doll can mimick the previous sounds a human makes."

"Ohn."

"On your right, there's an aromatic store whose food smells so good that even a bowl could make someone feel at ease. And after a day's stressful work, one can order a bowl to remove all fatigue."

"Mmm~"

"Do you see that big jewelry store? It sells expensive accessories, but it's all worth it as the special materials used for the craft is really durable and beautiful. Even if a bomb where to hit it, it wouldn't be destroyed."

"...Nn.."

Unconsciously, Rei gripped Hein's hand as they walked passed by the huge jewelry store. Hein sensed something was wrong right away, and briefly, he thought of the store once more and realized something. But he did not say his thoughts out loud.

Instead, he changed to other topics right away.

"My Abstract Ability can make machines come to life. I'll show you."

They went into an electronic store where different consoles and metallic formations abound. Hein randomly grabbed for a small car that was designed so well it was realistic, akin to a real sports car.

"Watch this." He said and fiddled with the car for a moment. Next, he dropped it on the table, the car lit up all lights and its little engine roared.

It was only a lifeless piece of toy before, but now it was very much alive. Rei's eyes twinkled and an idea formed in her mind. With a smile on her face and a certain glint in her eyes, she grabbed for the car. In moments, the car was transformed into a beautiful crystal-like lamp.

A glass for the stand and the body of the car was held in the air. Its lights passed through the crystal glass and transformed its brilliance to different hues. The crystals looked like frozen ice that covered some parts of the car and held it up higher, as if it was frozen in time. It may look brittle, but it was actually more durable than any table lamps.

A few customers were attracted by the beautiful but unique table lamp. "Excuse me. Is this one for sale?"

Rei and Hein looked at one another and burst out in giggles. Hein pushed the lamp towards the customer, while grabbing Rei's hand. "You can have it. We've already paid for it."

And so they left the store in higher spirits.