Space station 25: Himeko's Heart Stirrings

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******

Early morning, in the dormitory.

Her lively and playful roommate produced a deck of tarot cards, displaying them. "Himeko, want to try these out? I heard that tarot readings for fate and love can be incredibly accurate."

Himeko, who was reading a book, turned around in her chair and pondered briefly. "While tarot cards have some significance in probability theory and psychology, they cannot truly predict the future..."

The roommate covered her ears. "Ah—nope, not listening!"

With a resigned smile, Himeko stopped speaking.

Her roommate lowered her hands and asked again, "Are you really not interested?"

Himeko shook her head. "I don't particularly believe in such things."

"Alright then."

The roommate had anticipated this response.

Himeko valued science, being calm and rational; she wouldn't put faith in something like tarot cards.

***

"The number of participants in each project group is still insufficient, but let's start by discussing your topic preferences first."

"In upcoming classes, you can present the research questions you wish to explore."

"If any interested classmates see potential, they may choose to join your group."

Today, two groups were scheduled to showcase their topic preferences.

Seated at her desk, Himeko was finalizing the PowerPoint presentation on her laptop when she overheard an argument nearby.

It was from the other group presenting today.

It seemed they had argued over preparations, with one girl constantly expressing her frustration at the other two.

[Silver Wolf: Oh boy, dealing with stress much?]

During their presentation, as expected, the group completely botched it. Not only were there numerous mistakes, but the presenter stuttered awkwardly, making for an uncomfortable scene.

Even Himeko felt somewhat tense watching this unfold.

Noticing Himeko's unease, Su Qing wrote on his notepad: "Relax, just imagine everyone below us as potatoes."

Himeko looked puzzled: "Potatoes?"

Su Qing nodded and drew a circle with a few lines above it, explaining: "Yeah, just think of them like this (sketching the shape)."

Himeko studied the drawing he made: "This doesn't look like a potato, rather..."

"...like a bald head, right?" Su Qing agreed softly, confirming her thought.

Himeko smiled, suppressing a giggle, and nodded.

This momentary laughter eased her nervousness slightly.

As they both stepped up to present together, Su Qing remained composed as always. Following his steady pace, Himeko also managed to calm down.

Their preparation was thorough, resulting in a highly effective and impressive final presentation.

[March 7th: With Su Qing around, everything is so reliable.]

[Stelle: @March 7th, indeed, you're absolutely right.]

[March 7th: ...Hmph.]

[Sparkle: Enjoying it.]

[Stelle: Uh, cough cough. I just forgot to mention earlier—March 7th is indeed adorable and beautiful, a rare sight among young girls. Not only that, she has a broad heart and is exceptionally kind!]

[Silver Wolf: Laughing so hard.]

[March 7th: ...]

[March 7th: ...Well, one compliment for two criticisms isn't bad. As a gracious lady, I won't hold it against you this time~]

[Stelle: Yay!]

[Seele: March 7th, you're too easy to appease.]

[March 7th: Because...I wasn't truly upset in the first place?]

[Stelle: Aww, little March is cute.]

***

Initially, Himeko's interest in Su Qing was merely casual.

As their written conversations deepened her understanding, memories of the pendant resurfaced, and his reliability during the project proposal became evident, Himeko began paying extra attention to Su Qing.

When entering a new space, people unconsciously scan the area, mentally "highlighting" those they care about. For instance, even if familiar friends sit far away, you can spot them at a glance. Conversely, individuals you don't care about might go unnoticed, regardless of how close they are.

[Guinaifen: Unless, of course, someone you don't care about is doing something particularly unusual.]

[Guinaifen: You might not be interested in me, but what if I were eating noodles while standing on my head?!]

[Sushang: That would definitely catch everyone's attention...]

This principle applied to Himeko as well.

After gaining extra focus on Su Qing:

Whenever she entered the classroom, her gaze instinctively scanned around. Apart from checking for the teacher's presence, her eyes also searched the front rows for Su Qing's figure.

"He's already here, reading."

"He hasn't arrived yet; did he oversleep?"

These thoughts frequently crossed Himeko's mind.

During breaks, if Su Qing approached the teacher with a question, Himeko would subtly lean in from her seat to listen to his inquiry.

In the cafeteria, if by chance she spotted Su Qing having lunch with friends from afar, she couldn't help but take a closer look.

Mostly, this attention was unconscious, even Himeko herself didn't fully realize it.

[March 7th: Why haven't we started yet...I can't help but feel eager!]

[Firefly: Why haven't we begun...I'm already feeling restless!]

[Sparkle: @Firefly, even in your happiest dreams, you only wished that if Su Qing were truly your classmate, it would be wonderful.]

[Sparkle: So seeing this simulation now, you must be incredibly envious, aren't you? Hehe, I'm right, aren't I?]

[Seele: Ouch, that stings.]

[Stelle: @Sparkle, your wit rivals that snake demon's.]

[Firefly: ...]

[Firefly: Enough, stop it already? Sparkle, your words feel like verbal daggers, piercing my defenses deeply.]

[Sparkle: Delighted to hear it.]

[Silver Wolf: Same here, delighted.]

[Stelle: There, there, Firefly, don't cry.]

[Kafka: @Firefly, stay calm. Remember our simulations; Himeko won't succeed.]

[Firefly: That statement feels like causing double damage while harming oneself thrice...]

[Firefly: But surprisingly, it does help. Thanks, I feel better now!]

[Silver Wolf: Please, both of you, stop setting yourselves up for failure.]

***

Under heightened scrutiny,

several memorable moments quickly unfolded.

Inside a self-study room within the school building.

Su Qing and Himeko were discussing various articles they had read.

They would read articles recommended by each other and occasionally exchange opinions through written notes. Compared to spoken words, writing allowed for more thoughtful expression, albeit slower, resulting in greater accuracy in conveying their meanings.

The seconds hand and minute hand ticked away steadily.

In the nearly empty study room, Su Qing glanced at his watch—it was almost 11 PM. Typically, the last class of the evening ended around 9 or 10 PM.

Su Qing wrote on a piece of paper: "Let's take a ten-minute break first, then continue reading afterward?"

"...Mm-hmm."

After reading his note, Himeko finished the page she was on before looking up and softly agreeing.

There was hot water available in the hallway. Himeko brought out two packets of instant coffee, and they each prepared a cup. As they sipped their coffee, they took a leisurely stroll within the building.

The interior was quiet, with both students walking side by side in silence, reflecting on their learning from earlier without exchanging words.

When they reached the suspended corridor between buildings, the breeze refreshed their minds slightly.

Standing in the corridor, Himeko held her water cup in her left hand and pointed upward with her right, saying, "The Spring Triangle."

Su Qing also looked up. "Oh."

Himeko was referring to three bright stars forming a triangle visible in Water Blue Star's spring sky. With few clouds tonight, the stars' glow was exceptionally clear.

"Remember, you mentioned wanting to become an astronaut?" Su Qing recalled their previous conversation.

"Yes, exploring the universe is my dream." Himeko nodded.

Her desire to explore the cosmos and innate curiosity were precisely why she chose to study interstellar aerospace engineering.

Gazing at the starry sky, Himeko said, "One day, I hope to embark on a personal journey to explore the stars."

"It's unfortunate that research on interstellar aviation has been stagnant for quite some time. Perhaps with continued effort, future generations might achieve this goal..."

Listening nearby, Su Qing found Himeko's dream aligned perfectly with his own aspirations.

While studying and conducting research may not be as thrilling as hunting demons,

Su Qing remained deeply engrossed, watching the progress steadily increase in [Academic Deduction], relishing the continuous acquisition of new knowledge.

[Stelle: Su Qing, academic pursuits - exhilarating!]

[Seele: If I could always see my progress like this, I'd probably fall in love with learning too.]

[Bronya initially wanted to tease Seele but remembered Sushang and Guinaifen, changing her response:]

[Bronya: @Seele, keep it up! With hard work, you'll surely master knowledge!]

[Seele: ???]

[Seele: @Bronya, are you feeling okay? Should I get Natasha to check on you?]

[Bronya: ...Can't I just encourage you without being questioned?]

[Seele: It's so awkward, giving me goosebumps!]

[Bronya: ...Speechless.]

[Stelle: Amused.]

[Qingque: Amused.]

[Black Swan: Different relationships require unique approaches; one size doesn't fit all.]

Regarding their current objective—to unravel the mystery behind Water Blue Star's stalled interstellar aviation—

Su Qing didn't believe he alone could surpass decades of research by countless scholars. However, if he could collaborate with like-minded individuals such as Himeko, contributing together towards this goal and advancing its development, it would make this simulation opportunity truly worthwhile.

Su Qing didn't believe he alone could surpass decades of research by countless scholars.

However, if he could collaborate with like-minded individuals such as Himeko, contribute together to this field, and advance its progress—

It would mean that he hadn't wasted his life or squandered this simulation opportunity.

[Herta: Not bad, adding five points.]

The two chatted casually on the suspended corridor above campus.

It was quiet around them, with stars twinkling brightly overhead. Occasionally, one or two students passed below, and distant teaching or laboratory buildings still glowed with lights.

Su Qing and Himeko discussed their studies and the starlit sky—topics both close at hand and far-reaching. Their conversation had no specific purpose; they simply enjoyed the relaxed moment together.

Himeko glanced to her right.

Beside her, Su Qing exuded brilliance yet remained remarkably humble. His gentle demeanor made listening to him speak feel incredibly soothing.

Moreover, her growing fondness for him continued to deepen within her heart.

Even with her aspirations towards the cosmos, Himeko's gaze inadvertently shifted from the starry sky to focus on Su Qing.

As she watched him, Himeko held her coffee, blew gently on the steam, and took a sip. The rich aroma warmed her body upon tasting.

This was just one fleeting moment.

[Even when recalling it while watching the live stream...]

[At that time, her immense longing for the starlit sky, the subtle affection for the person beside her, and the delightful taste of coffee—all evoked profound nostalgia.]

After resting briefly, they returned to the study room. Continuing their studies for some time longer, they finally left.

It was nearly midnight when Su Qing first escorted Himeko back to her dormitory.

During the walk, both remained mostly silent, savoring the tranquility of the night.

Of course, university students' schedules were as unpredictable as June weather. Occasionally, they would spot a few passing students engaged in lively conversations.

Su Qing walked Himeko to the building entrance, and they bid each other farewell.

Himeko gently waved as she watched Su Qing depart, his figure gradually disappearing into the darkness.

Once he was out of sight, Himeko tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and turned to ascend the stairs.

This moment also lingered vividly in her memories.

Due to preparing for projects, such encounters were frequent, making these impressions particularly deep-rooted.

Morning arrived.

With no classes scheduled for the morning, Himeko spent some time reading in her dormitory before deciding to head to the library.

As she passed by the sports field, she heard a bell ring, signaling the end of the first class period.

Naturally, Himeko's gaze swept over the field.

Quickly and unexpectedly, she spotted a distant figure jogging—a familiar silhouette.

It was Su Qing.

Outside the sports field, Himeko, holding her books, paused to watch from beyond the fence for a moment.

Only when the next class bell rang did she suddenly snap back to reality.

How did I lose track of time for so long...

Ten minutes had passed in the blink of an eye.

Himeko glanced at the field again, noticing Su Qing's running figure, before hastening her steps towards the library.

***

It was through this growing attention and certain memorable moments that, even if Himeko didn't consciously realize it, subtle emotions were steadily accumulating within her heart over time.

Perhaps one day, when these feelings became impossible to ignore, she would truly acknowledge them herself.

Or maybe, triggered by some unexpected circumstance, she would suddenly become aware...

***

On this particular day, there were classes during the first two afternoon periods, and as they progressed, a light rain began to fall.

After class ended, Himeko planned to head back to her dormitory first.

Since she hadn't brought an umbrella and the rain seemed likely to stop soon, Himeko decided to wait briefly near the entrance.

A voice came from beside her, "Going to the library?"

Recognizing it as Su Qing, Himeko smiled, "Yes, but I need to drop by my dormitory first."

The two stood at the entrance of the academic building, waiting together for the rain to subside.

Himeko tilted her head slightly, glancing at Su Qing's backpack, "That pendant..."

"Oh, this?"

Su Qing detached the pendant and held it in his hand. Given its design featuring a star and astronaut, Himeko's curiosity was understandable.

He pondered for a moment before responding, "It's a souvenir someone gave me long ago. Finding a similar one now might be quite difficult."

Himeko nodded gently.

The event had occurred six or seven years ago, her memories of it hazy and unclear. If not for seeing the inscription on the back—"XX Year, Summer Science Fair"—she may not have recognized it at all.

For some reason, Himeko suddenly felt an urge to ask, "This souvenir... is it very important to you? I mean, is it valuable?"

Her question seemed abrupt, but she quickly added the second part to soften it.

Su Qing promptly shook his head. "Not really, just a small trinket with no significant worth."

[March 7th: Ah—ya! (sighs)]

[Firefly: Ah—ya!?]

Himeko looked down, nodding. "That makes sense..."

Considering their age at the time, how expensive could the gift have been? Using all her pocket money to buy a souvenir and give it to him was already the greatest expression of gratitude she could manage then.

As Su Qing delved into his memories prompted by this question, he said, "It truly was a long time ago."

His expression showed slight confusion. "I can't even remember if the person who gave me the souvenir was male or female."

"However, I do recall the look on their face when they helped me understand the exhibits, especially while explaining cosmic knowledge," Su Qing continued with a smile as he gazed at the pendant in his hand. "Isn't it fascinating? Despite forgetting their appearance and gender, these specific details remain vividly imprinted in my memory."

Himeko slightly raised her head to look at him. "Not at all strange. I... I also have some memories where only certain details stand out."

What Himeko remembered most vividly was the stretch of road when Su Qing carried her on his back, away from the forest.

After returning to the science exhibition, had she enthusiastically assisted Su Qing in introducing the exhibits despite everything?

Clearly shaken and having sprained her ankle...

Himeko suddenly realized something. Only upon hearing Su Qing's words did she recall that even at such a young age, she already harbored a deep yearning for the starlit sky. Regardless of pain or fear, she eagerly shared her fascination with others.

Su Qing continued, "Although this souvenir isn't valuable, I've always carried it with me."

He lifted the pendant against the backdrop of the gradually clearing sky, gazing at the faded keepsake.

"At that moment," Su Qing said, "seeing their enthusiastic demeanor, I couldn't help but feel a sense of longing myself.

"What allure does the universe hold to evoke such curiosity and aspiration? What mysteries lie within the starry sky to inspire such captivation and animated explanations?"

Su Qing gently swayed the pendant. "Perhaps this wasn't the decisive factor in choosing my current field of study, but it certainly had an impact on me.

"Looking back now, I truly have no regrets. The charm of the cosmos is indeed captivating enough to elicit that level of focus and vibrant enthusiasm."

Su Qing hung the pendant back around his neck and, noticing Himeko's seemingly stunned expression beside him, jokingly added, "So even though this pendant may not be worth much, it holds great importance for me. If you were thinking of buying it, sorry, it's not for sale."

Himeko watched him, feeling her heartbeat quicken.

[The viewers' heartbeats also surged with anticipation.]

[Seele: Huh?]

[March 7th: What?!]

[Firefly: Seriously???]

[March 7th: I thought...thought he was about to mess up again!]

[Silver Wolf: Impressive.]

[Silver Wolf: Firefly popped the champagne too soon.]

[Firefly: ?]

[Kafka: ?]

[Stelle: Su Qing's moves are always unpredictable, impossible to anticipate.]

[Stelle: Just when you think he's got it under control, he stumbles spectacularly. And every time you believe he's messed up, he pulls off a dramatic U-turn.]

[March 7th: Right! Noting this down, such insightful words must be jotted down!]

[Firefly: @March 7th, so does love fade away then? Earlier, you were only noting what Su Qing said to me, weren't you? 😳]

[March 7th: Ah? (secretly taking notes) Well, of course, (continues note-taking), it definitely won't disappear! (keeps secretly jotting down) Don't worry!]

As she heard how much Su Qing valued the pendant and saw him carefully reattach it, a peculiar sensation stirred within Himeko.

Her heartbeat began to accelerate, one beat, two beats...

It felt entirely different from the moment she discovered the scribbled-out compliment calling her beautiful.

Back then, it was just a brief reaction to being complimented by someone of the opposite sex.

Now, her heart raced uncontrollably, making it slightly difficult for her to breathe.

This feeling...

was highly unusual for Himeko, who typically remained composed and calm.

Seemingly losing her usual rationality, she wasn't sure how to respond. "Indeed, this pendant, um, is very important."

Noticing the odd tone in her voice, Su Qing looked over at her, causing Himeko even more unease.

Just as the rain outside stopped, Himeko clutched the books in her left arm and stammered, "Th-then I'll be going now."

"Oh, okay... Be careful!" Su Qing warned.

Distracted and with the wet stairs still slippery, Himeko nearly stumbled. Fortunately, Su Qing caught her in time.

"Thank you..."

As Su Qing held her wrist, Himeko instinctively grabbed his arm.

She lifted her head, their eyes meeting.

Ah...

Himeko's breath hitched, and her heartbeat accelerated even further...

Realizing the situation, she quickly said, "Sorry, I have to go!"

Without looking back, Himeko turned, tightly clutching her books, and ran away.

How embarrassing. So embarrassing...

Having acted out of character twice, Su Qing must think I'm quite strange, right? Himeko felt humiliated.

Yet, what made her cheeks burn even more was an indescribable emotion.

Himeko sprinted towards her dormitory.

Her long red hair flowed gracefully, shimmering beautifully under the post-rain sunlight, mirroring the youthful blush on her cheeks.

A sensation felt like it was about to explode within her, as if ready to leap from her heart and surge throughout her body.

What's happening... What exactly is going on...

Around a corner, perhaps overwhelmed by the emotions or simply exhausted from running, Himeko paused with books still clutched tightly to her chest, as if trying to evade Su Qing's gaze.

She leaned against the wall at the bend, taking deep breaths.

With her left hand holding the books, she raised her right hand. First, she touched her forehead, then gently pressed her fingertips against her cheek.

Both were burning hot...

Next, she placed her hand over her full chest.

Ba-thump, ba-thump.

Her heartbeat quickened, matching the rise and fall of her chest.

Indeed, her pulse raced uncontrollably...

Just what...

Himeko tried to remain calm, seemingly attempting to escape—the escape from confronting the most likely answer.

But as she glanced up and saw a loving couple passing by, intimately close,

Himeko froze.

Something dawned on her; she couldn't ignore it any longer.

Lowering her head again, her long red hair covered her flushed cheeks but not her equally crimson ears.

***

In the post-rain campus, amidst the bustling crowd, curious glances might have briefly fallen upon her. Yet, no one could truly know what thoughts consumed Himeko as she stood leaning against the wall, head bowed with books cradled in her arms.

The passing crowd might glance curiously in her direction.

But no one could know what thoughts were swirling through Himeko's mind as she leaned against the wall, holding her books and with her head bowed.

Chirp, chirp.

A small bird perched on a tree branch above.

Occasionally, it would swiftly shake its head, observing the peculiar humans below.

Spring had arrived.

Back at the dormitory:

"You're back... What's wrong?" Himeko's roommate observed her, noting how unlike her usual composed self she seemed.

Himeko didn't answer immediately. Instead, she walked to the desk, set down her books, and stared blankly for a moment, deep in thought.

Finally, with determination, she lifted her head and looked at her roommate. At that instant, Himeko's cheeks glowed like tempting red apples. "Can you help me read my fortune using tarot cards?"