Chapter 49 - Kinetic Transmutation [2]

After that, I continued my experiments for some more time. I managed to get two new ways to utilize this power. While the kinetic energy was extremely restless, I abruptly interrupted it, which generated heat that quickly turned into flames.

I was really surprised when the cup in my hand started to heat up. If I had waited a bit longer, the cup would probably have melted in my hand.

Additionally, I also managed to manifest another type of power when I pondered what would happen if I let the kinetic energy completely stagnate. The result was that the cup simply froze within seconds in my hand.

With that, I also realized that kinetic energy, though it may not seem like it, is always in motion. The difference is that now, with its evolution, I can dictate how fast it moves or even if I want it to stop moving altogether.

Anyway, when I finished my experiments, it was already past 5:50 in the morning. The sun was already lighting up the outside of the window, indicating that morning was practically upon us. Although I hadn't slept at all, I didn't feel any kind of fatigue. Honestly, at that point, I didn't even consider myself human anymore.

Almost automatically and without much thought, I moved towards the kitchen. From the fridge, I grabbed two eggs and two pieces of bacon. Additionally, I prepared the lemon juice that Ruby loves so much. It was only when I finished setting everything on the table that I realized what I had done. Honestly, it scared me a bit. I moved without even realizing it, and when I realized it, breakfast for two was ready.

This also led me to another question: did I still need to go to college? I mean, with the news of people disappearing around the world and returning suddenly, I literally vanished to everyone for a week. And as soon as the news says people are coming back, I just go back to college? Well, not that there really was anyone interested enough in me to notice my absence.

But the professors will probably notice, right? They literally have to take attendance, so I honestly find it a little weird if they haven't noticed my mysterious disappearance.

I honestly wasn't sure what to do, but still decided to go about my day as I normally would. Nothing is happening immediately, and for now, the system isn't giving any hints about the future. So, for now, I'll just continue with my day.

With that thought in mind, I slowly approach the room. Upon opening the door, I find Ruby sleeping soundly, hugging the pillow. Even though I told her to be careful about sleeping that way, she never listens to me.

"Hey, Ruby, it's time to wake up" I called gently, a small smile creeping onto my lips.

"Hmmm... brother, just five more minutes, please" Ruby replied sleepily.

"You know your five minutes usually turn into an hour, right?" I responded, giving a wry smile.

"Ehehe" Ruby responded, letting out a light laugh.

Minutes later, Ruby was finally ready, and we both started having our breakfast. I turned on the TV and, to my non-surprise, there was another report about the case of people who disappeared around the world. Overall, it was just speculation; most of the people who returned were probably spending time with their families or avoiding interviews.

"Brother, what really happened when you and the others disappeared?"

Suddenly, Ruby caught my attention with a question. At this moment, I thought I should keep what happened to myself, as I didn't want to worry her. However, I also can't guarantee that I'll be okay. Anyway, Ruby needs to know so she can mentally prepare herself.

With that in mind, I decided to share with Ruby what happened when I disappeared. However, I avoided going into disturbing details, especially about the times I died. Telling her all of that could traumatize her; after all, Ruby is more fragile than she appears.

I understood. It's practically impossible to hide everything from her. Even if I chose not to tell her, Ruby would probably notice the increase in deaths and the possibility of more people dying in the future. However, I feel like I should share with her about my rune.

Yet, the disadvantages of doing so were much greater than the advantages. While the fact that she would worry less about me made it seem worthwhile, there's also another side to it. If someone else found out, they would probably try to use me for their own benefit. I find it hard to believe that this person could actually affect me, so the only alternative would be my family.

I don't consider something like that impossible to happen. You'd be surprised to understand how humans really operate in extreme situations. And even some act wrongly even in less extreme situations. I couldn't bear to burden Ruby with that.

"I... I understand. I'm sorry for making you remember something so painful, brother" Ruby said after listening to my whole story, with a small smile on her lips.

Though she seemed to be putting on a brave face, her trembling hands evidenced how fragile she was inside. Like I said, Ruby is quite vulnerable, especially after our parents died. For her, it would be preferable to die before I left her alone.

Carefully, I slide my hands towards hers and intertwine them. Ruby still maintains a forced smile on her face. I could tell she didn't want me to worry, but it was clearly eating her up inside. I honestly couldn't comprehend the fear she was probably facing.

"Ruby, it's okay. I know I can't tell you everything, but I'm not going to die. You don't need to worry. Even by the standards of that place, I'm pretty strong. Can you trust me, your older brother? Have I ever lied to you?" I reassured her as a smirk formed on my face.