Space station 26: Himeko's Confession

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"So, based on the tarot reading, your love fortune is..."

Her roommate suddenly paused.

Himeko gently prompted, "And?"

After consulting the interpretation guide, her roommate continued, "Your prospects don't seem favorable. There may be a separation from the person you love, and despite desperate efforts to find them, it could prove futile. What you need to do is cherish the present and avoid dwelling on fanciful thoughts; otherwise, everything might crumble into nothingness."

"I see." Himeko's disappointment was evident, her flushed cheeks contrasting starkly with her pitiful expression.

"Uh, that... actually," Seeing Himeko's expression, her roommate started to panic.

[March 7th: Sister Himeko looking so pitiful, who could resist?!]

The roommate hastily said, "It's okay, okay. First attempts for beginners are often inaccurate. Let me try again!"

After conducting another divination, the roommate's eyes lit up. "Your compatibility is excellent; you will experience a deeply sweet romance. There might be slight obstacles along the way, perhaps temporary separations. But don't dwell on sadness, as your reunion may happen sooner than you realize."

Himeko's eyes brightened. "The second result seems quite promising. But between these two outcomes, which one should I believe?"

"The second one, of course!" the roommate exclaimed. "The first attempt must have been flawed, completely unreliable! The second reading is the accurate one!"

[Qingque: Left eye twitching signifies wealth: So true, so true! I just knew my fortune was about to soar.]

[Qingque: Right eye twitching indicates misfortune: This is merely a neurological phenomenon called eyelid spasms, unrelated to luck.]

[Sushang: ? Seriously, even my mom says it—good omens can be believed, but bad omens? Superstition!]

[Black Swan: Personally, I think beginners tend to have beginner's luck, making their initial divinations surprisingly accurate~]

[March 7th: Ah? Did experts say that too? But if both readings are accurate...]

The roommate looked at Himeko. "So, do you have someone you like now?"

"Um..." Himeko's gaze lowered, as if questioning herself. Gently twirling a strand of her red hair, she murmured, "I'm not quite sure..."

Her roommate's expression turned subtle.

Not quite sure? If that's uncertain, then I might as well be unsure about whether Water Blue Star is round or not!

To think that Himeko, who values science, would come to me for a tarot reading itself speaks volumes...

***

The next day, before class began.

As Himeko entered the classroom, she noticed Su Qing was already there.

Despite instantly recalling yesterday's events upon seeing him, she couldn't help but feel her cheeks flush.

Nevertheless, adhering to their usual routine, she sat one seat away from Su Qing.

Su Qing greeted her, "Morning."

"Morning," Himeko replied softly, slightly lowering her head.

Before coming, she had pondered it thoroughly. Himeko knew that verbally explaining herself could easily reveal her unease.

So, as soon as she sat down, she took out her books and notes, quickly scribbling on the notebook, "Sorry, something suddenly came up yesterday, which made me leave hastily."

The handwriting on the page remained elegant and neat, showing no signs of her inner nervousness.

Upon reading this, Su Qing responded, "No worries, it was just casual conversation anyway."

He pushed the notebook back towards her, and Himeko nodded.

Su Qing found it slightly odd, but at that moment, Himeko held her pen with her right hand and rested her chin on her left palm. With her head bowed, her long red hair draped over her face, making it seem as though she had already immersed herself in reading.

Thus, Su Qing didn't inquire further.

However, the camera angle shifted.

The new view revealed Himeko's gaze while studying, somewhat unfocused, betraying the signs of emotional turmoil and confusion.

If Su Qing were to see her like this,

no matter how neat her handwriting, it would no longer be convincing.

[March 7th: Alrighty then?! Sister Himeko is definitely smitten now, I'm fully shipping them!]

[Stelle: Seriously, you ship every pairing.]

[Stelle: (Facepalm)(Fake Sob) March 7th, you fickle woman!]

[Seele: Stelle's mischief starts again.]

[March 7th: I...I just love witnessing beautiful emotions and connections, okay?!]

[Firefly: (Sends crying cat emoji)]

[Firefly: @March 7th, did you take notes from Himeko's book?]

[March 7th: Uh...huh? (Panicking) This, umm...]

[Qingque: Can't argue your way out of this one.]

[Seele: Caught red-handed.]

[Stelle: Firefly: March 7th, you're not just a dedicated fan of me and Su Qing anymore! You're a multi-shipper, always rooting for various pairings!]

["March 7th: Waaah, I'm sorry..."]

***

[After showcasing your project proposal, indeed many students expressed interest in joining your group.]

[However, you approached the previously quarreling team and hoped to have two of their members join yours.]

[One student was named Kahn, a boy, and the other was Anna, a girl.]

[Earlier, you had consulted with Professor Xu, choosing option D: Go to the podium and tap the class mentor professor on the shoulder, "Can you help me?"]

[Naturally, you weren't being impudent; instead, you sought advice about the academic levels of your classmates. Both Kahn and Anna were consistently among the top performers.]

[Initially, since they already had a group, you didn't consider approaching them further.]

[But after witnessing internal conflicts within their group, simply put, you decided to poach them.]

[Half a day later, you successfully recruited them.]

[Qingque: Wow, that's fast!]

[Qingque: Didn't even take a full day?!]

[Kahn initially favored the high-pressure and blame-shifting girl due to her affluent background and fashionable appearance. He was pursuing her, hence willing to shoulder her tasks.]

[With your friendly persuasion, Kahn realized his mistake and expressed willingness to join your group.]

[Anna, being naturally introverted, couldn't bear the atmosphere of her original team either. After your encouragement, she quickly joined your group as well.]

[Seele: Impressive! Just how did Su Qing manage such "friendly" persuasion?]

[Stelle: Seems like he has his own clever strategies.]

[Silver Wolf: Su Qing: Three words to wake up love-struck minds, because I am—the ultimate blockhead!]

***

In the corridor, Anna called out to the person ahead, "Himeko..."

"Hm?" The tall Himeko turned slightly, stopping in her tracks.

As she casually flicked her hair—a simple gesture meant to express curiosity—even Anna, despite being a fellow girl, couldn't help but find it incredibly graceful.

More importantly, Himeko exuded an intellectual aura. With her graceful manner of speech and excellent academic performance, she gave off the impression of being an unattainable, lofty flower.

This made Anna slightly nervous: "If we join... would it, um, disturb you two?"

Himeko grew even more puzzled. "Disturb us how?"

Anna hesitated before saying, "I mean, between you and Su Qing..."

What followed was a sight that Anna witnessed firsthand: the ever-composed Himeko, seen by classmates as an untouchable highland blossom, blushing visibly—a transformation akin to a reserved rose gradually blossoming with beauty.

Himeko hastily waved her hands. "No, it's not what you think... We're not like that..."

[Seele: That's way too obvious.]

[Stelle: Exactly, even Seele can tell.]

[Seele: @Stelle, take this punch!]

[Bronya: Isn't she just the epitome of a first-love-struck maiden?]

Initially, Anna admired Himeko for her composed and intelligent demeanor. But now, seeing Himeko flustered and blushing, Anna found her even more beautiful.

After a moment of surprise, Anna, captivated by this beauty, sincerely and spontaneously exclaimed, "I'll cheer you both on!"

"It's really not what you think... We, but..." Himeko hesitated for a bit before managing a slightly bashful smile, "...Thank you for your support."

***

On the other side:

"Here, it's for you - consider it a welcome gift to our group." Su Qing bought two bottles of cola and handed one to Kahn.

"Ah! Thanks a lot!"

After chatting briefly, Su Qing brought up their previous conversation.

Kahn took a sip of cola and sighed, "Thinking back now, I was truly foolish. She always asked me for help, but whenever I suggested going out or doing something together, she found various excuses to decline."

Su Qing comforted him, "Don't worry, realizing your mistake and correcting course is never too late. Many people never figure it out even after years."

Kahn added, "Indeed, focusing on studies during university is crucial!"

Su Qing continued to affirm him, "Yes, well said. Don't let anything distract your path and focus. In university, dedicating yourself to learning and consistently improving oneself is the true way—the righteous path!"

Kahn nodded frequently, expressing his agreement.

Under Su Qing's encouragement, Kahn became increasingly clear-headed. He declared that he would no longer be consumed by romantic illusions and instead commit all four years of his university life to academics.

[Sparkle: Wow, Su Qing has swiftly assimilated the new group member.]

[Silver Wolf: Terrifying influence.]

With keen interest, Kahn mentioned, "I saw some topic ideas you were considering earlier, there was one particular title..."

Su Qing, unable to even sip his cola anymore, set it down and took out his phone. "Which one? I have detailed information on my phone; I'll send it to you now."

Immediately, they began discussing the topic on the spot.

[Stelle: ? The contrast is too stark. Over there, they're cheering for romance, while here, we've seamlessly transitioned into academic discourse.]

***

The four-member research group was nearly complete, ready to formally commence their topic selection and studies.

When discussing who should be the group leader, Su Qing looked at Himeko.

Himeko shook her head, "Why don't you take the lead?"

Their academic levels were comparable, but Himeko felt that Su Qing's interpersonal skills and organizational abilities surpassed hers. The same words spoken by Su Qing would carry more conviction.

Naturally, Kahn and Anna had no objections either.

Thus, Su Qing began assigning tasks, "Let's start with a literature review. First, we'll divide the areas each of us will cover, read through past research papers, and summarize the achievements of our predecessors. Then, every week at a fixed time, we'll discuss and highlight key articles..."

[Current task 'Theoretical Deduction' has been updated, incorporating the positive effect of Academic Leadership.]

To Su Qing's surprise, Theoretical Deduction could actually break down the entire team's tasks, tracking everyone's progress individually.

Since they had all previously read some relevant literature, their current standings were:

[You: 8%, Himeko: 10%, Kahn: 3%, Anna: 4%]

In the bottom right corner, there was a book icon. Upon clicking it, a message appeared: [Academic Leadership active; overall research state improved ↑]

Su Qing admired Himeko's progress, as she was already ahead by 2%.

From this, it seemed that Himeko must inherently possess several impressive [Talents], making her truly exceptional.

[March 7th: Sister Himeko is indeed amazing, just as expected from a Trailblazer member!]

[Stelle: Absolutely, boarding the Astral Express isn't for the faint-hearted.]

[Himeko (smiling): Little March and Stelle, you both have remarkable qualities too.]

[Silver Wolf: Are you guys on the Astral Express crew just here to pat each other's backs?]

[Firefly: @Silver Wolf, we Stellaron Hunters need unity too!]

[Kafka: @Firefly, then start by giving up on Su Qing, okay?]

[Firefly: ...Nope?]

[Silver Wolf: Laughing so hard, not even a hint of unity there.]

Regarding the "Theoretical Deduction" Talent, it turned out every single "quest" could indeed be broken down.

The value of this Talent continues to rise impressively.

[Stelle: True power always brings surprises!]

***

In the following days, the research group steadily advanced their project progress.

Simultaneously, Himeko increasingly recognized her feelings.

Her roommate suggested subtly probing Su Qing about his thoughts on her. Himeko tried but didn't succeed...

One day, her curious roommate asked how it went.

Feeling embarrassed, Himeko hesitated. "...I just can't bring myself to ask."

"Why not?" her roommate pressed.

Himeko softly replied, "Every time our eyes meet, my heart embarrassingly starts racing faster. The words I had planned become all jumbled."

"Whoa!" Her roommate shrank back slightly, seemingly taken aback by the intensity of her confession. "That's quite impactful! If you said that to him face-to-face, he'd definitely be smitten!"

Blushing and feeling flustered, Himeko asked uncertainly, "...Really?"

[March 7th: Absolutely! No one could resist falling for such a captivating Sister Himeko!]

Observing the strikingly similar reactions from both the roommate and March 7th:

[Seele: Help! Are there suddenly two March 7ths here?]

[Bronya: Double mirages—most lethal.]

[Kafka: @Himeko, it's clear who's love-struck now, isn't it?]

[Stelle: Ah? Isn't it still March 7th?]

[Sparkle: Amused.]

[Seele: Indeed, amused.]

[Fu Xuan: Quite true.]

[Qingque: Checkmate.]

[March 7th: Ugh... (unable to refute)]

[Kafka: (laughs) Naturally, I was referring to someone else.]

[Himeko: @Kafka, these reactions are perfectly normal when falling for someone.]

[Himeko: Personally, I'd say it's still better than pretending to be young and wanting to sleep together.]

[Silver Wolf: LOL, now they're duking it out upstairs.]

[Silver Wolf: They've even started calling each other out by name—full-on sniping.]

[Sparkle: Alright, alright.]

[Sparkle: Honestly, I think we should all engage more aggressively online, don't you?]

***

Words fail her. Recalling their conversation through notes on the pendant the next day, Himeko decides to try expressing herself with writing once again.

She writes in her notebook: "Recently, I've been reading a book about self-assessment."

Beside her, Su Qing responded: So, how was it? Interesting? Accurate?

Himeko: It's decent, but of course not entirely reliable. Just for reference.

Her pen paused briefly before continuing: I also wanted to ask, what do you think about my evaluation? (Questioning expression)

[Silver Wolf: Wow, she swiftly went straight for the A-rating.]

[March 7th: Sister Himeko's calm and rational demeanor fully returns when expressed through writing.]

[March 7th: Even her approach to securing an A is remarkably smooth, almost on par with Katherine!]

Su Qing read the response, noting its high praise.

Himeko: Thank you.

Immediately after, Himeko wrote again: But these are all personality aspects. If I remember correctly, among the words you scribbled out earlier, didn't you mention that I'm very beautiful?

[Firefly: Ah??]

[Seele: Oh snap!!]

[Seele: Direct hit!]

[Silver Wolf: Is she always so assertive?!]

[Stelle: Comparable to Katherine? No, surpassing Katherine!]

[Himeko: (elegantly lifting her coffee cup) Not much else needs to be said. With just this move, Kafka would need years to learn such finesse, wouldn't she?]

[Kafka: ...Oh.]

[Silver Wolf: I'm dying from laughter here.]

After reading this exchange, Su Qing momentarily found himself at a loss for how to respond.

After a moment, Su Qing replied: Yes, I felt somewhat bold at that time. If I must say it, you truly are very beautiful, with an excellent presence... And this is widely acknowledged by everyone.

[March 7th: Shocked! Su Qing actually seems embarrassed!!]

[Himeko: Hmm, thank you. Hearing your compliment makes me very happy. (Happy emoji)]

With that, the written conversation concluded.

Seeing Su Qing's reaction, Himeko couldn't help but feel an immense joy within her heart. She once again affirmed the potential of expressing her thoughts through writing.

***

The previous chat also solidified Himeko's feelings even more.

The genuine happiness she experienced upon hearing Su Qing's compliments was unlike anything she had ever felt before.

Himeko was indeed rational, but simultaneously, she possessed considerable courage and a spirit for adventure.

Otherwise, she wouldn't have later embarked on the train to become one of the Trailblazers.

Having determined her feelings and chosen her method of expression, Himeko didn't waver excessively or get caught up in indecision. Once resolved, she promptly purchased envelopes and stationery.

Her roommate teased upon seeing this, "Oh! Isn't that letter paper? Are you planning to confess with a love letter?"

Himeko turned around, responding softly yet firmly, "...Yes."

"Whoa!" The roommate felt awestruck once again.

Whether it was Himeko's bashfulness when uncertain of her feelings or now, with slightly flushed cheeks and unwavering determination, she had an undeniable charm.

The roommate stammered, "Th-th-that...that's great, I won't disturb you then. I'm heading out! Tonight, I have plans with friends, so take your time writing."

[March 7th: What a supportive and amazing roommate!]

After the roommate left,

the night enveloped the sky, and under the glow of the desk lamp, Himeko focused on penning her thoughts onto the letter paper.

When did these feelings first begin to develop...

As she wrote, Himeko realized she couldn't pinpoint a single moment and say, "It was exactly at this instant that I fell for Su Qing." On the day she asked about his pendant, she merely became aware of emotions accumulated over time.

These sentiments gradually blossomed during each shared day, every passing moment together.

From their initial meeting as he introduced himself from the stage,

to conversations in the café.

Whether discussing dreams and the starlit sky,

or watching him depart at night.

Even just brief glimpses of Su Qing's profile during class...

All these experiences, from the beginning until now, intertwined to form her growing affection for him...

Himeko paused, tapping her chin with the pen.

Is this going too far? It almost sounds like I'm infatuated with every aspect of him.

But what's the truth?

After pondering, even though she was alone, Himeko couldn't help but blush and smile shyly.

The truth is...it's exactly as it seems...

Indeed, expressing my feelings verbally would be impossible. If spoken aloud, I'd undoubtedly stumble at moments like this, unable to continue.

That way, my true sentiments would never truly reach him.

Fortunately, writing allows me ample time to gather courage.

Sometimes, I might hesitate, feel bashful, or become so flustered that I can't write further, needing to set down the pen and compose myself, face covered in embarrassment.

Perhaps the smile tugging at my lips, the accelerated heartbeat, and the emotions swelling within me could disrupt this process.

Yet ultimately, Himeko managed to transform her thoughts, piece by piece, into words, expressing everything she felt.

Once finished, she carefully copied the letter again, folded it meticulously, and placed it into an envelope.

This was indeed a love letter.

As she sealed the envelope with a heart-shaped sticker, Himeko fully realized it...

...this was a love letter, encapsulating all her heartfelt emotions.

Would it manage to reach him?

***

[Kafka: Well then, stay tuned for the next part: Himeko's Confession and Rejection.]

[March 7th: Here we go again!!]

[Black Swan: Everyone, make sure to check who is posting; beware of scams.]

[Kafka: A confession should be a triumphant victory song, not a call to charge.]

[Kafka: I'm merely predicting Himeko's inevitable failure beforehand.]

[Silver Wolf: Actually, I think...]

[Silver Wolf: Kafka's predictions seem to be opposite of what happens in reality.]

[Kafka: (Smile) (But the smile lacks warmth)]

[Kafka: (Sends Voice Message) (In a gentle tone) Listen, Silver Wolf, don't jinx things.]

[Silver Wolf: Do you really think anyone would open such a suspicious voice message?]

[Stelle: (Controlled) Exactly! Silver Wolf, why would you say something so ominous?!]

[Silver Wolf: ...Help! There's a foolish child who just clicked it at lightning speed.]

***

On this day, it was scheduled for the study group discussion.

Afterward, Kahn intended to stay behind and chat more with Su Qing but was forcibly pulled away by Anna, who sensed the atmosphere.

In the meeting room, only Su Qing and Himeko remained.

A few moments later, as they were about to leave, Himeko retrieved an envelope she had tucked within her book.

With a hint of bashful charm slowly appearing in her golden eyes, she handed the letter to a somewhat puzzled Su Qing. "Could you please take a look at this?"