The Goddess and the Ugly Duckling - Chapter 7

This novel was posted on cntranslationss [dot] blogsp0t [dot] com, by anasi. If you’re not reading it there, you get what you get ￣へ￣)

On the third day of winter camp, Xiaoya awoke with a messy head of hair, while the clock on her nightstand pointed to nine.

Xiaoya took the bowl, picking up the spoon to stir inside it, asking, “Is this brown sugar tea?”

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

Until she feel asleep, there was one question that stuck in Xiaoya’s mind she couldn’t make heads or tails of. Why did she ignore me during the day, yet treat me so well at night?

Xiaoya then again stared at the window, counting in her head: One, two, three, four…fifty-five, fifty-six…one hundred and two, one hundred and three…

Hearing this, Lu Xiaobei’s movement froze for a moment. The girl lying on the bed, on her side, had her eyes closed softly; her body lithe. Both of them seeming to be in two different worlds, one where you can look, one where you can touch, but with no way for them to communicate at all.

Did Lu Xiaobei not go for dinner? Why did she come back at this hour?

After Xiaoya was done, she saw yellowish remnants in the bowl, so using the spoon to stir it, she then asked: “What are these?”

There was no gentle wake up call like there was the day before.

With these thoughts in mind, Xiaoya kept her head lowered, dawdling as she packed up her stuff, hoping the one who would take the initiative to find her would be Lu Xiaobei.

It was too late for breakfast, so after Xiaoya had showered, she headed straight for the third floor. In the self-study room, everyone was already seated, all their heads hanging low. Upfront stood Miss Yu lecturing with spit flying, saying, “Starting today, you guys must complete at least three test papers per day, and after you’re done, you must bring them to me to look over.”

She didn’t care if people thought she was strange, nor that she was a loner. The only thing Xiaoya could say she didn’t like, was someone leaving her without saying goodbye.

Lu XIaobei: “Yes.”

On the third day of winter camp, Xiaoya awoke with a messy head of hair, while the clock on her nightstand pointed to nine.

Lu XIaobei: “Yes.”

In the pure white cloud of a bed, she then lay down and rolled into a comfortable position, thinking: Bed, dear bed. As expected, you’re my best lover of all.

The goddess’ heart is like a needle at the bottom of the sea—simply complex.

There was no one who spoke up for her then, and none who gave her a hand.

Xiaoya had walked into a mountain of pressure, and directly into the muzzle of a gun, as Miss Xu then added: “Do you think you’re on vacation? You think you can get up whenever you want to get up?! Do you think you can study whenever you want to study?!”

Lu Xiaobei: “At first I was planning to go in the cafeteria to find Xiang Yi and Yichen to borrow some from them, but they had just started eating, so I just used the kitchen in the building to boil some myself. But the brown sugar tea from there didn’t have any ginger, so I chopped up and added a few pieces on my own.”

Lu Xiaobei then moved to go turn on the light, her gaze falling on the garbage bin before returning next to Xiaoya, asking the younger girl, “Are you on your period?”

红糖水: brown sugar “tea”, is made from boiling water, brown sugar and water (in its basic form) and is used to relieve stuff like cramps.[]anasi: the timing of this chapter was perfect *chugs brown sugar tea*

Miss Xu sent Xiaoya an icy glare, then ordered, “Go sit down.” Prompting Xiaoya to scurry into the room, and finding a place in the only remaining empty seat. That place was a seat located in the front, and one opposite Lu Xiaobei.

“No, I didn’t bring any with me. I drank some hot water, though, and I’m feeling a lot better already.” While Xiaoya said this, Lu Xiaobei looked at her pale face, choosing to remain silent.

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

“Yeah.” Xiaoya’s reply was brief.

There was no radiant smile as she lifted her head, either, like there had been in the past.

Right then Yu Xiaoya thought to herself: It’s no one’s obligation to wake me up. It’s no one’s obligation to give me a smile. Neither was it anyone’s obligation to comfort me after I was cursed by the teacher. Even if we had held hands while descending the mountain the night before, and even if we talked that night until two in the morning, it doesn’t mean we’re friends.

Now lying on her side as she looked at the wondrous, crimson tinged sunset which left her in a trance. I wish I had some sparklers…

Lu Xiaobei: “At first I was planning to go in the cafeteria to find Xiang Yi and Yichen to borrow some from them, but they had just started eating, so I just used the kitchen in the building to boil some myself. But the brown sugar tea from there didn’t have any ginger, so I chopped up and added a few pieces on my own.”

Xiaoya lowered her head,then lowered it some more, replying meekly, “I forgot to bring them.”

She then asked: “Did you finish eating already?”

Lu Xiaobei: “Ginger.”

Xiaoya felt helpless, and always wondered if her body had a strange buff. She was clearly an ordinary girl, incredibly ordinary at that, so just why is that she simply couldn’t get along with others? If she had known this was how things would turn out earlier, and despite them not being on good terms, she would’ve just elected herself to have stayed with Miss Xu. QAQ

While there was the sound of everyone else’s writing, Xiaoya’s motionlessness was even more distinct. Soon, a dark shadow then stopped beside her, asking bluntly, “Where are your papers?”

Lu Xiaobei: “Ginger.”

Hearing this, Lu Xiaobei’s movement froze for a moment. The girl lying on the bed, on her side, had her eyes closed softly; her body lithe. Both of them seeming to be in two different worlds, one where you can look, one where you can touch, but with no way for them to communicate at all.

With Lu Xiaobei then asking: “Did you drink any brown sugar tea?”

Neither of the two moving, acting no different than two silent sculptures bathed under the sunset.

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

Xiaoya was in a bad mood now, and to top things off a dull pain lingered in her lower abdomen.

Lu Xiaobei: “At first I was planning to go in the cafeteria to find Xiang Yi and Yichen to borrow some from them, but they had just started eating, so I just used the kitchen in the building to boil some myself. But the brown sugar tea from there didn’t have any ginger, so I chopped up and added a few pieces on my own.”

Xiaoya lowered her head,then lowered it some more, replying meekly, “I forgot to bring them.”

Lu Xiaobei had never had painful cramps at her time of the month, but she knew they were a thing hard to endure.

Xiaoya lowered her head,then lowered it some more, replying meekly, “I forgot to bring them.”

Lu Xiaobei told her to sit up, then picked up a small white bowl from the table, “Drink this first, then go back to sleep.”

And every month she got hers, for those few days, she always never felt like eating or doing homework, only wanting to lie down and not move a muscle. So after changing her pants, she then went to warm some water on the kettle, before lying in her bed and staring at nothing in a daze.

Hearing this, Lu Xiaobei’s movement froze for a moment. The girl lying on the bed, on her side, had her eyes closed softly; her body lithe. Both of them seeming to be in two different worlds, one where you can look, one where you can touch, but with no way for them to communicate at all.

Her words forcing Xiaoya to not dare speak more than needed, “I’m aware.”

“Yeah.” Xiaoya’s reply was brief.

“Did a primary school student sneak inside this classroom?” Miss Xu spat with ice, “You are aware of your status, are you not?”

Miss Xu sent Xiaoya an icy glare, then ordered, “Go sit down.” Prompting Xiaoya to scurry into the room, and finding a place in the only remaining empty seat. That place was a seat located in the front, and one opposite Lu Xiaobei.

Xiaoya took the bowl, picking up the spoon to stir inside it, asking, “Is this brown sugar tea?”

Why do you care about me again? Xiaoya gently moved her head from under Lu Xiaobei’s palm, replying, “No, I’m not sick, my stomach just hurts a little.”

With Lu Xiaobei then asking: “Did you drink any brown sugar tea?”

“No, I didn’t bring any with me. I drank some hot water, though, and I’m feeling a lot better already.” While Xiaoya said this, Lu Xiaobei looked at her pale face, choosing to remain silent.

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

And every month she got hers, for those few days, she always never felt like eating or doing homework, only wanting to lie down and not move a muscle. So after changing her pants, she then went to warm some water on the kettle, before lying in her bed and staring at nothing in a daze.

And every month she got hers, for those few days, she always never felt like eating or doing homework, only wanting to lie down and not move a muscle. So after changing her pants, she then went to warm some water on the kettle, before lying in her bed and staring at nothing in a daze.

I didn’t eat anything bad yesterday. Plus, even if I did, it shouldn’t be acting now, right? Xiaoya then thought some more, remembering she hadn’t eaten anything that morning either. So stomach bug couldn’t be what was causing her pain. Anyhow, she made her way downstairs and returned to the room, planning to head to the toilet to see if she really had the runs.

Her words forcing Xiaoya to not dare speak more than needed, “I’m aware.”

Lu Xiaobei then moved to go turn on the light, her gaze falling on the garbage bin before returning next to Xiaoya, asking the younger girl, “Are you on your period?”

Little Hedgehog

Little Hedgehog

With this, the weight Xiaoya was carrying in her chest could finally be let go, her entire being now feeling listless, and soon she was lost in he land of dreams.

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

There was no radiant smile as she lifted her head, either, like there had been in the past.

Neither of the two moving, acting no different than two silent sculptures bathed under the sunset.

It was too late for breakfast, so after Xiaoya had showered, she headed straight for the third floor. In the self-study room, everyone was already seated, all their heads hanging low. Upfront stood Miss Yu lecturing with spit flying, saying, “Starting today, you guys must complete at least three test papers per day, and after you’re done, you must bring them to me to look over.”

Xiaoya had walked into a mountain of pressure, and directly into the muzzle of a gun, as Miss Xu then added: “Do you think you’re on vacation? You think you can get up whenever you want to get up?! Do you think you can study whenever you want to study?!”

红糖水: brown sugar “tea”, is made from boiling water, brown sugar and water (in its basic form) and is used to relieve stuff like cramps.[]anasi: the timing of this chapter was perfect *chugs brown sugar tea*

Neither of the two moving, acting no different than two silent sculptures bathed under the sunset.

Miss Xu: “Even if you came here with the intention to eat and play, you do realise when winter camp ends, the school term begins, right? So are you planning on finishing your winter assignments on your own?”

On the third day of winter camp, Xiaoya awoke with a messy head of hair, while the clock on her nightstand pointed to nine.

Xiaoya replied simply, “Thank you, Miss Xu.” Feeling very much ashamed.

Xiaoya used the spoon to scoop two spoons of the brown sugar tea, and after checking to see if the temperature was right, she picked up the bowl and downed it all in one go. It was a little sweet and a bit spicy, as it rushed to her stomach and left her feeling quite comfortable.

Xiaoya’s only regret at that moment, was of her not having a hole to bury herself into, as she then replied, “No.” Miss Xu no longer said anything to her, skipping over her before leaving the class.

Xiaoya again thought to herself: Its not really a big deal. The world will still keep turning even if there isn’t anyone beside her. And even if she’s alone, she will still be able to live well.

OMG! I got my period!

One, two, three… less and less people were in the room, until eventually it was left empty, and she was just there all alone.

Frankly she was terrified.

Xiaoya had walked into a mountain of pressure, and directly into the muzzle of a gun, as Miss Xu then added: “Do you think you’re on vacation? You think you can get up whenever you want to get up?! Do you think you can study whenever you want to study?!”

There was no one who spoke up for her then, and none who gave her a hand.

The goddess’ heart is like a needle at the bottom of the sea—simply complex.

Her words forcing Xiaoya to not dare speak more than needed, “I’m aware.”

Xiaoya let out a relieved sigh, never once having thought receiving a test paper would actually be a blessing.

Xiaoya then watched as Lu Xiaobei walked out the door, thinking the older girl had just left to go get herself a meal. So inside her heart, apart from not being unhappy, all Xiaoya felt was warmth. All because Lu Xiaobei had talked to her, which made it seem she wouldn’t be ignored.

This was because the self-study sessions at winter camp were in the morning, afternoon and evening too. But only the morning and afternoon sessions were marked as mandatory, whereas whether they attended the evening sessions or not, was something the student could chose. Xiaoya finished the three papers, and after writing her name then stuffing them into the pile at the front of the class, she made her way back to her room.

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

Hearing this, Lu Xiaobei’s movement froze for a moment. The girl lying on the bed, on her side, had her eyes closed softly; her body lithe. Both of them seeming to be in two different worlds, one where you can look, one where you can touch, but with no way for them to communicate at all.

Like this they both stayed, until the last glow of the falling sun was hidden behind the mountain. Its last ray of light disappearing, causing the whole world to fall into darkness.

Xiaoya’s only regret at that moment, was of her not having a hole to bury herself into, as she then replied, “No.” Miss Xu no longer said anything to her, skipping over her before leaving the class.

Right then Yu Xiaoya thought to herself: It’s no one’s obligation to wake me up. It’s no one’s obligation to give me a smile. Neither was it anyone’s obligation to comfort me after I was cursed by the teacher. Even if we had held hands while descending the mountain the night before, and even if we talked that night until two in the morning, it doesn’t mean we’re friends.

Until finally, Lu Xiaobei started walking, slowly moving towards… the bedside, one that was not her own.

With these thoughts in mind, Xiaoya kept her head lowered, dawdling as she packed up her stuff, hoping the one who would take the initiative to find her would be Lu Xiaobei.

Either there was a problem with the window, or there’s one with my eyes, because the Lu Xiaobei in the window hasn’t moved. She looks like she’s playing a statue in ‘red light, green light 123.’

Like this they both stayed, until the last glow of the falling sun was hidden behind the mountain. Its last ray of light disappearing, causing the whole world to fall into darkness.

I didn’t eat anything bad yesterday. Plus, even if I did, it shouldn’t be acting now, right? Xiaoya then thought some more, remembering she hadn’t eaten anything that morning either. So stomach bug couldn’t be what was causing her pain. Anyhow, she made her way downstairs and returned to the room, planning to head to the toilet to see if she really had the runs.

And every month she got hers, for those few days, she always never felt like eating or doing homework, only wanting to lie down and not move a muscle. So after changing her pants, she then went to warm some water on the kettle, before lying in her bed and staring at nothing in a daze.

There was no one who spoke up for her then, and none who gave her a hand.

But just then the sound of a click from the door interrupted her thoughts. Her first reaction was wanting to sit up since someone entered, but having seen the vague reflection of Lu Xiaobei in the window’s glass she instead wondered.

Until she feel asleep, there was one question that stuck in Xiaoya’s mind she couldn’t make heads or tails of. Why did she ignore me during the day, yet treat me so well at night?

Miss Xu sent Xiaoya an icy glare, then ordered, “Go sit down.” Prompting Xiaoya to scurry into the room, and finding a place in the only remaining empty seat. That place was a seat located in the front, and one opposite Lu Xiaobei.

The goddess’ heart is like a needle at the bottom of the sea—simply complex.

Why do you care about me again? Xiaoya gently moved her head from under Lu Xiaobei’s palm, replying, “No, I’m not sick, my stomach just hurts a little.”

Xiaoya again thought to herself: Its not really a big deal. The world will still keep turning even if there isn’t anyone beside her. And even if she’s alone, she will still be able to live well.

Why do you care about me again? Xiaoya gently moved her head from under Lu Xiaobei’s palm, replying, “No, I’m not sick, my stomach just hurts a little.”

Lu Xiaobei had never had painful cramps at her time of the month, but she knew they were a thing hard to endure.

Lu Xiaobei told her to sit up, then picked up a small white bowl from the table, “Drink this first, then go back to sleep.”

Xiaoya took the bowl, picking up the spoon to stir inside it, asking, “Is this brown sugar tea?”

Xiaoya used the spoon to scoop two spoons of the brown sugar tea, and after checking to see if the temperature was right, she picked up the bowl and downed it all in one go. It was a little sweet and a bit spicy, as it rushed to her stomach and left her feeling quite comfortable.

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

However, Miss Xu, not feeling the least bit receptive, then added, “Even though it’s late, your assignment today remains the same.” Moving to again patrol the self-study room, after her words were said.

Xiaoya used the spoon to scoop two spoons of the brown sugar tea, and after checking to see if the temperature was right, she picked up the bowl and downed it all in one go. It was a little sweet and a bit spicy, as it rushed to her stomach and left her feeling quite comfortable.

红糖水: brown sugar “tea”, is made from boiling water, brown sugar and water (in its basic form) and is used to relieve stuff like cramps.[]anasi: the timing of this chapter was perfect *chugs brown sugar tea*

In all honesty, Xiaoya had no idea what had happened. They were clearly still talking and laughing happily the day before. But now, she doesn’t even have the courage to ask the other girl the reason.

Lu Xiaobei told her to sit up, then picked up a small white bowl from the table, “Drink this first, then go back to sleep.”

She didn’t care if people thought she was strange, nor that she was a loner. The only thing Xiaoya could say she didn’t like, was someone leaving her without saying goodbye.

Frankly she was terrified.

Xiaoya replied simply, “Thank you, Miss Xu.” Feeling very much ashamed.

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

With Lu Xiaobei then asking: “Did you drink any brown sugar tea?”

Her lower abdomen was a little bloated, sending a feeling of slight discomfort her way. But the pain, though there, was not severe. So after getting up, Xiaoya sat up and she ate a couple biscuits, then after seeing it was almost time, she went back to the self-study room once more.

However, Miss Xu, not feeling the least bit receptive, then added, “Even though it’s late, your assignment today remains the same.” Moving to again patrol the self-study room, after her words were said.

Xiaoya was in a bad mood now, and to top things off a dull pain lingered in her lower abdomen.

She didn’t care if people thought she was strange, nor that she was a loner. The only thing Xiaoya could say she didn’t like, was someone leaving her without saying goodbye.

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

You see, Yu Xiaoya was like a little hedgehog, very much used to wrapping herself in a dense mess of quills. It was a measure she engaged in to prevent others from seeing soft underbelly, and an act perfected to the point where that inner softness of hers, even to herself, couldn’t be seen.

Solving questions can be a good distraction, so Xiaoya took her time to work on the two maths papers she had left. If both papers are half incomplete, she figured she could just finish them both before the end of that day.

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

I didn’t eat anything bad yesterday. Plus, even if I did, it shouldn’t be acting now, right? Xiaoya then thought some more, remembering she hadn’t eaten anything that morning either. So stomach bug couldn’t be what was causing her pain. Anyhow, she made her way downstairs and returned to the room, planning to head to the toilet to see if she really had the runs.

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

With this, the weight Xiaoya was carrying in her chest could finally be let go, her entire being now feeling listless, and soon she was lost in he land of dreams.

Xiaoya let out a relieved sigh, never once having thought receiving a test paper would actually be a blessing.

Xiaoya let out a relieved sigh, never once having thought receiving a test paper would actually be a blessing.

The stack of papers before her was mainly mathematics, but she didn’t know if Miss Xu copied part of the lot, or if the Maths teacher that other class had just had a lot of files on hand.

Xiaoya then watched as Lu Xiaobei walked out the door, thinking the older girl had just left to go get herself a meal. So inside her heart, apart from not being unhappy, all Xiaoya felt was warmth. All because Lu Xiaobei had talked to her, which made it seem she wouldn’t be ignored.

Anyhow, Xiaoya took one set of the maths papers, stumblingly making her way through it for the rest of that morn.

After Xiaoya was done, she saw yellowish remnants in the bowl, so using the spoon to stir it, she then asked: “What are these?”

In all honesty, Xiaoya had no idea what had happened. They were clearly still talking and laughing happily the day before. But now, she doesn’t even have the courage to ask the other girl the reason.

Frankly she was terrified.

Her lower abdomen was a little bloated, sending a feeling of slight discomfort her way. But the pain, though there, was not severe. So after getting up, Xiaoya sat up and she ate a couple biscuits, then after seeing it was almost time, she went back to the self-study room once more.

Solving questions can be a good distraction, so Xiaoya took her time to work on the two maths papers she had left. If both papers are half incomplete, she figured she could just finish them both before the end of that day.

Yu Xiaoya then stiffly turned her head, meeting a pair of dark eyes, eyes seeming like a vast sea of stars, carrying hints of a deep blue. Their view under the glow of the sunset making them even brighter, outshining the most beautiful diamond this world had produced. A warm palm then reached out to press against Xiaoya’s forehead, as she asked, “There’s no warmth, so is it a cold?”

Xiaoya had walked into a mountain of pressure, and directly into the muzzle of a gun, as Miss Xu then added: “Do you think you’re on vacation? You think you can get up whenever you want to get up?! Do you think you can study whenever you want to study?!”

“Yeah.” Xiaoya’s reply was brief.

Lu Xiaobei told her to sit up, then picked up a small white bowl from the table, “Drink this first, then go back to sleep.”

Later, within the self-study room, based on their assigned dorm rooms, everyone left in pairs for the dining hall next door for lunch. Xiaoya had wanted to go find Lu Xiaobei and talk to her at that time, but didn’t have the nerve to do so, afraid that the other girl would ignore her at best, and was even more afraid she had to be ignored for the sake of politeness at the very worst.

Lu XIaobei: “Yes.”

Xiaoya took the bowl, picking up the spoon to stir inside it, asking, “Is this brown sugar tea?”

Later, within the self-study room, based on their assigned dorm rooms, everyone left in pairs for the dining hall next door for lunch. Xiaoya had wanted to go find Lu Xiaobei and talk to her at that time, but didn’t have the nerve to do so, afraid that the other girl would ignore her at best, and was even more afraid she had to be ignored for the sake of politeness at the very worst.

With this, the weight Xiaoya was carrying in her chest could finally be let go, her entire being now feeling listless, and soon she was lost in he land of dreams.

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

I didn’t eat anything bad yesterday. Plus, even if I did, it shouldn’t be acting now, right? Xiaoya then thought some more, remembering she hadn’t eaten anything that morning either. So stomach bug couldn’t be what was causing her pain. Anyhow, she made her way downstairs and returned to the room, planning to head to the toilet to see if she really had the runs.

Lu XIaobei: “Yes.”

Xiaoya used the spoon to scoop two spoons of the brown sugar tea, and after checking to see if the temperature was right, she picked up the bowl and downed it all in one go. It was a little sweet and a bit spicy, as it rushed to her stomach and left her feeling quite comfortable.

Xiaoya took the bowl, picking up the spoon to stir inside it, asking, “Is this brown sugar tea?”

With these thoughts in mind, Xiaoya kept her head lowered, dawdling as she packed up her stuff, hoping the one who would take the initiative to find her would be Lu Xiaobei.

There was no radiant smile as she lifted her head, either, like there had been in the past.

“No, I didn’t bring any with me. I drank some hot water, though, and I’m feeling a lot better already.” While Xiaoya said this, Lu Xiaobei looked at her pale face, choosing to remain silent.

In the pure white cloud of a bed, she then lay down and rolled into a comfortable position, thinking: Bed, dear bed. As expected, you’re my best lover of all.

In all honesty, Xiaoya had no idea what had happened. They were clearly still talking and laughing happily the day before. But now, she doesn’t even have the courage to ask the other girl the reason.

It’s not a big deal, Xiaoya told herself once more.

Lu Xiaobei then moved to go turn on the light, her gaze falling on the garbage bin before returning next to Xiaoya, asking the younger girl, “Are you on your period?”

On the third day of winter camp, Xiaoya awoke with a messy head of hair, while the clock on her nightstand pointed to nine.

It’s not a big deal, Xiaoya told herself once more.

Either there was a problem with the window, or there’s one with my eyes, because the Lu Xiaobei in the window hasn’t moved. She looks like she’s playing a statue in ‘red light, green light 123.’

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

Xiaoya lowered her head,then lowered it some more, replying meekly, “I forgot to bring them.”

Frankly she was terrified.

Xiaoya: “So this was… made by you?”

Solving questions can be a good distraction, so Xiaoya took her time to work on the two maths papers she had left. If both papers are half incomplete, she figured she could just finish them both before the end of that day.

But Lu Xiaobei didn’t respond, only asking in return: “Does it still hurt?”

Xiaoya then again stared at the window, counting in her head: One, two, three, four…fifty-five, fifty-six…one hundred and two, one hundred and three…

Xiaoya let out a relieved sigh, never once having thought receiving a test paper would actually be a blessing.

With Lu Xiaobei then asking: “Did you drink any brown sugar tea?”

Either there was a problem with the window, or there’s one with my eyes, because the Lu Xiaobei in the window hasn’t moved. She looks like she’s playing a statue in ‘red light, green light 123.’

The stack of papers before her was mainly mathematics, but she didn’t know if Miss Xu copied part of the lot, or if the Maths teacher that other class had just had a lot of files on hand.

Xiaoya used the spoon to scoop two spoons of the brown sugar tea, and after checking to see if the temperature was right, she picked up the bowl and downed it all in one go. It was a little sweet and a bit spicy, as it rushed to her stomach and left her feeling quite comfortable.

One, two, three… less and less people were in the room, until eventually it was left empty, and she was just there all alone.

Lu Xiaobei had never had painful cramps at her time of the month, but she knew they were a thing hard to endure.

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

Later, within the self-study room, based on their assigned dorm rooms, everyone left in pairs for the dining hall next door for lunch. Xiaoya had wanted to go find Lu Xiaobei and talk to her at that time, but didn’t have the nerve to do so, afraid that the other girl would ignore her at best, and was even more afraid she had to be ignored for the sake of politeness at the very worst.

The stack of papers before her was mainly mathematics, but she didn’t know if Miss Xu copied part of the lot, or if the Maths teacher that other class had just had a lot of files on hand.

Xiaoya let out a relieved sigh, never once having thought receiving a test paper would actually be a blessing.

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

When Xiaoya wormed her way under her covers, because the blanket was cold, she shivered, which made Lu Xiaobei think she was still in pain. So reaching a hand under them, and over Xiaoya’s clothing, Lu Xiaobei gently rubbed her stomach while urging, “Sleep.”

Xiaoya was in a bad mood now, and to top things off a dull pain lingered in her lower abdomen.

After Xiaoya was done, she saw yellowish remnants in the bowl, so using the spoon to stir it, she then asked: “What are these?”

There was no one who spoke up for her then, and none who gave her a hand.

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

It’s not a big deal, Xiaoya told herself once more.

Xiaoya felt helpless, and always wondered if her body had a strange buff. She was clearly an ordinary girl, incredibly ordinary at that, so just why is that she simply couldn’t get along with others? If she had known this was how things would turn out earlier, and despite them not being on good terms, she would’ve just elected herself to have stayed with Miss Xu. QAQ

“Xiaoya… Xiaoya…”

When Xiaoya opened her eyes, she thought it was already the next day and Lu Xiaobei was waking her up like she had before. “You can’t sleep like this, you’ll catch a cold. If you’re sleepy, take off your coat first and cover up with your blanket.” Xiaoya looked at the window, and seeing it was still dark out, realized it was still night.

Until she feel asleep, there was one question that stuck in Xiaoya’s mind she couldn’t make heads or tails of. Why did she ignore me during the day, yet treat me so well at night?

This was because the self-study sessions at winter camp were in the morning, afternoon and evening too. But only the morning and afternoon sessions were marked as mandatory, whereas whether they attended the evening sessions or not, was something the student could chose. Xiaoya finished the three papers, and after writing her name then stuffing them into the pile at the front of the class, she made her way back to her room.

Either there was a problem with the window, or there’s one with my eyes, because the Lu Xiaobei in the window hasn’t moved. She looks like she’s playing a statue in ‘red light, green light 123.’

However, Miss Xu, not feeling the least bit receptive, then added, “Even though it’s late, your assignment today remains the same.” Moving to again patrol the self-study room, after her words were said.

She didn’t care if people thought she was strange, nor that she was a loner. The only thing Xiaoya could say she didn’t like, was someone leaving her without saying goodbye.

Xiaoya, having slept for a while, replied honestly: “I feel much better now.”

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

Now lying on her side as she looked at the wondrous, crimson tinged sunset which left her in a trance. I wish I had some sparklers…

When Xiaoya opened her eyes, she thought it was already the next day and Lu Xiaobei was waking her up like she had before. “You can’t sleep like this, you’ll catch a cold. If you’re sleepy, take off your coat first and cover up with your blanket.” Xiaoya looked at the window, and seeing it was still dark out, realized it was still night.

In the pure white cloud of a bed, she then lay down and rolled into a comfortable position, thinking: Bed, dear bed. As expected, you’re my best lover of all.

Lu Xiaobei told her to sit up, then picked up a small white bowl from the table, “Drink this first, then go back to sleep.”

Miss Xu sent Xiaoya an icy glare, then ordered, “Go sit down.” Prompting Xiaoya to scurry into the room, and finding a place in the only remaining empty seat. That place was a seat located in the front, and one opposite Lu Xiaobei.

When Xiaoya wormed her way under her covers, because the blanket was cold, she shivered, which made Lu Xiaobei think she was still in pain. So reaching a hand under them, and over Xiaoya’s clothing, Lu Xiaobei gently rubbed her stomach while urging, “Sleep.”

One, two, three… less and less people were in the room, until eventually it was left empty, and she was just there all alone.

“Did a primary school student sneak inside this classroom?” Miss Xu spat with ice, “You are aware of your status, are you not?”

Her words forcing Xiaoya to not dare speak more than needed, “I’m aware.”

Xiaoya was in a bad mood now, and to top things off a dull pain lingered in her lower abdomen.

Miss Xu: “Even if you came here with the intention to eat and play, you do realise when winter camp ends, the school term begins, right? So are you planning on finishing your winter assignments on your own?”

Xiaoya had walked into a mountain of pressure, and directly into the muzzle of a gun, as Miss Xu then added: “Do you think you’re on vacation? You think you can get up whenever you want to get up?! Do you think you can study whenever you want to study?!”

Solving questions can be a good distraction, so Xiaoya took her time to work on the two maths papers she had left. If both papers are half incomplete, she figured she could just finish them both before the end of that day.

I didn’t eat anything bad yesterday. Plus, even if I did, it shouldn’t be acting now, right? Xiaoya then thought some more, remembering she hadn’t eaten anything that morning either. So stomach bug couldn’t be what was causing her pain. Anyhow, she made her way downstairs and returned to the room, planning to head to the toilet to see if she really had the runs.

While there was the sound of everyone else’s writing, Xiaoya’s motionlessness was even more distinct. Soon, a dark shadow then stopped beside her, asking bluntly, “Where are your papers?”

When Xiaoya wormed her way under her covers, because the blanket was cold, she shivered, which made Lu Xiaobei think she was still in pain. So reaching a hand under them, and over Xiaoya’s clothing, Lu Xiaobei gently rubbed her stomach while urging, “Sleep.”

When Xiaoya opened her eyes, she thought it was already the next day and Lu Xiaobei was waking her up like she had before. “You can’t sleep like this, you’ll catch a cold. If you’re sleepy, take off your coat first and cover up with your blanket.” Xiaoya looked at the window, and seeing it was still dark out, realized it was still night.

OMG! I got my period!

Did Lu Xiaobei not go for dinner? Why did she come back at this hour?

Xiaoya replied simply, “Thank you, Miss Xu.” Feeling very much ashamed.

She then asked: “Did you finish eating already?”

And every month she got hers, for those few days, she always never felt like eating or doing homework, only wanting to lie down and not move a muscle. So after changing her pants, she then went to warm some water on the kettle, before lying in her bed and staring at nothing in a daze.

When Xiaoya wormed her way under her covers, because the blanket was cold, she shivered, which made Lu Xiaobei think she was still in pain. So reaching a hand under them, and over Xiaoya’s clothing, Lu Xiaobei gently rubbed her stomach while urging, “Sleep.”

On the third day of winter camp, Xiaoya awoke with a messy head of hair, while the clock on her nightstand pointed to nine.

Xiaoya: “So this was… made by you?”

Xiaoya was in a bad mood now, and to top things off a dull pain lingered in her lower abdomen.

Her lower abdomen was a little bloated, sending a feeling of slight discomfort her way. But the pain, though there, was not severe. So after getting up, Xiaoya sat up and she ate a couple biscuits, then after seeing it was almost time, she went back to the self-study room once more.

Lu Xiaobei: “At first I was planning to go in the cafeteria to find Xiang Yi and Yichen to borrow some from them, but they had just started eating, so I just used the kitchen in the building to boil some myself. But the brown sugar tea from there didn’t have any ginger, so I chopped up and added a few pieces on my own.”

Lu XIaobei: “Yes.”

Her lower abdomen was a little bloated, sending a feeling of slight discomfort her way. But the pain, though there, was not severe. So after getting up, Xiaoya sat up and she ate a couple biscuits, then after seeing it was almost time, she went back to the self-study room once more.

Xiaoya used the spoon to scoop two spoons of the brown sugar tea, and after checking to see if the temperature was right, she picked up the bowl and downed it all in one go. It was a little sweet and a bit spicy, as it rushed to her stomach and left her feeling quite comfortable.

Xiaoya then again stared at the window, counting in her head: One, two, three, four…fifty-five, fifty-six…one hundred and two, one hundred and three…

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

Xiaoya took the bowl, picking up the spoon to stir inside it, asking, “Is this brown sugar tea?”

You see, Yu Xiaoya was like a little hedgehog, very much used to wrapping herself in a dense mess of quills. It was a measure she engaged in to prevent others from seeing soft underbelly, and an act perfected to the point where that inner softness of hers, even to herself, couldn’t be seen.

The goddess’ heart is like a needle at the bottom of the sea—simply complex.

The stack of papers before her was mainly mathematics, but she didn’t know if Miss Xu copied part of the lot, or if the Maths teacher that other class had just had a lot of files on hand.

Solving questions can be a good distraction, so Xiaoya took her time to work on the two maths papers she had left. If both papers are half incomplete, she figured she could just finish them both before the end of that day.

红糖水: brown sugar “tea”, is made from boiling water, brown sugar and water (in its basic form) and is used to relieve stuff like cramps.[]anasi: the timing of this chapter was perfect *chugs brown sugar tea*

This was because the self-study sessions at winter camp were in the morning, afternoon and evening too. But only the morning and afternoon sessions were marked as mandatory, whereas whether they attended the evening sessions or not, was something the student could chose. Xiaoya finished the three papers, and after writing her name then stuffing them into the pile at the front of the class, she made her way back to her room.

I didn’t eat anything bad yesterday. Plus, even if I did, it shouldn’t be acting now, right? Xiaoya then thought some more, remembering she hadn’t eaten anything that morning either. So stomach bug couldn’t be what was causing her pain. Anyhow, she made her way downstairs and returned to the room, planning to head to the toilet to see if she really had the runs.

With this, the weight Xiaoya was carrying in her chest could finally be let go, her entire being now feeling listless, and soon she was lost in he land of dreams.

There was no radiant smile as she lifted her head, either, like there had been in the past.

But just then the sound of a click from the door interrupted her thoughts. Her first reaction was wanting to sit up since someone entered, but having seen the vague reflection of Lu Xiaobei in the window’s glass she instead wondered.

One, two, three… less and less people were in the room, until eventually it was left empty, and she was just there all alone.

This was because the self-study sessions at winter camp were in the morning, afternoon and evening too. But only the morning and afternoon sessions were marked as mandatory, whereas whether they attended the evening sessions or not, was something the student could chose. Xiaoya finished the three papers, and after writing her name then stuffing them into the pile at the front of the class, she made her way back to her room.

When Xiaoya opened her eyes, she thought it was already the next day and Lu Xiaobei was waking her up like she had before. “You can’t sleep like this, you’ll catch a cold. If you’re sleepy, take off your coat first and cover up with your blanket.” Xiaoya looked at the window, and seeing it was still dark out, realized it was still night.

There was no radiant smile as she lifted her head, either, like there had been in the past.

Little Hedgehog

Lu Xiaobei: “Ginger.”

Right then Yu Xiaoya thought to herself: It’s no one’s obligation to wake me up. It’s no one’s obligation to give me a smile. Neither was it anyone’s obligation to comfort me after I was cursed by the teacher. Even if we had held hands while descending the mountain the night before, and even if we talked that night until two in the morning, it doesn’t mean we’re friends.

In the pure white cloud of a bed, she then lay down and rolled into a comfortable position, thinking: Bed, dear bed. As expected, you’re my best lover of all.

Xiaoya lowered her head,then lowered it some more, replying meekly, “I forgot to bring them.”

Now lying on her side as she looked at the wondrous, crimson tinged sunset which left her in a trance. I wish I had some sparklers…

Xiaoya then again stared at the window, counting in her head: One, two, three, four…fifty-five, fifty-six…one hundred and two, one hundred and three…

But just then the sound of a click from the door interrupted her thoughts. Her first reaction was wanting to sit up since someone entered, but having seen the vague reflection of Lu Xiaobei in the window’s glass she instead wondered.

OMG! I got my period!

Did Lu Xiaobei not go for dinner? Why did she come back at this hour?

Xiaoya had walked into a mountain of pressure, and directly into the muzzle of a gun, as Miss Xu then added: “Do you think you’re on vacation? You think you can get up whenever you want to get up?! Do you think you can study whenever you want to study?!”

Her words forcing Xiaoya to not dare speak more than needed, “I’m aware.”

While there was the sound of everyone else’s writing, Xiaoya’s motionlessness was even more distinct. Soon, a dark shadow then stopped beside her, asking bluntly, “Where are your papers?”

Xiaoya lowered her head,then lowered it some more, replying meekly, “I forgot to bring them.”

“No, I didn’t bring any with me. I drank some hot water, though, and I’m feeling a lot better already.” While Xiaoya said this, Lu Xiaobei looked at her pale face, choosing to remain silent.

Little Hedgehog

红糖水: brown sugar “tea”, is made from boiling water, brown sugar and water (in its basic form) and is used to relieve stuff like cramps.[]anasi: the timing of this chapter was perfect *chugs brown sugar tea*

Xiaoya felt helpless, and always wondered if her body had a strange buff. She was clearly an ordinary girl, incredibly ordinary at that, so just why is that she simply couldn’t get along with others? If she had known this was how things would turn out earlier, and despite them not being on good terms, she would’ve just elected herself to have stayed with Miss Xu. QAQ

This was because the self-study sessions at winter camp were in the morning, afternoon and evening too. But only the morning and afternoon sessions were marked as mandatory, whereas whether they attended the evening sessions or not, was something the student could chose. Xiaoya finished the three papers, and after writing her name then stuffing them into the pile at the front of the class, she made her way back to her room.

Her lower abdomen was a little bloated, sending a feeling of slight discomfort her way. But the pain, though there, was not severe. So after getting up, Xiaoya sat up and she ate a couple biscuits, then after seeing it was almost time, she went back to the self-study room once more.

Xiaoya: “So this was… made by you?”

It was too late for breakfast, so after Xiaoya had showered, she headed straight for the third floor. In the self-study room, everyone was already seated, all their heads hanging low. Upfront stood Miss Yu lecturing with spit flying, saying, “Starting today, you guys must complete at least three test papers per day, and after you’re done, you must bring them to me to look over.”

With Lu Xiaobei then asking: “Did you drink any brown sugar tea?”

After Xiaoya was done, she saw yellowish remnants in the bowl, so using the spoon to stir it, she then asked: “What are these?”

She didn’t care if people thought she was strange, nor that she was a loner. The only thing Xiaoya could say she didn’t like, was someone leaving her without saying goodbye.

红糖水: brown sugar “tea”, is made from boiling water, brown sugar and water (in its basic form) and is used to relieve stuff like cramps.[]anasi: the timing of this chapter was perfect *chugs brown sugar tea*

It’s not a big deal, Xiaoya told herself once more.

Xiaoya then told herself in consolation: Maybe Lu Xiaobei came back to get something, and was planning leave again soon. It was not that she felt any hate towards Lu Xiaobei, only that with neither of them talking, it was now awkward to be in the same room.

Either there was a problem with the window, or there’s one with my eyes, because the Lu Xiaobei in the window hasn’t moved. She looks like she’s playing a statue in ‘red light, green light 123.’

Lu Xiaobei had never had painful cramps at her time of the month, but she knew they were a thing hard to endure.

Lu Xiaobei: “At first I was planning to go in the cafeteria to find Xiang Yi and Yichen to borrow some from them, but they had just started eating, so I just used the kitchen in the building to boil some myself. But the brown sugar tea from there didn’t have any ginger, so I chopped up and added a few pieces on my own.”

“Yeah.” Xiaoya’s reply was brief.

It’s not a big deal, Xiaoya told herself once more.

Lu Xiaobei told her to sit up, then picked up a small white bowl from the table, “Drink this first, then go back to sleep.”

Anyhow, Xiaoya took one set of the maths papers, stumblingly making her way through it for the rest of that morn.

Xiaoya then again stared at the window, counting in her head: One, two, three, four…fifty-five, fifty-six…one hundred and two, one hundred and three…

But just then the sound of a click from the door interrupted her thoughts. Her first reaction was wanting to sit up since someone entered, but having seen the vague reflection of Lu Xiaobei in the window’s glass she instead wondered.

Little Hedgehog

Little Hedgehog

But Lu Xiaobei didn’t respond, only asking in return: “Does it still hurt?”

Xiaoya replied simply, “Thank you, Miss Xu.” Feeling very much ashamed.

Xiaoya replied simply, “Thank you, Miss Xu.” Feeling very much ashamed.

Why do you care about me again? Xiaoya gently moved her head from under Lu Xiaobei’s palm, replying, “No, I’m not sick, my stomach just hurts a little.”

Either there was a problem with the window, or there’s one with my eyes, because the Lu Xiaobei in the window hasn’t moved. She looks like she’s playing a statue in ‘red light, green light 123.’

Lu Xiaobei helped Xiaoya take off her coat, then said to her, “Get some more sleep now, alright?”

Little Hedgehog

Her words forcing Xiaoya to not dare speak more than needed, “I’m aware.”

Xiaoya, having slept for a while, replied honestly: “I feel much better now.”

There was no gentle wake up call like there was the day before.

Until finally, Lu Xiaobei started walking, slowly moving towards… the bedside, one that was not her own.

There was no one who spoke up for her then, and none who gave her a hand.

Lu Xiaobei then moved to go turn on the light, her gaze falling on the garbage bin before returning next to Xiaoya, asking the younger girl, “Are you on your period?”

With Lu Xiaobei then asking: “Did you drink any brown sugar tea?”

Lu Xiaobei: “At first I was planning to go in the cafeteria to find Xiang Yi and Yichen to borrow some from them, but they had just started eating, so I just used the kitchen in the building to boil some myself. But the brown sugar tea from there didn’t have any ginger, so I chopped up and added a few pieces on my own.”

In all honesty, Xiaoya had no idea what had happened. They were clearly still talking and laughing happily the day before. But now, she doesn’t even have the courage to ask the other girl the reason.

Lu Xiaobei: “Ginger.”

Xiaoya lowered her head,then lowered it some more, replying meekly, “I forgot to bring them.”

But just then the sound of a click from the door interrupted her thoughts. Her first reaction was wanting to sit up since someone entered, but having seen the vague reflection of Lu Xiaobei in the window’s glass she instead wondered.

Xiaoya then watched as Lu Xiaobei walked out the door, thinking the older girl had just left to go get herself a meal. So inside her heart, apart from not being unhappy, all Xiaoya felt was warmth. All because Lu Xiaobei had talked to her, which made it seem she wouldn’t be ignored.

But just then the sound of a click from the door interrupted her thoughts. Her first reaction was wanting to sit up since someone entered, but having seen the vague reflection of Lu Xiaobei in the window’s glass she instead wondered.

When Xiaoya opened her eyes, she thought it was already the next day and Lu Xiaobei was waking her up like she had before. “You can’t sleep like this, you’ll catch a cold. If you’re sleepy, take off your coat first and cover up with your blanket.” Xiaoya looked at the window, and seeing it was still dark out, realized it was still night.

Yu Xiaoya then stiffly turned her head, meeting a pair of dark eyes, eyes seeming like a vast sea of stars, carrying hints of a deep blue. Their view under the glow of the sunset making them even brighter, outshining the most beautiful diamond this world had produced. A warm palm then reached out to press against Xiaoya’s forehead, as she asked, “There’s no warmth, so is it a cold?”

Frankly she was terrified.

With Lu Xiaobei then asking: “Did you drink any brown sugar tea?”

Either there was a problem with the window, or there’s one with my eyes, because the Lu Xiaobei in the window hasn’t moved. She looks like she’s playing a statue in ‘red light, green light 123.’

Xiaoya: “So this was… made by you?”

Right then Yu Xiaoya thought to herself: It’s no one’s obligation to wake me up. It’s no one’s obligation to give me a smile. Neither was it anyone’s obligation to comfort me after I was cursed by the teacher. Even if we had held hands while descending the mountain the night before, and even if we talked that night until two in the morning, it doesn’t mean we’re friends.

Either there was a problem with the window, or there’s one with my eyes, because the Lu Xiaobei in the window hasn’t moved. She looks like she’s playing a statue in ‘red light, green light 123.’

Xiaoya then again stared at the window, counting in her head: One, two, three, four…fifty-five, fifty-six…one hundred and two, one hundred and three…

Now lying on her side as she looked at the wondrous, crimson tinged sunset which left her in a trance. I wish I had some sparklers…

Xiaoya again thought to herself: Its not really a big deal. The world will still keep turning even if there isn’t anyone beside her. And even if she’s alone, she will still be able to live well.

Why do you care about me again? Xiaoya gently moved her head from under Lu Xiaobei’s palm, replying, “No, I’m not sick, my stomach just hurts a little.”

With this, the weight Xiaoya was carrying in her chest could finally be let go, her entire being now feeling listless, and soon she was lost in he land of dreams.

OMG! I got my period!

Until she feel asleep, there was one question that stuck in Xiaoya’s mind she couldn’t make heads or tails of. Why did she ignore me during the day, yet treat me so well at night?

Frankly she was terrified.

Yu Xiaoya then stiffly turned her head, meeting a pair of dark eyes, eyes seeming like a vast sea of stars, carrying hints of a deep blue. Their view under the glow of the sunset making them even brighter, outshining the most beautiful diamond this world had produced. A warm palm then reached out to press against Xiaoya’s forehead, as she asked, “There’s no warmth, so is it a cold?”

Anyhow, Xiaoya took one set of the maths papers, stumblingly making her way through it for the rest of that morn.

Did Lu Xiaobei not go for dinner? Why did she come back at this hour?

Xiaoya then watched as Lu Xiaobei walked out the door, thinking the older girl had just left to go get herself a meal. So inside her heart, apart from not being unhappy, all Xiaoya felt was warmth. All because Lu Xiaobei had talked to her, which made it seem she wouldn’t be ignored.

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

Hearing this, Lu Xiaobei’s movement froze for a moment. The girl lying on the bed, on her side, had her eyes closed softly; her body lithe. Both of them seeming to be in two different worlds, one where you can look, one where you can touch, but with no way for them to communicate at all.

Until she feel asleep, there was one question that stuck in Xiaoya’s mind she couldn’t make heads or tails of. Why did she ignore me during the day, yet treat me so well at night?

Neither of the two moving, acting no different than two silent sculptures bathed under the sunset.

One, two, three… less and less people were in the room, until eventually it was left empty, and she was just there all alone.

Like this they both stayed, until the last glow of the falling sun was hidden behind the mountain. Its last ray of light disappearing, causing the whole world to fall into darkness.

Anyhow, Xiaoya took one set of the maths papers, stumblingly making her way through it for the rest of that morn.

Xiaoya was in a bad mood now, and to top things off a dull pain lingered in her lower abdomen.

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

With this, the weight Xiaoya was carrying in her chest could finally be let go, her entire being now feeling listless, and soon she was lost in he land of dreams.

“Did a primary school student sneak inside this classroom?” Miss Xu spat with ice, “You are aware of your status, are you not?”

Lu Xiaobei then moved to go turn on the light, her gaze falling on the garbage bin before returning next to Xiaoya, asking the younger girl, “Are you on your period?”

In all honesty, Xiaoya had no idea what had happened. They were clearly still talking and laughing happily the day before. But now, she doesn’t even have the courage to ask the other girl the reason.

“Yeah.” Xiaoya’s reply was brief.

Her lower abdomen was a little bloated, sending a feeling of slight discomfort her way. But the pain, though there, was not severe. So after getting up, Xiaoya sat up and she ate a couple biscuits, then after seeing it was almost time, she went back to the self-study room once more.

Like this they both stayed, until the last glow of the falling sun was hidden behind the mountain. Its last ray of light disappearing, causing the whole world to fall into darkness.

Neither of the two moving, acting no different than two silent sculptures bathed under the sunset.

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

“Did a primary school student sneak inside this classroom?” Miss Xu spat with ice, “You are aware of your status, are you not?”

Xiaoya had walked into a mountain of pressure, and directly into the muzzle of a gun, as Miss Xu then added: “Do you think you’re on vacation? You think you can get up whenever you want to get up?! Do you think you can study whenever you want to study?!”

Her lower abdomen was a little bloated, sending a feeling of slight discomfort her way. But the pain, though there, was not severe. So after getting up, Xiaoya sat up and she ate a couple biscuits, then after seeing it was almost time, she went back to the self-study room once more.

However, Miss Xu, not feeling the least bit receptive, then added, “Even though it’s late, your assignment today remains the same.” Moving to again patrol the self-study room, after her words were said.

Little Hedgehog

With Lu Xiaobei then asking: “Did you drink any brown sugar tea?”[1]

Now lying on her side as she looked at the wondrous, crimson tinged sunset which left her in a trance. I wish I had some sparklers…

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

Xiaoya then told herself in consolation: Maybe Lu Xiaobei came back to get something, and was planning leave again soon. It was not that she felt any hate towards Lu Xiaobei, only that with neither of them talking, it was now awkward to be in the same room.

One, two, three… less and less people were in the room, until eventually it was left empty, and she was just there all alone.

“Did a primary school student sneak inside this classroom?” Miss Xu spat with ice, “You are aware of your status, are you not?”

Xiaoya was in a bad mood now, and to top things off a dull pain lingered in her lower abdomen.

“No, I didn’t bring any with me. I drank some hot water, though, and I’m feeling a lot better already.” While Xiaoya said this, Lu Xiaobei looked at her pale face, choosing to remain silent.

Solving questions can be a good distraction, so Xiaoya took her time to work on the two maths papers she had left. If both papers are half incomplete, she figured she could just finish them both before the end of that day.

Right then Yu Xiaoya thought to herself: It’s no one’s obligation to wake me up. It’s no one’s obligation to give me a smile. Neither was it anyone’s obligation to comfort me after I was cursed by the teacher. Even if we had held hands while descending the mountain the night before, and even if we talked that night until two in the morning, it doesn’t mean we’re friends.

Why do you care about me again? Xiaoya gently moved her head from under Lu Xiaobei’s palm, replying, “No, I’m not sick, my stomach just hurts a little.”

Lu Xiaobei had never had painful cramps at her time of the month, but she knew they were a thing hard to endure.

Later, within the self-study room, based on their assigned dorm rooms, everyone left in pairs for the dining hall next door for lunch. Xiaoya had wanted to go find Lu Xiaobei and talk to her at that time, but didn’t have the nerve to do so, afraid that the other girl would ignore her at best, and was even more afraid she had to be ignored for the sake of politeness at the very worst.

Did Lu Xiaobei not go for dinner? Why did she come back at this hour?

There was no gentle wake up call like there was the day before.

“Did a primary school student sneak inside this classroom?” Miss Xu spat with ice, “You are aware of your status, are you not?”

There was no radiant smile as she lifted her head, either, like there had been in the past.

Xiaoya then watched as Lu Xiaobei walked out the door, thinking the older girl had just left to go get herself a meal. So inside her heart, apart from not being unhappy, all Xiaoya felt was warmth. All because Lu Xiaobei had talked to her, which made it seem she wouldn’t be ignored.

She then asked: “Did you finish eating already?”

While there was the sound of everyone else’s writing, Xiaoya’s motionlessness was even more distinct. Soon, a dark shadow then stopped beside her, asking bluntly, “Where are your papers?”

Solving questions can be a good distraction, so Xiaoya took her time to work on the two maths papers she had left. If both papers are half incomplete, she figured she could just finish them both before the end of that day.

With this, the weight Xiaoya was carrying in her chest could finally be let go, her entire being now feeling listless, and soon she was lost in he land of dreams.

Xiaoya then told herself in consolation: Maybe Lu Xiaobei came back to get something, and was planning leave again soon. It was not that she felt any hate towards Lu Xiaobei, only that with neither of them talking, it was now awkward to be in the same room.

There was no gentle wake up call like there was the day before.

With these thoughts in mind, Xiaoya kept her head lowered, dawdling as she packed up her stuff, hoping the one who would take the initiative to find her would be Lu Xiaobei.

The goddess’ heart is like a needle at the bottom of the sea—simply complex.

Lu Xiaobei: “Ginger.”

Xiaoya had walked into a mountain of pressure, and directly into the muzzle of a gun, as Miss Xu then added: “Do you think you’re on vacation? You think you can get up whenever you want to get up?! Do you think you can study whenever you want to study?!”

Xiaoya: “So this was… made by you?”

“Xiaoya… Xiaoya…”

Xiaoya replied simply, “Thank you, Miss Xu.” Feeling very much ashamed.

“No, I didn’t bring any with me. I drank some hot water, though, and I’m feeling a lot better already.” While Xiaoya said this, Lu Xiaobei looked at her pale face, choosing to remain silent.

Xiaoya was in a bad mood now, and to top things off a dull pain lingered in her lower abdomen.

“No, I didn’t bring any with me. I drank some hot water, though, and I’m feeling a lot better already.” While Xiaoya said this, Lu Xiaobei looked at her pale face, choosing to remain silent.

The stack of papers before her was mainly mathematics, but she didn’t know if Miss Xu copied part of the lot, or if the Maths teacher that other class had just had a lot of files on hand.

When Xiaoya opened her eyes, she thought it was already the next day and Lu Xiaobei was waking her up like she had before. “You can’t sleep like this, you’ll catch a cold. If you’re sleepy, take off your coat first and cover up with your blanket.” Xiaoya looked at the window, and seeing it was still dark out, realized it was still night.

Yu Xiaoya then stiffly turned her head, meeting a pair of dark eyes, eyes seeming like a vast sea of stars, carrying hints of a deep blue. Their view under the glow of the sunset making them even brighter, outshining the most beautiful diamond this world had produced. A warm palm then reached out to press against Xiaoya’s forehead, as she asked, “There’s no warmth, so is it a cold?”

She then asked: “Did you finish eating already?”

Her words forcing Xiaoya to not dare speak more than needed, “I’m aware.”

Xiaoya’s only regret at that moment, was of her not having a hole to bury herself into, as she then replied, “No.” Miss Xu no longer said anything to her, skipping over her before leaving the class.

Xiaoya then again stared at the window, counting in her head: One, two, three, four…fifty-five, fifty-six…one hundred and two, one hundred and three…

Xiaoya then told herself in consolation: Maybe Lu Xiaobei came back to get something, and was planning leave again soon. It was not that she felt any hate towards Lu Xiaobei, only that with neither of them talking, it was now awkward to be in the same room.

Lu Xiaobei told her to sit up, then picked up a small white bowl from the table, “Drink this first, then go back to sleep.”

But Lu Xiaobei didn’t respond, only asking in return: “Does it still hurt?”

But Lu Xiaobei didn’t respond, only asking in return: “Does it still hurt?”

In all honesty, Xiaoya had no idea what had happened. They were clearly still talking and laughing happily the day before. But now, she doesn’t even have the courage to ask the other girl the reason.

“Yeah.” Xiaoya’s reply was brief.

Xiaoya, having slept for a while, replied honestly: “I feel much better now.”

The stack of papers before her was mainly mathematics, but she didn’t know if Miss Xu copied part of the lot, or if the Maths teacher that other class had just had a lot of files on hand.

When Xiaoya wormed her way under her covers, because the blanket was cold, she shivered, which made Lu Xiaobei think she was still in pain. So reaching a hand under them, and over Xiaoya’s clothing, Lu Xiaobei gently rubbed her stomach while urging, “Sleep.”

She then asked: “Did you finish eating already?”

Xiaoya then again stared at the window, counting in her head: One, two, three, four…fifty-five, fifty-six…one hundred and two, one hundred and three…

Xiaoya had walked into a mountain of pressure, and directly into the muzzle of a gun, as Miss Xu then added: “Do you think you’re on vacation? You think you can get up whenever you want to get up?! Do you think you can study whenever you want to study?!”

Neither of the two moving, acting no different than two silent sculptures bathed under the sunset.

Yu Xiaoya then stiffly turned her head, meeting a pair of dark eyes, eyes seeming like a vast sea of stars, carrying hints of a deep blue. Their view under the glow of the sunset making them even brighter, outshining the most beautiful diamond this world had produced. A warm palm then reached out to press against Xiaoya’s forehead, as she asked, “There’s no warmth, so is it a cold?”

Lu Xiaobei told her to sit up, then picked up a small white bowl from the table, “Drink this first, then go back to sleep.”

Little Hedgehog

There was no gentle wake up call like there was the day before.

Her words forcing Xiaoya to not dare speak more than needed, “I’m aware.”

In all honesty, Xiaoya had no idea what had happened. They were clearly still talking and laughing happily the day before. But now, she doesn’t even have the courage to ask the other girl the reason.

Xiaoya was curious: “There’s brown sugar tea like this? What brand is it?”

Xiaoya took the bowl, picking up the spoon to stir inside it, asking, “Is this brown sugar tea?”

“Did a primary school student sneak inside this classroom?” Miss Xu spat with ice, “You are aware of your status, are you not?”

Xiaoya used the spoon to scoop two spoons of the brown sugar tea, and after checking to see if the temperature was right, she picked up the bowl and downed it all in one go. It was a little sweet and a bit spicy, as it rushed to her stomach and left her feeling quite comfortable.

“Xiaoya… Xiaoya…”

Either there was a problem with the window, or there’s one with my eyes, because the Lu Xiaobei in the window hasn’t moved. She looks like she’s playing a statue in ‘red light, green light 123.’

But Lu Xiaobei didn’t respond, only asking in return: “Does it still hurt?”

One, two, three… less and less people were in the room, until eventually it was left empty, and she was just there all alone.

Lu Xiaobei helped Xiaoya take off her coat, then said to her, “Get some more sleep now, alright?”

Lu Xiaobei had never had painful cramps at her time of the month, but she knew they were a thing hard to endure.

But just then the sound of a click from the door interrupted her thoughts. Her first reaction was wanting to sit up since someone entered, but having seen the vague reflection of Lu Xiaobei in the window’s glass she instead wondered.

Little Hedgehog

It’s not a big deal, Xiaoya told herself once more.

After Xiaoya was done, she saw yellowish remnants in the bowl, so using the spoon to stir it, she then asked: “What are these?”

There was no gentle wake up call like there was the day before.

Now lying on her side as she looked at the wondrous, crimson tinged sunset which left her in a trance. I wish I had some sparklers…

Lu Xiaobei then moved to go turn on the light, her gaze falling on the garbage bin before returning next to Xiaoya, asking the younger girl, “Are you on your period?”

Xiaoya again thought to herself: Its not really a big deal. The world will still keep turning even if there isn’t anyone beside her. And even if she’s alone, she will still be able to live well.

Xiaoya took the bowl, picking up the spoon to stir inside it, asking, “Is this brown sugar tea?”

When Xiaoya wormed her way under her covers, because the blanket was cold, she shivered, which made Lu Xiaobei think she was still in pain. So reaching a hand under them, and over Xiaoya’s clothing, Lu Xiaobei gently rubbed her stomach while urging, “Sleep.”

When Xiaoya opened her eyes, she thought it was already the next day and Lu Xiaobei was waking her up like she had before. “You can’t sleep like this, you’ll catch a cold. If you’re sleepy, take off your coat first and cover up with your blanket.” Xiaoya looked at the window, and seeing it was still dark out, realized it was still night.

Lu Xiaobei: “Ginger.”

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

After Xiaoya was done, she saw yellowish remnants in the bowl, so using the spoon to stir it, she then asked: “What are these?”

Her lower abdomen was a little bloated, sending a feeling of slight discomfort her way. But the pain, though there, was not severe. So after getting up, Xiaoya sat up and she ate a couple biscuits, then after seeing it was almost time, she went back to the self-study room once more.

“Xiaoya… Xiaoya…”

On the third day of winter camp, Xiaoya awoke with a messy head of hair, while the clock on her nightstand pointed to nine.

Xiaoya was curious: “There’s brown sugar tea like this? What brand is it?”

When Xiaoya opened her eyes, she thought it was already the next day and Lu Xiaobei was waking her up like she had before. “You can’t sleep like this, you’ll catch a cold. If you’re sleepy, take off your coat first and cover up with your blanket.” Xiaoya looked at the window, and seeing it was still dark out, realized it was still night.

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

“Did a primary school student sneak inside this classroom?” Miss Xu spat with ice, “You are aware of your status, are you not?”

Lu Xiaobei: “At first I was planning to go in the cafeteria to find Xiang Yi and Yichen to borrow some from them, but they had just started eating, so I just used the kitchen in the building to boil some myself. But the brown sugar tea from there didn’t have any ginger, so I chopped up and added a few pieces on my own.”

“Yeah.” Xiaoya’s reply was brief.

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

OMG! I got my period!

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

“Xiaoya… Xiaoya…”

It was too late for breakfast, so after Xiaoya had showered, she headed straight for the third floor. In the self-study room, everyone was already seated, all their heads hanging low. Upfront stood Miss Yu lecturing with spit flying, saying, “Starting today, you guys must complete at least three test papers per day, and after you’re done, you must bring them to me to look over.”

There was no gentle wake up call like there was the day before.

Xiaoya: “So this was… made by you?”

With Lu Xiaobei then asking: “Did you drink any brown sugar tea?”

Lu Xiaobei had never had painful cramps at her time of the month, but she knew they were a thing hard to endure.

Frankly she was terrified.

Her lower abdomen was a little bloated, sending a feeling of slight discomfort her way. But the pain, though there, was not severe. So after getting up, Xiaoya sat up and she ate a couple biscuits, then after seeing it was almost time, she went back to the self-study room once more.

Xiaoya again thought to herself: Its not really a big deal. The world will still keep turning even if there isn’t anyone beside her. And even if she’s alone, she will still be able to live well.

Xiaoya replied simply, “Thank you, Miss Xu.” Feeling very much ashamed.

With these thoughts in mind, Xiaoya kept her head lowered, dawdling as she packed up her stuff, hoping the one who would take the initiative to find her would be Lu Xiaobei.

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

And every month she got hers, for those few days, she always never felt like eating or doing homework, only wanting to lie down and not move a muscle. So after changing her pants, she then went to warm some water on the kettle, before lying in her bed and staring at nothing in a daze.

Later, within the self-study room, based on their assigned dorm rooms, everyone left in pairs for the dining hall next door for lunch. Xiaoya had wanted to go find Lu Xiaobei and talk to her at that time, but didn’t have the nerve to do so, afraid that the other girl would ignore her at best, and was even more afraid she had to be ignored for the sake of politeness at the very worst.

Lu XIaobei: “Yes.”

Lu XIaobei: “Yes.”

Xiaoya’s only regret at that moment, was of her not having a hole to bury herself into, as she then replied, “No.” Miss Xu no longer said anything to her, skipping over her before leaving the class.

Xiaoya was stunned, quickly replying: “Thank you.”

And every month she got hers, for those few days, she always never felt like eating or doing homework, only wanting to lie down and not move a muscle. So after changing her pants, she then went to warm some water on the kettle, before lying in her bed and staring at nothing in a daze.

Xiaoya then watched as Lu Xiaobei walked out the door, thinking the older girl had just left to go get herself a meal. So inside her heart, apart from not being unhappy, all Xiaoya felt was warmth. All because Lu Xiaobei had talked to her, which made it seem she wouldn’t be ignored.

Lu Xiaobei had never had painful cramps at her time of the month, but she knew they were a thing hard to endure.

Soon, the sound of clacking heels drew nearer, and in no time at all, a stack of papers were plopped onto Xiaoya’s desk. Staring at the pile blankly for a while, Xiaoya then lifted her head to see standing in front of her, was a panting and flushed face Miss Xu, “There were no students from your class here, so I ran to town to copy the papers from another high school freshman. You can just do these first, since there’s a chance the questions will be repeated in your class’ homework assignments, understood?”

“No, I didn’t bring any with me. I drank some hot water, though, and I’m feeling a lot better already.” While Xiaoya said this, Lu Xiaobei looked at her pale face, choosing to remain silent.

Lu Xiaobei helped Xiaoya take off her coat, then said to her, “Get some more sleep now, alright?”

Xiaoya turned her head to look at Lu Xiaobei, who was at that time completely absorbed in her own paper, seeming to not have noticed Xiaoya was the one beside her, nor having heard or seen her being scolded by Miss Xu.

However, Miss Xu, not feeling the least bit receptive, then added, “Even though it’s late, your assignment today remains the same.” Moving to again patrol the self-study room, after her words were said.

She didn’t care if people thought she was strange, nor that she was a loner. The only thing Xiaoya could say she didn’t like, was someone leaving her without saying goodbye.

When Xiaoya wormed her way under her covers, because the blanket was cold, she shivered, which made Lu Xiaobei think she was still in pain. So reaching a hand under them, and over Xiaoya’s clothing, Lu Xiaobei gently rubbed her stomach while urging, “Sleep.”

You see, Yu Xiaoya was like a little hedgehog, very much used to wrapping herself in a dense mess of quills. It was a measure she engaged in to prevent others from seeing soft underbelly, and an act perfected to the point where that inner softness of hers, even to herself, couldn’t be seen.

Until she feel asleep, there was one question that stuck in Xiaoya’s mind she couldn’t make heads or tails of. Why did she ignore me during the day, yet treat me so well at night?

Neither of the two moving, acting no different than two silent sculptures bathed under the sunset.

There was no one who spoke up for her then, and none who gave her a hand.

Lu Xiaobei: “At first I was planning to go in the cafeteria to find Xiang Yi and Yichen to borrow some from them, but they had just started eating, so I just used the kitchen in the building to boil some myself. But the brown sugar tea from there didn’t have any ginger, so I chopped up and added a few pieces on my own.”

Lu Xiaobei had never had painful cramps at her time of the month, but she knew they were a thing hard to endure.

Miss Xu: “Even if you came here with the intention to eat and play, you do realise when winter camp ends, the school term begins, right? So are you planning on finishing your winter assignments on your own?”

However, Miss Xu, not feeling the least bit receptive, then added, “Even though it’s late, your assignment today remains the same.” Moving to again patrol the self-study room, after her words were said.

There was no gentle wake up call like there was the day before.

The goddess’ heart is like a needle at the bottom of the sea—simply complex.

In the pure white cloud of a bed, she then lay down and rolled into a comfortable position, thinking: Bed, dear bed. As expected, you’re my best lover of all.