[27.1] Rei of Sunshine

Early one morning, I was awoken to the sound of screaming and my blanket being ripped off of me.

I opened my eyes in irritation.

The Headmaster was pulling at Zephyr in an attempt to get him off the bed, "I told you! You are too old to be sleeping on her bed!"

Zephyr dug his nails into the bed and cried out, "I'M A FOX! I'M INNOCENT!"

"FOX MY AS-"

"Aldrich." My mother pulled open the curtains, "I told you this is no way to wake up a sleeping person. I know you're upset with our darling little fox, but Reika can't be woken up by his screams. It wouldn't be a good start to the day."

"You're right." Aldrich let go of Zephyr and pulled out his wand with a chilling look in his eyes, "I will just turn him into ice and feed him to the birds."

Zephyr turned pale and ran out of the room, "BIRDS DON'T EAT ICE!"

The Headmaster trudged after him with killing intent and left the room.

My mother sat on the side of my bed and ran her fingers through my hair, "Good morning, my darling Rei of sun."

I leaned my head against her chilly hand and rubbed my face on it.

Ahh. I've missed this soothing feeling.

I let out a yawn, "Good morning."

She smiled softly, "Alright, no more lounging. You have to get up."

I pouted, "Just five more minutes."

"Oh, but you've already slept in so late. Your friends are waiting for you outside."

My face dropped, "What friends?"

She pointed to the window.

I followed her finger and froze.

Caldwell was pressed against the glass with a crazed smile, "LITTLE MISS!"

"Hey, Mummy…"

She smiled at me, "Yes?"

I looked at her with doe-like eyes, "I want chicken for breakfast. Can you cook that one at the window for me?"

Caldwell cried out in betrayal, "Miss Reika! How could you!?"

My Mother laughed and looked towards the window, "Mister Owl, she's awake now so you can come to the front door like a normal person."

Caldwell flew off just as my Mother turned to kiss my forehead one last time before leaving me to get ready.

After putting on my uniform and haphazardly brushing my hair, I walked down the stairs and paused when I saw a stiff-looking Goldilocks standing in the center of the room surrounded by the Headmaster and Zephyr who were glaring at him like an enemy.

Cyrus was so rigid he resembled a tree more than a person.

I tilted my head, "What's this?"

My mother went to Cyrus's side and held his shoulders with a warm smile, "I invited him inside to wait for you." She sighed and shook her head, "I can't believe Aldrich always made him wait outside."

Judging by Cyrus's awkward posture and face, he probably preferred waiting outside.

The Headmaster narrowed his eyes at Cyrus threateningly, "But why did the Prince come here at all?"

Zephyr crossed his arms also glaring at Cyrus, "Maybe he is here looking for a fight?"

I pulled Zephyr away from Cyrus and stood in front of the Headmaster to block his view. I spoke to Cyrus, "Why are you here?"

Cyrus straightened his tie and averted his eyes, "I'm here to walk you to class and discuss the Royal Magician position and duties."

I paused, "...Duties?"

The Headmaster suddenly recalled something, "Ah, that reminds me. I also need to speak to you about your new class schedule. Come to my office after lunch."

He paused then glared at Cyrus who straightened up in fear, "Or rather, have lunch with me. I wouldn't want any pesky flies to swarm around you while you try to eat."

My face twitched, "Papa…"

He rubbed my head, "I will treat you to a good lunch if you come."

My face lit up, "Yes, sir!"

"Okay, my darling Rei of sun!" My mother walked over to me, "Give Mummy a hug before you leave!"

I gave her a big hug and laughed as she kissed the top of my head. I rubbed my face against her, "I will miss you, Mummy!"

When I pulled away I noticed the Headmaster with a dark expression.

I smiled softly and went to him.

Standing on my tiptoes, I gave him a kiss on the cheek. "See you at lunch, Papa."

When I turned back around, I noticed Cyrus with a strange look on his face.

Ah… I forgot… I didn't act like this when I was a child…

I cleared my throat and tossed my hair, "Let's go, shall we?"

Cyrus nodded, "Uh… Yes."

As I moved past him, Zephyr also scampered after me. The Headmaster called out to Zephyr, "Keep an eye on him."

Zephyr saluted him, "Yes sir!"