Hourglass [Quintessential Quintuplets]

Chapter 43 - Calliope (I)

Madoka's POV:

Nights often pass without granting me the reprieve of restful sleep. I wish to express that, within the framework of my life, the prioritization of sleep appears to hold a comparatively lesser degree of importance. My body has adapted to this schedule over the years. It functions on four or five hours with the same efficiency most people require eight to achieve. Whether this is a talent or a slow form of self destruction? I really haven't decided on that.

As sunlight filtered through the curtains and announced the morning's arrival, I found myself certain of the hour before I even opened my eyes. However, this time something feels different. Last night, for the first time in months, I experienced a clear and uninterrupted sleep. The Crystal Hills incident must have had an effect on my sleep pattern, though whether it was positive or not will only be known in the upcoming nights. One occurrence does not constitute a pattern. I have learned not to place faith in anomalies... long time ago.

Now, faint footsteps echoes from beyond my room.
Someone is approaching to rouse me from bed.
It cannot be Mori—my butler has taken the day off.

''Madoka-nee-sama, rise and shine. Everyone else has already left.'' The voice was followed by the sharp click of the room lights flicking on. It floods my bedroom with a brightness that felt almost aggressive after the soft prelude of the curtains. ''Does Mori-san do this for you every morning? Truly impressive.''

Blinking against the sudden brightness, I pushed myself upright against the headboard and let my vision adjust. ''...I thought it would be one of the maids. May I ask why you are not currently on the way to school? You shouldn't miss class.''

His appearance remains as fancy as always. No less than expected. ''Haha, indeed you may. I had to get ready so I'll be leaving late. You also have last finals today, you were supposed to be up early too—Hold on. Did you actually change out of your clothes before sleeping? You usually just collapse in whatever you're wearing. Does that mean... Madoka-nee-sama, did you finally manage to get a proper night's rest?''

''It's possible. Fatigue is not something I can't handle.''

''In any case, I wanted to wake you up today since Mori-san is away. Consider it a brotherly service free of charge. Unfortunately, dear big sister, we don't attend a school as close as yours. We need to wake up at least two or three hours earlier to get to Holy Forest, and you know how nauseating helicopters are, my my. The turbulence are especially unkind to my stomach.''

"Hideo, the decision to go to school by helicopter was of your own." I stated. "Is the shirt you are wearing the one I purchased for your birthday?"

''Exactly.'' He smiled and then smooted a hand down the front of it. ''Actually, this is one of the most fashionable models on the market right now. A design from Tokyo Fashion Magazine's top page, to be very precise. It sold out within a week of release. No offense, Madoka-nee-sama, but I never thought you picking a gift like this one. You know... you're not exactly the best at fashion. Your wardrobe has the color range of a chess board.''