The shopping district in the Winged Race's Village was certainly unique. Since everyone moved by flying, the layout didn't quite fit the image of a traditional marketplace, but I took some time to browse the general stores lining the area.
"This is a rather unusual brush, isn't it? But seeing so many of them, I wonder if it’s a popular item."
A specific brush had caught my eye. It was wide with soft bristles, but its most distinct feature was an adjustable handle that could be extended or bent at various angles. It looked like it was designed to reach difficult, out-of-the-way spots. While I figured such specialized tools surely existed, the sheer quantity on display was surprising. I wondered if there was really that much demand for them.
"Ah, I understand your curiosity, my Sworn Friend. To provide an answer, that is a brush for wings."
"Oh, I see! That makes sense. So that's how it reaches the base of the wings on the back."
Amel-san's explanation clicked immediately. The odd angles were necessary to scrub the base of the wings, much like how one might use a backscratcher. It was a product uniquely suited to the needs of the Winged Race.
"For the Winged Race, the beauty of one's wings is of the utmost importance; everyone maintains them diligently. There is even a belief that if your wings are soiled, your heart is as well. Ironically, however, wings tend to attract the Defilements of the World. Thus, they must be regularly cleansed."
"I see. By the way, since they're displayed right next to the brushes, are those large plastic covers for wings as well?"
It made sense that they valued the aesthetics of their wings so highly. Furthermore, since they used them to fly, dust and debris likely clung to the feathers easily. A wing brush would be an essential item with high demand. Looking at the corner of the store with that in mind, I realized that the collection of items which had initially seemed random were likely all related to wing care.
"Yes, those are used to cover the wings while bathing. When wings get wet, it feels like a heavy weight on one's back, which many of us find quite unpleasant. Most don't get them wet while bathing; instead, they use specialized brushes that hold a small amount of water to clean the feathers."
"Certainly, their wings are quite large. If they soaked up water, they would be very heavy. I imagine they would take forever to dry, too."
"Those capable of magic simply wash their wings and dry them with a spell. That is what I do. Unfortunately, the path to the Abyss of Sorcery is not open to everyone; only the chosen few can wield it."
Being surrounded by so many powerful people, I often forgot that only about twenty percent of the population in the Human Realm can use magic. If the same held true for the Winged Race, then eight out of ten people cannot, which explains the demand for such items.
"Your wings are also quite beautiful, Amel-san. They have a wonderful luster."
"Hehe, do you think so? Being praised like that makes me blush. As a member of the Winged Race, I take great pride in their care, and this sheen is my pride and joy. Since my wings are black, any dirt is quite noticeable, so I have to be very careful. Knowing you noticed makes me quite happy— I mean... ahem... yes, that's the way it is."
Complimenting a member of the Winged Race on their wings must be a high honor. Amel had slipped back into her natural speaking voice out of genuine joy. Her wings really were striking; most of the others had white, gray, or light brown wings, so her black ones stood out. Apparently, black wings are the mark of a Special Individual, and since she's currently the only one, they've become her signature. She clearly puts a lot of work into them.
I'm quite meticulous with Bell and Rin's coats myself, and I often use a soft brush on Rin's feathers, so I can appreciate the effort required to get wings as pristine as hers. It really is impressive. Anyway, a wing brush... maybe I can find something for Bell or Rin. I'll have to check the rest of the selection.
Serious-senpai: "Consistent doting parent."
???: "Kaito-san has always been extraordinarily particular about brushing Bell and Rin, hasn't he?"