Chapter 12: Chapter 11: A Month's Time

"Have you heard?"

"Hm about what?"

"Young Master Cale Henituse!"

"That trash?"

"Yes! Apparently, he and Princess Jaylee have been corresponding. He sent her Henituse Wine and she allegedly sent some of the best wine in the capital in return!"

"What?!"

"The Second Princess and Young Master interacted at the New Year's Banquet last month! To think they're already sending gifts!"

"No, is that the main thing? You're telling me that trashy drunk actually managed to get the eye of a Princess of the Crossman family? Does that make sense?"

"Well...he did seem a lot different at the banquet than what rumors say..."

"Forget that! Those two are not even the biggest thing! They say, the young master has kept up on his duties as heir while also drinking around!"

"How can such a person exist?"

"I've only ever heard about him being an ill tempered brat!"

"He is!"

"That's why everyone's thrown off! For the past few years, he's been slowly getting worse! But all of a sudden, it's been seen and heard that he's keeping up his duties!"

"If that punk gets a County as valuable as the Henituse Territory, the Kingdom will lose one of the most money making territories! Let alone the market crash for stone!"

"The Henituse County and Northeast will be doomed!"

"Isn't he doing his job though?"

"A trash will always be trash! It's not like he's stopped drinking!!"

"But I heard it's decreased?"

"Well- yes, but–"

"Isn't this a good thing? Wasn't Young Master Cale rumored to be a miracle child?"

"Huh? Was he?"

"Countess Jour went through multiple miscarriages before she gave birth to the Young Master! Even after that, she and the Count couldn't produce another child after. Cale Henituse was only called a miracle child because he was the only successful birth!"

"Wasn't he talented too?"

"Sure, back then! But it's all thrown away due to his personality!"

"Oh, cut the kid some slack! At least he's seemed to come to his senses! Plus– if I was told my new Mother and brother, someone who could steal my birthright, were commoners, I'd be upset too! Especially so soon after the Countess died!"

"That's right!!"

"Hah! A child will be a child, I suppose! But there's no way someone can just change all of a sudden!"

"Maybe the Count finally had enough,"

"Hahaha! I'd certainly have enough if I had such a troublesome child,"

"Even better, maybe the Young Master had enough of his step family!"

"That trash! We can always count on such idiots for entertainment!"

"Entertainment? Forget that! If Cale Henituse really cleans up, won't the Henituse County heir be some arrogant and spoiled brat!?!"

"Better someone like that, than a peasant!"

"Hah~"

Throughout the noble circles, Henituse County took the forefront of rumors. The Northeast was especially bubbling, the heirs and various aristocrats unsure of how to react. The problem with Cale Henituse allegedly keeping good on his duties as heir is that now, there is less risk of his position being lost due to his behavior. In fact, it only gave him more protection to do as he pleased!

The only noble house where the rumors were quieted and talking shut down was the marble estate of the Henituse Family. Overlooking Rain City, Count Deruth listened as his advisor was reporting to him the latest information. Naturally, some of it centered around his first son.

Deruth sighed, "Where is Cale now?"

"Ahem–" the advisor coughed, "He- He has gone to town,"

Deruth closed his eyes for a few seconds, resisting another sigh.

When Cale had done his old work like clockwork, Deruth had been delightfully surprised. He'd noticed a few changes the weeks prior, but for Cale to suddenly turn his mind back to their family; he was glad. He thought this meant that Cale had grown up and was willing to converse more frequently.

It almost felt as if the opposite had happened.

It felt like instead of just not being at the Estate, when he was at the Estate, he only focused on his work. He hardly ever came to anyone and no one could say anything to him as Cale did his work almost as perfectly as before. It was like he'd never stopped! He slept in because he was out later, thus his presence was almost always missing from the breakfast table. When he had free time after everything was finished, Cale left the Estate without so much as a check in, just handing the completed work to Ron to bring to Deruth's desk.

In the month since Cale had become a hot gossip topic, more and more information kept being relayed around and the rumors amplified. Deruth had already received multiple letters from vassals and extended family if things were true. Deruth's older sister, especially, had sent quite the letter.

Deruth felt exhausted just thinking about it.

Cale was doing his work. He even conceded to a few classes to start up again, which he was easily passing as if he had never taken a break at all. Deruth was debating if he should send Cale to the academy in April when the spring quarter started up. The thing is, despite doing all of this and acting so similar to when Cale had been such a sweet child, his eldest son slinked off to town whenever he had time and drank, the ruckus a familiar thing. Though it was never as bad, Cale still often became loose tongued and near violent, but the property damage had severely lessened than last year.

Deruth didn't know how to take it.

He had never known how to approach Cale after his first wife had passed away.

Deruth knew he hadn't been the best father following the passing of his first wife, but it was difficult. It was so difficult to look at Cale and not see Jour. Looking at Cale hurt Deruth, so Deruth had chosen to simply not look. It was when he met Violan did those actions truly process in his mind.

How he'd left his 8-year-old son to grieve his mother alone.

How his son had comforted him, only to receive no comfort in return.

Deruth compensated for this by spoiling Cale. He let Cale do whatever he wanted in his territory, cleaning his messes. Deruth could not chain Cale, could not bring himself to impose when he went out to play around town or drink. He'd compensate and apologize, only limiting Cale to stay within Rain City where Deruth could easily fix anything. Giving Cale freedom was the only thing he could do as he'd already infringed enough years ago.

"I see...send a knight to ensure his safety,"

"Yes, my lord," The advisor nodded, "However, Count, there is one other report I wish to make,"

Deruth glanced back, "Speak,"

"Within Young Master Cale's work for today," The advisor looked through the papers in his hand, "There is a few extra reports corresponding to to the Nyphan Family,"

Deruth frowned, "Give them,"

The advisor handed Deruth the papers. Indeed, it was a reference to the current project the Nyphan Family was working on and the Henituse Family was willing to support once it officially started. There had been a few messages between Violan and Elis, but it was about questions and weighing pros and cons. The current report in his hand was more detailed and outlined a few merchant guilds and budgets to spend, along with a rough list of locations each guild would transport the works to.

Deruth raised his head, "When will Violan return from Viscountess Alicia's Tea Party?"

"A few hours,"

"Schedule a meeting between the two of us when she returns. And tomorrow, inform Cale I wish to meet with him,"

"I understand. Shall I schedule time after breakfast for you and the Young Master?"

"That's fine. Violan will be with us,"

The advisor paused, "...You would like me to schedule a meeting between you, the Countess, and Young Master Cale?"

"Yes," Deruth sat down behind the desk, furrowing his eyebrows, "Does the time not work for Violan?"

"I...will double check with Mr. Molan and Mrs. Aydan,"

"Great. You can go,"

"Yes, my lord,"

The advisor bowed and left the room. As he did, he mumbled to himself, "Well, it was bound to happen eventually..."

⥢✧⥤

"Owner! I've run out!!"

"I was just coming over, Young Master!"

Placed in front of Cale were another two bottles of Henituse Wine. Cale gave a lazy hum, eyes narrowing at the owner, who just smiled nervously, "Y-Young Master?"

"Get lost, you're too close,"

"Yes!!"

The owner quickly headed to the other end of the bar to attend to his other customers. Cale popped open the cork, tilting his head back and taking large gulps of Henituse Wine. The flavor was just right for him because it wasn't overpowering or boring. The fruity scent and the alcohol's somewhat fruity undertone also left a lasting impression.

He lowered the bottle after emptying a decent amount, swallowing down a few burps. His face flushed, heating up even more and becoming a darker shade of red. As he moved to continue, he sensed a presence approaching him. It was familiar and made Cale pause. He didn't turn around, still aware of his surroundings.

"Owner," a near emotionless tone called out.

The space to Cale's right was suddenly filled and the bar's loud chatter quickly became hushed, gasps and mumbles rippling through the crowd. Cale lowered the wine bottle that had been raised near his mouth, the slight thump echoing and stiffening the atmosphere further. The person beside him took no mind, continuing to speak to the Owner, who had stiffened up as he had approached the new customer, "Owner, do you have white wines?"

"Y-yes, sir. We do,"

"Please get me your finest,"

"O-of course,"

The owner glanced once at Cale, who had not moved since the hooded male sat beside him. Swallowing, he leaned forward and finding himself meeting red-brown eyes, "S-sir, it might be best for you to move to a different seat,"

"Hm? Why is that?"

The man reached up, placed a few gallons on the counter, more than was necessary for his order. He then tilted his head glancing over to the red-haired noble, "Ah. I'm sorry, is someone sitting here?"

The owner paled and the tavern froze.

Cale bit back a snort of amusement. Even with a hood on, Cale would recognize Roksu anywhere. He lifts the wine bottle, finishing it off and smiles wickedly, "No,"

Cale glances over, smirking as Roksu slightly adjusts his hood so Cale can spot the amused smile, "Then I see no reason to move from this seat. You'll have to tolerate me, Young Master,"

Cale can't resist a low chuckle. He turns away, pinning the stiff owner with a raised eyebrow, "Oi, owner. Get me a bottle of white wine too,"

"Y-yes!"

The owner leaves the two and goes to retrieve their orders. He returns, placing the two bottles side by side before attempting to leave. Roksu calls out again, "Bring some roasted almonds too, if you have them,"

"Of course,"

The owner finally leaves the two. Cale had cracked open his other bottle and took a swing. He leaned back, glancing around and speaking with a dangerous glint in his eyes, "Ho~ Hasn't it gone a bit quiet? What an ugly atmosphere for a drink...hah....it pisses me off..."

Everyone looks away and the voices quickly erupt once again. Cale raises an eyebrow, clicking his tongue in annoyance, "What a load of crap..."

He returns to his normal posture and takes another swing. As he did, he realized a large plate of almonds had been moved to sit between the two men at the counter and Roksu was pouring some of the wine into a cup. Cale, out of habit, takes some of the almonds. Roksu glances at him, frowning, voice low to avoid prying ears, "Seriously?"

"Did you come to babysit me or something?" Cale muttered back, ignoring the look.

"Like hell,"

Cale snickers into the bottle. He empties it out, reaching for the white wine. After releasing a low groan at the slight twang in the back of his throat, he pops open the cork. Roksu watches him take a sip with a disapproving frown, "How much longer are you going to keep this up?"

Cale doesn't answer, simply pretending he didn't hear. Additionally, he avoids glancing in the other male's direction, not wanting to see what sort of expression Roksu is bearing. He's not oblivious. Roksu has expressed his disapproval more than anyone else in Cale's life. At the same time, his disapproval is different from everyone else. It's not judgment or annoyance or frustration. Roksu is strict with Cale and often chides him for consuming too much or asking him if being trash was truly necessary.

It was.

It was the only thing he could do and worked far better than he ever expected. No one tried to stop him so his plans were never deterred.

Of course, then this old man had to insert himself into the situation.

Cale looks down at the counter when something is quickly pushed near his arm. Cale's eyes slightly sharpen, coming out of the drunkard performance only slightly.

He slips the small envelope into his coat, reading the letters on the front. As he does, he grabs an envelope he brought and slipped it towards the hand that was reaching for almonds. Instead of grabbing the salty snack, Roksu's fingers had the envelope quickly pulled and tucked away.

Cale quickly finishes off the white wine and slams the bottle loud enough to make a sound but not loud enough to crack it. Standing up, he feels the attention return to him and the owner walks over, "Young Master Cale, are you- are you leaving?"

"If I wasn't leaving, why the fuck would I be standing up, you damned idiot!"

The owner winces, "R-right. My apologies,"

Cale clicks his tongue, turning around and faking a stumble, "Fools, the lot of you,"

Roksu doesn't even turn as Cale leaves the tavern, listening as the door shuts. The second he's gone, the room erupts into much louder conversation. Roksu's face quickly contorts into annoyance.

"He's gone?!"

"Earlier than usual!"

"Owner! Owner! He didn't even drink as much as usual, right!?"

The owner counted the bottles and one of the bottles that Cale had thrown earlier, "No! He drank less,"

"Wow, I really thought he'd break a bottle on that cloaked bastard's head!"

"Yeah, yeah, hey, hooded punk!"

"Watch your tone," Roksu calmly replies.

"Tsk, whatever!" A group of customers surround him, leaning over and overlapping conversations filter into his head.

"You a traveler or something? What sort of idiot do you have to be to sit next to Young Master Cale when he's drinking?! That trash is a bomb!"

"True! True! Always, it's like a rule around here, if you sit at the bar and see Cale Henituse, sit at least three chairs away!"

Roksu shakes his head, standing up. He orders, "Out of my way,,"

"Oh, no way! You're leaving already! Let us buy you a drink!"

"Yeah, yeah! Drink with us! You've done the impossible! That damned trash tolerated you–"

Roksu shoved them all out of his way, with a click of his tongue. He walks out speaking out his frustration, "Finish the rest of my wine,"

"Esteemed sir–"

"Don't call me that,"

"--will you return?"

"Who knows?"

Roksu quickly left the tavern. He headed back towards the market. As he walked, he pulled out the envelope he had been given by Cale. He opened it and began to read the contents.

It was simple and short. The main point was to make sure Roksu was ready for a letter sent to the Nyphan Estate via the Henituse Family tomorrow. A short confirmation that Cale had set up a situation where he would most likely have to speak with his Father and Cale planned to bring up the situation. Roksu had also managed the situation from his end, briefly asking his brother if he could be more involved in the project. Elis had looked at him oddly and Roksu had a feeling his brother was suspicious about things going on, but in the end, he'd simply yielded and allowed for it.

So, now Roksu had more work than he enjoyed. The only upside was that his position would give him excuses to travel around. This was one of the biggest constraints Cale's former situation had. The two of them had come up with a workaround (Cale had bullied Roksu into concededing with him).

Roksu made sure to scan the letter once more, memorizing the contents to be safe. He then began to rip the paper into pieces. As he walked by an evening cafe he threw the scraps into one of the outdoor fire pits, ignoring the confused looks the guests gave him.

Turning away he headed towards the area his carriage was set to pick him up, ducking into an alley on the way there. He removed the cloak as he passed through the alley, flooding it and pushing it inside a magic bag tied at his waist.

As he saw the carriage, he gave a quick glance towards the estate sitting at the tallest point of Rain City. With a tired sigh, he spoke to the driver, "Let's head back quickly. I need to meet my siblings,"

"I will drive as fast as possible!"

"Safely. Safely as possible,"

"Yes! That as well!"

"Huuu..." Roksu quickly entered the carriage. 'Why do I interact with such odd people?'

⥢✧⥤

Cale let out a groan as the lemon tea Ron had given him quickly masked over the aftertaste of wine. The combination was unpleasant and Cale shook his head with frustration. He sent Ron away after the butler brought up the tea and a plate of dinner. Cale had just taken a bath, the flush around his cheeks easing up slightly.

Cale pulled out the chair roughly, sitting down. He still had to act vaguely drunk, considering the amount of alcohol he had. Ron bowed, asking calmly, "Young Master-nim, your schedule for tomorrow has been adjusted,"

Cale smiled internally but scowled at Ron, "Ha? The fuck are you on about? I'm eating right now, do you think I give two shits about something for tomorrow?"

Ron smiled, "My mistake,"

"Get lost,"

"Yes, Young Master,"

Ron quietly left the room, closing the doors behind him. The second they shut, Cale's expression smoothened out and he released a breath. He stood up and walked to the bathroom. Hidden behind the mirror, he'd kept the letter. Pulling it out, he walked back and opened it up, eating dinner and reading at the same time.

It is more accurate to call it a report.

It simply had a list of things that had been completed and the results of those, such as their investigations into the slums and a few people who had stood out. Additionally, it held a vague explanation of how the expansion project for the Nyphan Family was going. It was almost completely drawn out, just a few more things needed to be double checked before they could travel outwards and begin to use finances to push forward.

It was all the information Cale had been waiting for.

He smiled, placing a bite of steak into his mouth, 'Great. Now I have all I need to really screw with the rumors,'

Cale finished his dinner in silence, just rereading the letter and marking a few things for himself. When the plate was clear, Cale stood up, letter in hand. Walking to the desk in his room. He bent down and unlocked a drawer, placing the letter inside, locking it up again. He'd burn it later but for now, Cale kept it.

Once that was dealt with, he made sure the balcony door was locked and shut off all the lights. Even though he didn't get drunk, the alcohol still caused him to feel sleepy if he was up too late. It had been happening more often with his change in routine and the daily training sessions he had with Ron and Beacrox. Thankfully, being exhausted was a nice way to have fewer visions so Cale at least woke up feeling better. The days where he watched the Henituse Territory fall again made him just work harder in frustration.

Laying down, Cale pulled the blanket over him, eyes turning and staring at the window. He'd usually close his blinds, but on nights like this, Cale enjoyed laying in bed as his body relaxed into the mood of sleep, while his eyes peeked out to stare at the city and sky. It was an odd angle and the perspective hardly did the actual view justice, but it was a nostalgic thing to do so he did it.

Like always, his eyes soon fell shut and his breathing evened out. By the time Ron returned to retrieve the dishes, Cale was already deep in sleep, the drunken flush already long gone. The butler was quiet as he moved, gently closing the curtains. He adjusted the blanket over Cale before leaving the room. With no sound, the large doors were closed and Ron finished up his duties for the day.

⥢✧⥤

The following morning, Cale slept in once more. When he woke up, he slowly stretched and reached for a string hanging by the bed. He gave it a firm tug, pulling the blanket away and rising to his feet. Then, Cale entered the bathroom to wash up, knowing that when he was done, Ron would be waiting for him.

And just as he'd assumed, when he came out in the bathrobe, Ron was pouring out a cup of tea and had already had his breakfast placed on the desk. The slight sunlight was shining through the open windows, Cale noting the clouds dawning the sky. As he sat down, he asked, eyes still fixed on the window, "Should we expect heavy snow?"

"Perhaps as the days go by and the weather remains unchanging," Ron dutifully answered, "We've already received a little,"

"Yes, but that's hardly any,"

Being in the North, Rain City and the Henituse Territory naturally saw snow. Of course, it wasn't comparable to the amount of snow or chilling lands of the Northern Kingdoms on the other side of the Forest of Darkness, but compared to the rest of the Roan Kingdom, snow wasn't uncommon. Cale reached for the cup of tea, frowning when he glanced at it, "Again?"

"Lemon tea is very good for your health, young master-nim,"

Cale placed the tea down, giving Ron a frustrated look. He opted for a grape instead, comforted by the sweetness. As he began to eat, he prompted Ron to speak, "What's for training today?"

"Training will have to be slightly adjusted, Young Master,"

Even though he remembered last night and knew why, Cale still feigned confusion. Placing a bite of sausage, he gave a small questioning hum. Ron explained patiently, "The Lord has scheduled a meeting with you and the Countess,"

Cale, who had been cutting another bite of meat, paused. He remained quiet, taking in the words patiently. Lifting his head, he asked carefully, "With who?"

He'd known a meeting would be scheduled. He didn't think Violan would be there with them.

"Countess Violan will be joining you and your Father at the meeting. There's enough time for you to begin your work for the day before heading to the Count's Office,"

Cale was even more confused, "And Violan will be joining us?"

Ron nodded, "Yes, Young Master,"

"Huh..." Cale kept his face neutral. He waved a hand, "Ron, summon the maids. I'm just about ready to get dressed,"

"Yes, Young Master,"

Ron left the room and Cale calmly finished the food on his plate. Afterwards, he reached down and unlocked the drawer from last night, pulling out a few stacks of papers. He locked up the drawer again, just as Ron came back with a few maids.

Cale stood up, placing the papers on the edge of his desk, face down. Approaching the servants, he glanced at the clothes in their hands. Ron spoke up, "As the sun is becoming less frequent to see, we've adjusted your outfits,"

"I can see that," Cale commented. He pointed to a set with white pants and a white shirt. Over the shirt was a dark blue tie tucked under a gray vest. On top of that, Cale had a long blue coat with gold embroidery along the edges and lining his shoulders.

After he was dressed, he grabbed the papers and ordered the servant's who had helped him to clear the dishes away as he motioned Ron to head to the study with him. Walking through the halls, Cale asked further, "What's after the meeting?"

"The usual, Young Master,"

That meant training and completing the work. Cale glanced at a clock they'd passed. It was nearing 11:30am. His meeting with his parents was scheduled at 1pm. Considering his duties usually took a few hours, plus training, Cale had a feeling he wouldn't be getting a drink today.

Well, it was fine. The meeting was more important anyway.

Once he entered his study, Cale easily took off the coat he'd been wearing motioning to the fireplace, "Set a small fire,"

Ron had already walked over. Setting the coat aside, Cale sat down in his chair, placing the papers he'd brought to his right. Ron had already gotten his stack of work for today and organized it for him to do. As such, Cale had no problem starting right away.

As heir to a territory such as the Henituse County, Cale's work had never exactly been little. When he was younger, it was usually education and long hours of training that filled up his days. As he grew older, he'd often assist either of his parents–because he snuck into their offices– if he had the time. They usually gave him simple things depending on his age or just sat him in their laps and explained as easily as possible.

When his Mom had died, all her duties had joined his Father who was in a terrible shape. Back then, Cale had begged his Father's advisor to give him some work to manage to ease the burden. He couldn't ask his Father since his Father couldn't talk with him, but Cale still wanted to help.

That was the first time he'd actually been given proper duties. He'd been provided simple things that required organizing and an advisor usually sat with him to make sure everything was correct. As the years passed and Cale grew into double digits, Cale was easily able to manage some basic finances and read reports regarding some of their businesses. He'd quit studying when he was ten but kept up with his duties begrudgingly until he around 13, around the time Basen was about the age to handle a few things and his stepfamily had been fully assimilated into the County.

Now, at 16, his work was basically the same except in a larger bulk and his Father had slipped in a few other things such as businesses that were held by the vassals and records of current economic patterns in Rain City and surrounding areas. It was a subtle thing but Cale could feel that old feeling of being a proper Henituse again. It was a bit of a conflicting feeling, but Cale was confident enough in his trashy act that anything good he did would be canceled out and basically ignored.

Cale dismissed Ron from the room as the fire began to kindle. Cale then basked into silence, his arrogant young master face slipping as he focused on his work. The first order was to go through the letters that had been sent to him. A while back, the only letters he'd receive was from Eric. Now, he'd been subjected to letters regarding trade delays, mining problems, funding issues, complaints, proposals, and of course, the vassals.

Eric, of course, sent him letters, albeit a bit more frequently since Cale had decided to properly write back. He did really enjoy his relationship with Eric. Eric had always been so kind and had never abandoned him, even though everyone told him to. It made Cale feel guilty when they'd interacted which is why he curbed his act and was more subdued around him.

In front of him, there was a letter from Eric just responding to things from earlier correspondence and telling Cale about a few things going on. Cale calmly took out an empty piece of parchment, writing back a short letter back and slipping it into an envelope. He opened up a draw, pulling out a bottle that was wrapped in cloth yet still remained warm to touch. Cale opened up the bottle, pouring out some of the wax onto the envelope. He kept the bottle on the desk for later use, pulling out the seal stamp he had. It wasn't the official one of the Count, but it was still a seal with the Henituse Crest on it. However, the wax color was red, rather than the gold like the official seal of the Count. Stamping it, Cale kept the letter aside as the beginning of a pile that may or may not form.

Following Eric's letter, Cale was subjected to the more mundane letters that involved logging down notes and comparing earlier records. He read reports filed by a few merchant guilds that included confirmations of a successful delivery and reports regarding challenges or delays that had occurred. Cale frowned, noting a recurring pattern of delays along a few roads that traversed somewhat similar terrain.

Cale pushed his chair back reaching his right hand back for the servant bell hung in his study. The pulley hung to Cale's right, designed as a tapestry that was matched on the opposite side. Both tapestries hung from the ceiling, a few inches away from the covered up portrait hanging above Cale's head. He gave the left tapestry a firm tug at the handle, before returning back to his position. He kept the reports in front of him, opening another drawer and pulling out a few records from the weeks before. Sifting through them, he noted a few similar reports that had been sparse.

Cale clicked his tongue in displeasure.

Two knocks echoed from the door and a female voice spoke politely, "You called, Young Master?"

"Come in,"

The door opened and the maid stepped inside, bowing in greeting. Cale asked coldly, "Where's Ron?"

"I believe he is retrieving your afternoon meal, Young Master Cale,"

Cale nodded and then requested, "Retrieve Louis for me,"

"Right away, Young Master,"

Cale dismissed her with a flick of his wrist. Louis was one of the people responsible for assisting in overlooking their merchants. He had been working for his Father since forever as Louis had amanced his own Father's previous position, thus growing up here in the Estate. He'd have to ask Louis to receive him the appropriate reports regarding the weather patterns in the territory and the merchant records over the last five years. If it was a common delayment due to the seasonal changes then there was most likely some sort of procedure that would be implemented. However, if this delay continued in the pattern Cale assumed it would or was a new issue with this year's weather, then Cale would have to work to figure out how to manage the delivery.

Cale sifted through the papers on his desk, searching for a few other merchant reports. As he did, a knock sounded along with Ron's voice announcing he'd brought his lunch. The door opened and Ron walked forward, pushing the meal tray, shutting the door behind him. He eyed Cale carefully, "Young Master-nim. Please eat and take a break. You must meet with the Count and Countess in forty minutes,"

Cale paused, looking up at the clock that hung over the fireplace. Indeed, he had forty minutes until 1pm. Cale sighed, "Alright,"

Thankfully, Cale's desk was quite spacious and he had more than enough space for his food. As usual, Ron announced the dish as he set it in front of Cale to eat, "Today your meal is Grilled Garlic and Black Pepper Shrimp on the side of Cauliflower Carbonara. As drinks, I have brought you water and some Peach Cider. Which would you like to start, Young Master?"

"Cider,"

"Very well,"

As Cale began to eat, Ron asked calmly, filling up the empty glass with cider, "Is there an issue you would like me to attend to?"

"It's alright. I've already called for Louis. He'll know what else I need after I explain the situation,"

"I understand,"

Cale took a sip of the cider, before asking, "Do you know what Father wants?"

"I inquired to Mr. Dagmar when he brought the matter up with Mrs. Aydan and myself yesterday," Ron explained, "I believe it is in regards to your reports regarding the project with the Nyphan Artistry,"

Cale smirked as he placed a piece of shrimp in his mouth, 'As expected,'

Ron naturally caught the smirk and asked, "Did the Young Master have a premonition?"

"Hmm...we can say that,"

Ron's eyes shifted to the door, "Young Master Cale. Sir Louis is here,"

"Let him in,"

Ron headed towards the door just as a knock echoed throughout the room. The assassin opened the door, motioning inside. Louis walked in, dressed in a suit and his sandy blonde hair tied back into a low ponytail. He bowed to Cale, "You summoned me, Young Master,"

"Louis, I've been overlooking the reports coming back from our merchants. It seems that there's been an increase of shipment delays in the west part of the territories," Cale held a few papers out, Louis stepping forward to look at them. As he did, Cale kept speaking, "At first, the delays were to be expected due to the changing weather. But now it's been increasing to a point of notability. There are a few similar trends in the East where terrains match the routes in the West,"

"I see," Louis nodded, eyebrows knitted in thought, "Shall I send over scouts and escorts?"

"Sure, we can send a few, " Cale shrugged, "But also get me a report of weather predictions in the territory and trends over the last five years,"

Louis looked up at Cale, "Weather predictions?"

"And merchant reports that correlate. Is this a recurring trend?"

"Delays are common in winter and the beginning of warmer weathers," Louis informs, "However, the number of delays and patterns do indeed require a second glance. I will double check to see if there is a previous record of the same happenings,"

"Check and send me a copy of the reports. My current assumption is that the roads are icing over or becoming filled with snow and rain, delaying the movement of the carts," Cale explained.

"This is a usual thing with the season, Young Master. There is little to be done about it,"

"Even if there is little to be done, that means something can be done. Efficiency is dropping and we're spending extra to compensate for delayments. May I remind you that we're currently discussing the delivery of Artistry Pieces with the Nyphan Family. Such pieces will have a varying consumer audience than our stones and seasonal delays are of risk at ruining the work," Cale glared at the man, "I'd like to be made aware of our drawbacks before investing,"

Ron smiled beingly, laughing to himself on the inside, 'The puppy is growing up,'

Louis's eyes widened slightly. There was nothing wrong with Cale's words and that was slightly why it was so surprising. Louis, who had been here long enough to remember and celebrate Cale's birth only to soon grow pitiful and tired at the person Cale had become, couldn't recall when was the last time Cale had actually felt like someone worthy of the title of a Young Master of the Henituse County. At this moment, the trashy ill-tempered punk felt like what Louis had once thought Cale would grow to be.

'...did something happen last year out of anyone's awareness? Or did he really decide to grow up?'

Louis bowed his head, "I understand...Young Master Cale,"

Cale clicked his tongue, "How long will this take you?"

"Please give me three days, Young Master," Louis readily requested. 'He had always been a promising lad as a child. If he can grow out of his misbehavior completely, then he'll be a good lord'

"Three days and not a minute more,"

Louis smiled a bit, "Thank you, Young Master,"

Louis handed Ron the reports, requesting for a few copies to be sent to him by tonight. Cale gave a bored approval before nodding to Louis's bow, effectively dismissing him. The door clicked shut again and Ron placed the reports down, looking at Cale with his usual smile, " Young Master-nim, you seem a bit mature,"

"Shut your mouth, Ron,"

Ron chuckled softly.

Cale ignored him, finishing up the rest of his meal. He dabbed at his mouth with the napkin as Ron took away the dishes from his desk, placing them back on the tray. Cale stood up, placing the napkin on the tray and going to wear his coat, "Make the copies as Louis requested and you get started on sending these letters to their recipients,"

"Very well, Young Master," Ron nodded, "Will you be heading to the Count's office right away?"

"Yes,"

"I will have everything prepared for you when you return,"

Cale smiled, "I'll be off then,"

Cale quickly left his study, walking down the halls and towards the Count's office. As any other time he walks through the halls, he ignores the eyes of the servants as he passes them. Once there'd been suppressed flinches and annoyed glares. Now, they are mostly consistent with wary looks, hesitation and nervousness coupled with suspicion and curiosity. They were looks that, had any other noble with Cale's reputation seen them, they would've thrown a fit. But Cale didn't care. As long as his goals were being fulfilled, he'd turn his head to things like this.

Plus...he'd lost his trust a very long time ago.

Unbothered, Cale reached his Father's office, finding two knights stationed on either side. When they saw him approach, one of the knights stepped towards the double doors, knocking twice, "My Lord and Lady, Young Master Cale has arrived,"

'Ah, she's already here,' Cale mused. It made sense considering it was a few minutes past 1 already.

"Let him in,"

The knights each grabbed a handle, Cale standing stoically as they opened the doors to the large office. The Count's office was extremely well furnished and large, with the back wall consisting of large windows overlooking the city. In front of the desk was a set up of couches and chairs, a few tables set up almost mimicking the look of a parlor. The large desk was in front of a large wall between the windows, a large and cushioned chair propped behind it.

Cale stepped into the room, the doors shutting closed behind him. He took a few steps inside, pausing before he gave a bow with right arm coming over his chest and left hand moving behind his back towards the two adults on one of the couches, "I greet the Count and Countess,"

It was his usual greeting when he was summoned for anything. Of course, the 'countess' part was omitted as Violan and he were rarely in the same room.

"Welcome, Cale," Deruth smiled weakly at the formal greeting, motioning across from where he and Violan sat, "Come and sit down comfortably,"

Cale returned to his usual posture walking over and sitting down across from them. He leaned back slightly, staring blankly at the two in front of him. Deruth stared back at him awkwardly and a silence stretched.

Violan glanced at her husband, noting the hesitation in his eyes. She frowned, noting to ask about it later and cleared her throat, "Have you been well?"

Cale glanced at her, before giving a small hum, "Yes," he then prompts the conversation forward, "What's this about? You've never summoned me to meet with both of you,"

Deruth clears his throat, "Cale, I wanted to ask you about a few reports you've filled out,"

Cale smiled proudly on the inside. He was starting to wonder if he was that good at planning or if everyone just had zero expectations for him to be able to do anything like this.

To Deruth, however, Cale's cold stare barely flinched, except for the slight eyebrow raise, "My reports? Is there a problem?"

"Not a problem," Deruth shook his head. He picked up the parchment he had placed beside him, handing them to Violan, who took them with a slightly confused glance. Deruth spoke to Cale, "Cale, these reports are about the current project the Nyphan Family was working on and our Henituse Family is willing to support,"

"Oh, those reports,"

Violan read the correspondence between the two Young Masters with careful analysis. She muttered, "This is detailed,"

Cale heard her and sighed. He asked bluntly, "Father. What's wrong with the reports?"

"No, no, nothing's wrong at all," Deruth refuted, "Where are you getting that from? I was curious about why they were with your reports. At first, I thought you were working with Violan,"

Violan glanced at Cale who's eyes widened slightly, a soft, "Huh?" passing from his lips.

Deruth had asked Violan if she had delegated some tasks to Cale when she'd returned from a gathering with a few noble ladies. She hadn't and Deruth had briefly explained the situations. This was the first time she'd actually read the reports and understood why Deruth could even make that assumption. The work was meticulous and it did seem like Cale had a core part in the correspondence as he knew details Violan and Elis shared with one another. And Violan had definitely not told him anything.

Deruth nodded, "Yes, since it's an artistry business and Violan manages all of it. She and Lord Elis corresponded but it was mostly questions or weighing pros and cons. Your report went further and outlined a few merchant guilds and budgets to spend, along with a rough list of locations each guild would transport the works to,"

Cale released another exhale, speaking with a slight irritation, "And?"

Deruth opened his mouth but paused when Violan gently touched his arm. She put down the reports on the table, looking at Cale who glanced at her with slightly narrowing eyes. She swallowed a lump in her throat, "Cale, may I ask why you took time out of your day to write extra reports such as these?"

Cale didn't answer right away. Instead, he blinked slowly, before clicking his tongue and saying, "Young Master Roksu and I have been exchanging correspondence. We ran into one another a few times in Rain City and we talked a little about things and he mentioned this. He threw out the ideas first and I told him my opinions and it went from there,"

It was complete and utter bullshit but it did the job.

Violan motioned to the reports again, "It's good. There's a few things I'd change regarding the current markets, but it's a good starting point for official business," her lips curved slightly and she smiled at Cale, her sincerity bleeding into her tone, "Well done,"

Cale pressed his lips together, unsure what to say to the compliment. He mumbles after a few seconds, eyes glancing away, "...thanks"

Deruth smiled, before asking, "Cale. Are you and Young Master Roksu still corresponding?"

"Yeah. The current outlining is almost completed. Young Master Roksu mentioned that they might sent an invite to lock in the current blueprint before working on scouting and merchant routes," Cale nodded, expression fixing itself to the neutral mask, "As the current state is to map out what the expansion would look like and how large the first wave of marketing and business would be in order to profit, there's a lot of redrawing involved. Young Master Roksu is a good strategist and he took my word and sent me a letter asking if I had more to say. We began to build the current report there with potential merchant guilds and budgets,"

Cale shook his head, shrugging, "Naturally, we're not going to use all of them. It'd be a complete waste of money to invest so much. While the guilds are all reputable within their own way, I've already told Louis to have some things cross checked regarding delays and weather patterns. Furthermore, Young Master Roksu and I agreed it would be in the best interest to investigate each guild as they'd vary depending on which location we're talking about. If we're going to branch to the Wheelsman Territory, I'd especially want to cross check our information with Eric Hyung's opinion on which of their merchants would even have a chance at safely managing artistry. It's so much different than our stone due to weathering after all, so we'd have factor in–"

Cale stopped talking, seeing the expressions across from him. All of sudden, he'd realized he'd rambled. His face felt hot and Cale's eyes widened. He coughed, covering his mouth and quickly grumbling, "You know, the usual shit,"

Violan swallowed and she forced herself through the conflicted emotions eating at her mind. She asked carefully and calmly, "Cale. Would you like to be a part of the project?"

Cale froze.

'Huh?'