Tick.
Tick.
The second hand of his watch keeps moving. It's already gone around twice, and now it's begun its third round. Roksu couldn't wait any longer. He couldn't just stand here. The cloak that was on his shoulders was quickly pulled off and Eric grabs him again, "Youngâ"
"Let go of me,"
Eric stares at the dark and frustrated expression. He tightens his grip and Roksu turns to glare at him, threatening to push him off. But Eric sighs and he relents.
Roksu marches towards the water, "Balint!!"
Balint sighed at his stubborn charge, but quickly casted a spell that was quickly coupled by the dragon, 'Human! I casted a spell too!'
Giving a subtle nod of thanks, Roksu walks into the water. It's cold. Very cold. He frowns and walks faster. Without another word he dives in. The lake is dark, but Roksu is able to find Cale easily. It is obvious from the blue light that shimmers beneath the surface and the odd sphere made of water currents. Red stands out against the middle, Cale's hair easy to spot despite his blurred vision. He's near the pillar that held up the bridge.
'Yup. The dragon seems to be right'
It was the Glutton.
'It's an Ancient Power. But, I'm not quite familiar with it?'
Roksu tried to approach, summing up the shield and using the light to find Cale's still silhouette in the center. His eyes widened. Cale was completely unmoving. It looked like he was sleeping.
But so do the dead.
Roksu shoved against the currents. The water fought back, clearly keeping Cale within the sphere. Cursing, Roksu swam back up. He moved until he was above the sphere and heard the commotion on the shore.
"Young Master Roksu!" Ron's voice echoes, "Where is my Young Master?"
Roksu hesitates before he exclaims, "He's alive!!"
He dives down without another word, this time into the whirlpool from the top. He can see Cale, eyes closed but Roksu knew he was alive. The dragon would've told them if he had sensed Cale's life end. Gritting his teeth, he cursed this test. He slammed down through and into the whirlpool, breaking through the water.
The collision of metal and water lets a muffled echo out. Roksu keeps slamming, gripping the shield from the side and using the slight point to attempt to skewer through the bubble. His heart beat began to pound aggressivly and Roksu could feel the 'Vitalty of Heart' working through him.
'Damn it.'
'Damn it!'
'Damn it!!!"
Roksu's arm was growing tired from the repeated swings. The movement also was causing him to run out of air faster. He paused his attacks, glaring and staring at Cale through the sphere. Observing the younger through the water, he noticed the source of the blue light. Above Cale's chest, a necklace with a pendant in the shape of a glass bottle with a miniature cork stopper was floating.
Roksu kicked up, taking in some more air. He summoned the shield below the water, holding onto it so he could remain stagnant and thought as he panted. He spoke up, "Dragon. Can you sense Cale's health?"
'It hasn't changed at all. But...'
"But?"
'The power seems to have gotten stronger,'
"Fuck,"
Roksu dove back in again. Swimming around the sphere, he tried to find a weak point. He asked in his mind the Ancient Powers.
'Is he in danger?'
'He shouldn't be. Unless Cale fails, he'll remain fine,'
'How do I know if he's failing?'
'If that happens,'
Roksu looked towards Cale the same time the sphere started spinning quicker, and began to compress. Cale's body flinched within the orb and his face scrunched up, clearly in pain. Cale's lips that had remained closed trembled, as if about to open and let water into Cale's lungs.
Roksu cursed in his head and called out the shield again. He attempts to break through the sphere. After a minute of doing so, the shield makes a sharp sound and cuts through the current for a few moments.
'Ah! Roksu- I think he passed it!'
Roksu looked at Cale at the glutton's voice. He didn't get to observe long before the sphere abruptly dissipated. Had it not been for the shield, he would've been sent backwards.
Once he was in the clear, Roksu put the shield away and quickly swam forward. Pulling off his gloves and shoving them into his pockets, he reached forward and grabbed Cale's wrist, tugging the younger towards him. His other hand reached forward towards Cale's chest, pressing firmly over his heart, and then up to the pulse point under his neck. His other hand also checked Cale's pulse by lightly pressing against the inside of Cale's wrist.
The slow beats made a tension unwind from his chest and tug Cale slightly closer in relief.
Cale's body shifted and Roksu watched as Cale's eyes weakly fluttered open. His earlier relief turned off again when he saw the despondent and uncontrollable pain reflected in the red irises. Before he could do anything, the pendant from earlier emitted a light that shot towards Cale's chest. That seemed to jolt Cale into more awareness as he turned to Roksu and then at the necklace. He grabbed it with one hand just as the water around them swirled.
Roksu tugged Cale closer, about to summon his shield before he noticed they were going up. The two of them broke the surface and harsh coughs sounded beside Roksu's ear. Roksu spat out some water, ignoring a metallic tang in his mouth, before cursing. He wrapped one arm around Cale's waist and the other to pull one of Cale's arms over his shoulders. Cale coughed out some water as he processed Roksu, swimming them back.
"I canâ"
"Just stay put," Roksu's voice was hoarse, "You crazy self-sacrificial brat!"
Cale smiled at the name-calling. He looked at the necklace before putting it in his pocket. He leaned into Roksu, eyes dazed and despondent. The cold was finally beginning to hit him and his chest felt heavy. He pressed himself closer to Roksu, "Sorry,"
Roksu glanced at him, lips pressing together. The water had noticeably calmed now that the ancient power in the lake was claimed, thus they were getting to the bank quicker. Cale's eyes were not present. It was clear that whatever had happened in that sphere was not anything easy, nor necessarily good.
He'll ask later.
The two of them reached the bank, standing up and getting out. The others ran forward, cloaks quickly thrown over the two and voices filled with concern echoing about. Eric looked like he was near tears as he stood in front of them. He looked at Cale in relief and reached for Cale's freehand, "Thank goodness. Cale, don't ever do something so reckless again!!"
Eric took off his coat and added it on top of Cale and scolded weakly, "You're lips are turning blue, you punk,"
It was true.
Cale was trembling and his eyes were clearly drooping. Roksu held him tighter, frowning in concern. He quickly lowered them down, but Cale didn't release him, too dazed to process much. The younger pressed into Roksu's chest, the older gently sitting Cale between his legs so they were both comfortable. Roksu frowned deeper at the trembling he felt from the redhead and he spoke up, calmly, "Get the carriage. Or find the coordinates to the Wheelsman Estate. Cale needs to warm up immediately,"
"The carriage is prepared," Ron said from where he was crouched down in front of Cale, taking Cale's pulse, "Young Master-nim, does a hot bath sound nice?"
Cale nods after a small pause.
"Mister!"
They all looked to see the three siblings standing there. The girl looked worried but she rushed through the adults to squat in front of Cale, "Mister!!"
Cale's eyes turned to her, blinking once and twice. A weak smile then came over him, "Hello, Layla. Are you alright?"
The young girl nodded. She had a worried and sad look on her face, "But Mister isn't..."
"It's alright," Cale assured her, "I just need a bath,"
Roksu chose that moment to intervene, "Miss Layla. Please excuse us,"
The older brother stepped up and held Layla, "Please go ahead! I'm so sorry,"
"It's not your fault," Cale speaks, looking directly at the brother. His eyes are the most focused they've been, "It's not your fault. Everything is alright now,"
"Ah..."
"Let's go," Eric motioned them to head towards the carriage. He nodded to the knights, "Get them to a doctor as well. Pay for it all. And have guards stationed on the bridge or close it down,"
"Yes, Young Master,"
The carriage ride went through the streets of Spade City as fast as it could. Cale hadn't said another word, eyes drifting in and out of focus. Both the dragon and Balint had casted a warming spell which had helped return the blue lips to a pale pink. Roksu, thanks to the Vitality of Heart, was just cold but not experiencing any serious drawbacks. Though...his chest did hurt a bit, it wasn't so much.
As they headed back, Roksu broke the silence, "Cale,"
A low hum came and everyone reflexively relaxed.
Cale was between Eric and Roksu but he was leaning his head against Roksu, while Eric alternated rubbing at each of his hands to get some heat back into them. Roksu asked softly, "Cale. What's going on in that head of yours?"
Cale didn't answer for a moment.
He then closed his eyes and tugged Eric's cloak tighter over him, "Forget it,"
Eric and Roksu exchanged worried looks. Eric attempted, "Dongsaeng-ah. Let this hyung of yours help, you do still listen to him, right?"
Cale swallowed. He then spoke, "I want to sleep,"
Eric deflated, but he accepted it. Roksu also let it go, "Just stay up a little longer, Cale. We're here,"
Eric added, "A hot bath is ready for you in your room. After that, you can sleep, alright?"
The trio got out and with Roksu and Eric by Cale's side, they entered the manor. Ron and Balint followed behind. A maid was waiting for them, bowing in greeting, "We've prepared Young Master Cale and Young Master Roksu hot baths,"
"Well done,"
"Eric!"
Countess Wheelsman and Count Wheelsman were running down the stairs, "Oh my goodness! Are you both alright?"
Roksu took the liberty of responding, "I'm alright. But, Cale needs to be warmed up,"
In his state, he'd forgotten about honorifics when mentioning Cale. The Countess moved past it without much thought as she turned to the boy she considered one of her own, "Oh, Cale, sweetheart! You're drenched!"
Cale looked up at her, his chest clenching painfully, and the Countess took off the shawl she was wearing. She placed it over his head and the group all continued up the stairs, "Young Master Roksu, you're also drenched. I'll have a doctor check you as well,"
"Thank you very much,"
"Achooâ!"
A soft sneeze echoed from the redhead.
Eric squeaked in surprise while the Count frowned in worry, "Ah, I'll get the doctor moving quickly. Let us hurry up,"
They reached the top of the stairs and walked worriedly. Roksu couldn't help but think that if Cale was more aware, he'd hate the hovering.
"Cale, darling. Shall I get someâ oh!"
Roksu and Eric both jolted as Cale's knees seemed to give out, the youngest letting out a soft grunt of surprise. The two of them were pressed against Cale's body, keeping him upright as the redhead trembled and face twisted into a contortion of emotions. Countess Wheelsman stepped forward, but Cale flinched slightly when she touched him, causing the woman to pull back in worry. Ron stepped forward and he spoke up, "I'll take him to his chambers. The Young Master is most likely losing energy in his body,"
Eric slowly stepped back as Ron moved forward. The assassin and black-haired noble held a gaze for a moment, before Roksu relinquished slowly. Ron bent down and scooped Cale up, the Count approaching and adjusting the cloak so it sat like a blanket. Cale pinched at it, adjusting himself so he could rest against Ron's shoulder.
Countess Wheelsman smiled in worry, "Go on, Ron. I'll get some hot drinks and the doctor up right away,"
"Yes, Countess,"
Ron then gave a small bow before he continued on his way.
Count Wheelsman patted both Eric and Roksu on the back, "You too should go to your chambers and warm up. Then you can go check on him. I need the draft an emergency correspondence to Deruth anyway,"
"Yes, Father,"
Roksu's eyes looked down where Cale had gone. He stood there for a few more seconds, before heading towards his guest room. His expression was disturbed.
'That test. What did it make Cale do?'
The question hung in his mind even as he peeled off the cold and wet layers of cloth. He hissed at the sting that emitted from the sudden contrast of his cold skin and the heated water, slowly and carefully lowering himself. Though he will admit, after the initial discomfort, the heat did feel good. His head lolled back against the tub, eyes shutting for a moment.
He didn't spend too long, not able to relax as much as he'd like. Balint handed him a comfy pair of trousers and a long-sleeves shirt to wear. As he wore them, Roksu lamented the loss of modern sweatpants, sweaters, and hoodies.
"Will you head to Young Master Cale's room, right away?"
"Yes," Roksu nodded, "Ah, the dragon?"
"He stuck to Young Master Cale. He wanted to make sure everything was alright," Balint informed. He then frowned, disturbed, "That kid was pretty panicked. He kept saying all sorts of dark things if the two of you didn't come up or if something happened,"
Roksu decided to not think more deeply into that.
He just nodded before going on towards Cale's bedroom. It was a short walk since they weren't that far, just around a corner from one another. Thus, Roksu was there quickly and gave three gentle knocks. He heard Beacrox's voice from behind the door, "Come in,"
Frowning, Roksu twisted the handle and opened the door. His eyes scanned the luxurious room until he realized Beacrox was the only person in the room. He frowned deeper, "Where is Cale?"
"He's still bathing," Beacrox said and Roksu finally noticed that the chef was brewing some tea, "The doctor is with Father and him inside the bathroom,"
Roksu sat on the edge of the bed. A small black animal soon showed up next to him, the child's paws and head resting over his legs. It's eyes looked up at Roksu, confusion and worry evident, "Human, what happened to the Sunny Human?"
Roksu sighed and he gently reached up, patting the dragon's head. He explained the situation not only because the dragon asked, but also because Beacrox and Balint would probably need the information too.
The dragon frowned, looking ashamed, "You're both weak. This great dragon should be able to protect you,"
Roksu's lips turned downwards, "This is not your fault. I'm sure Cale would not like it if you said that. Cale was a bit reckless today, that's all,"
The dragon curled up. He mumbled, "Reckless Human almost fell down when we came in here,"
'Suddenly he's Reckless Human?' Roksu repeated in his head, 'It certainly suits him'
"I'm sure Cale will be alright,"
Speaking of, the bathroom door clicked open and a man Roksu had never met walked out carrying a briefcase. Ron followed after, bowing his head to what the doctor was telling him. As he turned to leave, the doctor noticed Roksu, "Young Master,"
"Is Cale alright?"
The doctor blinked at the familiar form of addressment, but regained composure quickly. He cleared his throat, "The current focus is warming the Young Master up enough to get his body functioning again. Due to prolonged exposure to the cold he seemed to be experiencing early stages of hypothermia,"
Roksu was surprised. Balint repeated in worry, "Hypothermia?"
"Yes, sir," the doctor nodded, "It wasn't severe and it was very early. You arrived to the estate at a good time. Young Master Cale's butler is currently having Young Master Cale remain in the hot water for a while, at least until some motor function returns. After, it's probably best for the Young Master to remain in bed. I'm on my way to request some firewood be sent up,"
Roksu nodded, "Of course. Thank you, please go on ahead,"
Before he did, the doctor approached, "Young Sir, is it alright if I check you as well?"
"Ah, sure,"
His check-up was welcomed and short, as compared to Cale, he wasn't experiencing such levels of symptoms. Roksu stared at the closed door of the bathroom. Was it because of the Vitality of Heart? Or something else? Cale was under that icy water for longer than anyone. Not to mention that test...
"Human,"
Roksu looked down.
"What is hypothermia?"
"Oh, it's a medical condition that happens when someone is really cold or has been exposed to cold for a prolonged period of time," Roksu explained, "Cale was in that cold water for a long time, right? So his body began to react and couldn't handle the exposure. So he started to shiver and his body was using up stored energy to retain some semblance of functionality. It's why Cale started to stiffen up and his body began to move less, and he couldn't speak or focus on anything,"
"Oh," the dragon learned a new thing, "Will it be okay?"
"Yes. We just need to make sure Cale is warm and rests,"
Roksu realized something then. He looked at Balint, "Balint. Go inform the convoy that plans to leave Spade city might change tomorrow. They've probably heard a bit of what happened, but go give a proper report. Oh, obviously omit that part,"
That as in the Ancient Power.
"Yes, Young Master," Balint bowed and receded from the room. He held the door open and bowed outside for a moment, "Young Master Eric,"
The dragon turned invisible again just as Eric came in, closing the door. Eric saw Roksu and walked over, "Cale?"
Roksu repeated what the doctor had said. Eric frowned in worry, chewing at his lower lips. After a moment of silent deliberation, he walks over to the desk and grabs a pen and paper, beginning to write.
"Young Master Eric?"
"I'm going to send a letter to Gilbert Chetter and Amiru Ubarr. Along with Cale and I, our four families are quite friendly with each other," Eric says, "I should tell them about what happened. Gilbert especially, since he is expecting you anyway,"
"I see," Roksu mumbled.
He turned as the bathroom door clicked open. Cale walked out, wrapped in a thick robe. His hair was still damp and he was still hugging himself weakly, but his eyes seemed slightly more aware, albeit tired. Ron followed and took Cale behind the changing screen, while asking for Beacrox to hand him the sleep wear Cale would wear.
Roksu and Eric wait in silence except for the quick scribbling of the pen. When Cale returns from the screen, Roksu stands up and takes a few steps towards the top of the bed, pulling the covers back, "Cale,"
The redhead looks at him and Roksu motions to the bed, "Come,"
Cale hums softly, walking and allowing himself to sit on the bed. For now, since they all wanted him to have some tea, Cale remained propped up while the blankets covered most of his lower body. Cale smiled slightly, "It's comfy,"
Roksu sits on the edge of the bed near Cale, "That's good,"
"Cale!" Eric also comes over, sitting on the other side. He had finished the letters and quickly walked outside to catch a servant to send them, before hastily returning, "Have some tea,"
"Hm, have you already had some hyung-nim?"
"No. We will have with you,"
Beacrox wordlessly began to serve them the hot tea. The three boys sat comfortably, Eric asking Cale some casual questions not about the incident, prompting Cale to speak with them. Roksu also let Eric drag him into the conversations, finding it not entirely unpleasant.
When Cale's cup was practically empty, Ron took it away and Eric helped Cale adjust the pillows to lay down. Roksu frowned, slightly displeased, "Are you tired?"
"Yes," Cale hummed, tugging the blanket closer to his chin, "I'm very tired..."
He pauses and then mumbles, "I...I don't want to deal with anything else,"
Eric's lips turn downward, "Is that so?"
He reaches forward, slightly flicking some red strands from Cale's eyes, "Then, you can rest. Is it alright if this hyung-nim stays?"
"You both can stay," Cale had already gently shut his eyes, "Yeah...just...yeah,"
Cale's eyes cracked open slightly, staring down where a small bump popped under the blanket and a careful warmth covered him. He reached around and found the small head of the black dragon that had squeezed its way beneath the blanket. Cale turned to his side, gently hugging the black dragon and mumbling for only him to hear, "A child should rest too,"
The black dragon snuggled into the human's body, shutting its eyes. He briefly informed the other human about where he was and that he was going to sleep, before letting himself listen to the gentle thumps of Cale's heart.
Roksu smiled slightly, 'The dragon is still pretty young. I suppose it's a little shocked,'
"Punk,"
Roksu's smile faltered and he glared at Ron, "It is Young Master to you, Butler,"
Ron just smiled and continued talking, "Do you plan to stay here while the Young Master sleeps?"
"Yeah, why not?" Roksu challenges.
Eric looked between Cale's friend and butler. Sensing an odd atmosphere, he gently stood up and suggested, "Why don't we sit elsewhere so Cale can rest?"
Roksu glanced at Cale once, before slowly nodding. He'd keep his ears perked in case Cale ended up having a vision. The group moved away from the bed and towards the lounge, Eric and Roksu sitting down.
Eric looked over at Ron, "I assume you brought medicine with you on your trip?"
"Yes," Ron nodded.
Roksu frowned, "It's only natural to bring some, right?"
Eric smiled as he turned to Roksu, "Cale's body can be sensitive. Not weak in the sense anything can hurt him, but rather when it comes to sickness, it's usually pretty hard on him, even for a short time. It's gotten a bit skewed now with the last two years and, of course, Cale is pretty good with the cold as he's from the Northernmost corner of our Kingdom, but hypothermia is a new experience for his body,"
"Oh,"
Roksu thought back to the fussing he had noticed when they left Rain City, "I suppose it makes sense why the Count asked so many questions about his wardrobe and said to look out for the weather," Roksu mumbled, "He was very fussy,"
A small look of surprise came over Eric's face, mumbling, "The Count did so?"
"Pardon?"
"No, nothing," Eric shook his head, "Young Master Roksu, how are you feeling?"
Roksu assured, "I'm fine. I wasn't in the water as long as Cale,"
"Ah, speaking of that..." Eric glanced at the door, but lowered his voice anyway, "What happened?"
Earlier, Roksu had only explained up until the part where the dragon and Balint came. But Eric wasn't asking about what caused Cale to dive into the lake, he already knew that.
Ron echoed, "That's right...you whispered something about an Ancient Power,"
Beacrox placed a plate of snacks down, "An Ancient power?"
Roksu pressed his lips in a thin line. He hadn't meant to say it aloud, but he must've been more shocked by the situation than he thought.
After a moment of facing the gazes, he sighed, "That's right...the reason Cale was under the water for so long and the reason I couldn't get to him for a while was because Cale was in a test. If he passed, he would gain an Ancient Power,"
Beacrox stared, dumbfounded. Balint thought for a moment, "Then...can we assume that the Young Master passed?"
"I think so,"
Roksu looked at Ron, "Did Cale have any odd markings on his body that weren't there before?"
Ron glanced at the asleep Cale. He then turned back to the group, "Yes. On his upper back there was a dark blue tattoo,"
Roksu was intrigued, "What did it look like?"
"It was a trident. It ran from the just below his neck to about the bottom of his shoulder blades,"
Roksu thought, 'A trident? I'm a little more intrigued now,'
He turned back to Eric, "Ancient Powers usually leave these sort of marks on their owners,"
"So...Cale has an ancient power?"
A silence came over them.
Everyone looked over at the sleeping redhead. Roksu suddenly realized that none of them knew what sort of ancient power Cale got.
He thought back.
It was clearly a water-based Ancient Power. But what did it do?
"Until Cale uses it, we won't know the exact sort of power it is," Balint broke the silence, "Additionally,"
Everyone heard the shift in his tone, "An Ancient Power is said to be granted to those with incredible luck and blessings of the Gods. If it were to get out to the public that the Young Master had an Ancient Power, things could become very difficult for him,"
Roksu nodded, "I'll tell Cale too. But he shouldn't freely use his power, nor should he ever tell others of it. Even the Henituse Family is better off unaware,"
'It's better if we can keep it a secret for a long time. It could be advantageous in the war'
"The marking?" Beacrox asked.
"This can be hidden should it come down to it. But since Ron already knows, it shouldn't cause much issues,"
Eric worried, "But won't Cale need to understand it?"
Roksu smiled, "Nope. This is a trait of Ancient Powers. A user inherently knows how to use the power when they obtain it,"
Eric's eyes widened, "How incredible..."
He then pauses and frowns, "Ah, wait. Young Master Roksu, you're really knowledgeable about Ancient Powers,"
Roksu paused, weighing his options. He doesn't need to think for long because Eric understands quick enough, "Do you have one?"
Balint's eyes suddenly narrowed,"Young Master,"
Roksu coughs, "Ahem. Yes, Young Master Eric. I have one too...I'd be most grateful if this is also kept a secret,"
"Of course!"
Balint leans down beside Roksu and the black-haired teenager stiffens up, "Young Master Roksu...this servant of yours seems to be missing some information?"
Roksu looks away quickly, sweat dropping. In his head he curses, 'Why are you vicious too? Balint- I had hope!!'
"L-later. I'll explain later!" Roksu quickly mumbles.
Balint backs away with a small sigh. He reaches up and pats Roksu's head like he used to when the kid was younger, "Alright,"
The pat feels familiar to Roksu, who is slowly receiving more and more of detailed memories as a Nyphan. The feeling makes a small warmth blossom in his chest and he subconsciously leans into it, causing Balint to crack a small smile before ruffling the black hair. Roksu would never admit he was a little bummed when the hand moved away.
As the two of them do this, Ron had opened the door after hearing a knock. A servant walked in, pushing a cart of food. Beacrox reflexivly moved, placing the dishes down on the table and clearing the cart, allowing for it to be taken away.
Roksu didn't realize how hungry he was until there was a fancy meal set before him. The moment utensils were given and he saw Eric pick up the fork and knife, Roksu ate with delight. Eric had also had plates called for the three servants and had them sit down to eat, quoting that "A lot has happened. Let's just take it easy for some time,"
Roksu's silence meant he agreed, thus the three servants sat down in chairs. Roksu had shifted over, motioning Balint to sit on the couch with him, the mage only doing so after slight hesitation and prompting from both young nobles.
The meal was mostly had in silence or gentle conversations about random things. It seemed the energy spent was finally catching up with them. Roksu would've probably fallen asleep if he hadn't heard the soft groan and shagged breathing.
Ron and Beacrox naturally heard it as well, their assassin senses both glancing back over to the bed. Roksu only heard it because he had been listening for it. He stood up and strode towards the bed, causing Eric and Balint to look towards him in surprise and confusion. Approaching the bed, Roksu noticed the troubled expression and the way Cale was lightly biting at his lip. Cale's hand clenched aggressively at the sheets, as another soft murmur passed his lips. However, the most telling thing that made Roksu frown was that Cale's cheeks were flushed and a sheen of sweat came over him.
'Crap'
Roksu approached from the side, expression hard. He sits down gently, angling his body towards Cale. He reaches up and places a hand against Cale's forehead. A blistering heat hit his palm, before he moved his hand, patting the red hair as gently as possible. His expression tightened, "One of you. Call the doctor,"
"He seems to have broken out into fever,"
Roksu flinched, head glancing over at where Ron stood beside him. His eyes shook slightly, 'When did this old man get here?'
"I'll go and prepare some herbal tea with medicine," Beacrox stood up.
Eric also stood up, "I'll go and get the doctor. Balint, could you get a small wash cloth?"
Balint bowed and Roksu looked to see the chef and heir leave. He turned his attention back to Cale, who was panting, eyebrows furrowing in discomfort. Roksu's eyes looked off to the side where he could now feel Ron's presence. With gritted teeth, he shifted forward and spoke softly, "Cale-ah. Wake up for a moment. Come out of that vision for me,"
His hands gently shook Cale. The boy seemingly flinched and groaned, turning in discomfort, but his eyes remained shut. Roksu frowned and heard Ron speak, "The puppy is a heavy sleeper. Even more so when he's sick,"
'Heavy?'
Roksu thought back to when he was able to arouse Cale from sleep after the two of them had fallen asleep in Roksu's study. Even though it was passed midnight and the Count was clearly ready to pick Cale up, Cale had flinched awake with a few shakes.
'Even in the carriage Cale needed a few firm shoves, but he woke up rather easily...'
Roksu frowned slightly, 'Hold on. Hadn't Cale flinched then too?'
Roksu put the thoughts aside for now. He called again with a few more shakes, raising his voice, "Cale,"
The teenager frowned in annoyance, turning onto his side and tugging the blanket up. Roksu quickly held it from being pulled over completely. He took Cale's hands, gently prying them off from the blanket. He then sighed and found himself patting Cale's head softly, before removing the bangs from his face.
Balint walked over, a damp cloth in his hand. Roksu felt around the blanket, finding the small body of the dragon. He softly apologized to Cale, when the redhead hissed and began to curl from the cold he was probably feeling, as he pulled the blanket back and adjusted the two. Ron covered them up again after Cale was comfortably on his back. Roksu moved Cale's hair again as Balint laid the cloth over Cale's forehead.
Roksu frowned, hearing another set of pained whispers. Balint worried, asking softly, "What is he saying?"
"Who knows?" Roksu quickly speaks up, "Most of it will seem like nonsense to us,"
The three turned when the door clicked open. Eric walked in along with the doctor from earlier and a few servants who were carrying buckets and towels. Roksu didn't move, but Balint, who was on the opposite side, did, thus the doctor headed over there.
Eric said, "I sent a notice to Mother and Father. Father will probably call the Count again," He frowns, "Ah, I should call Gilbert and Amiru. Hey, can you get me two communication devices,"
"Yes, my lord,"
The servants left the room just as the doctor began to speak, "Yes, it seems Young Master Cale has broken into fever,"
"Tsk," Roksu clicks his tongue.
"Luckily, it doesn't seem too serious. How long has he been sleeping?"
"About two hours or more,"
"Then it's best to wake him up soon," the doctor pulled out some bottles. He placed two of them on the bedside table, "Have him take these two. And I'll go to the kitchen and have them prepare something light on the stomach. Either oatmeal or soup,"
"Oatmeal," Roksu says, "Cale is particular about soups. And the ones he likes are probably not good for when he's sick like this,"
The doctor glanced at Eric, who met his eyes and nodded. The doctor turned back and bowed, "I shall go right away,"
As the doctor left, Roksu glanced over at Ron, who was looking at him intensely, "What?"
"Nothing,"
Roksu frowned in confusion.
"Eric!"
The door opened again and Countess Wheelsman entered the room, expression pinched up, "Eric. I've heard Cale is sick?"
"Yes, Mother. He's broken into fever,"
The Countess looked from the foot of the bed where her son had been standing. She frowned worriedly at the flushed face, coming over to the free side. She sits down, taking her hands and feeling under Cale's skin, "Goodness...his temperature is indeed high,"
"The doctor has given him medicine. We were told to wake him up," Roksu tells her.
"I see," the Countess understands. She turns back to the sick child and gently nudges him, speaking up firmly yet kindly, "Cale, sweetie. It's time to get up,"
Cale's expression tightens as a breathy exhale passes through his lips. His head lolls towards the Countess, who repeats again, "Cale, darling? I know it must be very uncomfortable, but you need to have some medicine. Alright, sweetheart? Could youâ"
"Mom..."
Countess Wheelsman's expression freezes, her eyes widening and a shallow gasp falling from her lips. The others all caught it as well, the room suddenly going stiff. Roksu's eyes widened in surprise, before he finally understood one of the things bugging him.
Cale had flinched repeatedly throughout their stay in Spade City. Always around the Countess. Roksu hadn't been able to figure it out, but now he finally got it.
The Countess reminded Cale of Jour.
The Countess reminded Cale of his dead mother.
"Mom..." Cale muttered again and his eyes seemed to shut tighter as he shuddered, "No...no...don't go ...stay...me...please..."
The murmurs that were previously not heard were much easier to understand. Cale was clearly becoming more conscious, and as such, they could now understand his words. His words were all half-strung mutters of whatever Cale was seeing. Words all directed at a woman long gone but still very, very, loved.
'Shit...'
That test.
Roksu had a very bad feeling.
"Hah..." Roksu heard Ron behind him.
Ron hadn't heard Cale call for Jour like this since he was 8 or 9. No, that's not all. Ron hadn't heard as much of a mention regarding the former Countess. It was taboo to talk about Cale's birth mother in the house of Henituse.
"...Mother,"
"I know, my dear," Countess Wheelsman took a breath. She called again, her eyes pained and soft, "Cale, sweetie? Wake up for me,"
A soft groan.
"I know. I know it's hard, but please wake up for me, alright?"
Cale's eyes weakly cracked and his head reflexively turned towards the Countess's voice. He calls again, hand raising slightly as if to find her, "Mom?"
Countess Wheelsman sucks in a breath, before smiling shakily and just brushes aside Cale's hair. She reached for the hand, holding it gently and running her thumb over his knuckles. Roksu decided to help her at that moment. He found Cale's other hand over the blanket, giving it a firm squeeze, causing Cale to glance over. Roksu spoke up, "Cale, are you awake?"
"Hm?" Cale's eyes fluttered for a moment.
Roksu came slightly closer, "It's Roksu,"
"Rok...ah," Cale's eyes opened properly this time, "Roksu,"
He let out a small breath before turning back to where his Momâ his eyes widened at the sight of pale blond hair instead of red. Cale pulled his hand away as if burned. The movement caused him to let out a small groan and he hissed, holding his head. Feeling the cloth he pulls back and understands, "Fuck..."
"Do you feel awful?" Roksu fills before any silence can start.
"I feel like shit,"
Countess Wheelsman smiles, not letting the earlier action dissuade her. She glances at the bottles, "The doctor has provided you to bottles of medicine to have,"
Cale glances at her and her smile before nodding and looking away.
Eric informs, "He went to tell the kitchen to prepare a meal for you,"
"Hm,"
Cale feels a small body underneath the blanket, still curled up. He gently strokes the black dragon's body beneath the blanket, while dealing with his body's exhaustion and the icky feeling of his throat. He looks at Ron, "How long?"
"It's been a little over two hours since you slept,"
Roksu nods, "You were in deep sleep," he then can't help but hiss in frustration, "Idiotic brat,"
Cale pulls one hand out and weakly hits Roksu on the arm, "Shut it,"
"What was so important about that bracelet? We could've had someone else look for it," Roksu addresses the thing bothering him.
Cale looks uncomfy, bringing his hand back and mumbling, "I had a reason,"
"A reason?" Ron perks up, "Young Master-nim is currently harboring a fever,"
Cale winces. He clears his throat, "She...she seemed upset. That's it. A-and- it was something her Mother gave her and her brothers," Cale resigned himself, "She said it was the last thing before she left"
Roksu's rigidness dwindles again. He frowns and glances over at Eric, who chews on his bottom lip in worry. A small pause comes over them, before the Countess smiles, "You're a good boy, Cale,"
Cale looks at her before pulling the blanket closer to his chin, "I'm cold,"
"Eric, I'm going to go have some more blankets brought over," Countess Wheelsman says. She hesitates for a moment longer, before leaning down and giving Cale a small kiss on his hair. The redhead freezes up, eyes widening in disbelief. The Countess smiles warmly at him, "Rest well, Cale, dear,"
Eric smiles, sharing a knowing look between him and his Mom, who ruffles up his hair as she passes, before he goes to sit where she had been. Cale's red cheeks have flushed more and Eric chuckles, "My dongsaeng is adorable,"
"I will kill you," Cale hisses weakly.
Roksu snorts, "Not with that weakass body,"
"You- why are you so confident today? Do you think I won't retaliate?"
The three boys fall into teasing banters and jokes, the older two keeping Cale awake through conversation and distracting him from thinking more on the earlier altercations. Eric and Roksu exchange knowing looks accompanied by small smiles. They take over the servants job and help Cale adjust and sit up when the porridge is brought along with Beacrox, and helping him have the two bitter medical bottles given.
After he's had those, the tray is placed on Cale's lap, the redhead moving the dragon to remain hidden between him and Roksu. Roksu and Eric fill his ears with scolding as he nearly burns his tongue from the temperature and his whines of wishing to sleep more.
Eric took the bowl, blowing lightly on the spoon while Roksu takes a fresh cloth and wipes off the sweat. Cale feels completely overwhelmed. He feels very warm, despite how his body occasionally shivers. The two of them are looking at him kindly, as they always have.
Cale doesn't have the energy to throw a mock fit.
Also...it's fine, isn't it? One day won't hurt. One day of this won't hurt anyone, right?
Cale eats the porridge and leans into the cloth. He smiles as Eric and Roksu banter about a book they'd both read, arguing over which character was better. Cale hasn't read the book, but he's entertained.
Ron and Balint had moved away from the trio a long time back. The two butlers observed with matching looks of amusement. Then, they sit down at the chairs prepared to help if needed, but letting the kids hang about. Beacrox joins them.
"What are you talking about, Young Master Eric? He is completely unappealing! Of course the madam should get with the knight!"
"But the knight is a liar and has quite literally failed his job a number of times!"
"In that way, so has the duke!"
Cale raises a hand, "She should get with the Prince,"
He receives two scandalized yells, "No!!"
"Cale, have you lost your mind?"
"The Prince is a terrible person!"
"I haven't read the book,"
"..."
"Be quiet then, you punk!"
"Hush, dongsaeng. Rest your tongue for a moment while I educate Young Master Roksu,"
"I beg your finest pardon?"
Balint muffles a laugh. He smiles wider, sighing in fondness, "To think the Young Master hardly even left his room a year ago,"
Ron listened to the conversation. He would look over when he heard Cale's soft giggles, finding the kid clearly awake and looking much more alive than he did earlier. Cale's probably tired, but it's clear he's enjoying himself. This much, Ron won't intervene with. As long as Cale is alright.
His eyes shift from Cale's smile to the crystal balls on the bedside table beside Eric. The trio stops as well, looking over. Cale asks, "Who is it?"
"Gilbert and Amiru," Eric says, "I have to call them anyway,"
Eric picks them up and before a word could get out, Balint sends some mana over, connecting the calls. Eric glances over in surprise, but he turns around when two high-volume voices come through.
"Eric!!! What's this letter about?!" Amiru's disbelieving voice echoes through the right one.
"Pardon?" Eric frowns, placing them both back on the table.
"The letter you sent us!" Gilbert speaks through the left, "What's this about Cale having a friend?"
Eric's expression stiffens up suddenly. Cale and Roksu both blink, before staring at Eric, who smiles awkwardly, "Aâahâ umâ"
"Eric! Is it true? Has our youngest really gotten another friend?" Amiru asks.
Cale's face twists in offense, muttering, "What the fuck..."
Roksu bit back a grin. It falls when Gilbert speaks the next line, "And what's this part about them being really close? Eric- that means you've approved! Overprotective Eric Wheelsman has approved of a stranger becoming friends with his dongsaeng in a few months??"
"That- Gilbert- Amiru- hold onâ" Eric looks terribly embarrassed.
"How old is he?" Amiru demands.
"Amiruâ"
"Eric, you've skimmed details! Details!! Cale barely leaves the territory! But he's traveling with Young Master Roksu, who's his friend? It is him, isn't it?"
"Y-yes, it is, but- listen- guys-"
"He's 19, Amiru," Gilbert answers, "Three years older than Cale,"
"Guys-"
"Is Cale comfortable with him, Eric?"
"Yes- Amiru, listen to me for a momentâ"
"Is he nice though? What if he isn't actually nice to Cale?" Gilbert worried, "Remember the banquet? I'm almost positive Cale didn't know what he was doing with Princess Jaylee,"
Eric looked over at Roksu and Cale, who both seemed utterly dumbfounded. Cale looked like he was in genuine disbelief. Roksu seemed a cross between amused and confused.
"WAIT-" Amiru's voice shrieked, "What if they fell in love?!"
A very heavy silence comes over the five of them.
Even the three servants listening to the chaos freeze up in disbelief.
Before Eric can attempt damage control, two voices scream beside him, equally scandalized, "WHAT?!"
Amiru's and Gilbert's expressions go blank in confusion.
Cale leans forward, the achness of his body abruptly leaving him as he grabs Eric by the collar, his face as red as his hair, not from sickness. He shakes Eric, eyes wide in disbelief, "HYUNG-NIM?! What the fuck did you write?!"
Roksu's eyes were wide and his mouth was open in utter disbelief. He then leans into the screen, ignoring the way his entire face felt on fire, "L-lady Amiruâ that is notâ we are notâ"
Amiru and Gilbert both freeze up.
"A-ah!!" Amiru's hand flies to her mouth and she turns red in shame, "Oh my goodness!"
Eric tries to fix things, holding Cale's wrist and begging, "I didn't do anything- I really didn't- Cale, dongsaeng, please sit down. You're still sickâ"
Cale turns to the screen, pointing a finger at Amiru, "Noona!!!"
Three people choke on their saliva.
Cale's mind is a wreck and he screams, "That is not what is going on!! Why would you- ACK- *cough*"
Cale chokes, falling into a coughing spiral.
Eric panics and he pushes Cale back to sit properly, while Roksu also leaves the screen and grabs the tea pot, pouring a cup of tea, "Cale breath, gentle- you're not supposed to be screaming. Here, drink this,"
"No- Ack- way! That tea isâ"
"Cale,"
"-Absolutely amazing, I- *cough* love it!"
Roksu smiles, pleased at the way Cale drank. He then frowns upon seeing how fast he is doing so. He sighs and pulls the cup away gently, scolding again, "We told you earlier to be slow! Do you want to choke again?"
"Ah-ahem," Gilbert coughs, "Apologies for our unsightly appearances,"
Roksu spoke to them, Eric turning the devices so all three could be seen. He smiles tightly, "It's alright. You are Cale's closest friends. It is nice to meet you,"
Gilbert and Amiru look surprised. Cale looks at Roksu for a moment, the older catching it and raising an eyebrow, "What?"
Cale shakes his head. Handing the cup back, "I'm done,"
Eric takes a breath before complaining, "You two should start listening to me more,"
Amiru coughed, "My- my deepest apologies everyone,"
Roksu and Cale are still red from embarrassment. The older just gives a shaky smile, "It is fine, Lady Amiru,"
"No, I really don't think it is," Amiru squeaked.
Cale clears his throat, "But seriously, what's all this about? Why are you two losing your minds? And hyung-nim, did I not tell you that my relationshipâ" Amiru's words echo and he flushes, "-aquaintancy with Roksu is to be kept on the downlow?"
'That's a more accurate word. We're not exactly friends,'
"We-well, yes- but I mentioned that to them so the Baron and Viscountess don't know," Eric defended himself.
Amiru and Gilbert nodded on the screen. Gilbert looks slightly confused though, "Is it true the Count doesn't know?"
"Yeah. And we're going to keep it that way, or I swear to god, I'm hitting a noble over the head at the next meeting," Cale happily threatened.
Roksu reached up and flicked Cale in the forehead. The redhead winced, covering the spot with a mock glare, "Hey!!"
Roksu ignored the glare, "Don't go blackmailing your hyungs and noona that hard,"
The four nobles all go silent, staring at Roksu. The black-hair, ignorant, continues, "Cale, you ought to be rather kind to them. Lady Amiru and Young Master Gilbert seem to care about you a lot to check on the stranger traveling with you,"
"I don't need to be babysat! I'm not a fucking child!!"
Roksu smiles, knowing Cale is trying to fall into his act, trying to keep it up. But nope. Roksu had already decided he was going to flip Cale's reputation over. Maybe not entirely, because that would be impossible, but maybe, maybe, he can get Cale to build connections. If Cale had connections and a solid reputation, they'd be able to move around easier and they'd be able to get favors and freely travel between territories with no big issue. These three nobles weren't mentioned in the novel, thus Roksu knew practically nothing of them except from what Cale had mentioned.
But he had figured out this much.
These four were clearly close. Close enough that they called Eric, worried about Cale and addressed each other casually. Cale, even if it was a slip-up caused by sickness and embarrassment, had clearly called Amiru 'Noona'. That means he cared about her too, just as he did Eric. But, like everyone else, Cale pulled away from her and barred himself off.
So, Roksu can play a fool. He can play someone who doesn't understand and doesn't know. Even if Cale might see through it.
"Of course, I never said you were?"
Cale pauses his words. Because Roksu's smile, his stupid smile, is there but his eyes have that damn kindness always targeted at Cale. Roksu shrugs, "I'm envious really. I'm stuck with 'old man' but it seems this red haired punk does know words such as 'hyung' and 'noona'"
Eric looks over at Cale for a second, who is staring at Roksu with a confused and almost defiant gaze. Cale had pulled away a long time ago. Eric had never let him go but Cale's walls were always so defined, so thick.
Right now, it was like a door had appeared. A door long since locked and it had unlocked, only for a second. Eric grabbed the handle without another thought. Cale was his precious little brother. Eric had never let go. If the wall lowered, if a door showed for a moment, Eric had no intention of letting it leave.
He grins, reaching forward and holding one of Cale's hands. The grip is firm, "Amiru, Gilbert, our little brother is so cute!"
Cale's head snaps to Eric. Eric meets the gaze with a wide smile and kind eyes. Cale's eyes shake in disbelief.
'This-'
Amiru laughed warmly, "Yes, yes, he is!"
"What?!" Cale turns to the crystal ball. He pushes a scowl on, tone darkening, "Hey-"
Gilbert also smiles kindly, "Dongsaeng, don't yell too much. If you're sick you should rest,"
"Gilbert youâ"
Amiru nods vigorously, "Cale, you don't make this Noona of yours worry too much,"
Cale flushes. He hasn't called Amiru 'Noona' or Gilbert 'hyung' since he was a kid!
Eric adds, "Yes, yes. Dongsaeng, rest your voice a little,"
Gilbert muffles a small laugh, "Your hyungs will worry too,"
Cale's face turns red again, "You three shut up!! And- Gilbert, you especially- who's my hyung?! We're the same age!"
"I'm older, youngest!"
"By four fucking months!!"
Roksu smiles watching Cale try to control it, but it was clear the other three had no intention of letting this go. Eric saw him and turned, giving him a look of kindness and gratefulness.
Roksu looks away, playing dumb.
The bickering only halts when Cale falls into another fit of coughing, which receives four scoldings. The scoldings have him trembling in a chaotic storm of emotions.
What were they doing? Why did they suddenly decide to ignore the boundaries he had made? Wasn't this taking advantage of a sick person? He pulled the blanket closer and grumbled complaints into it. He flushes deeper at the amused chuckles and Roksu patting his head.
'This bastard- I'll kill him for sure! What the fuck is he doing?! Why is he messing with my plan?!'
"Oh, actually, I had a question, Cale," Amiru's voice suddenly came through, "I heard something and wanted to clarify it,"
Eric, Roksu, and Cale all felt an odd sense of deja vu.
"What do you want?" Cale looks over.
"Is it true you and Princess Jaylee sent gifts to one another after the New Years Banquet?"
Roksu choked.
Cale froze up.
Beside him, Roksu coughed before lowering his head and trying to stop laughing. He didn't really care that Amiru and Gilbert were looking at him oddly. His shoulders shook from restraining himself.
Cale, overcoming his shock, looked awkward and annoyed. He hissed, "Stop laughing, you bastard,"
Roksu bit his lip, straightening up and trying to breathe. He failed holding himself back at Cale's flushed ears. A laugh choked from him and Cale immediately shoved him, almost pushing him off the bed, "Stop it!"
"I'm sorry- I'm sorry- pfft-"
Cale's face turned redder at the laugh. He hit Roksu on the head, "You- do you really want to die?!"
Eric placidly grabbed at Cale's arms, though he was smiling slightly too, "Dongsaeng-ah~"
"No- hyung-nim, let me go! This piece of shit! He's laughing at my misery!" Cale exclaimed, his flushed face becoming redder.
Roksu mumbled amongst his laughter, "Twice- you were asked twice if you were courting her- ahaha! On the same day? Ahaha!" He looked at Cale with a shit-eating grin, "Did you ask her to dance?"
Cale flushed, "ROKSU NYPHAN!!"
Eric smiled weakly, "Cale, you're supposed to not move excessively,"
"It's not excessive if it's deserved!!"
Cale pulled away and he launched himself at Roksu, who let out a grunt of surprise, falling off the bed. Amiru and Gilbert watched in disbelief as Eric ran around the bed, desperate to pull the two away. Eric hugged around Cale's back, trying to keep Cale from launching punches while Roksu was grinning and snickering while protecting himself.
Ron and Balint both don't realize they're smiling so fondly until Beacrox points it out to them later.