"....holy shit,"
"Cale, please,"
"In my defense, Father. This is my first time seeing the palace,"
It was extremely beautiful. The late year let the sky darken at earlier hours, thus causing the white palace to be lit up by golden glows of lights. Cale was staring at the feat of architecture, his reddish eyes seeming to glow under the yellow lights that embraced the castle.
Deruth watched his son with a small smile.
Cale usually wore good outfits as per his status, but since they were attending a party hosted by the Roan Royal Family, he was practically groomed to perfection. Cale's outfit consisted of black dress pants and newly polished shoes of a dark brown color. The dress shirt was white and sat under a red vest that had gold accents. Around the vest was a tight black leather belt with an ornate golden buckle. Over that was the large red and gold coat that had twin tails, each ending at the back of Cale's knee. There was a fancy maroon brooch with a white gemstone in the center placed over his heart.
As the Henituse carriage came to the road leading to the entrance, Cale dropped the curtain and sat back up. Immediately, the earlier smile was dropped and Cale simply looked at Deruth. Deruth smiled back, "Just tell me if you're going to take a breath, alright?"
'I'm not a kid...'
Cale said nothing as the carriage had come to a stop and the sound of someone walking up to the door alerted them. The door clicked open and a royal knight bowed deeply, "Count Henituse, Young Master Cale, welcome to the palace,"
Deruth exited out first, Cale following behind him, expression stoic. As expected of him, Cale walked just a step behind his father, following the Count's steps up from the roundabout and to the double doors. As they approached, the two knights bowed, and opened the humongous entryways.
A third man announced their arrival to those already inside.
"The Henituse County is Entering!!"
Cale had to hide a grimace as he followed his Father into the event hall. It was usually like this when a new arrival was announced. People would turn and take a glance. That's how it was right now. But despite the melody of the music and buzz of talking and laughter, it felt extremely quiet to Cale. Cale could feel the stares directly on him.
Furthermore, it seemed nobles truly sucked at whispering because Cale could hear the gossip.
"Oh my, it was true,"
"Countess Violan really didn't attend this year?"
"They really sent Young Master Cale here?"
Cale pretended he didn't hear anything, as usual.
"Count Henituse,"
"Viscountess Ubarr," Deruth smiled at the green haired woman.
Cale gave a small bow as a greeting when she looked at him, muttering, "Viscountess,"
"Young Master Cale, it's a delight to see you," Popelina Ubarr smiled at him kindly, "You're looking well,"
Cale gave a small hum, "I suppose, I'm feeling quite well, today,"
The woman smiles and glances back to the younger girl approaching her, "Amiru, come greet the Henituse County,"
Amiru Ubarr gently touched her dress, bowing with perfect elegance, "I greet Count Henituse and Young Master Cale,"
Cale and Deruth both returned her greeting.
Deruth then turned to Popelina, "Has Cilian arrived?"
"Yes, I believe he and Young Master Eric are greeting Baron* Chetter and Young Master Gilbert,"
(A/N: I believe the Chetter family was originally a Baron family and after the war was raised to Viscount)
Cale immediately looks to Deruth, "Father, may I go to hyung-nim?"
"Let's all go together," Deruth smiled and Cale released a small sigh at having to do more greetings.
As the leaders of the Ubarr and Henituse territory walked together, Amiru and Cale were behind them. As they passed, Cale could see a few nobles glancing at him warily. He could also feel Amiru staring at him.
There were three families the Henituse County had close relations with. They were the Wheelsman County, the Ubarr Viscounty, and the Chetter Barony. These three, along with the Henituse County, were four of the ten pillar families that controlled the Northeast that had no Duke or Marquis. As such, the heirs of the family all had some sort of relations such as the close brotherhood between Eric and Cale.
Well, to be frank, now that Cale really thought about it, Amiru and Gilbert were the only other two nobles along with Eric that refused to just cut him off.
Gilbert and Cale, despite being months apart in age, weren't close but Gilbert had only ever given Cale a few exasperated and frustrated looks. Whether it be because of the respect for Eric, who did not hide his fondness and closeness with Cale, or not, Cale had acknowledged this kindness and subsided slightly.
Amiru was the oldest of the four of them and had always been very patient with Cale. That's why, despite being complete trash, Cale hadn't said anything to her but merely spoke like he was throwing a tantrum.
Of course, Cale had no way of knowing that Gilbert and Amiru had thought of the youngest of their quartet as a naughty kid. Eric had confided in them, after all, of his reasons for stubbornly staying by Cale's side as a hyung. They both could also never disagree that Cale was slightly more respectful to three of them and listened to Eric and occasionally Amiru.
Coming out of his thoughts, Cale asked her, turning abruptly, "Young Lady Amiru, is there something on my face?"
"H-huh? Oh! No!" Amiru quickly corrected, eyes widening, "I apologize, at once,"
Cale looked at her blankly, shrugging, "As long as there's nothing there, do whatever you want,"
Amiru blinked at the unexpected sentence.
"Ah, Count Henituse! Viscountess Ubarr!" Baron Chetter greets with a smile.
Count Wheelsman also smiles at the guests, greeting them as well. Eric and Gilbert Chetter bow their greetings to the four nobles, the greeting returned. Cale's eyebrow twitches slightly as Baron Chetter and Gilbert both glance at him. He almost speaks but Eric speaks up, "Cale, this is your first time seeing the palace, right?"
Cale looked at Eric, "Hyung-nim, you took me on a tour yesterday asking me the same thing,"
Eric chuckled lightly, "Ha, I did, didn't I!"
Count Wheelsman smiles at Cale, "How did you think it looked?"
Everyone was staring at him, including nobles that were listening in. Cale found their reactions funny enough to almost laugh. But, he couldn't do that, so he crossed his arms across his chest and shrugged, "It was not what I expected,"
Eric smiled, "Yes, it's quite beautiful to see,"
Cale's face immediately twisted, "That's not what I said at all,"
Deruth laughed softly at his son's shyness. It was something he had noticed a lot during the trip here. He placed a gentle hand on Cale's head, the teen's eyes widening and lips parting, the twisting snapping into disbelief, "Cale's a bit shy when admitting things he finds impressive,"
"Huh?" Cale said dumbly, glancing up. He then recalled where he was and immediately retorted curtly, "I'm not. I just don't find such things impressive,"
"Son, you were staring out of the carriage the second we could see the palace,"
The other three adults laughed slightly at Cale's actions, finding them endearing. Though the Baron and Vicountess were a bit surprised by this new change, they just assumed Cale had decided to behave as this was the palace.
Cale flushed and glared up at Deruth. His glare made a few nobles and noble children nearby flinch. Deruth removed his hand after a small pat. He then told Cale, "Go have fun,"
"Tch, whatever,"
Deruth sent a small glance at Eric, who simply smiled up at him.
"Amiru, why don't you hang out with Young Masters Eric and Cale,"
"Yes, Mother,"
Gilbert was in the same situation and soon, the four children were left standing there together. A silence spread over the group, Amiru and Gilbert patiently waiting for Cale to do something. Eric, on the other hand, chose to facilitate before anything could happen.
"Wellâ"
"Hyung-nim," Cale stopped Eric.
"Yes, Cale?"
"Is there food?"
"Yes, over there, let's go,"
Eric began walking, motioning with his eyes to Amiru and Gilbert. Cale silently followed. He bit down a smirk as a few lower nobles backed out of their way. Cale was quite proud of himself to have such influence.
"Are you hungry?"
"Father said I wasn't to drink,"
"...."
A moment of stunned silence envelops the area around them. Cale hears a noble whisper, "Oh, Count Henituse is a saint,"
'Yes, he's a great count. I better not see anyone talking shit about him now,'
Cale had said it aloud for people beside them to hear and spread the information about. It would spread quickly as every noble faction was present.
"I see..." Eric spoke slowly, "...are you upset about it?"
"No,"
"Huh?" Gilbert and Amiru both were confused.
Cale turned to them after hearing them. They looked frantic for a moment, but Cale spoke, "I don't plan to get drunk anyway,"
Eric smiled, proud, "Yes, yes, you'll be seeing our future rulers,"
Cale smirked, giving a casual shrug, "Naturally, I'm curious,"
"Ah, well," Gilbert began, "It's almost the allotted time,"
Cale grabbed a chocolate biscuit to nibble on. He leaned against the wall, glancing around the party. He spotted the slightly raised podium for the royal family.
"Young Master Eric,"
The group glanced over to see Viscount Tolz's son, Neo, approach them. Cale's gaze darkened for a moment. The Tolz territory was right next to the Henituse territory and used to be on good terms. However, there are some tensions currently. It wasn't even for anything serious. It was just simply envy at the vast difference of wealth.
"Young Master Neo, it's a pleasure to greet you," Eric smiled, but threw a small glance at Cale upon seeing his darkening expression.
It seemed even though Cale had stopped his studies, he was still very aware of the political plays going on in the noble world. Amiru seemed to also note the expression change as she stepped slightly closer to Cale, as if to protect him. Cale glanced at her, receiving a small smile.
'She hasn't seen me since rumors of my drinking and worsened behavior got out,'
'She's still like this even knowing I've only become crueler?'
Neo grinned, shaking hands with Eric. He then turned to the other three giving short greetings as per etiquette. It was when he began to greet Cale, did Cale realize Neo was not here for Eric at all.
"And, of course, our Young Master Cale Henituse,"
"Young Master Neo," Cale greeted coldly, refusing to stand upright from the wall.
Neo had neither extended a hand or bow. Cale was amused, frankly. It was a disrespect that could be overlooked due to Cale's own posture, but at the same time, would reflect onto Neo as Cale came from a higher standing. Eric, Amiru, and Gilbert all inhaled sharply.
A few nearby nobles glanced over, eager for entertainment.
"Young Master Cale, I haven't ever seen you at a gathering of this scale," Neo began with a cool smile.
"You seem to think I'd go out of my way to show you my presence,"
"Haha, of course, Young Master Cale wouldn't," Neo laughed, despite his eyes sharpening at the subtle insult of being called lower. The brown haired noble spoke casually, "But then again, with your attention grabbing habits, it wouldn't be hard to miss,"
Cale could feel the atmosphere turn colder.
All the Northeastern nobles knew of his temper. Yet, here was one provoking him. On purpose. Inside the royal palace.
"Young Master Neo," Amiru suddenly spoke up, "It is Young Master Cale's first time in the capital,"
"Yes, I thought as much," Neo smiled. He then stepped towards the food, grabbing a cookie. Taking a small bite, he hummed in thought, looking at Cale, "Now that I think of it...Young Master Cale, isn't this the first time you've made a public appearance with all the factions since...ah what was it..."
Cale's eyes began to darken and his fingers curled around his arms.
"Young Master Neo, that'sâ" Eric tried to stop.
"Ah right!" Neo snapped his fingers, an innocent expression clear, "Since the Count married Countess Violan!"
The biscuit snapped under Cale's fingers.
Amiru and Gilbert quickly flinched away, stepping towards Eric and away from Neo. Nobles behind the Tolz also froze, all surrounding their eyes on the redhead who was looking at Neo blankly.
Everyone was holding their breath.
If there was one rumor that people loved about Cale more than his trashy antics. It was his alleged behavior towards his step-family. Cale still doesn't know how that started but he supposes it isn't impossible for someone to think that his temper stemmed from hate. Afterall, his behavior flaunts his status. To have a Countess and a potential heir, a step mother and brother, of common birthâ yes, Cale supposes he shouldn't be so surprised people assumed he despised them.
However, as much as people gossiped about it, there was an unspoken rule amongst the Northeastern Nobles.
Never mention the Henituse Family to Cale Henituse.
No one wanted to face Cale Henituse when pushed that far. No one had.
Yet here was the brave or foolish Neo Tolz. Breaking that very rule. Picking at that very rumor. To Cale Henituse who had become far worse now that he had begun to drink.
They all watched the red-haired male who had not moved. His expression had become completely apathetic as he stared at the grinning Neo Tolz.
That's why, when Cale's eyes seemed to widen and a large grin pulled up on his lips, the surrounding area was burdened by a heavy presence.
A dark laugh echoed in the corner of the hall.
Everyone nearby froze and the four nobles in front of Cale stiffened, Neo's smile flinching away as he watched the crazy scene in front of him.
Cale slowly leaned off the wall, a grin on his face. Despite being of the same height, Cale looked down at the Viscount's son.
"Young Master Neo," Cale's voice was playful and that made it terrifying for everyone else, "Aren't you quite chatty tonight?"
Neo Tolz swallowed. He had come here ready to face Cale's temper. That meant swearing, throwing, chaos. So what was this cruel and slow anger?
"My, my," Cale covered his mouth with one hand, letting out a soft laugh. His red eyes seemed to glow beneath the shadow his hair casted over the top of his face, "You look as white as a sheet. Young Master Neo, you were just fine a moment to go when you spoke to me,"
Cale suddenly leaned closer and Neo Tolz stumbled back, but froze when Cale grabbed him to halt his backing. Cale's voice was still loud enough for everyone to hear, "Tsk, tsk, you're stumbling like a blind dog. Were you allergic to something in that cookie?"
Neo Tolz was so silent, stiff as a board.
Cale straightens Neo up, a small smile on his face. He reached forward and straightened out Neo's clothes. As he fixed the collar of Neo's vest, small trail of stumbled from the biscuit sticking to the fabric, Cale suddenly complimented, "Young Master Neo, you have quite the sense of style,"
Cale leaned down and whispered darkly, a smile still remaining on his face, "The next time, you speak out of turn to me. I'll pummel this face of yours that even the Viscount won't be able to recognize you as his own flesh and blood,"
Neo Tolz turned whiter as Cale leaned away and finished straightening up the dog's clothes. Then as elegant as any of his status should be, Cale spoke, "It was a lovely chat, Young Master! Since our territories are so close, you should come catch a drink with me,"
He paused, waiting for Neo to speak as per custom. All eyes were on Neo who had received an invitation from a noble of a high status and more influential household. Cale's expression turned odd as there was no answer after a minute and he glanced to Eric, "Hyung-nim, are there different etiquettes in the capital?"
"...No, Cale," Eric gathered himself, voice breathless from the display in front of him.
Neo seemed to get some of his voice back when Cale turned back to him, his red eyes obviously laughing and mocking him, "Ho? Then I guess it really was the cookie? He was so chatty before it..."
Gilbert and Amiru couldn't help but giggle at the snide shaking off the shock from before, along with a few other noble children, many of which were from other factions. They had heard rumors, but what they'd seen just now was far more entertaining. Cale Henituse did not throw a tantrum or punch, he hadn't done anything. He had merely spoke and his mere presence had scared Neo Tolz to nothing.
Yes, there was fear of what Cale was like at meetings to cause such a reaction, but Neo Tolz was not that special nor talented in the noble court, thus it was amusing to watch the trash mess with him.
The laughter made Neo's ears turn red from shame. He gritted his teeth, "P-perhaps when appropriate, Young Master Cale,"
Cale smiled brightly, but to Neo it looked cruel, "Sounds good!"
He then turned on to his left, giving a casual wave and walked through the crowd, Eric following after him with Amiru and Gilbert.
"Cale, hold on," Eric grabbed Cale's arm, the younger pausing and glancing back. It was then the older three could see the completely blank expression Cale wore. A contrast of the earlier display.
Eric's grip tightened. He lowered his voice, "Are you alright?"
Cale stared at Eric before raising an eyebrow, "Obviously. Why should I acknowledge a dog's yapping?"
"Young Master Cale," Gilbert looked at the redhead with a smile of respect, "You looked very cool,"
'I wanted to make him choke on those cookies' Cale thought. 'He's lucky we're in the palace and there was an audience. I'd have finally committed murder'
"Naturally,"
"Oh, look!"
The boys glanced to where Amiru had pointed, the sound of trumpets greeting them. At once, the chatter of the hall silenced and the large white doors opened for the final time that evening. The announcer gave the largest shout as a group of individuals with blond hair and blue eyes walked by.
"The Suns of the Roan Kingdom have arrived!!"
Cale watched the scene with curiosity while bowing like the rest of the room.
In the front was King Zed and his wife, the Queen. Following behind them was the eldest of the King's children, Crown Prince Alberu Crossman.
'This was the prince with a glib tongue,' Cale recalled Rok Soo's words.
The Crown Prince had a polite smile on his face as he walked with grace and confidence. Cale was surprised knowing the Crown Prince had virtually no support.
'Hm, then again. His Majesty the King has not removed the Crown Prince from the title of first heir yet. Should anything happen to the King and Queen, no matter what support, Crown Prince Alberu would ascend to the throne as per ancient law and tradition,'
Following behind Alberu was the second prince and third prince, with the second prince being just slightly ahead. Behind those three were the extended family and children of the concubines. Cale didn't give them too much attention as none of them were expected to take the throne. It was truly only a fight between the eldest three sons.
King Zed stood in front of his seat, eyes scanning the room of guests as the other royals found their places. Once the doors shut, the nobles returned to standing, all eyes fixed on the King.
King Zed smiled, opening his arms in a welcoming gesture, "I am pleased to see that the nobles of our Roan Kingdom have honored me with presence at our annual end of year celebration,"
King Zed then adds with a small laugh, "I am also spotting many of our future leaders. How odd, I recall when some of you were just born,"
Kind laughter rippled through the crowd. Cale grimaced. He knew that one of those 'some' was him. He had heard stories of how his parents were of the same school year as the current King, all three of them attending the academy. Vaguely, he can remember his Mother telling him of their school years; recalling such memories Cale stare at the king with an odd expression.
Another thought soon came to his mind.
'...huh, thinking of it...I suppose I'm a bit similar to the Crown Prince,'
Cale watched blankly as Zed finished his speech and clapped aimlessly like the other nobles. He was then greeted with the sight of the Queen stepping forward. She was the one who planned many of the royally thrown events, thus it was her word that began the celebration.
Cale immediately tuned her long speech out.
"......may you enjoy the night!"
Cale released a sigh when the music began again. He glanced over towards the royal children, noticing that many of the children had already risen. With bows to the king and queen, the royals began to intermingle with the crowd.
"Cale, who are you looking at?"
"Nobody," Cale turned his head, "Just observing the suns,"
"I did the same when I first saw them," Amiru admitted bashfully, "They're all beautiful and handsome,"
Cale nodded, looking at all the royals, "Mhm, they are,"
"The Henituse County is neutral, right?" Gilbert clarified.
Cale looked at him. Seeing as Cale didn't correct him, Gilbert continued, "Then you're probably going to get some attention,"
Cale frowned immediately, "What are you on about..."
The three of them simply smiled. Cale didn't understand, motioning to them, "You all are neutral too,"
"Yes, but we're not the wealthiest county of the Northeastern territory," Eric pointed out.
"Father and M-ahem it's not like the Henituse Household hasn't attended before," Cale cleared his throat, the four of them beginning to walk towards the snacks table and the outdoor courtyard, 'Hah. I'm so used to talking freely with Rok Soo hyung. Good I caught myself'
Eric had definitely heard it. He had heard it but pretended not to hear it for Cale's sake. He saw the shocked expressions on his two friends. Quickly, Eric gave a look to Amiru and Gilbert to not comment on it. The three of them would chat about their companion later.
"Yeah, but, oh..." Eric glanced to the right. He then quickly whispered, "You'll see, also, good luck,"
"What?"
"Pardon me, Young Master Cale Henituse?"
Cale turned to see a female of his age standing in front of him. The moment he saw the blonde hair and blue eyes,Cale felt his neck go chilly. He swallowed and bowed, "Princess,"
The Crossman Royal family. Blonde hair as bright as the sun and eyes as blue as the sky. That was their defining feature, an attribute the house received from being blessed by the Sun God. They had ruled the Roan Kingdom since its beginning.
The young woman in front of Cale was one of the King's children with the concubines. Her dress was one with an off-shoulder design, frilly white sleeves covered the portion of her arm above her elbow. The dress itself was an ombre from white to a deep purple around her waist and top of the skirt, before fading back to white. There was a light floral pattern stitched into the shimmering fabric along with a plethora of white beaded-strings. A few had flower shaped pieces attached to fit the theme. Her neck was dazzled by a thick set of diamond jewelry, a large purple stone settling in between her collar bones. A similar jewel but in a paler shade and smaller size sat atop her hair.
She was indeed a Princess.
The girl laughed softly, gently reaching forward, "Please don't bow so deep, Young Master Cale,"
He straightened up and Cale suddenly noticed the gap between him and the other three. They were conversing between themselves, but Eric's small playful smile was a dead-giveaway. Cale would've glared had the princess not spoken again.
"I'm Second Princess Jaylee," Jaylee curtsied, "I noticed your red hair when I sat down earlier,"
Cale bowed his head, "I'm honored to have your attention, Second Princess,"
She smiled sweetly at him. Her eyes shifted to the side for a moment and Cale glanced to see a few other nobles and royals taking glances towards them. Both of them ignored it.
Jaylee smiled, "Honor is of no part!"
She leaned slightly closer, her voice lowering only slightly, but anyone close by or with good enough hearing would be able to catch her words.
"Actually, I heard the Young Master Cale was quite handsome so I was always intrigued to meet you,"
'....what the? What is going on right now?'
Cale blinked a few times, "...Thank you, Princess,"
Jaylee giggled at the small confusion she found in his tone, "I've shocked you a little, haven't I?"
"Ah, I'm usually not this obvious,"
'Fuck it' Cale thought, 'Let's just talk like normal people,'
Jaylee released another laugh. Cale spoke before she could, "I knew I was good looking, but to hear it from Second Princess is a bit of a boost of ego,"
He then can't help but feel a bit petty at her surprising him, so he finishes, making a polite smile tug at his lips, "However, I am afraid I'm still quite lacking in terms of good looks when standing next to Second Princess. You look as bright as a star today, your highness,"
Jaylee felt her eyes widen at the abrupt flattery, a soft heat crawling up her face. Due to her pale complexion, the blush becomes noticeable soon. Cale clearly sees it, and his eyes look slightly amused, "Oh my, I was unaware Second Princess was shy. You approached with such a presence I have assumed otherwise,"
Eric has his mouth open slightly. No, it's not just him, actually. Many who witness the interaction are stupified by the conversation between the Henituse and Crossman. Furthermore, it was Cale Henituse, who had been unseen outside of the Northeast since he was nine years of age.
Jaylee had gasped softly, touching her face, which grew pinker. She quickly opened her fan, looking away, "I am not, truly. Young Master Cale seems to have a charm to him,"
Cale wondered what this situation was now. He really had no idea.
Cale simply smiled at her, not quite sure what to say to that without repeating flattery. Thankfully, Jaylee moved on and the two began to converse casually. Of course, Cale was more respectful than ever and hated every second of it. He made sure to purposefully slip up here and there, almost using coarse language and his tone shifting. It was perfect control from him, but it looked the opposite for others.
"...Young Master Cale, you're really fun to talk with,"
Cale chuckled softly at her words, "Second Princess, my Father told me not to indulge myself today,"
"Hm, but one cannot be indulging all the time,"
Cale's smile told her that's exactly what he did. Cale shrugged, "Henituse Wine is delicious,"
Jaylee gave a patient smile, "I have heard as such,"
Cale grinned, nodding proudly, "I personally think it's the best wine in the kingdom. Second Princess should try some,"
There's a pause.
He adds after a moment, recalling manners, "...if she is keen to do so,"
Jaylee smirked, "Young Master, is this your way of asking me for a drink?"
'What is she talking about? I'm simply recommending her wine,' Cale blinks a few times. He speaks carefully, "If Second Princess ever does wish for a bottle, the Henituse County would be honored to send her one of the finest quality,"
"Well, then," Jaylee smiles kindly, her fan closing shut again, "Do send me one, Young Master,"
Cale thinks that there's been a misunderstanding.
Regardless, he puts it aside and returns her bow, "If you wish it,"
He watches her leave, turning around to find Eric suddenly next to him with an expression of disbelief and shock. Cale cursed, almost punching his friend in the face. Amiru looked at Cale with wide eyes, "...Young Master Cale,"
"Huh? Yes? Why are you all staring at me weird?"
"Young Master Cale, no offense at all but, I think you should stop drinking completely," Amiru said.
"What?"
"Young Master Cale, you and Second Princess Jaylee were speaking for a while! So long that people watching got bored," Gilbert said.
'Was it that long?'
"Cale, dongsaeng,"
Cale turned to Eric at the seriousness.
Cale grimaced when Eric suddenly gripped his shoulders, a very stern look appearing, "Cale, I know you're young and your body is growing. However, please be careful when you're beginning relationships,"
"What the fuck?" Cale released, his curses he couldn't say finally flowing out, "What sort of bullshit are you saying?"
"Cale," Eric smiled patiently as if scolding a child, "Your first time to the palace and you caught the attention of the second princess,"
Cale frowned, "Apparently? I'm not exactly thrilled about it?"
"You seem to be enjoying her company..." Gilbert hummed.
"She was at least interesting to talk with," Cale rolled his eyes.
"Oh my god!" Eric looked near tears, "My dongsaeng is growing up! Amiru, where's my little Cale gone?"
Cale stared at the sight in front of him with a confused and disturbed face.
He looked towards the courtyard before mumbling, "What is this nonsense happening to me today?"
Cale whined abruptly, "Hyung-nim, I want wine,"
"You're not allowed today," Amiru placated as she calmed Eric.
"Fucking hell," Cale looked truly troubled right now, "Okay, fine,"
He sighed, "I'll find you later. I want to go to the courtyard,"
"Ah, we'll come with youâ"
"I'm not a kid that needs babysitting," Cale waved them off, "It's annoying in here. Let me be so I don't punch the next person to talk to me,"
He pauses, "Unless I can,"
"Don't even think about it," Eric shook his head, "Go on, I'll find you in 20 minutes,"
With another tired sigh, Cale walked out of the event hall. Thankfully, it seemed that the cold air was keeping people away so there were not many people here. The only people he could see were the younger noble children, all of whom had attendants to watch over them.
Cale walked to the fountain, moving around to sit on the edge farthest away from the doors. When he did, Cale sighed, closing his eyes and listening to the wind, the sounds from the hall, the children not too far away. Cale softly opened his eyes, gazing up at the night sky.
'It's really beautiful,' Cale thought, smiling slightly at the sky of their Roan Kingdom. It fell as he began thinking how this peacefulness would be destroyed in three years.
Cale wondered if it could be prevented. That attack.
He wanted to prevent it. He didn't want his visions to become a reality. He didn't want to see- hear any of that again.
Cale's eyes glossed over.
"Mother!!"
Violan freezes for a moment.
Cale yells at her, begs her, "Mother!! Mother please!!"
Violan suddenly moves. She pulls all three of her children into a hug, kissing their heads. Basen and Lily sob louder as Cale just stares at her, silent tears falling down his face. She cups his face, smiling, "I'm sorry. I'm sorry I was such a terrible Mother. My good son,"
Cale's eyes shake and he screams for her as she runs out the large door, slamming it shut and locking them inside the dark room. Cale inhales as he hears Lily banging on the wall trying to open it. Another explosion shakes the manor and Cale runs forward, catching Lily from falling. He pulls her close, keeping a secure grip on her. He reaches for Basen, pulling both of them as they sobbed.
"I heard there was a free-spirited Young Master from the Henituse Territory that protects us from the Forest of Darkness," a voice spoke from the side, breaking Cale out of his daze, "Bright red hair and eyes, good looks. Indeed, you must be Young Master Cale Henituse I have the honor of meeting,"
Crown Prince Alberu Crossman extended a hand with a small bow.
Cale Henituse regretted attending this party.
"He's got a glib tongue,"
"What if I do interact with him?"
"...don't,"
"I'm just asking,"
"Tch, the Crown Prince tends to avoid people like him,"
Standing up, Cale forced a smile onto his face brightly. He'd heard this Crown Prince talk for ten seconds and the only words in Cale's mind was 'This bastard!'.
This sugary-sweet-flattery was complete and utter bullshit!
Keeping up a facade of his own, Cale took the hand and mimicked the bow. The two rose and Cale happily spoke teeth-rotting words, "It's an honor for me, your highness. Truly, when I arrived in the carriage, I had no idea I would be graced by the presence of the sun this close to me, even more so to be blessed by the great fortune of such a complement of an even more handsome being!"
Cale internally puked.
Alberu's expression turned odd as he looked down at the younger kid. It hid away soon and they both released their hands smiling at one another bright enough that the stars were jealous, "Is that so? Well, I'm afraid your presence and looks are eye catching. Truly, our Young Master Cale has been blessed by the divine,"
'Bullshit!!'
Cale bowed to him again, raising quickly, "That's the biggest praise I've ever received in my life! Furthermore, to be gifted such a honor by our Crown Prince, who could be the body of a god, is a feat that suppresses one a low noble such as myself should ever receive,"
'Huuu....'
Alberu stares at him, before asking politely, "May I inquire why Young Master Cale is out here?"
"Oh, I felt like it,"
"I see! I've heard this your first time in the Capital and at a royal event," Alberu understands. He gives a sympathetic smile, "It can be rather suffocating!"
"Oh!" Cale looks amused, "Does His Highness also find it troublesome,"
Alberu let out a good-natured laugh, "At first, of course, it was overwhelming. However, I take a good pleasure in these get-to-gethers now,"
Cale let out a small laugh of understanding.
'Oh my god. This Prince is a whole facade!!'
He let the smile fade and looked up at the sky, "...You are right, your highness,"
"Excuse me?"
"It's suffocating in there," Cale reminded him, "It's better out here,"
The wind whistled past them and Cale let the chilliness bring his body to an altered state. He turned fully, looking at Alberu, whose eyes had followed him to the sky earlier. Sensing his gaze, Alberu looked down at Cale again.
There was a bit of a height difference between them as Alberu was already an adult, 20 years old, while Cale was still growing and five years younger.
Alberu smiled, "Young Master Cale, you're the heir to the Henituse County, correct?"
"Unfortunately,"
Alberu's smile turned into a confused frown, "Unfortunately?"
"Yes, your highness," Cale spoke with utmost seriousness, "That was Father's justification for bringing me here, tonight,"
Seeing Alberu's expression Cale explains further, "It's a lovely party and I was honored to be granted the vision of the Suns of Roan, but I was very close to punching Neo Tolz in the face,"
Alberu let out a small laugh, 'What a crazy punk? What's he saying in front of a prince?'
"Furthermore," Cale seemed to be truly disturbed and Alberu felt that this situation had gone a bit out of loop, "Eric hyung-nim thinks I've started a relationship with someone? I don't remember doing that at all!"
Alberu stared blankly before carefully speaking, a gentle smile curling on his lips again, "Young Master Cale, did you not compliment Jaylee about her looks and invite her to drink?"
Cale stared at Alberu, not at all surprised he knew this, before saying, "I guess I did, why?"
Alberu resists a sigh. He smiles patiently, a little amused by the carefree noble. From what he had heard of Cale Henituse, he was expecting something else. This was not what he expected. That made Alberu curious.
"Young Master Cale, when complimenting a lady's looks and inviting her for a drink, is that not the same as expressing interest in her?"
"..."
Cale suddenly remembered his Father's words before they left the Estate. At once, Cale looked a cross between horrified and embarrassed. Frankly, Alberu didn't even know a face could pale and blush at the same time, "Hah...I thought he was just being paranoid about suitors..."
Alberu couldn't help but release a genuine chuckle. Cale actually had the audacity to glare at him, "Your highness, please refrain your laughter,"
"My deepest apologies," Alberu schools his expression, but his eyes are amused.
Cale decides to ignore the fiasco until someone else brings it up. He'll deal with it then. Shaking his head, he asks Alberu, "Your highness, Crown Prince, may I ask what you wanted to discuss about?"
Alberu remembered his goal. However, before he could speak, Cale added one more thing, "Your highness, if this is about our neutrality, however. I'm afraid I have no influence in that,"
Alberu smiled, a bit surprised at being seen through, "Is that so?"
"Mhm," Cale nods, "Father is a better candidate to discuss with,"
"Ah, I see. Then, young master cale, may I have your graciousness of being introduced to the Count?"
'Oh. This Crown Prince is actually kind of sly?'
Cale blinked before refraining a sigh, smiling with a another bow, "Of course, your highness,"
Indeed, Cale brings Alberu to his Father, excusing himself as quickly as possibly. For the rest of the event, Cale spent avoiding people or sticking closely and silently to Eric. There were multiple people who wished to talk to him and Cale had to indulge them. The problem was, Cale hadn't had to be this polite in years.
Cale decided that the moment he went back, he's going to practice more on his acting and manipulative speaking. He needed to be polite but not too polite that people felt they could step on Basen or Mother. No, he was going to be a noble other's would rather not cross.
When it was finally time to leave, Cale was so mentally exhausted. To make it worse, his throat and jaw hurt from talking and smiling so much. That's why, the second the King and Queen were done talking, Cale made a beeline for his Father. Letting go of etiquette just for a bit, Cale whispered softly, "Father,"
It was a tone of impatience and exhaustion. Deruth, turned to his son, his son who had behaved the entire night, with pride. He chuckled softly, turning to the nobleman he was speaking to. Thankfully, the man seemed to find the scene endearing as he bowed and motioned he would send a letter of what he wished to discuss. Deruth nodded, wishing a goodnight, before walking with Cale outside.
When their carriage came around, Deruth let Cale go in first and followed after. Deruth could only smile as Cale threw himself across the seats, groaning loudly. Deruth spoke, "Good job, Cale,"
Cale grumbled, "Good Job? Good job for what? I was ready to beat that fucking Tolz black and blue,"
"Tolz?"
"Father," Cale looked at Deruth, "Viscount Tolz. Don't help him with anything unless it directly benefits our territory,"
Deruth looked surprised, "May I ask why?"
"A lot of people talked to me today," Cale looked truly angry, "But that Tolz. He was the only one that actively provoked me for a fight. I almost gave it to him too,"
Deruth nodded, "Of course, I will do as you want, son,"
Cale turns away, too tired to control the bitter expression from blooming.
'I know'