Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

A crashed of the wine bottle could be heard inside the tavern, causing everyone to stay quiet. It also caused the gangsters that cause the uproar inside the tavern to runout. Afraid of angering a certain red-head, and also the beloved son of the lord of the territory.

Cale Henituse, also known as the trashy young master of the Henituse Family.

Well, but the people inside the territory don’t really considered their young master as trash, as what the title suggest. Even though he breaks stuffs (like table, chairs, wine bottles, etc. wow that’s a lot), he doesn’t forget to pay them back. And mind you, he payed them twice the amount of what he destroyed.

He also doesn’t hurt people intentionally, only those who caused trouble inside their territory. Especially the gangster and thugs. Because of that the people and even the guards, prepared a bottle of wine for him to throw at them. Due to his interference, the territory became the number one safest places to live in the kingdom.

(Gangster and Thugs suddenly fights.

Guard that sees Cale coming to that direction: Everyone the Young Master is here!

The citizens started to take out the empty wine bottles that they collected and put it in the place where Cale usually throws them at.

Cale, nonchalantly and also elegantly throwing wine bottles at the gangsters: You f*ckers.  

Citizens & Guard: turns a blind eye.

Visitor 1: What the f*ck is that?!? Is that the reason why this territory is safe? Isn’t that an abused of power?

Visitor 2: Dude, they caused trouble in the first place. They deserved it.

Visitor 1: Oh, you have a point.

Visitor 2: But you got to admit that was one sexy throw.

Visitor 1: Dude seriously? What is wrong with you? You don’t - (sees Cale smirked) shit you are right dude.

The next day, the two visitors decided to file an official citizenship in the Henituse Territory and helped collect some wine bottles for the young master to throw). 

The young master is also known inside the territory to be quite respectful and polite (if you get to observed him better, also if you ignore his scowling face and alcoholic nature). But why is he still known to be trash? It’s because the young master himself, was the one who keeps on spreading those lies.

Yes. Cale Henituse was the one who spread those dreadful lies of himself. Why spread those lies if he could just act like trash, like one of his other selves in different worlds? Answer is: he gave up. Because no matter, how he tried to ruin himself. The people inside their territory would not believe him. Maybe except for those that lives outside the territory but the people that reside their territory would not believe a single rumor that the young master is trash.

He started to act like a spoiled brat in front of the servants. But…

“Aw, the young master is suddenly acting like a child should be”, the servant 1 said.

“You are right; it has been a while since he started to act like a kid”, noticed by servant 2.

Cale immediately stop his acting and face the wall due to grief.

He also tried to pay the servants to create some rumors about him but failed. Because they can’t spread awful lies about their precious young master. Because of it, Cale turned to the citizens of the territory. But he also failed.

Cale throwing bottles of wine, destroying the tables and chair, etc.

“You are not concerned about that?”, a foreign visitor asked the owner of the tavern.

“Why should I?” the owner replied calmly, wiping some empty glasses and not looking at the chaos.

“He is destroying your property?!?."

“And so? The young master helped me get those thugs out of my tavern. And also he’s going to replace it anyway. So, why bother stopping him? Plus, he looks like he is having fun."

The foreign visitor just stared at the owner and back at Cale who is elegantly throwing a bottle of wine at the thugs. What the? How can someone throw that wine in an elegant manner? How is that possible? In the end, the foreigner just ignored everything and drink his wine quietly. Now, he knows why ignorance is a bliss.

Cale’s trashy act doesn’t even work on his family. His father just viewed this as a cute action, what can you expect from a doting father? Even his step family doesn’t believe his act.

Cale TRYING to act trash in front of his family.

Deruth: Look at him, trying to act tough. So cute. 

Violan: Cale, do you want me to hire you an instructor for acting lessons?

Basen: Hyung-nim, the cousins and other bad relatives already stop going here. You can now drop the act.

Lily trying to copy Cale’s expression: Orabouni! Look! I look like you now. Grrrrr. 

His act doesn’t even affect the Molan duo.

Cale trying to shout some profanities.

“How cute, the puppy is yapping early in the morning. Must be thirsty”, Ron commented while preparing some lemon tea for his cute puppy young master.

Cale shouting that the food is not good, while still continue eating it.

Beacrox, just took those insults as constructive criticism and makes the food for tomorrow better than today. Which caused Cale to just shut up and just enjoyed the food.

In short, Cale Henituse in this dimension failed at acting trash.

(If Kim!Cale failed at getting his slacker life at lcf, then og!Cale of this story failed to get his trash reputation. I’m sorry for ruining both of your dreams – author).

Let’s get back to the story now.

A certain red-head is walking back home, after his daily trash act (let him dream). When he suddenly heard a whimper in the corner. He remembered the conversations of the servants, when he was passing by the corridor after he successfully stole some cookies in the kitchen last month ago. They were talking about ghost stories about their town, and he felt his goosebumps rising.

He erased those thoughts from his head and proceed on going to that direction. When he was getting closer, he saw something black and a white blanket that looks like it was covering it. When he was already closer to it, he uncovered the blanket and saw a body of a small boy. Which look like at the age of 4 or 5 years old.

‘What an unusual hair color’, Cale thought to himself.

Since black hair is quite uncommon to be seen in this kingdom. When he proceeds on observing the boy, he suddenly felt anger. He saw a lot of scars on the body of the boy.

‘Who dares hurt this little boy?!? I might be trash but I won’t go this lowly on hurting a young child! He doesn’t even look like a child of the slums here, since the children that live in the slums looks healthier than this child. Did his parents abandon him? Or worse, are they the one that caused this?!?’. Cale’s head are filled with thoughts, that he failed to noticed that the child is slowly opening his eyes.

Chapter Text

Kim Roksoo, was enjoying his slacker week (yes, I gave him a week to slack off). During this week, all he did was sleep, rest, eat, and the cycle repeats. And he also read a fantasy story that was once recommended by his late hyung.

He was looking at the wall in his apartment when he suddenly felt sleepy.

‘Weird, I just woke up and I also want to eat some ramen. But why am I about to fall asleep again?’, that was his last thought when everything around him turned black.

Too bad, he can’t eat ramen again.

Roksoo felt that his whole body was aching. Like he was hit by a truck. Aside from his aching body, he was famished. It felt like he didn’t eat for a week, considering all he did during those week was eating and resting.

‘I should have eaten some ramen before falling asleep again’. He suddenly felt that his head was about to split. ‘I hate pain, dammit.'

He tried to open his eyes, but his vision was a bit blurry. But he felt strange. His bed is no longer fluffy and there is no pillow below his head. He tried to reach his phone by his bedside table, when he was about to reach it. He felt nothing.

He fully opened his eyes. Then realization hit him. He is no longer in his apartment.

‘Where am I?’. He looks at his surrounding and everything seems so big. He suddenly felt like tearing up, forget it there is already tears falling from his eyes.

‘When did I become a crybaby?’. He wiped the tears that falls from his eyes, and he saw his hands. Specifically, the size of his hand. When did my hand become this small? He then looks at his body, and was shock.

‘F*ck, f*ck, f*ck. What f*cking happened?!? Why am I suddenly a child? Is this a f*cking joke? Did I suddenly have an ability that turned myself into a toddler?!? No, no, no. This place doesn’t even look like it’s in South Korea. Did I go to the North? Nope, let’s just stay calm for a bit.'

It doesn’t even look like he is in Korea anymore; this place reminds him of the olden times. Even if the place looks dark, he could tell that the place looks like those places in movies where the setting was in the past. It looks kind of classy or vintage. Is that the right term?

He felt his head is aching and the starvation he is experiencing at the moment doesn’t help, and he doesn’t have anything with him right now.

‘I should have eaten some ramen.'

He just decided to just closed his eyes, and sleep.

Kim Roksoo, suddenly felt a presence beside him. But he didn’t feel any danger from it, instead he felt safe from that presence. That’s why he took extra time to open his eyes. When he opened his eyes, he was immediately greeted by something red. It was akin to blood, but different. This type of red looks beautiful. He tried to reach it, and the red giggled softly. And gently touch his head in a comforting manner.

‘Oh, so it was a person. How embarrassing. But what an unusual hair color.'

He suddenly looks at the person’s face, even though his vision is bit blurry since he just woke up from his sleep. He could still see the features of the person. And oh. ‘I’m not dead, right?’, he questioned himself. Because the person’s face looks angelic. The person has pale faced, red brows, long natural lashes, and a heart-shaped lips. In short, this person looks beautiful. No, gorgeous should be the exact words. But the person looks kind of familiar, but he couldn’t remember where he saw them?

"Little kid, what is your name?", the red-haired person suddenly asked him in a gentle tone.

‘Wow, even the voice sounds pretty’, Kim Roksoo thought. Forgetting to answer the person.

The red-haired stared at the black-haired kid, that is slowly gaining consciousness. And just waited patiently for the kid to answer.

But instead of answering, Kim Roksoo was really distracted with the individual. The person looks gorgeous and at the same time looks familiar. But he couldn’t pinpoint where did he saw it. All he could tell right now, is that the person has a very comforting presence. He is not sure what is the gender of the person in front of him but he could point out that the red-haired really exclude a motherly aura.

Kim Roksoo, was too preoccupied by his thoughts that he suddenly blurted out.

“Mommy?"

The red-haired froze from his position and stopped caressing his head.

‘Shit’. Kim Roksoo, now finally remember where he saw the red-haired. Cale Henituse. The eldest son of the Henituse family. And he was also the trashy young master of the fantasy novel that he had read during his slacker week.

Great, just great. He finally remembered him, after he blurted out that word. ‘F*ck, I’m really f*ck’. He then remembered that Cale never hurts an innocent person, only gangsters and thugs. But we can never tell. Since Cale, right now reeks of alcohol.

Kim Roksoo, closed his eyes. And prepared to be shouted out or be smashed by a bottle of wine. However instead of what he imagined, all he heard was a sweet laughter that could rival a siren and a gentle look by the red-haired. Which he reminded him of a mother looking at his newborn child.

“Can I carry you, my dear child?”, Cale gently asked Roksoo. He just nodded as a response, since he couldn’t move and has nowhere to go. And he is also afraid that he might say something unnecessary if he used actual words as a response.

Cale gently carried him, and they walked back to their home.

Chapter Text

Kim Roksoo already knows that the Henituse family is wealthy. That their wealth could rival, even the Royal family. But he wasn’t expecting this much gold. And it is only the gates, they haven’t step inside the mansion yet.

‘Should I steal some things inside? It doesn’t look like that they would care if one vase was missing’. He thinks. While being carried by his mom- I mean Cale. He was busy admiring the gold, not knowing the fond look that the red head had.

‘Hmm, he must like shiny things huh? I should put a lot of gold in his room then’, Cale nodded at his idea.

When they were finally inside the mansion, the servants greeted them.

“Good Evening, young master Cale. We are glad you have returned safely”, the servants bowed down to their young master.

“Good evening too. Can you all please call a priest, prepare a high quality healing potion and prepare a warm bath."

When the servants heard the word priest, they instantly panic thinking that their young master was hurt. Cale saw their reaction and immediately clarify the misunderstanding.

“Oh, it isn’t for me by the way. It’s for my child”, Cale said while looking at the boy he was carrying. The servants look at the direction of the boy and was stunned at the little boy’s appearance. And they immediately carried on the request of their young master, when they realized something.

“Young Master Cale, please forgive my rudeness but what do you mean by ‘my child’?”, Hans who was also there, questioned their young master. Since they know that young master Cale doesn’t have a lover. They haven’t seen him step out of the territory and also doesn’t associate himself from others.

Plus, he is quite innocent and oblivious about romantic topics. He just discovered that babies weren’t delivered by storks, by the aged of 17. Just this year. So they were curious, how or why did young master Cale put the word ‘my’ in his sentence.

Cale just look at them with a frown in his face and uttered.

“I have been granted by the gods to be this child’s mommy”. Cale dramatically said, and walked to the direction of his room. While still carrying Roksoo, who has shining eyes that is still admiring the gold surrounding him.

The servants were all shocked and were just looking at Cale’s retreating figure. It took them quite a while to digest the bomb that was given to them. And finally, when they have finally recovered from the shock. All hell breaks loose.

A rumor about the eldest young master, became a hit inside their territory. And no, it is not about him acting trashy (sorry to disappoint you, Cale). But the rumor is about the young master, adopting a child. And what’s more, the child is calling the young master ‘mommy’.

“Did you heard, the young master has adopted a child”, marites 1 said (to those who doesn’t get the name, in the Philippines we call gossipers the name Marites. In short for ‘MARE, ano ang laTESt?’ and changed the ‘e’ at the end to ‘i’, means ‘Girl, what is the latest news’ or something like that).

“Oh, how kind of the young master to do that”, marites 2 said.

“Young master Cale is really kind, I wonder why he is so obsessed about calling himself trash? But forget about it, did you know that child is calling him ‘mommy’? How shocking right” – marites 1.

“What? The young master is the mommy?”, a sudden marites 3 entered the conversation.

“Who’s the daddy then?”, a wild marites 4 also entered the turf.

“There is no daddy yet, since the young master has been single for the rest of his life” – marites 1.

“That’s kind of sad”, marites 2. All the marites agreed. “But I have to admit, the young master sure exhibit a feminine aura”, marites 2 added.

“Come to think of it, you are right about that”, marites 5 who was quiet the whole time, finally said something. “Like, look at his face. The count sure is a good looking man, but the young master surely takes his look from the late countess. Who is quite a beauty. Despite being a guy, the young master is gorgeous to the point he might be mistaken as a dragon."

“Aside from his pretty face, his body is a bit thin. Look at his waist, they are so small. Why do he need that for?”, marites 3.

“For others to hold it?”, marites 4 answered.

“Justifiable”, marites 3 replied.

“And aside from his small waist. Do you guys noticed that his hips are a bit wide? He has quite a curvy figure, that women wanted and men desires”, marites 1 shared their opinion.

“I heard that having wide hips is good for childbearing”, marites 4 said.

“Wait… I think I know where you are going with that. But it looks impossible. You know for men to be pregnant?”, marites 3.

“We are living in a magical world. Anything can be possible as long as you have faith, determination and the money to do it”, marites 5.

All the marites, think about the statement of marites 5. And they nodded their heads. Well it can be possible since there are some talented mages across the continents, and if someone is lucky they can also ask a dragon for helped. But the latter, sure looks impossible since dragons are known to isolate their selves from the world and are arrogant in nature.

“But do you guys think; the young master will get married. We all saw how oblivious he is to the people that visited the territory just to see his face. Like that one young master from a different territory, who shouted ‘I like you’ to the young master in which the young master just replied ‘thank you’ in a polite manner and proceed going back home”, marites 2.

“Oh, there was also a time where the young master was given flowers by a wealthy merchant. And he looks quite confused, while looking at the flowers. And he settled giving the flowers to the grannies down town, since he doesn’t know what to do with them”, marites 4.

“Oh, and don’t forget how his family is too protective of him”, marites 1 added.

“Plus that scary butler”, marites 5 said.

“I guess, I will commend the bravery of the person that wants to take the young master’s heart then”, marites 3.

They all prayed whoever that person is, and the marites convention continued on their job as marites.

Kim Roksoo who was eating happily, suddenly dropped his apple pie.

‘I don’t know what am I feeling like this but why do I feel feeling that someone is talking about something that I owned and wants to steal it from me’. He ponders on that thought, not knowing a certain red-head is looking at him in concern.

“Does the food not suit to your liking?”, Cale asked gently.

Kim Roksoo looks at Cale and shakes his head and softly replied, “I like it."

“That’s good to hear then. Here, eat some more”, Cale said while smiling beautifully.

Kim Roksoo, who’s stomach feels empty accepted the food and just happily eat it. Forgetting his previous thoughts.

Chapter Text

“Hmm, what is going on that cute little head of yours, my little rocky?"

The staring contest between him and the wall stopped when someone poke at his cheeks. He looks at the perpetrator and saw the fond look of his mother. Yes, ladies and gents. He already accepted, the Cale Henituse who is purely a man; as his mommy.

It took a while for him to adjust calling him ‘mommy’, since he has the mind of a full grown adult while having a body of a little kid. He tried calling the red-haired a different title, but the red-haired would look like kicked puppy and would sulk at the corner of the room. And Roksoo, can’t resists the sulking look that the red-haired gave him, so he accepts defeat.

And Cale, really was nice to him. He remembered when he first came in the mansion, the red-haired prepared everything for him. From healing his injuries, to feeding him and to dressing him in expensive garments. He even asked the servants to prepare a room for him with gold decorations in it, in which he nearly cried.

The day after he was found, the red-head immediately handled the adoption paper to be legalized. And he was now, Roksoo Henituse. Nickname ‘little rocky’, for Cale only.

(Let’s pretend that you could adopt kids here at the aged of 17)

He has been living with the red-head for a year now, and all he could tell is that the book was all a lie. A big fat lie.

Cale Henituse was not trash. Sure, he may see him wearing a frown in his face but he never disrespects or hurt anyone intentionally. He saw the way how he treated the people around him with respect, except those who cause troubles in their territory. Well, those people deserve a beating from his mommy anyway. And the people in their territory adored their young master and never quick to judge his actions.

Despite the red-head being an alcoholic, he never sees him drunk. Aside from his red faced when he drinks alcohol, those reddish brown eyes are very clear. Looks like the red-head has a high tolerance when it comes to alcohol. Because of it, no one took advantage of him. Which he is thankful for. He doesn’t want his mommy to be infested with rats.

He also found out that the red-haired man has a good relationship with his family. In fact, he could tell that the whole family doted on the red-head despite him being the eldest. When Cale, announced that he would adopt Roksoo, they happily accepted Roksoo in their life and was quite eager to legalized the adoption papers. Adoption papers took 5-8 months to be legalized in this kingdom, but the Henituse did it in just 2 days.

After carefully observing Cale Henituse for a week. Roksoo could tell that he was a trying hard trash. He couldn’t understand why he was acting like that; he was afraid to asked the red-head the question. So, he just theorizes that the red-head might be experiencing a phase or something. Plus, the people that surrounds him, doesn’t look offended by his actions. Instead they just look at the red-head with an affectionate look.

It’s kind of a good thing that they didn’t misunderstand his mother-figure’s actions, and instead understands him. Which is different from the book that he read. The author of that sure is an ass, for painting his mommy for a bad guy.

He also discovered that he feels being protective of the red-head. Why? Because Cale Henituse, is someone that you could easily love and hard to detest. His mommy is really loveable. He is full of warmth and has a comfortable aura. Has a gentle voice, that you could listen to all day (expect if he keeps on teasing him, but he always let it slide because he is his mommy). And he also gives really good hugs.

Plus, the fact that he discovered that most of the tourist that comes to their territory just wants to see his mommy’s face. He saw how those people look at his mommy with want. Which he despises so much. It’s a good thing that the territory’s citizens are also protective of his mommy or else he will take action (I wonder how he will take action with that?).

So, you couldn’t blame him for being protective of his mommy. If anyone hurts his mommy, they will have to see his fist or he could ask the Molan Duo to do the job for him.

(Go baby KRS, fight for those who want to hurt your mommy! Anyway, let’s get back to the present again).

He just looks at his mother and shakes his head and said, “Nothing”.

“Are you sure, there is nothing bothering you?”, Cale asked in a concerned voice.

“Nope”, he replied to reassure his mother that he is really okay.

“Hmm”, Cale just hummed to his reply.

It’s a good thing his mother, is used to his short replies and doesn’t force him to say things if he didn’t feel like saying anything.

“You know it’s been a week since we went out, do you want to go out with me down town?”, Cale asked him.

He contemplated what he is going to say but still answered, “Sure."

“Good! I heard that there are some merchants that is going to visit the territory today. Let’s find out if they have new books for you to read”, Cale happily said.

‘Oh, new books would be nice. Since I already finished the books that was given to me by grandpa and uncle Basen. And it’s not like anything special would happen today’, he thoughts.

Oh boy. If he only knew he would regret those thoughts, he would have just asked his mother to stay inside the mansion the whole day.

Chapter Text

The trip down town wasn’t that long, as they were riding the carriage. Roksoo, saw that there were a lot of people than before. The street was buzzing with excitement; merchants putting on their tents to put their merchandises for show, street vendors shouting about their products on sale, people observing what things to buy, children playing merrily on the street while waiting for their parents and many more.

There were indeed a lot of people. It makes Roksoo, want to go back home again and sleep above his fluffy bed. But he is already here, and returning back will be quite a waste of energy. And he also doesn’t want to see the smile that his mother has right now, to fade.

He looks at his mother, who is carrying him. And asked, “Mommy, where do we go first?"

“Hmm, lets hunt for your books first. How about it, my little rocky?”, Cale replied immediately.

“Okay but how about you, mommy? Do you have anything you want to buy for yourself?”

“I have nothing in my mind right now. Unless if I saw something that will caught my eye. But let’s look for some books or things that you want first. Come on, let’s go."

They looked around first, then he noticed that when they got off the carriage a lot of people were looking at them. Since the carriage has the golden turtle of the Henituse Family, they would really have caught the eye of the people. But they were looking more on his mother.

He is proud to say that his mother is gorgeous. But he doesn’t like how some people look at his mother, like he was some object that they could stare at. So, as his mother’s protector. He looked at Hilsman, who is with them and the rest of the knights that were guarding them. And Hilsman, like always get what their tiny young master wants. Prepare the wall.

Hilsman and the rest of the knights, formed a wall to hide them away from the people’s gaze. Cale who was already used to it, didn’t pay any thought. Ever since, him and Roksoo would go to the market, the guards that were assigned to them by his father, would immediately surround them. At first he was angry but his child explained to him that he was the one who told them to do that, since he was shy to the gaze of the people (which was a lie).

Cale, in the end just lets them be. His child has this refreshing smile (it was a smirk, though?) that he displays everytime they do that.

‘My little rocky, sure is a shy and delicate child. I wonder where he gets that from’. Cale, thought. He is such a doting parent, everything that Roksoo would do will look adorable in the eyes of Cale.

On the other hand, his so called shy and delicate child was smirking like a villain. He saw the disappointment of some people, when the knights hide them away from their view.

‘As if, I will let you stare at my mommy that long.'

Then they continued on their exploration. They went from shop to shop to buy things. They didn’t forget to buy things for their family; like herbal tea for Grandma Violan, a fountain pen for Uncle Basen, a practice sword for Aunt Lily, a handkerchief for Ron, new gloves for Beacrox (yes, Roksoo is quite close to the Molan Duo, since they helped him exterminate rats), and a razor for his Grandpa Deruth’s goatee. And also some sweets for the servants.

After they have bought all the things that they needed. They went to a nearby café, to rest for a while and also eat. Even though, his mother carried him the whole shopping spree, he felt really tired. Mind you, for a 5 year’s old kid that likes to sleep, exposing yourself from the outside world can be tiring too.

As they were waiting for their order to arrive. Him and his mom, enjoyed the tranquility with one another until they heard a slap next to their table.

“How could you forget about this date?”

Oh, looks like a lover’s quarrel. Roksoo, needs popcorn for this.

“Dear, I didn’t forget about it."

“Are you sure about that? Then, what day is today?”

“Its – its the uhm the 28th day and the 3rd month of the year, and it’s our 1st anniversary?”

“You jerk! Today is the 29th day and the 3rd month of the year. And it’s our f*cking 3rd year anniversary."

“Look, Stella. I’m just a bit confused, since I was a bit busy this days."

“That’s it! I’m finally done with you!” the girl rapidly packs her things and was about to go out when she slowly raised her middle finger and shouted at the man, “And its Mara, by the way not Stella!”

“Shiena, wait!”, the man chased after the woman, who was named Mara.

Wow, he should have bought some popcorn for this. And he is also craving for some ramen.

“What a guy, I can’t believe he failed to say the name twice”, Cale amusedly said. Then he added “Don’t be like that guy, okay? You should respect all beings, except scumbags. You got it?”

“Yes, mommy!”, Roksoo replied to Cale.

“But, wow I didn’t know that today is already the 29th of march. And also the year 781. Time sure flies fast”, Cale said.

So, today is March 29, 781.

Huh?

Wait March 29, 781.

March 29, 781.

March.

29.

781.

.

.

.

Shit. He is screwed.

He is definitely screwed.

How could he forget what day is today. This dreadful day.

They shouldn’t have gone out from their house.

He should have fake being sick.

Roksoo, finally remembers what today is. Today is the arrival of that f*cking protoganist.

Choi Han

The guy that shared the same country as he is. The same last name as his hyung. That OP protagonist. That mighty brute. That punk.

And also the guy that would beat his beloved mother to pulp.

Chapter Text

The 'Existential Crisis of a Hero'. Is a fantasy novel about an orphaned teenage boy who was sent to a different world. Because he was contemplating about his life's existence, some unknown god decided to throw him to a world full of magic. To help him with the conflict of estrangement against life and himself.

(Sorry, if this title and plot sounds lousy)

The said god thrown him in the Forest of Darkness, and there he stayed for about more than decade before he found his way to Harris Village. Where he meets a lot of people, that he considered his family. It was all fun and all, but he still feels a bit empty. That's why he went on a journey, to discover more about himself and life.

He's destination was 'Rain City', also known as the Henituse Territory. He wasn't granted permission at first, since he didn't have an identification form with him. And it would take him a week to finalized all of that. Since he was patient, he decided to climb the wall when night time came. He wants to tour the city, because the villagers in Harris Village told him that this is one of the safest territory in the kingdom.

While he was touring around the city. He bumps into a beautiful red-head guy, who was holding a half-filled bottle of wine. The guy looks at him and showed him an unhappy expression.

“What are you looking at, you punk! Did you know, I'm the territory's lord eldest son here?”. The guy said while looking at him.

Despite the guys’ harsh tone, Choi Han was filled with delight. Since he was face to face with the lord's son, it means he could ask him a favor about his documents. After he told him his story, the red-head laughed at him sarcastically.

“Hahaha. You still haven't found yourself? What are you? A blank slate? How stupid must you be? You should try to kill yourself, then you might find yourself in the afterlife.”

Choi Han, was fuming with anger. He tried every means just to survive in the forest of darkness, just to discover what is the meaning of life and his existence. And this guy, just told him to kill himself?

‘I should teach this lout a lesson’, that was his last thought before he punches the noble in the face.

After he, was satisfied he left the noble in the dark alley and continued on his journey of life.

And that was the first and last appearance of Cale Henituse.

‘Why the f*ck did I read that f*cking story? A god helping a mere human in searching for the existence of life? What kind of god is he, is he that carefree or just plain stupid? Wait, I thought the genre was just pure fantasy, why did it became philosophical? Why did finding the existence of life, became full political shit and be a hero? The story and the plot is confusing as hell! Jung Soo, wherever you are, you have shit taste for stories. And oh, I also read the story, until volume 5. It means I also have shitty taste.’

That were the thoughts of the 5 year’s old, Roksoo Henituse, while being fed by his mommy, Cale Henituse some strawberry cake. He might look like a child calmly enjoying his time with his guardian but deep inside his mind is slightly disorganized with different thoughts.

‘I just wanted to be a rich slacker and live peacefully with my family. Why must I experience this? I already have enough angst in my life as Kim Rok Soo. Give me a break.’

Cale, felt something wrong with his child. In their one year of being together, his child who everyone says has a calm demeanor, is actually expressive if you observe and study his expression carefully. Or it’s just a ‘parent thing’, since he’s the only one who could tell about that. He could tell; when his child is happy, annoyed or bored. And the expression, he is seeing right now. Is agitation.

‘He is a bit agitated and the same time troubled. And oh, he looks like he is planning something now. I want to ask him but he will only answer me, that he is fine. He really doesn’t want others to worry about him. What a sweet and selfless child he is.’

Cale’s doting switch is on, again. Like always. He was busy admiring his son, when Roksoo broke the silence.

“Mommy, can we please leave. The food doesn’t taste delicious anymore. I want Beacrox cookies.”

‘Oh, so that’s why he was agitated. He doesn’t like the food’, Cale, assumed.

Cale, who is proud that he knows his son very well. Has misunderstood what is the intention of the said son.

“You miss Beacrox’s cooking already?”

“Yes”, Roksoo said with full determination.

‘He really wants to go home. Look at that face. So, cute.’

“Sure, let’s call Hilsman and the rest of the knights to ready the carriage. And then let’s wait outside,"

Roksoo just nodded and his eyes are full of willpower.

‘He must be really hungry right now.’

Cale and Roksoo, are currently outside right now and waiting for their carriage to arrive. While they were waiting, Roksoo, is carefully brainstorming his plans.

‘So, according to the novel. Choi Han came here during midday, but since he doesn’t have an identification form with him. He wasn’t granted permission to enter. Thus, he came again at night. Right now’, he looks at his pocket watch to confirm the time, ‘its 3:39 pm. It means he already went here and is currently waiting outside the gates, and will return during the night. Even if we leave at 5 pm, we will still not meet him. Even though we still have time, we have to leave. The early it is, the better’. Roksoo, who added with a nod at the ending of his plan.

Although, its already afternoon. The street is still jam-packed, since the closing of the market is still 6 pm. Roksoo, who was patiently (and eagerly) waiting with his mother, for their carriage heard something from the distance. Especially in that dark alley.

‘It sounds like a cat. No, it sounds more like a kitten. And it sounded like its hurt’.

He looks up at his, mother. And it looks like he is still busy reading a pamphlet.

‘It won’t take that long. I will be right back, immediately’, he thoughts. And he silently left.

If only he knew. What’s going to happen.

Chapter Text

Choi Han, is a type of person that ponders over life’s existence, and likes to discover more about himself and life. That’s why, when he was transported into this world he doesn’t have much of a problem. Except from the fact, he was transported into the Forest of Darkness and doesn’t have a choice but to survive there.

Which was pretty hard for a teenager like him. If he didn’t have any knowledge about sword arts and martial arts, who knows what might happen to him. When he found out a way to get out of the forest, he finally meets people whom he can call a family. But despite the joy that he is experiencing, he still feels empty. Like there is a missing space that needs to be filled.

That’s the reason why he is on journey, to discover more about life and himself. When he talked about this with his family, they were supportive about his plan and wish him ‘good luck’ for a safer journey. And off, he went.

Now, he is outside Rain City, which his family declared that this city is the most peaceful and safest city in the whole kingdom. Currently, he is outside the gates since he wasn’t granted permission inside, due to not having an identification form. Therefore, he is patiently waiting for the night to come.

He doesn’t really plan to stay that much inside the city, he just wants to sightsee. But, there is something urging him to go inside now. He already arrived here during the morning and its now afternoon, he doesn’t have anything to do now besides waiting. He ponders about the thought and went to what his head is saying.

Choi Han, climbed the wall but he made sure that there were no people below it. When he confirmed that there was no one inside, he jumped and landed perfectly. He looks at his surrounding again and covers his head with a robe. Because he might encounter the guards, that saw his face this morning.

When he went to the main city, he was amazed by the sight. He saw how happy and peaceful the people that are living here. He roamed around the area and was enjoying the sight when his attention was caught by something from a far.

A kid, who has the same hair color and a Korean feature like him.

When he meet his family, they complimented his black hair and unusual but handsome face. Since this continent is filled with brown hair, black hair is quite a unique trait for a person to have. And, most features that you can see in this world are similar to Europeans. And seeing someone who has a Korean feature as him, bought delight to his face.

‘There might be others like me in this world’, Choi Han thought happily.

He was busy looking at the kid, that he didn’t noticed that the kid was being carried by someone. When he looks at that person. Choi Han, feels that he was holding his breath.

‘Wow”. The only words that Choi Han can utter.

He saw a lot of pretty face, in his former world and from this world. But the face that he is seeing right now. Their beauty is incomparable. The way, that person smiles to whatever the child has said, was really something. It’s too breathtaking, to the point he could stare at their face for a whole decade and would not get tired at looking at them.

And looks like they are a man. Which doesn’t lessen the way how he feels right now. He stares for another minute, and decided to proceed on sightseeing the city, before looking at them again. Then proceed in making his way.

‘How can I be so careless?!?’

Cale Henituse, looks like a mess right now. He was too busy reading a pamphlet about vacations spots, that he didn’t notice that his child was gone. There are a lot of scenarios that is currently playing in his head right now, while rapidly looking at place to place.

‘What if he is kidnapped? Or being taken as hostage? What if he will get abused again? What if, his former parents are taking him back? No, no, please no. Please make my child safe. I’m an atheist but god, please protect my child from danger. I don’t know what I do, if something happens to him.’

Cale, felt the happiest person in the world, when Roksoo called him ‘mommy’. He doesn’t even mind being called ‘mommy’ despite being a man, he found it quite endearing. Even it was their first meeting at that time, he feels there was a connection between them that couldn’t be explain into words. But all he could say was, he felt complete and experience pure happiness again. After his mom died, he felt like everything in his life went into pandemonium.

Don’t get him wrong he loves his current family, very much. But he felt like his life was a blank canvas, until Roksoo came to paint his world filled with different colors.

But he feels like he went back from being a black canvas again. Now that Roksoo, went missing.

He doesn’t know, what else to do. Some of the knights, are already searching for his son. They even told Cale, to rest while they are searching for him. But Cale, disapproved and joined them. And he is currently running and bumping other people, without a care. He can save the apologies later, right now his son is his top priority.

He was busy looking around, that he didn’t notice there was someone in front of him. Since Cale, is someone who considers breathing a workout, courtesy to the influence of his son and also throwing bottles at gangster as an exercise. It doesn’t change the fact; the he still weights like a feather.

Because of that fact, he collided at that person and was about to fall. He closes his eyes and was ready to face the ground. When he was caught by strong arms.

‘Man, I wish I have this kind of arm muscles’, Cale thought to himself.

He finally opens his eyes, and the first thing that he saw are a pair of onyx eyes staring back at him. He recovers from his shock and opened his mouth to say something.

“Uhm, thank you for catching me”. Cale said to the person. But the person didn’t reply but just stared at him. He felt a bit uncomfortable being stared at.

“You can finally let go of me now, though”. When Cale said that, it looks like the person finally gained awareness and lets him go.

“Thank you, again and sorry for bumping into you”. The person just nodded as a response.

Cale then looks at the person face, he noticed the person shared a similar feature like his son but different. The person also has the same unusual hair color as his son.

‘His son. Shit, I have to look for my son.’

The person noticed the panic in Cale’s face.

“Are you alright?”, the person asked worriedly at Cale.

Cale then looks at the person and answered.

“I’m looking for my son. He has black hair, reddish brown eyes and a small stature of a five-year-old. Have you by any chance seen him?”

“No. I have not”, the person said but he looks a bit unsure and the person added “But I can help you look for him.”

“Oh, that would be nice. But are you okay with it? I don’t want to impose on your time.”

“It’s alright. I don’t have anything to do.” The person casually replied.

“Thank you”, Cale said and added with a bow. “If you don’t mind, let’s starts with this path. I haven’t gone here yet.”

The person just nodded and proceed on quietly following Cale from behind.

Roksoo, was too busy treating the kittens injuries. He was being meticulous, to prevent from touching their injuries accidentally. He was too busy that he forget to notice the time and what kind of chaos he made.

He feels lucky that he has a first aid kit in his spatial bag. Courtesy by his mommy, who made sure that he has everything in his bag. And since he’s an accident prone kid.

After he made sure that the kittens injury are fully bandage, he decided to carry them and put them in a safe place. When he found a spot, he was about to put them down. When the red kitten, suddenly tighten his paw to his shoulder. That it feels like, he doesn’t want to leave Roksoo’s embrace.

“Meow, meow, meow”. The silver kitten, who was now at the ground. Circled around him and then looks at him in the eyes like its pleading to take them with him.

Roksoo, just lets an exasperated sign.

“Fine, I’ll let you guys come with me. I’m rich, I could provide the right necessities for you two. And everyone there are kind, especially my mommy”. He sounded annoyed but there is warm in his words. Then he proceeds on carrying the both of them. It’s a good thing they are light or else Roksoo, would have a bit of trouble carrying them.

When he went back to the place where he left his mother, his mother was no longer there. But instead, he saw one of their knights, frantically rushing over him.

“Young Master Roksoo, we finally found you!”, the knight shouted.

‘Huh?’

“We have been looking for you, for about 2 hours now. Young Master Cale, is also searching for you.”

‘2 hours?!? I was gone for 2 hours?!? Shit, my mother must have been running around the city now in panic. I am such a bad son.’

“Where is mommy?” Roksoo, just said trying to calm himself.

“I’m not sure, where is the young master’s current location right now. But last time we saw him, he was near the fountain talking to someone”. The knight said.

Roksoo, thanked the knight at the information he was given. “Let’s go there, mommy must still be there.”

The knight nodded and noticed that their young master is holding two kitten in his arms.

“Young master, I can hold the kittens for you”, the knight volunteered.

But Roksoo, just shakes his head with disapproval and said, “Thank you, but they don’t like to be touch by others, except for me”.

‘Aw, the young master sure is mature for his age’, the knight then looks at Roksoo with admiration.

Roksoo felt a chill from his spine, ‘Who’s cursing me, now?’

Then Roksoo and the knight proceed on walking to the location of his parent.

When they reach the location, he saw a familiar red-head from a far.

‘Oh, mommy is still there’. He thought happily. He was about to call for his mother, when he noticed someone is next to him.

“Who is that, next to mommy?”, Roksoo said in a whisper but the knight next to him, heard him.

“That is the one that helped the young master in looking for you, Young Master Roksoo”, the knight answered.

‘Oh, I should thank him then since he accompanied my mother while I was gone.’

When they were getting close, the man next to his mother, touch his mother’s face. He immediately panics and was half running right now, not minding the weight of the kittens. When he was a bit close to them, he was about to shout some profanities, when he realizes who is that man.

Even though he has the soul of a man. He is still a child. And as a child, he did one thing what other children always do, when someone is invading their territory.

Commit Violence.

He sees something lying in the ground. And picked that up, before gently lying the kittens in the ground.

And he throws a pebble at the man.

Not just any other man though.

And it hit perfectly, in his face.

‘I’m a sharpshooter’, he thought proudly about himself. Then he remembered his predicament.

“LET GO OF MY MOMMY, YOU F*CKING PERVERT!!!”

He shouted at the man...

At the man, named Choi Han.

Chapter Text

Cale and Choi Han, was looking at each corner of the city to find a certain black-haired kid. While there were walking side by side, Cale had a sudden realization and stopped, he then face Choi Han.

“Uhm, sorry if I ask this quite late. But, what is your name? It was quite rude of me, to ask you a favor without knowing what’s your name.”

“Oh, I’m Choi Han.”

“Choi Han. Choi Han”, Cale said the name repeatedly like he’s testing how the name sound in his mouth. “What a unique name. I’m Cale Henituse, by the way. Sorry for the late introductions”, Cale said with a bow and put on his polite smile.

The black-haired man just looks at Cale, before giving him a nod then he immediately turned his back.

‘Hmm, not much of a talker huh? Or he might be shy’, Cale thought while looking at Choi Han’s back, not noticing the other’s red ears. Cale, then turned back to his frantic phase in looking for his son.

Choi Han on the other hand, who is hiding his blush face.

‘Wtf, why does it felt he is singing my name? Why does it sound so good? Geez, I’m going crazy. I’m just here to help look for his son, okay?’

Choi Han, went back to Cale to help look for his son. While convincing himself, that he is only here to help find the red-haired son and after that he will go on his way. And no, he is not here because he just wants to spend his time with a red-head beauty. Nope. Nope.

Who is joking, though?

After two hours of searching, Choi Han and Cale, end up in front of the fountain. They decided to rest for a bit, since Cale's feet are bit aching due to all the running and walking around the city. Cale, then went to his inner monologue.

‘Rokso, is quite a smart boy but he is still a kid. What if he found something interesting and then followed it? Right? Since, kids are easily distracted with stuffs? But what if he is indeed kidnap? But if he was kidnap, should the guards and knights find out about it? But what if father’s former vassals and our evil relatives, conspired on the kidnapping? What if-’

“Ouch!”

Cale suddenly stopped his monologue.

“What, happened?”, Choi Han ask in panic. He thought something happened to the red head, when he was looking away for like 7 seconds.

“I think some dust just went into my eye”. Cale answered while rubbing his eyes, hoping it would get out. Instead tears fell from his eyes. ‘The heck, why am I getting teary?’

Before he could wipe the tears, someone was fast enough to do it.

“Let me.”

When Choi Han, saw the tears from Cale’s eyes. He hands started to move on his own, and wipe the tears running down his face. Then Choi Han looks at Cale’s face, now that he is close to see it. He was in awe; like the first time he saw the red-head.

‘He looks more beautiful up close. And his cheeks are kinda soft’. Choi Han was busy admiring the red-haired face, when he suddenly felt like someone poke his head. And then, he heard.

"DON'T TOUCH MY MOMMY! YOU F*CKING PERVERT!"

The busy street of Rain City became quiet all of the sudden. The once festive vibe can now be compare to that of an abandoned theme park that was once filled with joy.

Everyone was shocked. That their tiny young master, who everyone considers a calm kid and an appearance who everyone considers that of a living doll. Utter something, that shouldn't be appropriate for his age.

(By the way, no one saw him thrown a pebble at Choi, since he's too tiny to be seen, they only heard him curse)

Then, they look at their tiny young master. When they saw his face, they suddenly forgot that he uttered a curse word. Why? Because he looks so cute, right now. If he was an adult, he might look frightening but since he was a kid. Well, the expression is a bit endearing in the eyes of everyone.

Because Young Master Roksoo, a 5 years’ old kid who is only 2 feet tall; is currently on a fighting stance position, with red cheeks that could be compare to a tomato, his now pouty lips and eyes full of ferociousness. Add the kittens that is by his side, who is baring their teeth and looks like they are prepared to help the young master with the fight.

Added the effect of cuteness in the scene they are seeing right now.

'Oh, look the Young Master looks so cute'

'I can't take this scene anymore, it’s too adorable'

'Look at his fist, they look so tiny'

'I'm allergic to cats but it made me want to have one right now'

And just like that, they already forgot the cursing situation. Well, Roksoo is the type who will commit treason yet everyone will still fight for his innocence and they will have deemed that he did nothing wrong.

Even though, everyone already forgot that Roksoo curse. There were two people who didn't forgot about it. The subjects of his outburst.

Choi Han, who was only trying to wipe the tears (you sure, buddy?) from Cale's face was a bit surprise. He didn't feel any dangerous aura, so he was a bit carefree. Until he felt like someone poke him in the head.

He heard a young voice, then saw the kid that they were looking for. He could swear that he was a bit hurt to be called a pervert by this child. But he could forgive him about that, since he looks like he really cherishes and is quite protective of his guardian. Plus, Choi Han reminds him of a feral Pomeranian that he saw in youtube.

While Choi Han was a bit chill. Cale on the other hand.

If there is one thing that Cale is proud of being a parent, is that he never ever cursed in front of Roksoo. He may act like trash but he never once in his life, curse in front of his son. He only cursed on his mind. But still, he never cursed in front of Roksoo. That it became a habit over the months that they spent with one another.

He doesn’t want Roksoo to follow on his footsteps. He wants his son to stay innocent and enjoy living his life as a kid should be. Even though he spoiled him to death, Roksoo never acts like a brat. Even without the etiquette lessons from his mother and Ron. Roksoo, will always be a polite and kind kid.

But he right now, he was a bit shock. His sweet and adorable little rocky, just uttered a malicious word. It only means one thing. But before that.

“Roksoo Henituse.”

Roksoo who was still in his fighting stance, while looking aggressively at Choi Han. He suddenly felt chills, when.

“Roksoo Henituse.”

He doesn’t want to look at his mother’s face, because he was a bit embarrassed on what he did. But he can’t resist, his mother. And when he was about to look at his mother’s face.

He was crush into a tight hug. Then his mother looks at him, expression filled with worry and relief.

“You are not hurt, are you?”, his mother asked gently.

“I’m fine. Mommy… I’m sorry for making you worry. I heard a kittens’ voice and I tried to follow it. I should have ask for your permission in the first place. I’m really sorry.” He explained while looking down in shame.

His mother, just patted his head and looks him in the eye.

“No matter what you do, I will always forgive you. Since you are my precious son”. He then hugs his son, tightly.

The scene was so lovely. That people around them nearly cried of how endearing it looks. But nothing last forever.

“By the way, you are grounded young man.”

Chapter Text

‘I should have thrown a bigger rock than that pebble. So that, what I am experiencing right now is worth it.’

Kim Roksoo or Roksoo Henituse, has been mopping around his room all day. Ever since the ‘missing and cursing accident’ happened last week, his guardian have grounded him for a week. Aside from not allowing him to go out, in which he doesn’t mind. But the knights around him increased, while his cookie consumption have been decreased (from 30 cookies in one day to 20 cookies.)

And it felt like the lemon tea that has been given to him, became more sour than before.

‘You can endure this, Roksoo. At least you can still eat the cookies, but it isn’t like this before. Have I been spoiled by this house, that 20 cookies are not enough for me?’, Roksoo, thought while having a staring contest at a wall. ‘But, besides that. I have bigger problem right now.’

And the bigger problem he is experiencing right now.

Is a man, by the name Choi Han.

‘Should he be having a journey right now? Like finding the unknown and stuffs? Why the hell did he became a guard?!? My personal guard?!? If he is my personal guard it means, he will meet my mother every single day since I'm with mommy everyday! Why can’t he just be Grandpa Deruth or Uncle Basen’s guard?’

“Noona, do you think he is okay nya?”

“I don’t know, Hong.”

The kittens just look curiously at the young master, who is still busy looking at the wall like it has offended him in many ways. He has been like that for 4 days now. But they heard from an orange-haired butler that, that is one of the young master’s talent. Staring at a wall for hours, not doing anything just staring.

Both of them, just look away from the young master and stared at the room. They still can’t believe they were allowed to stay in a luxurious mansion. When they first came, they were shock that the gates were made of gold. And they were even more shock, when they were inside. The mansion speaks wealth and money.

It’s already obvious that the young master came from a noble household when they first meet. The elegant posture, simple but expensive clothes and a cute yet handsome face, are an obvious clue.

Even though if they are still children, they don’t want to beg for help. After they were abandoned by their tribe, they learned to be independent in this world. But Ohn, as the eldest between the twins lowered her pride because she can’t see her brother in pain. After the young master treated their injuries, they immediately grab the opportunity. It’s a good thing the young master took both of them.

They even have the chance to meet the young master’s mother. They didn’t have a chance to see his mother’s face clearly because of the cursing pebble event. When they got on the carriage the black-haired young master put them on his lap and seated next to his mother, the kittens were a bit nervous even though the young master told them that his mother is kind.

They were afraid that they might get kick out because they were dirty. Since the nobles that they saw, while they were in a journey cared about their looks and cleanliness. Both of them glance next to the person and they were both mesmerized with the mother’s face.

They look ethereally beautiful. Their beauty is the type were you can stare at it, for a whole day and can’t get tired of it, and will still stare at it for the next days or even a year. Even a century or more.

Both of them were busy staring at the red-haired face, when the red-haired look at their direction they immediately look away, earning them soft chuckles.

“Hello. I am Cale Henituse. Roksoo’s mother. Nice to meet you”. Cale softly said and gave them a gentle smile.

The kittens again, were mesmerize. But both of them, were shock that the mother is a man. Even if he has a soft voice, you could really tell that he is a man. Nonetheless, they just see it that maybe humans have different ways of calling their parents.

“Meow, meow”. Both the kittens replied.

Cale, look at the kittens with fond look. Then he notices their injuries, Roksoo already explained to him what happened. But he still felt anger, whoever did that to them should be put into a lifetime prison. 

“Can I pat you?”

Both the kittens look at one another, they simply nodded their head as a reply.

‘They seem to be intelligent kittens.’

Cale, gently pat their heads. Roksoo, also patted the kittens head. And the kittens, purred in delight. They felt that they were surrounded with warmth and love, all of a sudden.

In just 2 days after they met, both the kittens decided to tell them the truth. After they told their origin, they were both hug in a warm embrace by the red-haired and a gently pat by the black-haired child.

‘This feels nice’, both the kittens think.

It feels like home.

They now found their home.

Roksoo, is currently in his personal library holding a fairytale book with a serious expression. If others will see him right now, they will think he looks like a cute kid who is really focus on the story and full of curiosity.

If only they knew, he is reading those books to gain references.

He wants to know how villains plan or how they make the protagonist suffer in life.

‘If Choi Han will stick here, then I have no choice but to make him suffer’, he thought with matching grim expression.

“Noona, are you really sure he is fine nya?”, Hong asked and looks at his sister.

“I… don’t know brother. I don’t know”, Ohn replied, while giving the young master a concern look.

Chapter Text

‘Damn, those protagonist buff. Why won’t everything work on him?!?’

Roksoo Henituse, is currently lying on his bed while staring at the ceiling for 5 hours now. 

He is running out of ideas. He did everything on what the villains/antagonist did. He even tried to remember the fairytales of his former world, kudos to Jung Soo. But it won’t work on Choi Han.

He has been free from his punishment, but his misery has just begun.

1^st Attempt

Roksoo, took a deep breath and look at his now accomplice.

“I can’t believe this is happening but you and I are going to have a truce”, while looking seriously at the stack of lemonades.

‘This is for my slacker life and mommy’s life.’

He looks around before hiding the lemonade that he took, under his clothes. And immediately run out of the kitchen. Not knowing a certain chef is looking at him.

‘Did Young Master Roksoo, just talk to lemons? I thought he hates them? Must be father’s fault. Poor child’. Beacrox, just look at the child’s back and just continued his duties, like he didn’t see something strange.

Roksoo, looks at the teacup and squeeze the lemonade in his hand.

‘This is for a peaceful life’, he thought while squeezing the fifth lemonade into the teacup. After he has finish, he could smell the damnation of sourness in the air, ‘I think this is perfect. You have done a great job, lemons.’

He then proceeds according to plan. He looks for the suspect and found him, near the doorway.

‘Time for action.’

“Ehem. Hello, Sir Choi Han”, he showed him, his most innocent smile. Choi Han, looks at the boy and smiled at him in return.

“What is it, Young Master Roksoo?”

“Uhm, you have been standing all day and that must be too tiring. So, I decided to give you a lemon tea that I made.”

Choi Han felt like he is about to shed some tears. ‘Young Master Roksoo, is really a caring kid.’

“You really don’t have to do that, young master. It is part of my duty, but thank you for taking the time to make this tea for me. I’m really grateful.”

Choi Han, took a sip of the tea. Roksoo, looks it anticipation. Until.

“Wow, this is great young master. This taste refreshing!”

‘What?’

“Hmm, you can’t tell that it is tea. Since it tastes like pure lemonade.”

‘IT IS PURE LEMONADE, THERE IS NO TEA IN IT!’

Later that night, Roksoo broke his alliance with the lemonades.

 2^nd Attempt

Roksoo, was walking quietly in the training ground when he spotted Choi Han’s water bottle. How did he know, that was Choi Han’s? Good guess, because the water bottle was a gift by his mother. He then quietly put something inside Choi Han’s water. And run off and hide under a bush, when he felt some presence is coming his way.

“Choi Han, are you sure you don’t have super powers or drink any medicine that could prolong someone’s stamina?”, he heard Hilsman say.

“No, I just exercise and train everyday”. Choi Han, immediately replied.

“Must be good to be you. Handsome and strong. What did you do to be bless like that?”, Hilsman sigh. “Oh, I must have forgotten my water bottle. I’m really thirsty now.”

When Hilsman said that, Roksoo felt a disaster is about to start.

“You can share with mine. I don’t mind.”

“Thanks!”

‘Oh shit.’

After that day, the Vice-Captain of the Henituse Territory Knights Brigade wasn’t seen after that.

Since he, spend that entire day inside the comfort room.

Roksoo, felt bad for what he did and requested a day off for the vice-captain in the next day, and also gave cookies, cupcake and medicine for his recovery. Hilsman, was very delighted by the young master’s generosity, not knowing that he was the cause of his demise.

3^nd Attempt

“Ron, are you sure this thing can work?”

“Yes, young master.”

“I’ll trust you in this.”

“Don’t worry, young master. This Ron, is sure this can make anyone knock out by taking just one sip or one bite.”

“That’s good to hear. Tell Beacrox, to add this powder for the cookies.”

“As you wish, Young Master Roksoo”. Ron, then made his exit.

After, play time with the kittens. He made sure that the kittens were gone, before he let the cookies out. He is afraid that what happen to Hilsman, will happen to the kittens.

When the coast is clear. He went next to Choi Han, and handed him the cookies in a pouch.

“For you, Sir Choi Han.”

“Oh, thank you, Young Master Roksoo. I’m really grateful.”

“No worries”, Roksoo nonchalantly replied.

He then saw, Choi Han took a bite.

.....

And nothing happened. Choi Han, just continued on biting the cookies happily.

Roksoo, looks at Ron in the corner in disbelief.

In the next day, Roksoo had sweet tea in the morning. No lemons, were serve.

"Whoever created this world, I hope you suffer in life."

He made a lot of attempts after that. And all the attempts that he did... they all failed. He did everything in his power, to get Choi Han out of his life. But it feels like luck is always on the protagonist side.

He already gave up with the potions because Choi Han’s stomach feels like it is resistant to anything. And he also gave up on that part because he feels like Beacrox will never let him set foot on the kitchen, because he puts strange things in the foods.

It also feels like Choi Han’s body is made of rock or rubber. One time, he put a rock under his bed, but nothing happened. He also copied a scene from a book and puts a pea under Choi Han’s bed. But the latter still looks refresh while saying, “I had a good sleep, it feels like something was massaging my back last night”.

He also acted like a spoiled brat and thrown a tantrum, but Choi Han just see it as a normal thing for children his age.

‘I hate life.’

“You know it feels like Young Master Roksoo and I are getting close, this past few days”, Choi Han happily said to the Molan Duo. They were in the kitchen 2 of the mansion.

“Are you sure about that?”, Ron answered him amusedly.

“Yes, he has been giving me lots of gifts. It feels like he already forgiven me, after that misunderstanding.”

‘He really is ignorant about it, huh?’

The Molan Duo just blankly stared at Choi Han. And prayed to give strength for their tiny young master.

Chapter Text

Cale, is smiling happily while looking out the window.

‘They must have made up now.’

Cale, saw his adorable son giving Choi Han some cookies. He was a bit worry at first, since their first meeting was a disaster. He was surprised when Deputy Butler Hans, reported to him that Roksoo has been trying to make friends with Choi Han. He was delighted with the news.

“Look Ron, they are now friends. It is really a good idea to make Choi Han, as Roksoo’s guard. Right?”

Cale, said toward his butler whom he considered as his second father.

“It is, young master”. Ron, replied while giving his benign smile. ‘If only you know, your son is trying to find ways to kill his guard.’ But Ron, couldn’t say that. Since his puppy like young master, looks quite happy and oblivious about his son’s doing.

‘It is a good thing, that Choi Han is adjusting now’. Cale, thought. He was worried that Choi Han, might find it difficult adjusting here.

He was surprised, when Choi Han told him that he wants to apply as a guard after he got his citizenship form. He didn’t even know that, his father is looking for new guards. He even asked Choi Han, if he is serious since he found out that he wants to travel. But the reply that he got was.

“I think, I’m about to find it here.”

“Huh? What?”

Choi Han, just gave Cale his cheerful smile and walk away. Like nothing had happened. And Cale, seems to forgot asking him again.

When the assessment day had arrived, Cale already had a guess that Choi Han is strong. By the way he presents himself and his built.

But he didn’t expect him to beat up all their knights and even won against Vice-Captain Hilsman. After Choi Han’s wonderful performance, his father decided to hire Choi Han as Roksoo’s official guard, immediately.

In which Roksoo, lamented for days.

“I accept defeat”.

Roksoo, said to himself. All his attempts to kill kick Choi Han, out of their home all failed. He feels like being a protagonist in a story, will save you from despair.

“Lucky you, Choi Han. Still, I won’t let him get close to mommy”. He said with a face full of determination.

While he was busy doing nothing, someone knock on his door.

“Young master, breakfast is ready. Your family is waiting for you”. He heard Ron, said.

“Okay, I’m coming!”

Once he opened the door, he was greeted by Ron’s signature benign smile. Even though he and Ron are in good terms, he still feels chills. Especially if he was handed some lemonade tea, by the butler.

While he was walking in the hallway of the mansion, he was greeted by their servants and he greeted them back with his adorable smile. The servants feel that their heart were being pierced when they saw their tiny master’s smile.

Just as soon he was near their dining room, he saw the familiar red-haired man who greeted him with his dazzling smile.

“Good morning, my little rocky. How was your sleep?”

“It was good, mommy!”

Cale, then carried him and gave him a peck on the cheek. Roksoo, just giggled softly. Since he already got used to his mother’s actions.

When they entered the dining room they were greeted by the Count, the Countess, Basen, and Lily. They enjoyed their breakfast while having casual conversations. Before they ended their breakfast peacefully, the Count looked at Cale.

“Son, after breakfast can you come to my office? I have something to tell to you.”

Cale, looked at his father curiously. But just replied, “Yes, father.”

Roksoo, who is eating his cookies felt like something is about to happen.

Something that he will not like.

“Father, I beg your pardon but can you repeat what you said?”

“We are invited for this year’s banquet and I would like you and Roksoo to attend.”

“But, what about you and mother? And there’s Lily and Basen, too”. Cale, gave a questionable look to his father.

“As much as I would like to go with you, I’m a bit busy with handling the territory. Your mother, is also busy with the management of the mansion and also the art gallery. While Basen, will be helping me with the paper works. And Lily, has her practical exam with her mentor.”

Cale, was contemplating with the idea. It has been long, since his last appearance in the capital. He was still a child, when he last appeared in the kingdom’s capital. But he was worried on Roksoo’s part, since it will be Roksoo’s first debut in society.

Count Deruth, seems to know the look on his son’s face. So, he added.

“This will also be a great exploration for you and Roksoo. Think of it like the two of you are going on a vacation.”

His father, is right. It will be good for him and Roksoo, especially for Roksoo. He hasn’t had a chance to show his son, what is like outside their territory. Now, this is his chance.

He would also like to show the world, that he has a kind, sweet and adorable son. He smiled with that thought and look at his father.

“I would like to go father. But I also have to check on Roksoo, if he is alright with it.”

“That’s good to hear.”

Before he left, both him and his father had a small talk.

When Cale, went out of his father’s office. Their servants, could see their young master, skipping happily. That made all of them smile. They are just glad, that their Young Master Cale is happy. And wish that, that happiness will last for a lifetime.

“My liege, it appears that the Roan Kingdom has sent an invitation for this year’s banquet. Will you attend, my liege?”

He gave a bored expression but replied back to his subordinate.

“Please make a response that I will attend.”

“If that is your wish, my liege. Then I will write to them a reply, immediately. If you excuse me, I will now take my leave.”

The Crown Prince of the kingdom, just gave a nod to their retreating subordinate. He then looks at the sky and just sigh.

“I guess it would not be bad, going out once. But I should probably take that loudmouth Duke with me, I’ll let him handle the conversations.”

He smirked at that idea.

Chapter Text

“Roksoo, be sure to listen and stick to your mommy. Okay?”

“Even if Ron is there, be sure the two of you will take care of yourself and are eating properly. I already notified the staffs, about your arrival. Both of you, don’t have anything to worry there.”

“Hyung, Roksoo. I hope you will have a safe journey.”

“Orabouni, orabouni! I want a souvenir! Don’t forget it!”

“Young Masters, please enjoy your trip!”

“We will miss you, Young Masters!”

Roksoo, just gave a wave and a smile to everyone. They are only going to be gone for a week or two, but it feels like they are going on a 1 year trip. The Count and the Countess, even held a farewell party for them yesterday. Both Cale and Roksoo, were against it but their family and even the servants insists on having the party. They have no choice, but to agree on it.

‘Why did I even say, yes for this trip anyway?’

No, Roksoo didn’t fell for his mother’s pleading eyes. No, Roksoo wasn’t bribed with cookies. No, Roksoo wasn’t excited about what’s outside their territory.

“Little Rocky, are you excited for this vacation?”

“Yes!”

Fine, he’s excited.

Before they got inside their carriage, they gave everyone their farewells and off they go. They are being accompanied by the Kittens, Molan Duo, Deputy Butler Hans, Vice-Captain Hilsman, chosen Staffs and Knights, and especially Choi Han. Roksoo, just accepted the protagonist presence. Since he doesn’t have a choice anyway.

As they were about to go out the territory, the citizens also bid farewell to them. They even have banners with ‘farewell/goodbye’, written on them. Both Cale and Roksoo, just gave them a wave (celebrity moment, be like).

“This is our first time riding a carriage for a long trip, nya.”

“This is going to be fun, nya!”

‘It’s good that they are enjoying this’, both Cale and Roksoo thought, while looking fondly at the kittens.

They enjoyed the views, play board games, tell stories and other things to relieved their boredom. They had a swift journey on the way, since they didn’t face any ill-fated encounters. Like amateur bandits or gangsters, that force them to pay some toll.

The carriage suddenly stops, and they heard a knock on the door. And Ron’s voice could be heard.

“Young Masters, if the both of you don’t mind, we are going to camp outside. There are no ins nor a village, that could be found around here.”

“Don’t worry Ron, we do need to take a break. The ride was quite long”, Cale, replied.

They got off their carriage, and set the camp.

As Cale, is about to read a book. He glances at the kids averaging 5 years old, and notice their bored expressions.

“You know; you guys could explore the area since it’s safe here. But let Choi Han, accompany you.”

Their expression brightens when Cale, said that. They saw a flower patch, not so far from their camp. And they settle on sitting at the space in the middle, in order not to crush the flowers.

“Look nya, this flowers are pretty! What are they called?”. Hong asked, while pointing at an orange flower.

“Those are Pot Marigold”, Roksoo said.

“Oh, what a pretty name. What about this, nya”, Ohn pointed at the violet ones.

“They are Bellflowers”, Roksoo answered.

The kittens continue on pointing at each flower while Roksoo just answered them, the names of the flowers. And he also added, that there are also some flowers that have medicinal purposes. Like how other flowers, are used for fevers and other illnesses.

“Wow, you really know everything Roksoo-nya”. The kittens said, with amazement in their eyes.

“I just read a lot of books about them”, Roksoo casually said. ‘And also, I have knowledge about them at my former world’, of course he didn’t say that out loud.

The kittens and even Choi Han, was busy listening to Roksoo’s mini lecture that they didn’t notice two pairs of dark blue eyes staring at the group.

“Hyung, what do you think about the humans?”, the little one ask his brother.

“Nothing out of the ordinary”, the brother replied.

The little one, just look at his older brother’s bored expression and just accepted his answer. Well, he will soon find about them anyway.

Today is the first day, where the little one will experience what is like in the human world. Since he was a curious, smart and a mighty 1-year-old, he was now ready to conquer explore the world. Together with his big brother, they explored the human world and the little one thought.

‘Hyung, was right. The humans look ordinary and weak. We are still mighty. Hehe.’

From his observations, most of the humans they encounter have displeasing attitudes. Sure, they also encounter others who are kind but most of them are dislikeable. It's already been a month, that they explored this human world. (By the way, they didn't explored the whole continent. Just some villages and city.)

Some humans will do things to manipulate someone. Some will find ways to hurt someone, to get want they want. Some tend to lie, without any reason at all.

They even encounter a not so pleasant interaction with them, were both him and his brother were in their human forms. Since they don’t want to stand out, the clothes that they were wearing where a bit ragged. They were about to buy some foods, when they were being shoved away by the owner, the reason was because of their shabby clothes. And even accused them, that they were thieves.

Both of them were angered by that and was tempted to destroy everything, but they remembered that they were in incognito. And they promised their mother that they won’t make a mess. They just keep on replaying their mantra in their mind, ‘We are beautiful and mighty beings’, to keep them calm.

He was about to ask his brother if they could go back home. When he heard some voices from below, and even his brother heard that. They both look at one another, and decided to go where the sounds came from.

When they reach the destination, they saw an adult, two kittens and a child, in the middle of a flower patch. The black haired man and two kittens, look like they were listening intensively to what the child is saying.

They keep their distance a little from them. Since they noticed that the black haired man seems to be quite strong than the average human. Sure, they were also strong, but it never hurts to be cautious sometimes.

They even noticed that the kittens with them, are from the Cat Tribe. They were a bit curious, since there are some tribes that tend to stay away from different tribes. Especially, away from the human society. But the kittens seemed to enjoy their company and vice versa.

“Hyung, can you guess how old is the little human?”, the little one asked his brother.

“Hmm, he seems to be the same age as I am.”

“He’s five?! But he’s too small for his age.”

“He is a human, of course they are small. And you’re small too.”

He just ignored his brother’s last comment and just continue on listening what the child is saying. Surprisingly, both of them were also listening to the child’s lecture. They like the child’s voice because its calming to the ears. The child wears a stoic expression to the point if the child didn’t open his mouth nor move, he could be mistaken as a porcelain doll. But despite his stoic face, his eyes shows warmth.

They also perceive that the child is intelligent and is articulate with his words. For quite a young age, they believed that this child is the smartest out of the human species that they have encounter. Of course, their race is still the smartest.

As they were observing the group, someone called out to them.

“Roksoo, Ohn, Hong and Choi Han. Dinner’s ready.”

They glance at the person who called to them and they were a bit shock. Because the person, who called out to them could be on par with their mother’s beauty. They never thought that a human could look ethereally like that.

“Yes, mommy!”. The tiny human, replied.

When the group walked to their camp, the two also followed them. Both of them didn’t even question, why a man was called ‘mommy’ like what others do. They observed the humans there. Especially, they focus more on the black haired child and the red-haired man. Because there is something special about them, that they couldn’t explain.

That’s why they thought on doing something, that both of them agreed on.

Roksoo, suddenly woke up from a nightmare. He dreamed, about a red blob and a black blob that seems to follow him around.

He looks at his surrounding, and noticed that his mother and the kittens are not besides him. ‘I guess, I’m the only one sleeping late.’

Then he noticed that he is being stared at. He looks at his surroundings again and saw nothing. When he look above, he saw something. And he then gently lay down and closed his eyes.

“What a strange human. He went back to sleep, after he just woke up?”

“Agree, Hyung. He is really strange.”

Roksoo, who is closing his eyes couldn’t believe what he just saw. ‘Hehe, there is no way that this is happening. This is just an effect of jetlag, right? There is no way, two dragons are here inside the tent. No way.'

The two dragons just stared at one another, and decided to wait for the human to woke up again. So that, they could ask him to be their playmate.

Roksoo, who is still closing his eyes, continued being in denial, that he fell asleep again.

I wanna say. Thank you for Khimea for this wonderful art! It is so cute! Roksoo's flushed cheeks and the kittens look adorably feral!

Everything looks cute!!! I love it!

I don't know how to insert a picture here, though. But here is the link of their art, please check it everyone! And give them, a ❤

https://twitter.com/khimeaarts/status/1557422643078635520?t=2M-RbJ1i06KZn7kgYDSBRA&s=19

So cuteeeee!!! 
Thank you again, Khimea ^_^

Chapter Text

‘This is just a dream, right?’

Roksoo, tried to feign ignorance and sleep back again. But he couldn’t ignore the blobs. One is circling and flying above his head, and the other one keeps on staring at him. Even if his eyes are close, he could feel the stare.

He just gave up pretending to be asleep and got up from the bed. The dragons immediately notice it and excitedly looks at him.

“Good morning!!!”

“Hi! Hi! Hi, Human!”

‘They sure have a lot of energy. But aren’t dragons supposed to be unfriendly?’, Roksoo thought. He read books about dragons, and most of them said that dragons are arrogant and prideful in nature. They mostly lived in seclusion and doesn’t care about human society, but these dragons sure doesn’t look like that. ‘I guess not all dragons are like that.’

“Hey, Human! What are your staring at?”

“He is probably amaze by seeing a mighty being!”

‘Arrogant, indeed.’ He shakes that thought off and looks at the dragons.

He felt intimidated because there are two pairs of reptilian eyes that are staring at him. It doesn’t look dangerous, but by looking at those eager eyes feels like his energy is about to go down. Even though he just woke up.

“Good morning”, Roksoo said with a stoic voice and a blank face.

Instead of replying the two dragons just stared at him, and then stared at one another.

“Interesting”, both of them said.

‘What is so interesting about the morning?’

(As someone who isn't a morning person. I could relate to this.)

In contrast to what Roksoo is thinking. They dragons think differently.

‘He isn’t even amazed at us! What a strange human’, the young one said to his brother using telepathy.

‘The human even looks bored while greeting us. Strange indeed!’

‘We should really be friends with him!’, they both said in conclusion and nodded at that idea.

Roksoo, felt shivers in his spine when he saw the two dragons nodded at one another. ‘Why do I felt like the plan about living a peaceful life with my mother is starting to go away?’

He let out a sigh and looks at the two young dragons. Who are still looking at him with pure amazement.

“Uhm, what are you guys doing here?”, he started asking them.

“Oh, we want to be your friend!”, replied by the black dragon.

“Huh? My friend?”

“Yeps! We would like to ask you to be our friend!”, the red dragon answered.

“But why?” Roksoo, then gave them flabbergasted look.

“Because, why not?” They both answered back and tilted their heads with a ‘isn’t it obvious’ look.

‘Are they crazy?’ Roksoo wants to say that out loud but he is aware of a dragon’s strength, and he doesn’t want to be thrown away. He hates pain after all.

He looks at them with a stoic expression, compare to his inner thoughts that are quite chaotic. He lets out a big sigh and look at the dragons. ‘Well, it doesn’t hurt having dragons as friends.’

“Okay, I will be your friend. My name is Roksoo Henituse. What are your names?”

“This mighty one’s name is Asher. And I’m a grand total of 5 year's of existence”, said the red dragon.

Roksoo, nodded at him and turns his gaze to the black dragon.

“How about you?”

“I’m a mighty being!”, answered the little black one.

“Your name?”

“I’m powerful!”

“I know, but what is your name?”

“I’m mighty and powerful!”

“That’s your name?”

“No”

“Then, what is it?”

Asher (red dragon), who was enjoying the exchange between his brother and Roksoo, chime in.

“He doesn’t have a name yet.”

“Huh? Why?”

“I still haven't think of a name that I really want yet”, the black dragon sheepishly replied.

Compare to humans or other tribes that were already named since their birth by their parents or guardians. Dragons, are the one that names their selves. So, Roksoo could understand the dilemma of the black dragon. Since names hold an extremely important part of someone's individuality. 

Roksoo put a hand on his chin.

“If that’s the case, I’ll just call you Blackie for now.”

“What?”

“You don’t like that? Then how about Darkie?”

“That’s even worse! Just call me a Mighty Dragon.”

“Okay, Dragon it is.”

The black dragon was about to retort, when they heard footsteps outside the tent. The dragons immediately cast an invisibility spell.

When the entryway of the tent opened, Roksoo was greeted by his mother’s cheery appearance.

“Good morning, my little rocky! How was your sleep?”

“It was fine mommy”, Roksoo then gave them a bright smile. Which he only showed to his mother.

“That’s good to hear. Let’s have breakfast now. Ohn and Hong are already waiting for us.”

Cale, then carried Roksoo after he nodded to him as a reply.

Before they step out from the tent, Cale look at the corner of the tent.

‘Why do I feel like someone is staring at me?’.

Cale, just then shrugged it off and went outside together with his son.

The two young dragons, just quietly followed them.

After they ate their breakfast, they continue on their journey. They played some board games, while the two young dragons are just watching them, who are in their invisible state. They wanted to join the fun but they don’t want to shock everybody. In other words, they are too shy to show their selves. Both of them decided to just ask Roksoo, when is the perfect timing to show their selves later. The young dragons, decided to be content of watching them, for now.

When they reach Puzzle City, which is famous for their rock towers. Cale, suddenly requested to stay in the city for a few more days, since it looks like there is festival being held. He wants the kids to enjoy the festivity, before they continue on their destination. They still have a lot of time, before they reach the capital. So, no one was against the idea and no one can even say no to Cale.

Roksoo, Ohn and Hong, was looking outside the window.

“Nya, look there are a lot of rock towers!”

“Everything is full of rocks, nya.”

“No wonder this is consider the City of Rocks”. Roksoo, then puts his hands on his chin and mumbled, “I wonder if I’m allowed to throw rocks at someone here.”

“What was that, nya?” Both Ohn and Hong asked.

“Nothing.”

The invisible dragons, are also looking at the window and enjoying the sceneries outside. While Cale, was fondly looking at the kids.

When they arrived at the inn, they finally got off the carriage. Cale, was the first one who got off, so that he could help the kids go down. He stretches his arms for bit, after he was done helping the kids. He then suddenly felt he was being stared at, he looks at his surrounding and notice that most people are looking at them. Especially, at him. And he even sees some are whispering.

‘No wonder they are like that, I guess my trash reputation have reach here, huh?’

But sorry to disappoint him, these were what the people are saying.

"Wow, how can someone be that beautiful?"

"Is that really a human?"

"I have been blessed!"

"Do you think he is single?"

Roksoo, suddenly frown. He didn’t like any of those looks, that they were giving his mother. He already had enough of vultures in their territory, he doesn’t want to deal with them here too. He suddenly looks at Cale and shouted.

“Mommy!!! I want up! Up! Up!”, he was looking up his mother while raising both his arms.

Cale, just chuckled at his son’s cute actions and went to carry him. Roksoo, showed a smug look and was thinking he did a good job, when he looks at his surroundings. He suddenly went back to his stoic face.

He thought, people would stop starring at his mother when they realize he has a son. Since it works every time, when there are newcomers in their territory that wants to get to know his mother. Instead it looks like his appearance, made quite an appeal to the people here.

"What an adorable child!"

"Cutie!!!"

"It would be obvious the child would look pretty, if that is his parent."

"The child is only present but the spouse isn’t here. They might be divorce."

"Looks like I got a chance!"

Roksoo, wanted to ask help from someone but Ron and Hans were getting the keys inside the inns, Beacrox was busy looking at the foods that they bought, while the others are still busy with their luggage and other stuffs. He was about to ask his mother, if they could go inside the inn immediately. When the people abruptly look away from them and even stop whispering.

‘I wonder why did they stop?’. Roksoo, wonders.

He’s question was then answered by someone’s arrival.

“Cale-nim, Hans wants me to tell you that the rooms are already prepared. We can now go inside.”

“Oh, thank you Choi Han. Can you carry, Ohn and Hong then?”

“Sure, Cale-nim”, Choi Han then gave his signature puppy smile.

Cale gave a smile in return, which made the Korean blush.

Roksoo, was now tempted to get some rocks from one of the rock tower and hit the swordmaster. But realize, he is in the presence of his mommy. So, he decided to just try it out tomorrow.

Before they went inside, Choi Han gave a glance at the people and then followed the other's inside.

When they were now inside the inn, the people who were staring before let their breath out. They forgot to breathe when the tall black-haired man arrived. If looks could kill, they probably would have died by that man’s glare alone.

“Who was that guy?”

“How would I know; I don’t even know him.”

“Wait… Come to think of it. He shared some features with the child.”

“You mean….”

“That was the husband. Quite a handsome man, if only he didn’t have that glare.”

“I thought, I’m going to die!”

“Me too, that was suffocating!”

Everyone then made a conclusion, that the beautiful red-haired is OFF LIMITS.

If someone didn’t get the memo, then be prepared to face death.

Ladies and Gentlemen, another misunderstanding has occurred once again.

Chapter Text

“Roksoo? Is what I’m seeing right now, real?”

“Yes, mommy. This is real”, Roksoo replied to his dumbfounded mother.

‘I feel you, mother. I also didn’t believe it at first.’

Cale, was still having an awestruck look on his face.

“So, mommy. I want you to meet my new friends”, Roksoo said casually like he was just saying that the weather is nice today. “Mommy, meet the dragons. Dragons, meet my mommy.”

The only thing that Cale could uttered was a, “Hi?”

The individuals gave an enthusiastic greeting to the man.

“Human’s mommy, this mighty dragon is please in meeting you.”

“Hi, Human’s mommy! Nice to meet you!”

Cale, who finally recovered from the shock, gave them a small bow and a polite smile to the young dragons.

“This human, is also please to meet the mighty dragons”. Then Cale, flash a delicate smile. Which made the dragons, flush in return.

“Ah it-it’s nothing, hehe”. Both the dragons replied, they got immediately shy that they forgot to show off how mighty they are.

‘Wow, mom’s face is really powerful’, Roksoo proudly thought. ‘They were just bragging about how mighty they were. But now they are acting bashful.’

“I am Cale Henituse, the mother of Roksoo. May I know what are your names and how old are the both of you?”

“Oh, I’m Asher and I’m 5 years’ old”. The red dragon said.

“I just turned 1 and I’m still looking for a name that fits me”. The black dragon answered with a downcast voice, while looking down.

Cale, notice the uneasiness of the black dragon.

“You don’t have to worry if you don’t have a name yet. Take your time in choosing one. You are a young and mighty dragon after all”. Cale gave a soft smile to the baby dragon.

The black dragon expression turned jovial and nodded at Cale in return.

“Then just call me Mighty Dragon for now, human’s mommy!”

“Okay, Mighty Dragon”. Cale said with a giggle. ‘What cute children they are.’

Cale, Roksoo and the two young dragons then have a casual conversation with one another. They talk about a lot of things, from the dragons explorations, to Roksoo’s etiquette lessons or misadventures. They talk for an hour, until the kittens arrive from their bath. The dragons, then introduce their selves to the kittens, which left the kittens amaze.

“Wow, the both of you are dragons! This is the first time I meet one, nya!” Hong, said while jumping up and down, on the bed. The children averaging 3.4 years old, are currently on Cale’s bed talking to one another.

“You are younger than us, black dragon. It means, call me noona nya”. Ohn, said with a determined look.

“Oh, call me hyung too”. Hong, chimed in.

“Ohn-noona and Hong-hyung?”

“Very good, Dongsaeng!”

“Then call me hyung and oppa, since I’m older than you kittens”, Asher said.

The kittens then nodded at that.

“Yes, Asher-hyung!”

“Yes, Asher-oppa!”

Roksoo, heard that and felt left out from the conversation, also chimed in.

“Hey. If you are gonna call him hyung and oppa. Call me that too! Even you Asher, call me hyung too. Since, I'm older than you for one month.”

“Yes, Roksoo-hyung.”

“Yes, Roksoo-oppa.”

Roksoo, felt satisfied after hearing that, then gave a proud smile. ‘Heh, I’m the eldest. So this is want Jung Soo feels when I call him hyung, huh?'

Cale, fondly smiled at the scene. Since he doesn’t want to disturb the kids ‘getting to know one another’ time. He was satisfied just looking at the children from a far. ‘They look so cute!’

He was so busy thinking about what toys to buy for the kids, until he notices that they became silent. When he looks at the children’s direction, they are now looking at him.

‘Why do they look serious?’, Cale thought.

“Uhm, Young Master Cale?”

Ohn, hesitated for a bit, before looking at Roksoo. The other, then gave her an encouraging look.

Now Cale, is curious what are they up too.

“Yes, Ohn. What is it?”, Cale softly ask to ease the tension of the child.

“We-we have been discussing this with Roksoo-hyung before, nya”. She looks at Cale shyly, then continued. “Uhm, if it’s okay to you. Only if it’s okay to you, okay?. But can we call you, mommy too? Like Roksoo-hyung?”

Ohn, then looks down. Despite only knowing the red-haired man for a few weeks, both she and her brother already sees the red-head as their mother (even if he is a man). She already discussed this matter to Roksoo before, and Roksoo was okay about the idea. Since he already saw them as his siblings too.

She was afraid to be called presumptuous by the man. Then she notices the man getting close to her. She close her eyes and look down, afraid to be berated.

But instead she felt a soft pat on her head. She looks up and saw the red-head smiling at her, with teary eyes.

“Took you long enough. I was just waiting for you guys to say that”. Cale, then hugs her and then motioning Hong to join in. “My babies.”

Ohn and Hong, can’t help their tears from falling down; sob while hugging the red-head tightly. Those tears didn’t represent sadness, but those tears represent the joy that they were feeling right now.

“Thank you, mommy.”

Roksoo, looks at the scene affectionately. He already knows that both sides view one another as family, but are quite shy to say it their selves. He is also trying to control his tears from falling down, ‘Curse this body, I’m now getting emotional.’

The scene was endearing, that anyone could tear up from it.

“Uhm, call we also call you mommy? Eh, it-it's because saying human’s mommy is quite long to say”, the black dragon said bashfully with a blush in his face. He didn’t want to disturb the scene but he can’t help it.

The red dragon heard what his younger brother said, and turned his head to the red-head with a wishful expression. They won’t admit it out loud but they also view the red-head as a mother. Despite knowing the red-head, in-person today and just observing him for a few days; the man reminds them of their loving and caring mama.

Cale, nodded and gave them a loving smile.

“Come here, little ones. And even you little rocky, I can see you are controlling your tears.”

Cale, gives a tenderly hug to the five children.

‘I’m now a mother of five! I feel so bless!’

After the emotional moment, Cale called Hans outside to ready their foods. They suddenly felt hungry, after crying too much. When the food arrive, Hans was surprise that his Young Master Cale and Roksoo’s eyes were a bit puffy and red. It looks like an aftermath of crying. He doesn’t want to pry, but he was worried about the well-being of his young masters.

(He didn't get to see the kittens puffy face, since Ohn and Hong are lying face down on the bed.)

“Young Master Cale and Young Master Roksoo, please forgive my impertinence but are the both of you okay?”

“Don’t worry Hans, we just read a very very sad book”, Cale immediately answered. He, already prepared an answer in advance, in case someone will ask them about their puffy eyes.

“Okay, Young Master Cale, I understand. I will now take my leave”. Hans said, accepting their reason. Cale, was a bit thankful that the one that delivered the food was Hans, not Ron. If it was Ron, he doesn’t know what good reason to say.

When Hans left the room, they immediately started eating.

The dragons, who are now visible also joined them. They are happy, since they could now join them. Unlike before that they could only watch from afar, since they were still incognito.

“This food is so tasty!” The baby black dragon said, with face full of sauce. Roksoo, who is the closest, wipes the sauce in his face using his handkerchief.

“I know nya! This is Beacrox’s cooking after all”, Hong said, who also has sauce in his face. Cale, just giggled and use a tissue to wipe the sauce from Hong’s face.

‘It looks like Hong and the Baby Dragon are the sloppy eaters in the family, huh. How cute, reminds me of Lily when she was still a toddler.’

He misses his siblings, if they weren’t too busy; Basen and Lily would have also joined them.

Suddenly, he thought about buying his siblings some souvenirs. He was already planning of buying their gifts when they arrive at the capital, but since Cale is a doting brother, he decided to buy them some gifts here too. Since a festival is being held in this city, the place will be filled with a lot of vendors and merchants, selling a lot of interesting things that his siblings would like.

Aside from his siblings, he will also buy a lot of stuffs for his children.

‘I guess will just do the shopping tomorrow. It’s already 7:30 in the evening, and the kids need to be in bed before 8:30’, he then looks at his children and smile.

‘Tomorrow will be a good day.’

Chapter Text

“Hey, isn’t this a bit too much?”

“I think we need two more carriages for the gifts alone, nya.”

Ohn and Asher, then sigh together on what is happening in front of them. While the rest of their siblings are having fun, together with their mother.

This morning, when Cale ask them that they are going to go shopping today. They already had a guess on what will happen. They already saw by experience how shopaholic their mother is, especially when it comes to buying things for his siblings and for the kids.

Still they find it weird; that despite how shopaholic their mother is, they notice that he doesn’t buy much things for himself. He mostly buys things for others; for his parents, siblings, children and even for their servants. But not for himself. Well, they do see him buy some wine though.

But going back to their predicament, their mother really bought a lot of things for them. Toys, books, clothes and souvenirs from the festivals. And aside from that, they could also see some boxes of apple pies and assorted cakes (requested by the Black Dragon and Hong.)

Both Asher and Ohn, look at Roksoo for help. But the eldest just ignore them and even joined the flock.

Even the people they are with, didn’t even say a thing about the excessive amount of things and toys. Deputy Butler Hans and other servants are busy arranging and carrying the stuffs that they have bought. Choi Han and their guards are just happily guarding them, not so far from their spot. And Ron with his benign smile.

(Cale and Roksoo actually ask them to stand from afar, since some of them don’t know the identity of the cat tribe and the dragons.)

Cale is carrying Hong in his arms while the Black Dragon (who is invisible) is on his shoulder, and Roksoo looking everywhere for stuffs to buy. While the other two, Asher (invisible) and Ohn are behind their back. Looking at them, with a disbelief expression.

“Mommy, what do you think about this book. Uncle Basen, would like this.”

“Nya, mommy! Aunt Lily would like this scabbard nya.”

“Mommy! Mommy! There are cookies and other pies there!”

“The volume III of the book that I want is here. Can I have it, mommy?”

“Mommy, look cake!”

“Lots of sweets!”

Cale, just smile and nod at his children’s request.

“Sure, I can buy anything that you guys want. If you guys want anything, I’ll buy it.”

Roksoo, Hong and the Black Dragon look at their mother like a messiah, and proceed on their shopping spree. Cale, then turned on their direction.

“Asher and Ohn, do guys want anything aside from the things that you choose?”, Cale ask them.

The two shake their heads as a reply.

“Don’t worry mommy, I’m already satisfied with the toys and books that you bought nya”, Ohn said.

“I’m already happy with my stargazy pie, mommy”, Asher also said.

“Okay, but if you like something be sure to tell me. Okay?”

“Yes, mommy.”

After 3 hours of shopping, they finally decided to find some place to eat. When they found one, they occupied the whole floor, so the rest of their companions could also eat. Even though, the servants and guards already experience this, they couldn’t get used to it. Since nobles, don’t usually ask the people that work for them, to invite them to eat in a restaurant. Some would just let their servants stand and look at them while they eat.

But the Henituse are a different breed of nobles. Aside from being the wealthiest family, they are also considered as the kindest and caring nobles in the whole kingdom.

‘I’m so lucky to work for the Henituse Family’, they all think.

Cale, suddenly felt chills in his spine.

“Mommy, are you okay?”

Roksoo ask his mother, when he saw him shivering. And because of the question, all his children turned their attention to him.

(They are in a private booth by the way, so that the cats and dragons could eat freely.)

“Ah don’t worry about that. I must have felt tired from all the shopping”, Cale then gave them a reassuring smile. Which didn’t make them reassured at all. But they just let it go and continued on eating. It didn’t look like their mother will tell them about it, anyway.

‘Why do I feel that my trash reputation is going downhill? But that must be my imagination, right? Right? Yeah, I’m still trash’.

Cale, then continue on eating, while still reassuring himself that his trash reputation is still flourishing.

After a well pleased meal, they decided on strolling the city. But before that, Cale face the servants and guards, and instruct them to enjoy the festivities. They were opposed at the idea at first, but Cale with the help of Roksoo’s puppy eyes; they concede defeat. Admit it, no one can defeat Roksoo’s puppy eyes.

After the servants and guards left, the only ones remaining were Cale, the children (the dragons are now invisible and are just floating above Cale’s head) and Choi Han. Ron, was about to stay but Cale requested him to spend the day with his son, Beacrox. He wanted the father and son duo, to also enjoy their time here.

But before Ron left, he gave a warning to Choi Han through his eyes, and Choi Han just gave him an innocent smile but if you look closely it’s more of a smirk.

When everything was settled, upon the children’s request. They decided to watch a play, which is being held in the center of the city.

As always, Cale gathered quite an attention but it immediately quiet down, when Choi Han release some of his aura. Roksoo was a little thankful for that. Only a little.

Then they sit down. Cale and Choi Han were seated next to another, while the kittens are on Choi Han’s lap and Roksoo was on Cale’s lap while glaring at the blushing swordmaster, suspiciously. Their attention then focuses on the play, when it started.

(The dragons are still invisibly floating above their heads.)

Cale was enjoying the play, that he didn’t notice someone sit next to him. He only notices it when he heard a voice, after the play had ended.

“Long time no see, Cale.”

Which promptly made Cale to look at the person, beside him. He was greeted by a pale blonde hair, green eyes and a gentle smile. He smiled back to the man.

“Likewise, hyung-nim.”

“Hey! I’m also here!”

“Hi too, noona.”

Right in front of Cale was the eldest son and the heir of the Stan Family, Taylor Stan. Aside from his hyungs and noona from the northeast, he also made an acquaintance with the eldest of the Stan Family when he was still attending parties when he was still a child. Taylor always protected him, from his younger brother, Venion.

Venion has a huge crush on Cale, and because of that he keeps on attempting to pester Cale, just to be noticed by the red-head. But all the attempts failed, because of Taylor’s interference. Cale was really thankful for that. Taylor even introduce him to his best friend, Priestess Cage. In which Cale and Cage, click instantly. 

But ever since Cale, started to stop attending those party, they didn’t get to meet up again personally. Since Taylor was the heir and Cage was the Priestess of the god of death, his hyung and noona have busy schedules. Despite that, they often send letters to one another to catch up.

“You’re still the same as ever, Cale.”

“You too, hyung-nim. You also haven’t change too, though. And noona, still carrying glasses under your sleeves?”

“Well, what can I say? Did you bring any Henituse Wine?”

“Always.”

Taylor was about to say something, when he notices Cale’s companions looking at him. Cale, followed his glance and beam.

“Oh, everyone this is Young Master Taylor heir of the Stan Family and this is the Priestess –”

“Ex-priestess.”

“Wait, you successfully did it?”

“I’m a free woman now, dongsaeng. I didn’t say it in the letter, since I want to say it to you personally, but let’s chat about that later.”

“Then, I’ll be waiting, noona”. Cale then went back into his introduction, “This is the ex-priestess of the god of death, Cage. They are one of my hyung and noona.”

Taylor shows his signature gentle smile to everyone, while Cage excitedly wave at them.

“Hyung and noona. Meet our personal guard, Choi Han”. Choi Han bowed and gave them his innocent smile. “Our kittens, Ohn and Hong”. The kittens meowed in return, which made Cage nearly melt into a puddle. “And my son, Roksoo Henituse.”

They already heard from Cale through the letters and even heard the news, that the first son of the Henituse family, adopted a child at a very young age. They even know, that Cale is being recognize as the child’s mother. So, they weren’t very shock by that but instead were stun the by the looks of their dongsaeng’s son.

At one glance you could mistake the child, as a porcelain doll. With soft pale skin, unique looks and small stature, anyone could mistake him as a walking doll. But what mesmerize them the most was the child’s eyes. It’s the same as Cale’s eye color. It was so pretty.

Overall the child is really adorable.

“Omygosh! What a cutieeee!” Cage squeal.

“Hello, Young Master Roksoo. I’m your mother’s hyung-nim”, Taylor gently greeted the child.

“And I’m his noona!”

Roksoo, looks at them carefully and then bow.

“Hello, I’m Roksoo Henituse.” Roksoo greeted them with his innocent face.

Taylor and Cage, only thoughts were, ‘So Cute!!!’

“Dongsaeng, if you need a babysitter. I’m just here.” Cage said with a wink.

“Ehem - although I’m busy, I can take the time to visit the Henituse Territory.” Taylor then looks around, “I guess we have been standing quite long here and I don’t think this place is not appropriate for having a conversation. Why don’t we go to a café and continue there?”

“That would be nice, hyung-nim. And I think the kids would also like that.”

As they were walking along the street, Roksoo accidentally drop his coin. He then ran off to get it, and when he was about to pick it up, his back bump into something.

“Ouch.”

“Oh, sorry kid. Didn’t see you there, you’re not hurt anywhere right?” A man with a baritone voice asked.

Roksoo, looks up and saw a handsome face. He was a bit shock, since he thought him and only Choi Han are the only ones in this world who have this certain korean feature. But this guy in front of him, has those Korean features but a bit different. The man has red hair just like his mother, but are distinct. Instead of blood-red that he really likes to look at, the man’s hair was scarlet.

His face kind of reminds him of those Korean-Caucasian idols that Jung Soo used to watch during their breaks and likes to imitate their dance moves.

He was about to reply to the man.

“Roksoo!”

He heard his mother’s voice. Both him and the man, looks at the approaching red-head. Then he heard a gasp from the man, when he looks at the man, he regretted chasing after his coin. And the rocks are out of his reach.

The despicable man has this ‘love at first sight’ look, that most people always had when they saw his mother.

Roksoo, didn’t like it at all.

As his mother, was now in front of him. Ignoring the man besides him.

“Roksoo, are you okay?” He saw the worried look of his mother. He was about to reply, when he notices that the despicable man was about to say something.

“Uhm – ”

Before the man could begin what he was about to say.

Roksoo Henituse. Formerly known as Kim Rok Soo. One of the most respectable and recognized ability users in his former world.

A great strategist.

A team leader that everyone looks up to.

A man of intellect.

A man of steel.

A man of honor.

Is currently, wailing like a banshee.

Chapter Text

Endable Kingdom.

A Kingdom from the Eastern Continent. A Kingdom, more powerful than the Mogoru Empire. And a Kingdom, feared by all.

Not only because they are powerful, that’s why they are being feared at. But because the people that live in there, have different tribes and races, that belong on the stronger side. Tribes like the Bear Tribe, Lion Tribe, Dwarfs, etc. There are also humans in there.

And it is also rumored that Vampires and Dark Elves are present in their kingdom. But the kingdom neither denied nor confirmed this claim. Vampire and Dark Elves are to some degree being accepted in the continent, but there are still some who doesn’t accept them wholeheartedly and shows a discriminatory behavior.

(Mainly the Church of the Sun God and its followers)

Despite being the most powerful kingdom in the continent, this kingdom rarely welcomes foreigners or tourist. But if some people wants to visit their kingdom, the process in going there takes a long time to be approve by the officials and their current ruler.

The Endable Kingdom’s king, is King Sealed White Star I. He doesn’t go out in public now, due to his weak constitution and old age. For this reason, the one who is handling most of his duties, is his only grandchild.

The current heir of the Endable Kingdom, Crown Prince Barrow White Star I. His parents died when he was young, due to an accident. Therefore, he was the next line in throne.

And the heir is currently, trying to prevent himself from committing murder.

‘I regret bringing this chatterbox with me.’

The reason for his annoyance (and killing intent) is the person he's with.

“Oh look at that apple Crown Prince, reminds me of your hair.”

“Look at that many boxes, that person responsible for that must be shopaholic or spoiled.”

“That human over there, could be mistaken as you stereotypical vampire. Very pale.”

“Since, we are in the city of rocks. I have joke. Why did the rock sleep all day? Cause he was bedrock. You get it?? Hahahaha.”

‘I guess Naru, won’t mind if I’ll adopt him. Since he is about to lose his father in any minute now.’

Speaking of his nephew. Naru, the ever gentle soul. Notices the Crown Prince’s crisis, interrupts his father.

“Father, what about we go look for shops to buy some souvenirs for the others at home?”

“Nice idea, son. How about you Barrow, want to go with us?”

“I’ll just stay here. I haven’t finish my cup of coffee yet.”

“If you say so. Let’s go, son!”

“See you later, Uncle.”

Barrow, wave at the boy he considers his nephew.

He was finally at peace.

‘I should probably make some cookies for Naru, again.’

He should, probably give his thanks to the Duke’s late wife, that Naru inherited her gentle and kind demeanor. If not, he doesn’t know what to do anymore.

After he finished drinking his coffee, he decided to stroll for a bit in the city. Since he hasn’t made a public appearance yet in other kingdoms, he was confident to that no one knows him. But it doesn’t change the fact that some people, gaze at him. He already gotten used to it because; first he has red hair which is a unique hair color, and second he is handsome.

(The utter confidence of this man.)

While he was strolling, he notices a play being held at the center of the city. He got curious and went closer to it.

‘What a downer, it looks like it is about to end.’

His gaze then went into the audience and see a man with black hair, ‘What an unusual hair color.’ Then it moves to the person beside the black-haired man.

‘Oh, I guess I’m not the only red-haired here.’

But compare to his red hair, which is on the brighter side of red. This person’s red hair, could be compared to blood. The reddest of red.

He was suddenly curious of the face of the red-haired, for no reason. He could recognize that he was a noble, regardless of the simplicity of the outfit; with the quality of the cloth and the design, anyone could recognize that it is expensive.

When the play ended, he notices that the red-haired man was about to turn his head. When he heard, an appalling voice behind him. He turned around to see, the annoying Duke with his infuriating smile and Naru.

“Look, we brought a lot of things. And we even went to some booths and we won stuff toys. This one looks like Sayeru and this one looks like Dorph.”

He looks at the well-made stuff toys of a bear and lion, that Naru is holding right now.

‘Those stuffs toys are way to adorable, compare to the real ones’, Barrow thought.

“Father, let’s rest for a bit. My feet hurts.”

Barrow notices, that the kid really looks tired. His father, might have drag him anywhere.

The Duke looks like he have realized he was the reason, puts on a guilty face.

“My poor Naru, this father of yours is very sorry. I might have gotten a bit excited.”

“Don’t worry, father. I understand.” Naru then gently smiled to his father.

“How about we go to that café over there, to rest?”

“Sure, father. And Uncle, are you comfortable with that cafe over there?”

“I don’t mind Naru. Let’s go there now, so that you could rest your feet. You have been walking for a day, because of a certain someone”. He then looks at the Duke, who just scratch the back of his head.

He was about to go into the direction of the café, when he suddenly bumps into something.

“Ouch.”

More like into someone.

He looks at that person, and saw a child. A very adorable child, that could be mistaken as a bisque doll.

“Oh, sorry kid. Didn’t see you there, you’re not hurt anywhere right?” He asks using his gentlest voice. He doesn’t want to scare the kid. Since he already has a history of children, crying over him. He believes it is not his fault, that he has an intimidating appearance and is quite tall. If it’s his fault, Naru should have been afraid of him by now.

Instead of crying, like what he have guess. The child just looks at him in a stoic and curious manner, he even felt like the child is judging his entire soul.

He was about to ask the child again, if he is alright. 

“Roksoo!”

Both him and the child look at the direction, where the voice came from. And he suddenly gasps, and he feels that his heart suddenly beats in an abnormal way.

‘Wow.’

Right in front of him, was the man he was trying to see the face earlier. The man with the red hair, the same color of blood. And also, the most beautiful person that he has ever meet.

Despite the worried face, it doesn’t lessen the beauty of the man in front of him. To point, he didn’t hear anything and he feels that the whole surrounding freeze. He could only focus on the beauty in front of him.

However, the beautiful man didn’t focus on him. But to the child, who he quickly forgot due to the other's arrival.

Since he is the Crown Prince Barrow White Star I, he doesn’t lose any chances and would immediately grab the opportunity. He wants to start a conversation with the beauty.

“Uhm – ”

But before he could begin.

“Wahhhhhhh!!!”

The child in front of him, instantly wail. It was like the cries of anguish.

The child cried like someone died or someone is about to die.

‘Did I bump into the child so hard? But, why does he have a late reaction? I don’t even have a scary face, do I?’

He was busy questioning himself, when he suddenly felt a dark atmosphere that came from the man’s direction.

When he turned into the direction of the man, he was meet by a piercing glare.

He contemplates whether to be scared or to feel hot with the glare of the man.

“What. Did. You. Do. To. My. Child?”

He chooses to be scared, then.

‘But damn, that was still hot.’ He thought, but he suddenly tries to erase that thought, and to think of a reason to defend his honor. But before he could do that, a woman who has a short brown hair, step in.

“Dongsaeng, calm down. It looks like it was all a misunderstanding.”

“What do you mean by that, noona?” The man scowl, which made him cute in Barrow's mind.

“I saw that Roksoo accidentally bump into this man, when he was picking his coin”, the woman said.

(On Cage excuse why he didn’t follow Roksoo immediately, because she was busy adoringly looking at Roksoo when he tried to chase after his coin. It reminds her of a kitten, trying to chase its yarn.)

“Is that so?”

“What the lady said is true, Sir. My uncle, didn’t do anything wrong.” Naru, also defended him. While Duke Fredo, is just laughing at his misery.

(The red dragon also defended the man.

Asher: Mommy, the man is innocent. He indeed accidentally bumps into hyung-nim.)

Barrow could see, that the man immediately calms down. Which he was really, grateful. He doesn’t want to leave a bad impression towards his future consort. (Excuse me?)

“If that is the case, I hope you will accept my apologies, Sir – ?”

“Barrow.”

“My apologies, Sir Barrow. For jumping to a conclusion”, the man then bowed at him.

He suddenly touches the man’s shoulder, to stop him from bowing.

“You don’t have to go that far. And I accept your apology.”

The man looks at him and beam.

‘This is a sight for sore eyes. But I have to get use to this, for the future.’

Barrow, was about to say something. But he was stop by the wail of the child, the beauty moves his attention again to the child. To his disappointment.

“Roksoo, my little rocky. What’s wrong? Are you hurt anywhere?”

The child, then shake his head.

“Then what’s wrong?”

“Be-because – ” the child couldn’t continue his words, since he suddenly hiccup.

“Little Rocky, breathe. It’s okay, take your time.” The red head beauty, gently said to the child. Barrow, feels like he was hearing a lullaby, since the voice sounds lovely to the ears.

“Dongsaeng here, water for Roksoo.” Barrow, saw a man with pale blonde hair gave the beauty a bottle of water.

He let's the child drink it, and it looks he immediately relax after a minute.

“Are you okay, now?”

The child nod in reply. He's cheeks and eyes are still a bit red, but he still looks adorable.

“If you're okay. Can you tell us, what is wrong then?”

“Because – because.”

“Because?”

The child then pointed at him, with teary eyes and shouted.

“Because that man looks scary and grisly! I got terrified!”

Suddenly everything felt quiet.

Except from Duke Fredo’s boisterous laughter and Barrow’s shattered heart.

Chapter Text

“Roksoo, what do we say?”

“I’m sorry, for calling you ugly?”

“Roksoo.”

You could hear, Duke Fredo’s howling in the corner.

At the moment, they are in a restaurant. Cage, Taylor, Choi Han, Duke Fredo and Naru (with the kittens on his lap, they became close) are together. While Cale, Roksoo and the Barrow, are on a separate table not so far from them.

Roksoo, looks down and lifts his head up to face Barrow.

“I’m sorry, for calling you scary and grisly.” Roksoo, said trying to sound innocent and sincere. ‘You’re still ugly, though.’

Barrow, who could feel the sincerity from the child, replied. “Don’t worry, this happen every time children see me. I’ll already got used to it.”

“That must have been awful. But why would children be scared of you?”

‘Because he’s ugly’, Roksoo wanted to reply to his mother. But was holding back, he doesn’t want to be scolded again.

“Maybe because of my tall height or I have a scary aura?”

‘Maybe because of your face?’, Roksoo said through his thoughts.

“But you look like a good person, though.” Cale said.

If Roksoo didn’t know how to control his reaction, everyone would have seen a sour expression in his face right now. He suddenly wishes that Ron was here. Serving him some lemon, so that he could have an excuse to have that type of expression, without looking rude.

While Barrow, was a bit happy that the beautiful man thought of him as a good person. You could see a tiny blush in his cheeks. Roksoo, silently grimace at that.

“Thank you for that compliment”, he shyly replied.

Roksoo, who couldn’t resist reacting, frowned at the reply. ‘What is with this imbecile?’

Cale just gave a soft smile as a reply. Which made Barrow blush more.

A thought suddenly appeared to Barrow, ‘I still don’t know his name, this is now a good chance.’

“I haven’t gotten your name, yet. May I know what is your name?”

“Oh, where are my manners. I’m Cale, by the way.” Then Cale reaches his hand to him, for a handshake.

‘What a pretty name, for a pretty face.’ Barrow thought, before accepting Cale’s handshake. ‘Oh, his hand is so soft and small, compare to mine’. He was busy admiring Cale’s hand, when someone forcefully remove his hand away from Cale.

“And I am Roksoo. His Son”. Roksoo, really emphasis the words ‘son.’

After Roksoo said that, he went back to Cale’s seat, climb to his lap and hug him like a koala.

‘It would have look cute, if only he didn’t give me those death glares and even the black-haired man with them is glaring at me. What’s his problem? But wait, son?’

“You’re married?” Barrow asked, with a dumb expression.

Fredo, who was eavesdropping from the start, laugh at that.

“I’m not, though.”

“Ah, lover?”

“Absolutely not.”

‘Great, looks like I have a chance.’ Barrow cleared his throat, “If that’s the case, you’re a single parent then.”

“Yes, I am.” Cale proudly said, while feeding Roksoo.

“It might have been hard.”

“Not at all. My little rocky, is quite an easy child. Moreover, I have the help of my family and the people around me. So, it wasn’t that difficult.”

“Still isn’t parenting quite difficult, especially if you’re just alone? Even if you have the help of your parents.”

“I didn’t actually experience any difficulty, like what I said Roksoo is an easy child. He is kind, sweet, behaves well, adorable, smart, …..” and Cale keeps on chattering about Roksoo’s good (and cute) qualities.

No one can stop him, he’s a doting parent after all.

Roksoo wants to hide his face, due to embarrassment. But he just showed a stoic expression, since he doesn’t want to show any vulnerabilities in front of the enemy. He needs to stand guard, as he can see the fool is listening so intently to his mother. ‘I can already imagine my mom has that pink flowery and heart filter in his POV.’

Barrow was looking like a love sick fool, when a thought came to him. ‘The final boss is that child’. In spite of receiving an apology from the child just a minute ago. As he can see, the child doesn’t like him. More like, he despises him to the core. Nevertheless, he won’t stop his pursuit of love.

“What do you think of having a partner?” Barrow questioned, after he let Cale finished talking.

“I’m not interested”, Cale immediately said, without a second thought about the question.

“Are you really sure about that?”

“Definitely.”

“Why, though?”

“I want to focus more on taking care of Roksoo”, Cale replied. ‘And also the rest of my children’, which was left unsaid.

“Then who is going to take care of yourself?” Barrow insisted. You can slightly hear a tone of desperation in his voice, already.

“Well, I’m practically capable of taking care of myself.”

‘I can also take care of mommy! You can shut up now, you imbecile!’, Roksoo proclaimed in his mind, because he is not allowed to interrupt a discussion between adults. Since he has manners, of course. 

“But you might need a partner one day, you know. What if your child will not be satisfied with just you and they might want another parent? Or someday, you will not be able to take care of yourself and – ”

Barrow wasn’t able to finish his words, when Cale interrupted him.

“Excuse me, Sir Barrow. I know you mean well, but I think you step out of line”. Cale, elegantly stand up and face Barrow with a cold face, “And since I lost my appetite, I consider its time for me to go. If you excuse me.”

Cale then hurriedly went outside, without looking back. When his companions saw his expression, they immediately followed the red-head, before giving Barrow a glare. They don’t know what happened, but they could already guess that the man who was talking to Cale said something that displeased the red-head.

Since Cale, doesn’t get upset, sad nor angry too easily. Even though, he has a reputation of throwing things and saying profanities, to gangster and thugs (which he already quit, when Roksoo came). He doesn’t get upset, easily. Sure, he might be easily annoyed, but he knows when to keep or show his emotions to others, and when he shows his emotions they are quite justifiable or in a right place. So, for the red-head to be deeply upset, is already telling something did happen at their table.

Roksoo, who heard and saw everything, is trying to keep his emotion in check. He doesn’t want to throw a tantrum, since it’s not a good time. And he also doesn’t want to throw things, since the restaurant is not at fault and he pities the employees who will clean the mess. So, he will just settle with this.

He glared at the man, “You, ugly ignoramus”. He then run to the exit, to follow the others.

Barrow was left kneeling on the floor. Fredo and Naru, went close to him, since they heard the conversations due to their advanced hearing. Naru, gave him a disappointed look, while Fredo just pat his shoulders.

“Uncle, what you did was unacceptable and bad. You should apologize to the young master, when you see him again”. Naru, advised to his stupid uncle.

“I agree. You were disrespectful, back there”, Fredo nods his head, then he whistled while looking at Barrow who was still kneeling. “The kid, sure kick you hard, huh?”

Before Roksoo left, he kicked the man with all his might, that it made him kneel to the floor.

Aside from Barrow’s fractured heart, he can also feel like his manhood is also fractured.

After what happened in the restaurant, Cale immediately went to their room. The children wanted to go inside to comfort their guardian, but Ron advised the children, to give their guardian some space. For the reason that, when Cale is upset, he likes to be alone during those moments.

Roksoo went to see their mother, when sunset came. He silently opened the door, to peek if his mother is alright. Then he saw him, knitting on his bed. Cale, looks focus on knitting that he doesn’t noticed Roksoo is coming close to him. Then he observed, his guardian’s face. Slightly puffy eyes and red nose. He suddenly feels the urge to kill someone, because no one has the right to make his mother cry. No one.

‘I will successfully break his weenie, when we meet again this time. I should ask for Ron and Beacrox’s assistance then.’

While he is torturing someone in his imagination, Cale finally notice him.

“What are doing there little rocky, come here”, Cale gently called him.

He instantly dashed to his mother's side and give him a hug. Cale, hugs back in return.

“Sorry that mommy, left. I should have waited for you guys outside.”

“Don’t worry about that mommy. What you did was valid, it was that jerk’s fault. He was very very rude. He will see my fist, when we see each other again”, Roksoo then huff in anger, he really wanted to say the f* word, but can’t due to his mother’s presence. Cale, then chuckle in return. Because Roksoo looks like he is attempting to look scary but since he was blessed with a cute face, his actions looked adorable to look at.

Roksoo then smiled, when he sees his mother’s expression. One of the sounds that Roksoo adores in the whole world, is his mother’s laughter. He cherished every moment, every time his mother laugh or smile. Especially if he was the reason because of that genuine expression.

Cale, suddenly became quiet and had that pensive look on his face.

“But, what if he was right? What if I’m not enough and – ”

Roksoo, interjected on what his mother was about to say.

“Mommy, don’t listen to what that ugly jerk said. Everything he said are all nonsense and full of crap”, he then holds his mother’s cheeks with his tiny hands and with a serious expression. “Remember this, you alone, is already enough for me. For us. We are already happy and content, because your love for us, has already completed our life. And there is nothing is this world, we could ever ask for.”

‘Well, aside from that’s ugly jerk’s death and his mother's ugly suitors. But I’m not going to say that’. Well, he is really not going to say that in front of his mother of course. Or else he is going to get scolded. Aside from his slacker life, he also likes his daily cookies. He smiled, when he imagined his slacker life and his cookies. But stop when he felt something moist in his hands, he forgot he was still holding his mother’s face. He looks at his mother and saw his mother’s teary expression.

“My little rocky, is really mature for his age. But please don’t grow up, so fast. Still, you really made me tear up”, Roksoo then made a panic look but his mother quickly clarifies the cause. “Don’t worry, they are happy tears. I’m really lucky to have you. I love you.”

Cale, then pull Roksoo in an embrace. The later, hug back in return.

“I love you too, mommy.”

The door suddenly opened, and the two was surrounded by children averaging 3.4 years.

“Mommy, we also love youuu!”, all of them shouted together while hugging their red-headed guardian. They were eavesdropping at their conversations from the start. When they saw the eldest, went to their mother’s hotel room, they silently followed from behind.

“I love you all, my babies”. Cale, then gave each of his children, a kiss on the cheeks while still embracing them in a loving hug.

‘I’m really lucky to have them.’

On the next day, they started of their journey. They were supposed to stay longer in Puzzle City but Cale, asked everyone if they could leave the next day, since his children requested if they could leave the city. They all agreed, with no questions.

Because the children have a feeling, that if they stayed longer, they will likely meet the jerk that made their mother cry, and they don’t like that. When the sun was about to rise, they immediately started of their journey. 

The journey was peaceful; Asher and Ohn, are reading a book. Hong, was eating his cake. Roksoo and the baby dragon, was sleeping and cuddling one another. While Cale, was busy knitting. But the peaceful atmosphere, was disrupted when their carriage suddenly stop.

The children and Cale, stopped what they were doing and became alert. Except for Roksoo and the baby dragon, who are still sleeping comfortably. They are the heavy sleepers in the family, your honor.

Cale, looks out the window, to see what is the cause of the disrupt. He then sees 10 kids and a teenager. The feeble looking teenager appears to protect the children, in order for them not to get hit by the carriage. For someone like Cale, who is weak to children, urgently went down to see if the children were hurt. Choi Han, Hans and Ron, followed their liege from behind. While Asher, Ohn and Hong, were instructed to stay inside the carriage. 

“Hello”, Cale greeted them but still keep his distance, concerning that the children might be afraid that a stranger was approaching them.

The children heard a soft voice, and all of them looked up to see, who was it. When they saw Cale’s face, all of them just stared at him, without blinking. Cale suddenly felt awkward and shyly looks away from their direction, ‘Is my face, really that scary?’

He looks again to the direction of the children and observe their physique, then he suddenly let out a gasp.

“Get our first aid kit and also prepare some healing potions!”

“Hilsman, please request for another carriage!”

“Ron, can you help Hans over there.”

The children who saw the scampering people, panic at their actions. Cale, saw that and tries to comfort them.

“I’m sorry for yelling, don’t worry no one will hurt all of you here”, Cale gave them a gentle smile. “And I’m also sorry, for asking this late. But can I get everyone of you, a proper care and medications for your injuries?”

The children just stared at him, then all of them nodded in return. Cale, then beam at their approval. He then gazes at Choi Han, and instructed him to look out for the kids, since he’s going to help the other’s out. Before he left them, he heard words like ‘angel’, ‘abandone’ and ‘blessed.’

‘Choi Han, must be telling them a story. He really is good with kids, no wonder Roksoo took a liking to him.’

Roksoo, who was sleeping peacefully with the baby dragon, suddenly woke up.

‘What was that, just now?’ He looks at his surroundings and sees that his mother and the rest of his siblings where gone. ‘Oh, it must be our resting spot now. Might as well, sleep for a bit, they will just call us if the camp is ready anyway’, he then went back to dream land while cuddling the baby dragon.

“Hyung, was that an angel?”

“I thought our race were abandoned by gods?”

“I think they blessed us, just now.”

Lark, who was just looking at the back of the red-head was silent, He couldn’t even utter a word, to his siblings. And he couldn’t even say to the man, that healing potions won’t work on their race. He couldn’t sense any bad intentions from the man, instead he feels a familial vibe. He suddenly thought of his late uncle. He then looks at his siblings and took a deep breath. And could only say.

“I think… we are now safe.”

Chapter Text

Slavery, is an act where one or more beings are owned by someone and, is denied freedom and legal rights. The victims are being forced to do heavy labor, sexual labor, experiments and other things that denied their rights as human beings. It is an illegal act, recognized by every kingdom. If someone was caught doing this act, the consequence would be; lifetime imprisonment or death.

The only problem about this, is that there are still some people who do this illegal act, through Slave Trade. Through Slave Trade; they capture, transport, sell and buy or exchange slaves from others. Some of the people who most likely participate in this horrible deed are those who have higher positions, and people who are especially known as Furtive Alchemists.

Furtive Alchemists, are alchemist that are currently in hiding because of doing inappropriate experiments and do things that are against the law. They are famous of using humans and beast people as their subjects, which is an immoral act. Because of their deranged behavior, the law and especially the people from the Bell Tower are hunting them.

Aside from humans, they are most interested in experimenting beast people. Especially those tribes, that are famous for being strong and powerful. They wanted to experiment if they could transfer their souls or mind, into their (beast people) body. Since they desired to have a body from a race, that is much more dominant than the human race.

(I got this idea from the movie ‘Get Out’, still have goosebumps from that movie.)

When they got the information, that the only adult of the Blue Wolf Tribe that is residing on the west mountain has died, due to a certain illness. And they heard that the children are the only one left at their site. They immediately hired Slave Traders to kidnapped the wolf children. In which the Traders accepted it, thanks to the hefty money that was offered to them.

The Slave Traders prepared their materials, from sleeping potions to weapons. They were very lax, knowing that their future captives are just children. However, they underestimated their captives. Forgetting that they come from a dominant race.

The children from the Blue Wolf Tribe, were just lucky that they are familiar with the ins and outs of the forest. And that the Alchemist hired novice traders in capturing beast people, thus their strength was on par with the children. If not, things would have turned grim.

Nevertheless, both sides dealt damage. Despite of their strength and skills, at the end of the day, they are still children.

“Hyung, are you still okay?”

Lark, looks at his younger brother and answered, “Of course, I do.”

The wolf children have been running and hiding for 2 days. They could no longer go back to their home, ever since the kidnappers had burned it down. If it wasn’t for their Uncle teaching them about hunting, they would have died of hunger. Still, the food was not enough for them.

But their current dilemma is that, some of them are injured. The herbs that they got from the forest, couldn’t mend their injuries and potions won’t work on them.

“Oppa, I can still walk.”

“No, you’re injured.”

“But oppa, you’re the one who is must injured among us here.”

From the time of the attack, Lark was the one was fighting the most captors. Thus, he was the one who got injured the most. Aside from fighting them, he also distracted and made fake tracks for the Slave Traders.

“Look, your brother is quite strong. You guys don’t need to worry about me.”

‘I need to be strong, in front of them. I promise Uncle, that I could be the person they will rely on.’

When their Uncle died, Lark became the pillar for his siblings. Due to that, Lark doesn’t want to show any weakness in front of them and should act like an adult. Even though his whole body is aching, he should act like he is alright in front of his siblings. Even though he is still hungry, he should give his food to his siblings. Even though he is already tired, he should act okay in front of them. Because that’s what he thinks, he needs to do.

As Lark, was thinking of things to find ways for their survival, he heard one of his sibling’s shout.

“Look, it’s a road!”

“We could ask for help!”

All of his siblings immediately run, not noticing an approaching carriage. Lark, sees the approaching carriage and immediately run to save his siblings. When he reaches his siblings, he protected them and was ready for the impact. But instead, he heard footsteps going closer to their direction. They were still looking down, when they heard a gentle voice behind their back.

“Hello”

When they heard the voice, all of them looked up to see the owner of the voice, they unexpectedly lost their ability to blink. The person in front of them, looks ethereally gorgeous. Especially the person’s figure is illuminated by the sun’s rays and their red-hair is shining, which made them look like an angel.

While they were admiring the angel-looking man, they suddenly flinched when that very angel-looking man, yelled.

“Get our first aid kit and also prepare some healing potions!”

“Hilsman, please request for another carriage!”

“Ron, can you help Hans over there.”

When they see the people around them scampering, some of them panic. Especially the little ones, thinking they might have done something wrong. While the older ones, were just frozen. Then they heard, the angel-looking man’s voice.

“I’m sorry for yelling, don’t worry no one is at fault here”. The man gave them a gentle smile, which made them relax. “And I’m also sorry, for asking this late. But can I get everyone of you, a proper care for your injuries?”

The wolf children just stared at him, then they nodded as a reply. They watch the angel-looking man, giving instruction to the tall black-haired man. When the red-head, walked away from them, the wolf children looked at one another.

“Hyung, was that an angel?”

“I thought our race were abandoned by gods?”

“I think they blessed us, just now.”

The eldest among the siblings, Lark feels familiarity from the man. He suddenly thought of his late uncle. He looks at his siblings and could only say.

“I think… we are now safe.”

“Don’t worry, every one of you will be safe here”, the remarks of the black-haired man, who was with them.

“Uhm, Mister?”

“Choi Han. It’s Choi Han”, the man replied with a smile.

“Mister Choi Han, who was the man earlier?”, Lark asked the man.

“Oh, that was Cale-nim. Cale Henituse. Don’t worry about anything. Cale-nim, will take care of everything.”

After Choi Han said that, the children were delivered into a tent and then they were given proper medications. Cale, is also there with them, as he was also helping with the medications. And they also notice a gray and red cats, with him. The two cats, are looking at them with scrutinizing gaze. The wolf children just look away, every time they had eye contact with the cats.

“Weird, the potions won’t work on them”, Hans commented.

“Did you check it twice?”, Cale questioned.

“Yes, young master. I already used the potion trice.”

Before the check the other potions, Lark interrupted into their conversations.

“Excuse me, potions won’t work on us”, Lark shyly said. When he sees the confuse reaction of the adults, he continued, “Potions won’t work on us, because we are from the Wolf Tribe. I’m sorry, for wasting your resources.”

He then, bows as a sign of apology. He was waiting for them, to scold him for not telling it immediately. But instead, he heard a clap.

“So, that was it. I thought we were scammed with this potion”, Hans said happily while clapping. He was about to file a report to the shop, where they bought the potions from. “Thank you for informing, us.....?”

“Uhm, my name is Lark.”

“Thank you, Lark-nim!”

Lark just shyly bowed.

“But, I’m still sorry for –”

Before Lark could apologize again, Cale cut him off.

“You don’t have to apologize, it’s not your fault. What you have to prioritize now, is to heal and be healthy”, Cale then gently pats Lark’s head. Lark, just blush because he felt like a little kid again.

Cale, giggles at the reaction of the boy. He reminded him, of his younger brother Basen. When he looked back at the boy, the boy has this contemplating look. Cale, had a guess on what it is and proclaimed.

“Don’t worry, we won’t tell anyone that you and your siblings are from the Wolf Tribe.”

When Cale said that, Lark let out a breath and thanked Cale.

Cale, then looked at Hans, Ron and Beacrox. He gave them a look that means, ‘this information is private’, the others then nodded in return.

“After, were done here. Let’s all have lunch”, Cale declared.

“Yes, young master”, Hans and Beacrox replied.

“Are we going to camp here, young master?” Ron asked his ward.

“Yes, Ron. Since we already have travelled afar, from our last destination. Tell the others to prepare to set the camp, here. And oh, please tell Hilsman again about the extra carriage.”

“As per your request, young master.”

“Thank you Ron, you may now go. And Beacrox, please prepare the food.”

After Cale mentioned the food, the children’s stomach began to rumble. The children were embarrassed about it and lowered their heads, while others are just scratching their heads. The adults just silently laugh.

“Hyung, I think you really need to prepare the food now.”

“Yes, young master”, Beacrox replied with slight amusement in his eyes.

The wolf children feel like they were being tease, but all they could do is just blush.

‘Cute.’

“Hello, I’m Roksoo Henituse.”

Roksoo, plainly introduce himself to their guest. Long story short, he already knows who they are from the wolf tribe. Well, aside from the information from the book that he has read in his previous life. He was bombarded with information by Ohn and Asher, when he awoke from his nap. When his mother went to his tent and told him that he has some people he wants to introduce, he already knows who they are.

‘I guess; they survive from those people. Slave Traders and those Alchemist are really disgusting. It’s a good thing, they bump into our carriage. Well, like literally?’

Roksoo, observes the wolf children who are just staring at him. Their youngest is eight years old, while the oldest is Lark who is thirteen years old. ‘They are really tall for their age or this height is just normal for their tribe. When will I get my growth spurt?’

While Roksoo, was busy daydreaming of his future height. The wolf children, look at him carefully and most of their thoughts were.

‘He’s so cute and tiny.’

Roksoo, suddenly felt chills and hugs his mother’s knee, indicating he wants to be carried. In other people’s eye, he looks like a shy boy wanting comfort from his mother. But in reality, Roksoo was just lazy to walk. Cale, just smile at his son’s adorable action, and just carried him. He looks at the wolf children.

“Come on children, let’s eat.”

When they reach the canopy, they are meet with foods that are fit for celebrations. The children’s eyes began to twinkle.

“Let’s dig in”, Cale happily said.

They immediately settle and enjoyed their food. Dinner was quiet, but the ambiance is quite pleasant.

‘This would be a good ASMR content’. Roksoo thought while listening to the munching and the chewing. He then slips a piece of chicken to his lap, where the invisible black dragon is currently sitting. Asher is with his mother, while the kittens are with Hans. Roksoo, then focus on his food.

‘Beacrox’s cooking is really the best.’

“What?!?”

The slam in the table could be heard, and it was cause by the fuming black-haired man. When Choi Han, heard the explanation of Lark of what had happened. He can’t control his anger. He can’t believe that those kind of people exist.

“Choi Han, please calm down. You’re scaring the child”, said a soft voice. Cale, who was behind him patted his back to calm him down. And it looks like it works, since Choi Han’s black aura disappeared. But Cale, can’t blame Choi Han’s anger. As he, is also in the same position as him.

Even the people who are with them are also fuming with anger; Hans, who was always smiling, has a very dark expression. Hilsman, is shaking with rage. Beacrox, who already has a scary aura, is much scarier now. And even Ron, was sharpening his daggers.

When Cale was listening to Lark, he can’t help but want to smash those scumbag’s heads, for hurting people. Especially, the children. He doesn’t want to imagine, what happened to those children, who were kidnapped. He wants to smash some bottles, but he doesn’t want to be a bad example to his children. Even though, they are not present right now.

But what he doesn’t know, was that his children were eavesdropping from the start. When they heard about it they were all angry, and what to give revenge for the wolf children. But they try to control their anger, since they might get scolded by their mother for listening.

Roksoo, who already read this event in the book, can’t also help but be annoyed at those people. ‘I hope those Furtive Alchemist and Slave Traders, die in a horrible death.’

Cale, was thinking of contacting his father about it. But the problem is, his father’s jurisdiction only applies in their territory. And from the looks of it, those people might not be in their territory. Since both him and his family, made sure to keep an eye on their people and put heavy security around their territory.

(Choi Han has the protagonist buff, that’s why he easily entered the territory without anyone knowing. From the last chapters.)

Cale, is contemplating whether to ask the royal family for help, but it’s quite impossible for him to have an audience. As he is only the child of the count. So, he thought of talking about this information to his hyungs and noonas, because they are mostly the heirs of their family.

While everyone of them was thinking of ways, on how to punish those evildoers. Lark was ruminating, if he said something wrong. He was the only one present, since his siblings are already asleep. He was called after dinner, to discuss about what had happened to them. He was looking down, with a guilty look on his face. Suddenly, he felt someone patted his shoulder.

“Don’t worry, we will keep all of you safe. No one will hurt you here, as long as I am here”, Choi Han assured the Lark, and gave his innocent smile.

“I agree. We will protect every one of you. The Henituse’s Knights are all strong”. Hilsman, chimed in.

“We will do our utmost duty, to ensure your well-being”. Hans exclaimed.

Ron and Beacrox didn’t say anything, but you could tell in their face; that they are determined to find those people and protect the children from harm.

Lark, tried to control his tears from falling down.

“You are allowed to cry you know, since you’re still a child. Let it all out, no one is here to judge you.”

Lark, can’t help it and let all his pent up emotions flow. He then hugs, the person who said that and bawled.

“There, there.”

Cale, just caressed Lark’s back and let the boy cry all he wants.

“Rely on the adults and just enjoy your youth. Remember, were all here for every one of you.”

Lark, will surely remember that.

Chapter Text

“Have all of you check if the beddings are properly arrange in every rooms?”

“Yes, Head Maid.”

“Did every one of you check if there are any dust?”

“It’s all squeaky clean, Head Maid.”

“How about the gardens?”

“The gardener, made sure the flowers are all fresh.”

“That’s good to hear. Every one of you did a good job!”

The servants just smiled and bowed towards the head maid.

“Now, all we do is wait for their arrival.”

Freesia, the head maid or the housekeeper of the Henituse Mansion in the capital, has been preparing for the arrival of their beloved young master Cale and his entourage. When they heard, that the young master will attend the banquet, all of the servants were delighted by the news. Considering they haven’t seen their young master Cale, for a very long time.

And no, they don’t believe the rumors about the ‘trash act’, because they already know that their young master is a good person. Before the servants were sent to the capital, they were first servants in the Henituse territory. Since the Countess, oversee the servants training in preparatory to sending them to the capital mansion.

Because of that, they have the honor of seeing their young master Cale in action. And most of them agree, that the young master need some acting classes, when he started to role-play as a villain. They just sigh and shake their heads, every time the young master tried to act rude.

Sure some people would believe the rumor, if they haven’t seen him in person. But since the servants, already know their young master. All of them beg to differ, about those rumors.

Their young master Cale, is one of the sweetest and kindest person they would ever meet. He might break stuffs, but only towards the bad guys. They even saw how he comforted the count, when the former countess died. He sometimes helps in the household chores, like helping in the garden or cleaning his own room. How he protected Countess Violan and young master Basen, from the vassals and their relatives despite ruining his reputation (but it didn’t work on their territory, though.)

The only reason why those rumors exist, was because of the former vassals and the exiled relatives. Therefore, the servants help out in clearing up the rumors, because they can’t help that someone is slandering their beloved young master. Not knowing that their very beloved young master, was also spreading those rumors about himself.

When they heard, the young master was going to the capital, all of them were excited. Especially, they heard a lot of things about what happened in the county.

“I heard that the young master has a lot of suitors. According to the Marites.”

“Well, it’s already to be expected. Since Young Master Cale is a beauty.”

“I guess a lot of people would fall for the young master, here in the capital.”

“Agree.”

While waiting, the servants decided have a conversation. And since the head maid, haven’t interfere or stop them from talking, they guess that it’s a good sign for them to continue. Well, Freesia is also interested, hence she didn’t interfere.

“I could already imagine the flowers and the gifts, that the young master will receive once he arrived here.”

“This mansion, might be filled for a one day then.”

“But what if they might be blocked by the Count and Young Master Basen? You know, how protective they are of the young master.”

“Don’t forget, Sir Ron and Sir Beacrox.”

They suddenly shudder.

“Good luck to those poor souls, I guess.”

They even pray to give strength and courage, whoever wants to court their young master.

“But you know, I’m kind of excited seeing the young master’s son.”

“Oh, me too!”

“Count me in!”

“I’m kind of jealous of those, who are still in the territory. They keep sending letter’s that the Young Master Cale’s son, is the cutest!”

“What was his name again?”

“It’s Young Master Roksoo!”

“What a cute and unique name.”

The servants suddenly gushed about Young Master Roksoo’s cuteness. Even though, they haven’t seen him in person. They just believe in their guts, that’s he’s already cute. (And he truly is.)

“They’re here!”

When they heard one of the guards yelled, they immediately went back into place. They were meet, with several carriages. And then a carriage with a golden turtle emblem, stop in front of the entrance. They already know, that their young master is in there. The carriage door was then opened, by a black-haired man. Some of the servants, blushed because of how handsome he is.

Someone then step down, from the carriage. And most of them need to hold their jaw.

They already talk about of what a beauty their young master is. But since they haven’t saw him for couple of years, they can’t help being wonderstruck of his appearance. He is too gorgeous, for his own good. Now, they already claimed that their young master, is the most beautiful in the whole kingdom. No, in the whole continent.

While they were being in awe of their young master’s beauty, they then notice that their young master is carrying something. No, someone. And when they notice them, they were again in awe.

Because what they saw, is one the cutest kid they ever saw (Cale, Basen and Lily are the other kids they also consider the cutest). They suddenly have the urge to give the little boy some sweets and protect him from harm. And it doesn’t take a detective to know, who that little boy is.

“We greet, Young Master Cale and Young Master Roksoo.”

Then they all bowed.

“Thank you for the warm greetings, everyone”, Cale then smiled at them. Which made everyone, hold their chest.

“Uhm, thank you for the greetings”, Roksoo added then gave them a shy smile. Everyone, questioned if their young masters are trying to kill them using their appearance. If yes, they gladly hold their funeral tomorrow.

“Oh, Freesia. I’m guessing, you already received my letter”. Cale, convey to Freesia when they are now inside the mansion.

“Don’t worry, young master. We immediately prepared the other rooms, when we received your letter yesterday.”

“That’s good to hear, then. By the way, I have some things from the territory and souvenirs from the festival we had attended, for everyone. Please distribute it, to the others.”

Freesia, felt teary-eyed of how thoughtful their young master is. But she was trained to be a professional, that is why she just bowed as an act of gratitude to him.

After, Freesia went out of the room. Cale, then turned his attention to Ron.

“Ron, how are the wolf children. Are they comfortable in their rooms?”

“Rest assured, young master. When they arrived to their rooms, they immediately took a nap.”

“That’s good to hear then. But be sure to wake them up, when dinner arrives.”

“Yes, young master.”

“Okay, you may now take your leave now, Ron.”

Ron, bowed and went out from the room. Cale, then went close to his bed and look at Roksoo and the baby dragon, taking a nap.

“Those two really are close”, he then giggled at them. While his other kids, Ohn and Hong are touring the mansion with Hans. On the other hand, Asher is just eating some cookies in their room.

“Mommy, want some?” Asher, offered to Cale when he notices his mother is looking at him.

Cale just smiled and shakes his head. “Thank you for the offer, little apple. But you can have that and please tell me if you want some. We could ask Beacrox, to make some more.”

Asher, just nodded enthusiastically to his mother and continued on eating his cookies. Cale smiled at the cute action of his son and then focus on the letter that was given to him.

‘They really are visiting tomorrow.’

“Mommy, do I have to wear this?”

Roksoo, is currently being dressed by his mother in fancy garments. The clothes are actually comfortable, but it’s too eye-catching for him.

“Uh-huh, someone is going to be happy seeing you wear this.”

“Who?”

“Your Aunt.”

Before Roksoo could ask his mother, Ron suddenly went inside their room.

“Young master, the Viscount and the young mistress are here.”

(Instead of a Barony, I made the Thames family a Viscounty.)

“Thanks Ron. Little Rocky, let’s go.”

Cale proceeds on carrying Roksoo. Roksoo, is curious about their visitors and can’t help but ask his mother.

“Mommy, who are they?”

“Remember when mommy said, that I have relatives in my birth mother’s side?”

Roksoo, cutely nodded.

“They are, our visitors. They are your Grandma Jour’s family.”

“Oh, so what do I call them?”

“Well, Uncle is my mother’s first cousin, so just call him Grandpa Lio. While my cousin, would prefer to be called Aunt Ella.”

“Grandpa Lio and Aunt Ella, okay!”

When Cale and Roksoo, entered the receiving room, they are meet with two pink-haired individuals. When the two notice their arrivals, one of them immediately rush towards them.

“My baby cousin! You are finally here; I really miss you. Is that my nephew? He is so cute! Wait, is that the clothes that I delivered?”

Before the woman could continue on, she was stop by a tall man.

“Agnella, stop that. Let Cale and his son, answer first.”

“Sorry father, I just got too excited. Hehehe.”

While the man, was talking about manners to the woman. Roksoo was amazed, he already met a lot of good looking people but these two really stand out. Especially their cotton candy colored hair.

The woman, who she is guessing is his Aunt Agnella or Ella. She is tall, taller than his mother. Her hair is styled in a pixie cut. And she is pretty and the same time handsome.

Then, he looks at the man who is supposedly his grandfather.

‘Should I really call him grandpa? He looks young to be one.’

The man, looks like he is in his early 30s. He is quite tall, that Roksoo feels like he could be mistaken as an ant, if he ever stands close to him. His hair is slicked back; in which you could see his whole features. And what a stunning man, he is.

Then, Roksoo notice that both his aunt and grandpa, don’t share some features. Well, aside from their tall height, pink hair and light brown eyes, some of their features aren’t the same. According to his mother, his aunt inherited her facial structure from her aunt’s late mother. In which Roksoo concluded that his aunt’s mother, is also a handsome woman.

‘I guess being drop-dead gorgeous is part of their family requirements.’

When the father and daughter, finally stop bickering; they finally look at them.

“Ehem, I apologize about that.”

“There is no reason to fret, Uncle.”

Cale then, look at Roksoo and whispered, “Little Rocky, why not try greeting them first”. Cale, then set Roksoo down. Roksoo, looks at his mother and nods.

“It’s a pleasure to meet the two of you, Grandpa Lio and Aunt Ella. I’m Roksoo Henituse and I hope you had a pleasant journey”. Roksoo, then gave them an adorable smile, which made the two pink-heads feel something in their hearts.

“He is so cute!!! Call me, Aunt Ella again!”

“Ehem. Our journey was indeed pleasant. And here, have this diamond”

Roksoo, just look weirdly at the two cotton candy heads. But he accepted the diamond, from his grandpa’s hand.

‘Wow. With this, my rich slacker dream is guarantee.’

Cale, just look at his son who has twinkle in his eyes and chuckles. He then looks at his uncle, ‘I guess Uncle hasn’t change a bit’. He remembered, when he was still a child. Uncle Lio, gave him something expensive, every time he greets him.

Viscount Emillion Thames, the current head of the Thames Family. He wasn’t supposed to inherit the title, as he is only part of the collateral family. But his cousins, didn’t want it. His cousin Jour married someone, and her older brother became a wanderer. So, long story short, Emillion got the title. He wasn’t please at first, but later on got used to it.

He is a known martial artist. And no one knows this except his family, he is actually a swordmaster. He just hides it, because he despises attention. He is a man who has an intimidating air around him, but is actually kind and sweet towards his family.

Agnella Thames, the heiress of the Thames Family and Cale’s only cousin in his birth mother’s side. Her mother died, after she gave birth to her. She is famous for her androgynous looks. Despite her womanly allure, her looks tend to lean more on the handsome side. She is notorious of attracting more women than men.

But she is also a renowned magic swordsman and a great martial artist, just like her father. Aside from using the sword, she is also good at handling a greatsword, a bow and a spear.

The Thames household is on the Southwest region, near the Gyerre territory. The Thames are famous for producing fabrics, such as cotton, lace, velvet, satin, silk and linen. Though they might not be as wealthy as the Henituse, but they are still richer compare from other nobles.

“It’s been a long time Cale, glad to see you have grown.”

“Same goes to you, Uncle Lio”. Cale, then gave his uncle a hug, in which his uncle happily reciprocated.

“How about me?”

“Sure, Ella-noona”. He then hugs, his cousin.

“I really miss you, my precious baby cousin. You really turned into a beauty, got any suitors?”

“No and I’m not interested, noona. Plus, I want to focus my attention on raising Roksoo.”

“Glad to hear that, but if ever there is someone. Please, tell this uncle of yours. I know an abandoned cemetery, that needs occupants.”

Roksoo’s ears perk up, after hearing the sentence. ‘I have another accomplice! I should discuss mommy’s suitors, to grandpa then. Heh.’

“Stop joking Uncle, that would be impossible”, Cale said and then ushered Roksoo to come close. “As you can see this is my adorable Little Rocky.”

Roksoo wave shyly and look at his grandpa, “I’m sorry for saying this late, but thank you for the gift, Grandpa.”

Emillion felt attack from the cuteness of his grandson, “Welcome, Roksoo. I still have some if you want, more.”

‘Having rich relatives is the best!’, Roksoo thought.

“Oh, I can train you some martial arts!”

‘No thanks. A slacker doesn’t train.’

“Agnella, Roksoo is still young for that.”

‘Tell her grandpa!’

“I guess, I'll wait when he grows old then.”

‘Thank you for the offer, but no thanks.’

Before the father and daughter duo starts their bickering again, Cale politely interrupted them.

“Uncle Lio and Ella-noona, why not we continue this conversation in the garden?”

“That would be nice.”

“Okie dokie, cousin dear!”

When they reach the garden, they straight away talk about a lot of things. From their work, experiences or about daily life. Particularly, they have been raving about Roksoo’s cuteness. Which made him blush, the entire duration of their conversation.

When it’s time to go, they escorted the two outside. While waiting for their carriage, Roksoo and Emillion, was having a serious conversation (Clue: Suitors). Agnella and Cale, were at the other side.

“It’s good to see that smile back”, Agnella spoke.

“Huh?”, Cale confusedly look at his cousin.

Agnella just laughed at his obliviousness and continue, “You know, me and father are really happy that you decided to show your true self again.”

“But I’m always true to myself.”

“You sure about that, kid? What I know last time, you have been obsess of role-playing as a villain. Don’t deny it, some of us already know that act of yours.”

“I am not a kid. And I’m not acting”, Cale denied.

“Your F-class acting skills tells me otherwise. Well, only idiots would believe that trashy acting of yours”, Agnella retorted back. She still can’t believe her cousin is still on about that ‘trash’ act. She was really against of her cousin’s actions, but good thing no one believes about that act. But those scumbag vassals and shitty relatives, had a need to spread rumors about her precious cousin. (She has no idea, that Cale has also participated spreading those rumors.)

“Still, I’m happy for you right now”, she then pats Cale on the head.

“I am indeed”, he then looks at Roksoo’s direction. “This is all thanks to my Little Rocky.”

“Quite a doting parent, eh? You know, I could hear your squeals from the letters you send us.”

“Look at my son and tell me, you won’t squeal from his cuteness?”

“I guess, I couldn’t blame you.”

"Right?"

Chapter Text

“Mommy, are we there yet?”

“Don’t worry, were about to be there.”

After his mother said that, Roksoo, looks out the window and focus on the scene outside. He and his mother are going to have a luncheon at the Wheelsman, together with the Northeastern nobles. If it wasn’t for Ron’s lemonade, he would probably be sleepy right now.

His siblings didn’t come with him because according to them, they are busy. Ohn and Hong, went to play with the wolf children. Asher, wants to finish reading the book, he found yesterday. And the black dragon wants to slack off today, which made Roksoo feel jealous.

Roksoo, suddenly felt a gentle poke on his forehead.

“Frowning doesn’t suit your cute face, little rocky.”

Roksoo, glance at his mother and pouts.

“Aw, is my little rocky upset? Wait did my poke hurt you?”

Roksoo, shakes his head towards his mother. But yes, he is indeed upset. He is upset, not because of the poke but because he was called cute. He should be used already, but he feels like his pride as a man has been step on. Ever since they arrived here and even before, he has been hearing the words; cute, adorable and even tiny where ever he goes.

“I’m not cute, I’m already a big boy”, he then crosses his arm and pouts. 

Cale, who just witness the scene, just internally squeal of the cuteness of his son. But he has to remain calm, or else he will upset his son.

“Yes. Roksoo is a big boy”. Cale, said and then hugs Roksoo. “But even if Roksoo is a big boy, he will still be cute in mommy’s eyes forever.”

 Roksoo, was about to retort, when they heard Ron’s voice.

“Young masters, we have arrived.”

When they step down from the carriage, Roksoo, looks around. ‘Looks like an average noble estate.’

A butler then walks towards them and greeted them. They were then escorted inside the mansion, when they reach the door that leads to the dining area. The butler bowed and open the door for them, and they thank the butler in return.

When they went inside, Roksoo, could see three people. When the three notice their arrival, the two immediately smile while the one with the glasses frown.

“Cale, how are you?”

“How was your travel?”

“Cale, did you get thinner, didn’t I told you to eat more?”

Cale chuckles at the three of them and answered.

“I’m doing fine, Amiru-noona. The travel was great, Gilbert-hyung. And Eric-hyung, please calm down, my weight is still the same. Didn’t I tell you in my letters that I eat 3 times a day.”

Before Eric, could rant; Gilbert interrupted him.

“This must be Roksoo.”

All eyes were now on Roksoo. Roksoo, sees that as a sign to introduce himself.

“My name is Roksoo Henituse, son of Cale Henituse. I’m glad to meet you all.”

Cale is really proud that Roksoo introduce himself, without his assistance. While the other three, prevented their selves from pinching the child’s cheeks.

‘So cute’, that was all inside their heads.

Eric, was the first one to recover from the attack.

“Ehem-since our dongsaeng and his son, are now here. Let’s now seat and enjoy our lunch.”

Then they all went to the dinner table. There are 4 seats and a high chair for Roksoo. When they got seated, the servants immediately place the food on the table. Roksoo, was pleased seeing there is steak.

‘It’s good. But Beacrox could do better.’

Roksoo, was busy enjoying his food, while he lets the adults talk. He doesn’t dare listen to them, since it’s far from his concern. And he is currently a child, children don’t butt in through an adult’s conversations.

“Roksoo, do you want some ice-cream?”

He looks at the person and sees an expectant Eric.

“Yes, please…”, then remember, what his mother told him. “Uncle Eric.”

Eric, feels like he was shot by an arrow. While Gilbert and Amiru, got jealous of the way Roksoo address Eric. Cale, seeing his hyung-nims and noona’s reaction, made him laugh.

‘My son’s cuteness is fatal.’

After lunch, they went in the garden. Since Gilbert and Amiru, are committed on making Roksoo call them aunt and uncle. They whipped him away from Cale and they toured him around the garden. While Cale and Eric, are left at the pavilion.

“Cale, I already read your letters, but are you really sure you’re eating alright?”, Eric voiced out.

Cale, chuckle at Eric. “Hyung-nim, like what I said earlier; I’m doing fine and I’m eating 3 times a day. And Roksoo, is always there to monitor me.”

Eric, just sigh in relief and is now convince that Cale is eating well. “Nice to know that you’re eating well. And I’m glad that Roksoo, is there for you.”

“Who couldn’t say no to those cute puppy eyes? My son is to adorable, to say no to.”

“If I didn’t meet Roksoo in person, I would have assumed that he is going to be a spoiled brat. But I’m glad to see, that he is a good and polite kid.”

“Of course, my Roksoo is not a spoiled brat. He is the kind of child, that is always grateful for the things he received, and he doesn’t ask that much. Plus, I know when to put my limitations when it comes to the things that I buy for him”. Cale, proudly told his hyung-nim.

Eric, smiled at his dongsaeng. “You know; you and him are quite alike.”

“Like, when I was still a child?”

“No. Even now.”

Cale, frowned at that. “What do you mean Hyung-nim. Roksoo and I, are very different. Roksoo, is an angel, compare to me who is a – ”

Before Cale could finish his words, he was stop by Eric.

“Don’t say that word. Cale, you’re far more good than what you see yourself as. And this Hyung, is proud of what you have become. So, just be true to yourself and be happy. You deserve it.”

Eric, gave a gentle smile and pats Cale on the head. And then, they heard footsteps coming.

“He called me Uncle!”

“He also called me Aunt Ami!”

Roksoo, just look at the adults, with a twinkle in his eyes.

‘I’m guessing, he received a gift from them’, Cale thought.

Roksoo, sees Cale and immediately rush at him.

“Mommy, mommy! Look, I have coins. Uncle Gil and Aunt Ami, gave them to me!” Roksoo, is really shaking of joy.

“Did you say, thank you to them?”

“Of course, I did!” Roksoo, then puts his hands on his hips and looks proud.

“That’s a good boy”. Cale, claps his hands, and Roksoo, looks even more proud.

Eric looks at his friends in indignation, “Did the two of you bribe him, just to make him call you uncle and aunt?”

“Of course, we didn’t. It’s our ‘welcoming gift’ for him”. Gilbert, claimed.

“And Cale, said in his letters that Roksoo, likes shiny and practical things. What can be more shiny and practical, than coins, of course”. Amiru, declared.

Eric, just face palmed and pointed out, “We are supposed to give him, together! To-ge-ther.”

Gilbert and Amiru, had a guilty look and looks away from Eric’s gaze. ‘They really are desperate to be called uncle and aunt, huh?’

“Uncle Eric, please don’t scold Uncle Gil and Aunt Ami.”

Eric, followed the owner of that voice and he nearly holds his chest. The scene is too dangerous for the faint hearted. Even Gilbert and Amiru, who are looking guilty just now, is in the same predicament as Eric.

Because Roksoo, is doing a lethal move. The puppy eyes.

He suddenly remembers that Cale also did that quite often, when they were still young. And right now, his son is also doing it. ‘Like mother, like son. They even have the same eye color.’

Eric, clears his throat and explained, “Don’t worry, I won’t scold them. I’m just upset, that they didn’t wait for me. Since, we were planning to give you, our gifts together. And right now, I could understand why they did that.”

“Sorry, Eric”. Gilbert and Amiru, both said.

“Don’t worry, everyone. It’s fine, I understand your excitements. And since, you guys already gave your gifts, it’s my turn now.”

When Roksoo, heard the word ‘gift’, he got elated. ‘I guess, being a child isn’t that bad sometimes.’

Then, they went inside and Eric gave Roksoo his gift. Roksoo, nearly cried of joy and he gave Eric a hug. Which made the grey-haired man, happy.

After they spent an amount of time. It was time for the two to go home.

“Well see each other at the capital then.”

“Yes, Hyung-nim. Thank you for having us, today.”

“Thank you for the gifts, Uncles and Aunt.”

“You’re welcome, Roksoo.”

“Were going now. Good bye, hyungs and noona.”

“Bye, Uncles and Auntie!”

“Cale, Roksoo, have a safe trip.”

And they safely went home.

“I want chocolate cake, nya!”

“I want pecan pie!”

“Chocolate chip cookies!”

“Just biscuits for me, nya.”

Roksoo, nods at his siblings’ orders and ring the bell. Hans, entered the door.

“Hans, can you please get some chocolate cake, pecan pie, chocolate chip cookies, biscuits and vanilla ice cream.”

“As you order, young master.”

“Thank you, Hans.”

When the food arrived, they happily devour it. Hong and the Black Dragon, are still messy eaters. But Roksoo, just let them be, it’s normal for kids to be messy eaters, anyway.

Roksoo, is currently their guardian today. Since their mother, is having a meeting with their seamstress, about the final touches of their clothes to wear for the banquet.

‘Why do I have a bad feeling about my clothes?’

Roksoo, shakes his head and trust his mother’s judgement for his outfit. He then looks at his siblings, who are now done eating.

“Let’s play in the garden nya!”

“Sure, let’s go!”

“You guys go. I’ll just rest here”. Roksoo, said to his siblings. They already played in the backyard just this morning, together with the wolf children (the dragons are still invisible and were just satisfied in watching them.)

“Are you sure?” Asher asked him.

“Yes, just go.”

“Okay, bye hyung. I’ll watch over them.”

It’s a good thing his siblings, didn’t force him to play with them. Or else he will really faint of exhaustion.

His siblings then went outside, except for one.

“Why are you still here?”

“Because I want to? Got a problem, Human-hyung?”, the Baby Dragon said.

‘This kid can sure be snarky sometimes’. Roksoo, thought but answered the baby dragon, “Sure, you can stay here.”

Roksoo, was about to close his eyes, when the Baby Dragon spoke.

“Hey, Human hyung.”

“Hmm?”

“Have you decided?”

“About what?”

“You know, about that.”

“What are you talking about?” Roksoo already knows what the Baby Dragon is trying to say, but he feels the need to tease their youngest.

“Did he forgot?” The Baby Dragon whispered sadly.

When Roksoo, heard that. He immediately feels bad about teasing the baby.

“But why me? You also have your brother to do that”. Roksoo questioned. Roksoo remembered, when they first arrived in the capital, the Baby Dragon had asked him a favor. He hadn’t question him at first, because he was tired due to the travel.

“I just want to, and Asher-hyung doesn’t mind”, the Baby Dragon answered. There was a pause, and he continued with a soft voice, “And I don’t need much of a reason, I just want it to be you.”

Roksoo doesn’t really know why this Baby Dragon favors him that much. Ever since they have traveled together, he has been sticking close to him than his real brother. The Baby Dragon, has been questioning him about a lot of things and he just patiently answered him. He still doesn’t know, what other reasons that this dragon like about him. (Like what the baby said, he doesn’t need much reason. He just like you, Roksoo. Face it.)

Roksoo let out a sigh, “Fine.”

The Baby Dragon’s eyes sparkle with expectant.

Roksoo put on a serious expression and look at the dragon in the eyes and said, “You're fine with just Dragon, right?”

There was an indefinite silence. The Baby Dragon was the first to speak up, “I’m fine with anything.”

Roksoo, suddenly laugh out loud. The Baby Dragon, was curious why he was laughing.

“I’m just joking”. Roksoo then stop laughing and continued, “Our mother and siblings would be sadden, if they hear you’re just okay with it. You should speak up, if you don’t like something next time okay, Raon”

“What?”

“Huh?”

“What did you say?”

“That you should speak up, if you don’t like something?”

“No, the last part.”

“Oh, it’s your name, Raon”. Roksoo, smiled at the Baby Dragon. “Raon Miru. Your first name is Raon and your last name is Miru.”

“Raon Miru. Raon. Miru”, the Baby Dragon tried saying it and smiled. “I like it! What does it mean, Human-hyung?”

“It means You.”

“Me?”

“Yes, just for you and only you.”

“Only me…”

“I came up with that name, with the intention that you will be happy and live a joyful life.”

If truth be told, Roksoo already thought hard about the name, ever since the dragon ask him a favor. He even ask his mom for help, but he just laugh at him and said ‘Just follow what your heart will take you, Little Rocky. And please think hard about it, I’m really afraid you will think about Darkie, Blackie or even Dragon. Have mercy on your brother.’

So, he thought hard and genuinely put effort in finding names that would fit the Baby Dragon. And he came up with the name Raon Miru. Raon means joyful and Miru means Dragon, they are pure Korean words that he thought of.

Joyful Dragon. A very fitting name for the Baby Dragon.

“I’m the great and mighty, Raon Miru!”

Then Raon, fly around their room. Roksoo, used this moment to close his eyes until he fell asleep.

“Thank you, Roksoo-hyung.”

“I am the great and mighty, Raon Miru!”

“Your name is very cool, nya!”

“So cool, nya!”

“I can finally call you with a name now, dongsaeng.”

“That is a very nice name, my little blueberry.”

“Mommy, it’s Raon Miru!”

“I am still going to call you Little Blueberry, Raon.”

“Accept it dongsaeng nya. Mommy, will not stop with the nicknames.”

“That’s right, even if you guys will grow older. I am still going to used your nicknames!”

Roksoo just sigh and continued eating his dessert. They are currently celebrating in Cale’s room. When his mother and siblings arrived together, Raon immediately declared his name in front of them. And Cale hails for a celebration. His mother, even made a poster that has, ‘Happy Raon Miru Day!’ and a drawing of a black dragon.

He is still amazed that his mother has a talent for the arts. No one knows this except for him, his late Grandma Jour and right now his siblings. When he asks about why his mother keep this talent, all he got as an answer is that, ‘I’m uncomfortable showing it to others’. Roksoo, just accepts his mother’s answer and never questioned him again about it.

Cale, is just looking fondly at his children’s happy expression. He was actually, prepared for this celebration from the day they arrived in the capital. The Baby Dragon, who is now named Raon Miru, came to him secretly before they arrived at the capital. And told him, his going to let Roksoo name him. He felt touch, on how his little blueberry trust his big brother to name him.

Cale, even jokingly thought that Roksoo might choose the word Darkie, Blackie or even Dragon as a name for his little brother. But he also trusts Roksoo to properly name his sibling, and will put significance to it. And Raon Miru is a good name for his little blueberry.

When they finish eating, Cale decided to bring up something that he really wanted to say.

“Kids, do you have any thoughts of introducing your selves to others?” Cale look at his children and resume, “But only to those people that we trust. Like Ron, Beacrox, Hans, Choi Han and the Henituse family? But, I’m not rushing every one of you. You guys can think about it and take your time.”

Cale really wanted to introduce his children to the whole world. However, he knows the consequences and the danger, that will happen to his children, if he did that. In spite of that, Cale really wanted to introduce them to the people he trusts. He’s sick of hiding his children from them.

Every time, Ron or Hans comes to his room, the kittens need to act like normal kittens. Every time, Beacrox delivers their food, the dragons need to be invisible and have to wait. He is sick of it. If he can’t show the children to the world, why can’t he show them to the people he trusts and care?

Nonetheless, if the children are uncomfortable. He will respect them and will wait till they are ready. No matter how long it will take them. His children’s needs come first than his own.

Cale just wait patiently for his children’s answer and was just looking down, not seeing the smiles of his children.

“This great and mighty, Raon Miru, doesn’t mind”, Raon proudly said.

“I’m okay with it, mommy. I trust the people, that mommy trusts”, Asher calmly said.

“Choi Han, already knows us, nya. And I don’t mind Ron and Beacrox. They are good people, nya”, Ohn stated.

“I also like Hans, even though he can be annoying sometimes, nya”, Hong expressed.

“Mommy, should I ring the bell now?” Roksoo raised the hand bell and is waiting for his signal.

Cale, was in disbelief. He was ready to wait for his children’s answer, no matter how long it will take him. But it only took him a few minutes to wait. ‘They might have already discussed this, without me knowing.’

Cale just smile in relief, “Go for it, Roksoo.”

“Okie dokie.”

“Everyone, these are my children.”

The people inside were quiet but were also in shock. But Cale, just continue the introduction.

“This is my second eldest, Asher. These are my twins, Ohn and Hong. And my youngest, Raon Miru. As you can see, Ohn and Hong are from the Cat Tribe. While Asher and Raon, are dragons.”

“And I’m their hyung”, Roksoo casually added. Well, he is a proud hyung.

The people are still in shock, but Choi Han was the first to recover.

“So, they are the voices that I heard outside the room. I wasn’t hallucinating, after all”. Choi Han, even let out a breath and smile. His expression, looks like he finally solve one of the world’s mystery.

The others followed after.

“I’m delighted to meet Young Master Cale’s children and also Young Master Roksoo’s siblings. This Ron will do my best to serve you”, Ron bows and gives them his signature benign smile.

“Young master, you’re children are adorable. But I can’t believe that I’m in the presence of children from the Cat Tribe and Dragons, all along”, Hans stared at them in amazement.

“So, that’s the reason why you have been making me, make a lot of foods lately. Especially, the desserts. I thought, your appetite just change”, Beacrox just sigh.

When the children deem, that it’s alright to talk. Raon was the first to begin.

“I am the great and mighty, Raon Miru! And I’m in a mighty age of 1”. He happily said. He is really proud of his name.

Choi Han, is suddenly curious about the name. However, he didn’t question it, thinking that it must be a coincidence, that the dragon’s name is in pure Korean. He just smiles at the dragon.

“I’m Asher and I’m the same age as hyung. He is only older than me, by a month though”, Asher smiles and look at Roksoo.

“It doesn’t change the fact, that I’m still older”, Roksoo defended himself.

“I’m Ohn nya.”

“And I’m Hong nya.”

“And were twins nya!” The kittens both said.

Hans, was tempted to record the children’s adorable face.

Cale is in felicity that the people he trusts and care, finally meet his children.

‘Next is my family. Father will be really shock, can't wait to see his stupid face like what mother used to say.’

“Mommy, is it really too late to change my clothes?”

“Were already riding the carriage, Roksoo. There is no turning back. And you look good in your clothes. So cute.”

“Yeah, Human-hyung. You look good, but not as mighty as me.”

“I agree with them, hyung-nim. What is your problem with you clothes anyway, didn’t you like shiny things?”

‘I do, but I only like looking at them, not wearing them.’

Roksoo, looks at his reflection in the carriage window and grimace.

‘I shine too much.’

Chapter Text

“Oppa, time to wake up nya!”

“Nya, nya. Wake up!”

Roksoo, was awaken by soft paws poking his face.

“Stop it you two. I’m now awake.”

“Good job, my little muffin and my little cupcake. Go ask Hans for our breakfast. I’ll handle your brother.”

“Okay, mommy!” The kittens then, went out their room.

Roksoo, looks at his mother, “Mommy, why?”

Cale, just chuckles at his son and softly pinch his cheeks. “Did you forgot, today is the Royal Banquet.”

“Oh.”

Cale, pinch his son’s cheeks again, he can’t help it, his son is too cute. “Come on, let’s eat breakfast first, together with your siblings.”

Cale, then carried Roksoo and join the others for breakfast.

“I’m sorry, I can’t bring you two there.”

“Cheer up, mommy. We don’t mind at all nya.”

“We have cake nya!”

“You can be in a state of ease, young master. I’ll take care of your children”, Hans diligently said.

“I’ll trust you, Hans. Take care of the children.”

“Yes, young master!”

After their breakfast, they immediately got ready for the banquet. Roksoo, was still a bit sleepy and he just let his mother, handle him. After he got dress, he went to the closest chair and slump down. He didn’t even dare to check himself at the mirror or hear the praises towards him.

“Human-hyung, don’t sleep. Asher-hyung, told me that mommy is about to finish.”

“I’m not sleeping. I was just closing my eyes. Go play with the others, for a bit.”

Raon then left him and went to the kittens. He was about to close his eyes again, when the door opened.

Lo and behold, their mother standing in the doorway.

The children are already aware of their mother’s beauty. But the clothes accentuates his beauty to the highest power. Even if their mother wore a simple outfit, he will still stand out. Their mother didn’t even have make-up on. They suddenly felt pity to those, who prepared their best today.

“Mommy, you are so pretty nya!”

“So pretty!”

“Very very pretty!”

Cale suddenly felt shy of the praise that his children are giving him, but he just gives his thanks to his children.

“Let’s go.”

Cale then carried Roksoo, while Hans carried the kittens. And the dragons, went invisible.

While they are walking in the hallway, the servants were in awe of how beautiful their Young Master Cale is and how adorable Young Master Roksoo is.

'They are even matching!' They exclaimed.

Choi Han, Ron, Beacrox and even the wolf children, are waiting for them down the stairs. When one of the children looked up, they suddenly blurted, “Pretty”. It caused the others to look at that direction and when they did, they felt their jaw drop.

Ron and Beacrox, went into memory lane when the young master was still a child. If they haven’t practice the art of poker face, they would have teared up a bit. They can’t believe that the child that they take care of, is already grown up.

The wolf children are theorizing if Young Master Cale is an angel and Young Master Roksoo is a cherub.

Choi Han on the other hand, can’t explain what he truly feels. All he heard, is his heart beating so fast. And he has an urge to protect his liege from unwanted people.

“Ron, is the carriage ready?”, Cale ask when they reach the ground floor.

“It is already prepared, Young Master.”

Cale, nods and look at everyone, “We’ll see you later, everyone.”

“Good bye, Young Masters.”

The carriage ride was peaceful, until Roksoo look at his reflection on the window.

‘What the cuss? Why?’

He should’ve notice when his siblings and everyone were praising him. He should’ve have asked his mother about his outfit. And he should’ve look at the mirror. If he did, he wouldn’t have to wear this outfit.

Roksoo, looks at his mother, with pleading eyes.

“Mommy, is it really too late to change my clothes?”

Cale gives his son a questionable gaze, “Why though? Were already riding the carriage, Roksoo. There is no turning back. And you look good in your clothes. So cute.”

“Yeah, Human-hyung. You look good, but not as mighty as me.”

“I agree with them, hyung-nim. What is your problem with you clothes anyway, didn’t you like shiny things?”

Asher and Raon, even added.

‘I do, but I only like looking at them, not wearing them.’

Roksoo, looks at his reflection in the carriage window and grimaced.

‘I shine too much.’

He looks at his mother’s outfit and then look at his. They have the same fabric, same pattern and color of clothing, in short his outfit is a mini version of his mother’s outfit. But why is his outfit, shinier? Did his mother add gems to it?

“Choi Han, isn’t Roksoo so cute?”, Cale gushes at Choi Han.

“Ah, ye-yes, Cale-nim!”, Choi Han stuttered.

“Choi Han, you’re a bit red. Are you sick?”, he then went close to Choi Han.

“No, Cale-nim. I’m not sick.”

“Are you sure?”

Cale, was about to reach Choi Han’s forehead, to check his temperature. When Choi Han, grab his hands.

“I’m okay, Cale-nim”. He then looks at Cale in the eye, “It’s just that-that you are, you know, you’re –”

Before Choi Han could finish, his mouth was shut down by a piece of apple pie.

“Mommy, Choi Han was about to say that you’re a good liege and he is just hungry!”, Roksoo explained and looks at Choi Han. “Right, Choi Han?”

Choi Han, just absentmindedly agreed.

“Ah okay, I’m thankful that is your perspective about me, Choi Han. Even though it’s a bit different”. Cale then looks at Roksoo, “But Roksoo, next time don’t shove a food in someone’s mouth. Even if they are starving, you understand?”

“Yes, mommy!”

 “And please, apologize to Choi Han.”

‘I don’t really want to’. Roksoo exhale, “I’m sorry, Choi Han.”

“It’s alright, Roksoo-nim. I’m actually thankful for your concern”, Choi Han then gives his puppy smile to Roksoo.

‘I don’t really like it when he smiles like that and I don’t like how he touch my mother.’

When Roksoo, saw Choi Han touch his mother’s hand. He was tempted to ask if the dragons, know a dissipating spell. Good thing, he remembered that Raon likes to keep foods in his spatial bag.

“Human-hyung, why do you look like you want to hurt someone? Who do we fight?”, Raon whispered to him.

Roksoo, just shakes his head and pats Raon on the head.

Asher, who saw the whole interaction, nearly laugh at what is happening in front of him. His hyung-nim, could be funny sometimes. But truth be told, he also doesn’t like how Choi Han was holding his mother’s hand. He just let it go, because Choi Han looks at his mother in a respectable way. But, if Choi Han will go above the limit, he will surely support his hyung-nim’s plan.

Raon, who was oblivious about his brother's thoughts, was just eating his apple pie quietly. Beacrox, bake him an apple pie and cookies for this trip. He’s really happy, that he could now personally request for food to the chef.

Cale, another oblivious individual, just stared fondly at his children. No one can blame him, his children are adorable.

The trip became peaceful once again.

They finally reach the royal palace. The ‘Palace of Confluence’. The Royal family made this palace, for guest or foreign visitors. Special Occasions and celebrations, are often held in this palace.

‘Is that gold I see?’, Roksoo’s eyes begin to shine. As they enter the gates, he sees golden statues of angels with trumpets, that are forming in a line. ‘Can Asher and Raon, carry that using their magic?’

“Were finally here”. Cale began to stretch his legs.

Choi Han was the first one to get off from the carriage, to assist his lieges. The dragons, immediately use their invisibility spell.

“Let’s see each other later, Choi-Han.”

“Y-yes, Cale-nim”. Choi Han is still a stuttering mess, which Cale didn’t notice. Because Roksoo suddenly hugs him.

“Bye, Choi Han”, Roksoo wave at him excitedly.

“Bye, Cale-nim and Roksoo-nim.”

When the carriage departed, they didn’t enter the palace yet. As they decided to enter together with the Northeastern nobles. Roksoo, is busy admiring the gold place. While Cale, was busy listening to the little dragon’s chatters.

“Well, if it isn’t Cale Henituse.”

A stern voice, could be heard behind them.

Roksoo tremble but went in front of Cale. Despite his small build, he is determined to protect his mother from evil people. He kind of expect that some people would try to torment his mother, because of those silly rumors. And he and his siblings, would protect his mother from them.

When he looks at that person, he sees a tall and handsome man with a dignified atmosphere. It’s already obvious that this person is a noble. ‘He looks kinda strict.’

“A pleasant day, Young Master Antonio”, Cale greeted the man elegantly.

The man, named Antonio suddenly smiled gently, “You know it’s just us here, call me like you used to.”

Cale chuckles, “Long time no see, Hyung-nim.”

“Long time no see, Dongsaeng. You have grown tall.”

“As if, Hyung. Even if I grow tall, you’re still taller than me.”

“Well, at least you know”, Antonio smirk, he then notices Roksoo, who has been looking at them back and forth. He gave a gentle smile at the child and bend down, “Hi, I’m your mother’s hyung-nim. I’m Antonio Gyerre.”

“You’re Uncle Anton?” Roksoo tilts his head. Roksoo, then bows, “Greetings, I’m Roksoo Henituse.”

• You know him, Human-hyung?
• So, he’s a safe human. Good to know.

Roksoo, just slightly nods to his siblings

Antonio, felt like someone was punching him in his heart. But in a good way. He already received letters from Cale, gushing about his child’s cuteness. But he didn’t expect his nephew, to be this cute.

Antonio cleared his voice, “Yes, I’m your Uncle Anton. What do you want as a gift?”

His mother already told him, about his circle of friends but the problem is he doesn’t know their face and the book didn’t help that much, since it mostly centered on the protagonist. All he knows is that they are rich.

The current Duchess of the Gyerre Clan, Duchess Sonata; is his Grandmother Jour’s godmother. Technically, Cale is like a grandchild (god grandchild?) and cousin to the Duchess and the heir of the Gyerre Household. And the Duchess was Cale’s first etiquette teacher.

'Mommy really has a lot of connection.'

Come to think of it, in the novel the only interaction that Cale Henituse has was the Northeastern nobles. It was not even mentioned that he personally knows Antonio Gyerre nor Taylor Stan. It wasn't even mention, that Cale has relatives in his biological mother's side.

'I guess, I shoudn't depend on the books that much. I'm not going to be surprise if mommy knows someone from royalty.'

Roksoo, looks at Antonio, like he told him he was the one who discovered gold. But he still needs to act demure and shy, or else he will be seen as greedy child.

He looks at his Uncle timidly, “Uncle, I want money, please.”

“Only that?”, Antonio replied quickly. He doesn’t even look surprise that a child ask money, instead of toys.

“Yes, Uncle Anton”, to increase his assets, he gave him a tight hug. And it looks, like its effective.

“Are you sure, you only want money?”, Antonio asks his nephew again.

Roksoo nods in return. Asher sigh deeply, he was the only one who knows his brother’s scheme, while Raon was happy that they will have money.

“If that’s want you want, then I’ll just give you a lot of it.”

Antonio’s words feel like music to Roksoo’s ears. ‘It’s good to have rich and generous people, surrounding you. Mommy, thank you for your connections. Your son, will reach his dreams.’

“But Cale, why are the two of you still outside?”

“Were waiting for Eric-hyung and the others to arrive, Hyung.”

“Speaking of Eric, I guess that’s their carriage.”

As Antonio finish saying that, a carriage appears in front of them. When the carriage door opened, Eric shown a surprise expression to see Antonio besides Cale. Nonetheless, gave a bow and smiles.

“Young Master Antonio, it’s nice to see you.”

“Same goes to you, Young Master Eric.”

Gilbert and Amiru, followed suit and Antonio greeted them back.

“Since everyone are here. Let’s enter the hall together”, Antonio suggested.

They all agreed, as they were walking in the hallway. They heard loud footsteps that's rushing towards them.

“Wait up, my beautiful cousin and adorable nephew!!!”

When they saw, who was it. The Northeastern nobles trembled on what’s about to happen, while Antonio faintly frown but thanks to his grandmother’s teaching, his face is still prim.

“Noona, if uncle heard you are running again. He will definitely scold you.”

“Don’t worry Cale, I already payed the people here, not to say a word to father.”

“Good to see you here, Young Mistress Agnella”, Antonio conceal his displeasure.

Agnella, gave a teasing yet cold smile, “If it isn’t the puritanical, Young Master Antonio.”

There is a common information that some people in the noble society knows; Young master Antonio Gyerre and Young mistress Agnella Thames, are not to be put together inside a room. Their compatibility, is compared to water and oil.

Every time they met, people always felt a storm is coming their way. They don’t physically nor verbally fight, but their eyes and expression says otherwise. Even though they are part of the Southwest nobles, during conferences or tea parties, their seats are always far apart. Or else, they will face a cold and awkward gathering.

‘The cold war is still ongoing, I see’, Cale exhale. His hyung-nim and noona, aren’t on best terms. He doesn’t know how their hatred develop into this. But he had a guess, it started when people around them like to compare the two, to one another.

Cale took pity to the others and interrupted their silent war, “Shouldn’t we go inside now?”

“Yes, we should”, the northeastern nobles replied together. They are truly grateful for Cale.

Roksoo and the invisible dragons, didn’t feel a single a thing. As they’re busy admiring the place.

Agnella, was the first to break their stares and smile enthusiastically at them. “Hi, Young Master Eric, Young Master Gilbert and Young Mistress Amiru. It’s good to see you all!”

“Likewise, Young Mistress Agnella.”

“You three, are always in sync.”

Then they continued going to their destination, like nothing had happened; they decided to put Agnella and Antonio far away from each other. When they finally reach the door to the grand hall, the steward could be heard calling each noble their names.

Antonio was the first to be called, then it was followed by the others. When it was about to be Agnella’s turn, she looks back at the Henituse duo.

“I’m going to share a table with you guys”, Agnella laugh at Cale’s doubtful face. “Don’t worry I didn’t do anything; Okay, I just bribe the steward who had the list of the seating arrangements. My turn now, bye.”

Cale, just chuckles at his cousin’s antics. He then looks at Roksoo.

“Ready, little rocky?”

“I’m ready.”

They both smiled at one another.

“Young Master Cale and Young Master Roksoo of the Count Henituse Household are entering the hall."

“Young Master Cale and Young Master Roksoo of the Count Henituse Household are entering the hall.”

Everyone then focus on the entrance door. When they heard, that the eldest son of the Henituse is going to attend. Everyone on the noble society had mix emotions. They didn’t expect that the rumored trash was the one attending, instead of the current heir.

Some were curious about him. Some wants to know if he is indeed trash. Some wants to see his face. Especially, the rumored adoptive son.

Adoption wasn’t an issue in this kingdom. But everyone was curious, why the rumored trash adoptive a child. And according to the gossips news, the rumored trash is being called ‘mommy’ by the child. That peak their interest more.

‘Why would a man, be called a female label?.’

When they saw the individuals that they have waited entered, their jaws drop.

‘That’s trash?!?’

‘No wonder the child called him mommy.’

Instead of someone looking like a gangster like what they expected, they saw the most gorgeous being that they ever saw. His short red-hair that shines from the light of the hall. Skin white as snow. Enchanting eyes, that could entice every being on this continent.

They already heard, that the eldest son of the count is a beauty. Yet, they didn’t believe because of the rumors. But now, they were thankful enough to not bet or else they would have lost their fortune.

And when they change their focus on the child, he was carrying. They decided to hold their jaws.

Because this is the most adorable child they have ever saw. They even thought that the young master, was holding a doll. A unique and charming face. Hair black as ebony. And the child, is quite tiny.

Agnella, smiled at his cousin and nephew.

‘They sure know, how to entice the crowd without knowing.’

Chapter Text

‘What are you all looking at?’

From the moment they entered and when they sat down, Roksoo could feel at the stares pointed towards him and his mother.

• Human-hyung, do you want me to make all these people disappear?
• Raon, no.

‘Raon, yes!’, he wanted to say out loud to Raon but can’t. He is acting as a good child, today.

• But, Asher-hyung. I don’t like how they look at mommy.
• Me too, but we don’t want to trouble mommy. Do you?
• Fine.

If he can do telepathy, he would have joined the conversation of his siblings. But it’s a good thing, that he could hear his siblings’ chatters, it’s a good distraction in preventing him from scowling. He then looks, at his mother who is greeting the other nobles. When his mother gave him a signal, he looks at the nobles.

“Greetings everyone, I’m Roksoo Henituse. Son of Cale Henituse”, Roksoo then gave his most charming smile.

Everyone, and even those who didn’t share a table with them, were attack by the cuteness that was presented to them.

“My nephew is really adorable!” Agnella enthused.

Eric, Gilbert and Amiru, enthusiastically nodded their heads. Taylor, was smiling gently (he arrived earlier than them and is also sharing the same table). Antonio was a bit jealous, since his seat was a far from them. Poor guy, he also wanted to see his nephew, up close.

Roksoo, had enough of the stares and look at his mother for help. Cale, got the hint and pull Roksoo close to him.

‘Since I’m a child, I’m allowed to be this clingy.’

The interaction made everyone feel warm and soft. As they saw, that the child looks comfortable, and the way the eldest son of the Henituse looks at the child in a dotingly manner. The people who heard about the rumors, are starting to change their opinion about the trashy young master.

Unbeknownst to Cale, his ‘trash reputation’ is starting to crumble. And a new reputation is about to be born.

“Crown Prince John and Princess Rosalyn of the Breck Kingdom are entering the hall.” 

Everyone’s attention then changes to the upcoming guest. They were already informed about foreign visitors but didn’t know who might attend.

From Roksoo’s knowledge from the novel, there would be three foreign guest that attended the banquet. And one of them is the Breck Kingdom. That kingdom is known for prospering brilliant mages. He gazes at the entrance and sees Crown Prince John. ‘Charming but a bit average.’

But the one who got most of the attention was not the crown prince, but the princess. Princess Rosalyn or the future Archmage of the Magic Tower. Hair that reminds you of those luscious red roses and a beautiful face to boast. The princess who choose magic, over the throne.

‘This world sure has a lot of beautiful faces’, he looks at Cale. ‘My mommy is still number one, though.’

• Hyung-nim, I could feel magic from that princess.

Of course, dragons would take interest from mages. They might be one of the people they could tolerate.

‘Oh, she was finally removed from being a successor. But when they attended the banquet Rosalyn was still the heir to the crown, however it’s now her brother. How strange.’

“Crown Prince Valentino of the Caro Kingdom is entering the hall.” 

Caro Kingdom, known for their sand dunes and famous for their casinos. It says that their casinos remind you of Las Vegas.

‘Soohyuk-hyung mention that he wants to enter a casino before, but didn’t got a chance due to work. I’ll just wait till I get older to visit the casinos then’. Roksoo nods at his idea.

Out of all the princes that Roksoo read in the novel; Crown Prince Valentino has the kindest and genuine personality among the princes. He doesn’t care about social statues and proper manners. Despite that, Roksoo doesn’t want to meet him in person. He isn’t good when facing to overly nice people, with the exception of his family of course.

‘A good looking and nice prince. I hope I won’t bump into you.’

“Commander Toonka and Supreme Chief Harol Kodiang from the Whipper Kingdom are entering the hall.” 

The kingdom known to have people with magic resistance and ironically where the Magic Tower is located. The history of the kingdom was sorrowful; the citizens were once tortured by the mages. But they began to revolt and change how the mages operated. A small-scale of mages were left after the rebellion, as the immoral mages had face the guillotine.

Their royalty doesn’t have much control in their country. Rather, it’s the non-mage faction or the Commander and the Supreme Chief who handles and manages the kingdom. Mostly it’s the Supreme Chief, though. 

‘Jungsoo-hyung once played as mufasa when we had a charity play. I heard from the team members, that they are going to make a live adaptation of the Lion King’, he then recalls Jungsoo’s poor made costume. ‘Toonka would have a 100% success in the audition, its either Simba or Scar. Howbeit, Scar its kind of lanky.’

As the Commander in Chief of the Whipper Kingdom, is a muscle man. Who uses his brawn more than his brain. And the one who owns the brain cells would be the kingdom’s Supreme Chief.

‘If it weren’t for the Supreme Chief, the kingdom might be in turmoil. As the royal family, is a bit useless there.’

After the three kingdoms were called, the hall was becoming peaceful. Roksoo, could see that they place those foreign guests together in the front. But something seems weird.

‘Why are there are more vacant seats?’

Roksoo, already memorize the nobles that were attending, thanks to Hans and Ron’s debriefing. And there were only three foreign guest. ‘Considering, that the Roan’s family has their own table. What’s the use of those vacant space?’

The question was answered, when the steward called out a name.

“Young Master Clopeh of the Duke Sekka Household from the Paerun Kingdom is entering the hall.” 

‘Eh?’

The heir of the Sekka Dukedom and Paerun’s Guardian Knight.

‘Why is this legend obsess lunatic here? Was he even supposed to appear?’

Green eyes and his flowing white hair. The Guardian Knight, is walking in a dignified manner.

‘Is this some kind of a shampoo commercial?’

Aside from Cale, Clopeh is one of the people that Choi Han beats up in the novel. He insulted Choi Han’s strength. But since he was also a swordmaster, they fight through swords, which Choi Han won.

Clopeh is describe to be strong, but is quite arrogant. ‘Good, another person to ignore on my list.’

“Saint Jack and Holy Maiden Hannah of the Church of the Sun God from the Mogoru Empire are entering the hall.” 

Everyone was shocked but their eyes are full of astonishment, even Roksoo. A lot of them, didn’t expect that the Church of the Sun God’s Saint and Holy Maiden would appear.

‘Wasn’t the Church super strict and overprotective with their saint? Must be character development?’

Two blonde-haired individuals were walking in the middle. One has a gentle atmosphere while the other has a fierce one.

‘Twins can sure be different with one another.’

Saint Jack, is said to be kind and caring to the citizens. It is said in the novel, that he secretly goes out from the church to heal the people in the slums. But he was a bit naïve, and that is where his protective twin sister appears. The Holy Maiden Hannah, is a temperamental person.

‘Choi Han nearly fought with Hannah, when he mistakenly thought that she was hurting a citizen in the empire. Good thing Jack came to stop the fight. Choi Han sure doesn’t pick his enemies, at least he knows gender equality.’

“Crown Princess Jopis of the Molden Kingdom is entering the hall.” 

This character was mentioned once, but didn’t appear in the novel. Crown Princess Jopis, was only mentioned as the future crown of the Molden Kingdom.

‘She kind of reminds me of Grandma Violan.’

With hair tied up in a neat bun like his grandma, and an elegant air that surrounds her.

The Crown Princess then turned into their direction and gracefully smiled. More like she was smiling at Cale, and Cale smiled back in return. Cale, noticed his son’s questionable gaze and whispered

“Remember when I said I have another noona, that lives far away? That’s her”, Roksoo has this ‘why didn’t you tell me I have an aunt who is a princess’ look. Cale smiled at him and continue, “She prevented me from telling you about this, because she wants to be introduce formally.”

Roksoo, let out an understanding nod towards his mother.

‘I just said, I’m not going to be surprise if mommy knows a royal. But why am I still surprised? Wait she’s a princess and mommy’s noona. Which means…’

• Human-hyung, why do you have that kind of smile?
• Hyung-nim, your smile is kind of creepy.

There were sparkles in Roksoo’s eyes, ‘Gift Money!’

But his internal celebration was stop, when a name was called out.

“Imperial Crown Prince Adin of the Mogoru Empire is entering the hall.”

‘Great, an ugly bastard.’

Well, the Imperial Prince isn’t that bad of a person. But he did try to bribe Choi Han to be his guard, but since Choi Han was set to find the meaning of life, he declines the offer. The Prince, didn’t react that much and just let it go.

However, he is the type of royal; who is a bit arrogant, tactless and a two-face bastard. Surprisingly, him and the kind Valentino are best friends.

‘If Toonka is like a lion. Adin is like those big dogs who are friendly at first but when you get close to them, they will bite you.’

“Sir Bud Illis and Sir Glenn Poeff of the Mercenaries Guild are entering the hall.”

‘Wait, what?!? Don’t they hate public gatherings?’

A purple haired and blue-haired individual with glasses, entered the hall. The purple-hair has a displease expression towards his companion.

‘The banquet hasn’t started yet, but why does he look drunk?’

As Roksoo could guess, the one with the purple-hair and looks intelligent would be Glenn. A core member of the Mercenaries Guild and a highest-grade mage.

While the one with the blue-hair and looks drunk would be Bud. Bud Illis, a swordmaster and the Mercenary King of the eastern continent

‘The novel didn’t put any other details about them. They only got one interaction with Choi Han there, and that was when Choi Han was looking for a place to sleep. The Author sure likes adding characters, with little details.’ 

“Queen Litana of the Jungle is entering the hall.”

An individual with a petite build, black hair and brown skin, caught everyone’s attention. But what caught most of their attention was the black panther, who is walking besides her.

‘We should have brought, Ohn and Hong.’

Just like other characters in the novel, Litana appeared once. She was the one who toured the lost Choi Han in the jungle. She is a diligent and righteous queen. And cares for her people and the weak.

‘What an ideal queen.’

A minute of silence. And then, everyone we’re all talking about the foreign visitors.

‘I can’t believe they accepted the invitations.’

‘The Royal Family must have a good relationship with them.’

‘I heard the crown prince was the one, who invited them.’

From political viewpoints, to amazement and to raving about the looks of the guest, could be heard inside the hall.

‘Why do I have a feeling; this is not the end?’

“Duke Fredo and Young Master Naru of the von Ejellan Household, from the Endable Kingdom are entering the hall.”

‘Endable Kingdom? Isn’t that the strictest kingdom. And from what Uncle Basen, taught me this kingdom is more powerful than the empire and they mostly don’t attend social gatherings. Why are they doing here then? And was their current heir named, Barlow?’

Two individuals, with the same appearance entered. But the other one, was like the mini version of the other.

• Hyung-nim, isn’t that the funny uncle and kind hyung we meet last time?
• Ohn-noona and Hong-hyung, is close with that small human, right?

‘Naru was the name right? Wait, wasn’t that man, Naru’s uncle? Which mean?’

“Crown Prince Barrow White Star I of the Endable Kingdom is entering the hall.”

• Human-hyung
• Isn’t he?

‘The ugly bastard! That ugly thing is a Prince? He didn’t even have a sense of royal dignity in him!’

He looks at his mother, who has a shocked expression.

“Mommy, are you okay? Don’t remember what that guy said.”

“Don’t worry, I already move on from that. I’m just a bit shocked, that we had interacted with a royal.”

Roksoo nods at his mother. ‘Of course, mommy would be shocked. That thing doesn’t even look like a royalty at all.’

The Endable Kingdom’s royal family, hasn’t showed their face in public for almost 3 decades. The people are now curious, why did they show up now.

• When will the food arrive, Human-hyung.
• It’s already 5 minutes now.

Roksoo just ignored his sibling. He is quite happy that their table is near the entrance and a bit hidden. Guest that came after them, would not know who was seating here, except if you would glance at this area. Example the Crown Princess Jopis.

And they can go out, without anyone noticing them. After they finish their business here, they could just go home quietly.

A thought suddenly appeared on Roksoo's mind.

‘The book didn’t really focus much on the side characters. The author just mentioned them for one chapter and then move on. They look like they were just put there to add thrill, help the protagonist or just make them sit there and look pretty. Most of the pages there, are just Choi Han’s questions about life’s existence. Why did I read such a book, in the first place? And how did I reach volume 5?’

In short the novel, was a bit poor and messy.

He thought of Choi Han, ‘Has Choi Han already discovered his reason?’

“Prince Robbit and Prince Thirdie of the Roan Kingdom are entering the hall.”

Agnella, who was seating next to them clap, “Finally they are now here.”

“Noona, please.”

“But Cale, I’m already hungry. The foods are the only reason I came here.”

‘So that’s the princes? They are handsome, but they say the crown prince is the most handsome of them all.’

No one notice this, but according to the novel; the Royal Family has good relationship with one another. People just assumed that they have this sort of animosity with each other. Instead of clearing the news, the Royal Family just let it transpired. And act that they weren’t close in public.

They just let the public or the noble society assume that they are hostile to another. In order to identity those who might rebel against them, since each noble has their own faction and chosen princes of their own. This would let them discover, who might commit treason.

The second and the third prince, doesn’t want the throne. But they have to assess their faction, if they are indeed loyal and good to their country or not.

‘That’s a good move, though.’

The only people who knows that's the royal family has good relationships are; their aides, chosen nobles, knights and servants.

'And now, me.'

“Crown Prince Alver Crossman of the Roan Kingdom is entering the hall.”

Roksoo, nearly laugh because the people in their table sigh in relief, even his mother. ‘They must be really hungry now.’

• We can finally eat, since the crown prince is now here.
• Yey!

‘Did they forgot they can’t eat here? But it would be funny to see other people’s faces, to see a floating food then it suddenly disappeared out of thin air.’

Roksoo’s gaze is then focused on the eldest prince of the kingdom. The prince walked with confidence, with his golden hair and blue eyes, that could make everyone stare in awe.

‘He is indeed the best looking prince, here.’

He can’t seem to like the prince, though. It’s kind of a miracle that Choi Han, followed some of the prince’s request. And it’s because of his glib tongue, Choi Han was easily manipulated in becoming the prince’s errand boy. But of course, it was only simple requests. Still, Roksoo finds it dreadful to be doing someone’s errand.

But he has to admit, Crown Prince Alver, is really a good ruler. All he does are for the good of the kingdom and its citizens. 

‘These golden-haired brothers sure know how to act.’

The crown prince looks at his brother’s direction, his younger brothers bowed down without looking at him directly in the face. It causes others to assume of their bad relationship as siblings. But if you would look closely and observes them, you would see a flicker of acknowledgement and a bit of mischief in their eyes.

Roksoo, was the only one who could detect it, and also credits to the novel’s information.

When the crown prince reaches the podium in the front.

“Welcome, everyone. First and foremost, I would like to give my thanks to everyone who accepted our invitations. This prince, is very happy and grateful for giving your time in attending this banquet. Your presence means much to me.”

‘He sure knows, how to use his mouth.’

The crown prince, then looks at the foreign guests, “To our foreign guests who travelled from afar in joining us in this celebration. We, the Roan Kingdom, truly appreciate your attendance”, he let out a shining smile, “And again, thank you all for showing up. Then, I will end my speech here. Without further ado, let’s begin the banquet. I hope everyone of you would have a wonderful meal.”

“Finally! Food!”

He could see his Aunt Agnella’s eyes, twinkling when the foods were placed in front of them.

‘They really went all out. This look good.’

As Roksoo, was eating his food, he could feel someone sat on his lap.

• Human-hyung, is it tasty?

Roksoo, looks at his surrounding carefully and sees everyone are focusing on their food. He then lowered his spoon, to let the Baby Dragon taste some Cordon Bleu. And he could see, that his mother is also doing the same thing to Asher.

• Mommy, could we tell Chef Beacrox to cook this!

Cale, lightly laugh at Raon and mumble a ‘yes.’

• Yey!

When they finished with the appetizer and the main dish, the dessert was next. Roksoo, has high expectation for it. And he wasn’t disappointed at all. They serve them, a Golden Opulence Sundae.

‘Royalty indeed.’

While he was busy, with his ice-cream. The adults were talking.

“After, we finish eating let’s great his royal highness.”

Roksoo, suddenly froze.

“Eric, calm down. We are just going to greet him.”

“Gilbert, your hands are also shaking.”

“Why are you so calm, Amiru?”

“Because there is nothing to be afraid of. It’s just a simple greeting.”

“I like your spirit, Young Mistress Amiru!”

“Thank you, Young Mistress Agnella.”

• Hyung-nim, are you okay?
• Is the ice-cream, not good?

He quietly put his spoon down and looks at the exit.

“Can I just stay here?”

Roksoo heard his mother’s voice and was about to raise his thumps up.

“Cale, no. Like what Amiru said, it’s just a simple greeting. You and Roksoo, should come with us.”

Eric, said in a stern manner, and all Cale could do is just nod.

‘You are no longer my favorite uncle!’

Roksoo, wanted to throw a tantrum but he couldn’t do that. It’s not like when they were in Puzzle City, where people doesn’t know them. Here, all nobles know the Henituse Household, people would surely mock his family. Especially, his mother. And he doesn’t want that.

‘Like what Aunt Amiru said, there is nothing to be afraid of. It’s just a simple greeting. It’s not like the Crown Prince, could hurt me.’

Roksoo, then focus back on his ice-cream.

‘Yeah, nothing to be afraid of.’

Chapter Text

“Eric, breathe.”

“I’m already breathing, Gilbert.”

“Can the two of you, quiet down?”

“Sorry, Amiru.”

Agnella and Taylor, were just laughing at them.

“Cale, you look like you want to ran away. Are you nervous too?”

“Ah, Taylor-hyung. It’s not that I’m nervous. It’s just that, the table of the crown prince; is just too far.”

“You’re just lazy to walk, cousin dear.”

Roksoo, was just listening to his aunt and uncle. There were still a lot of people, who are greeting the crown prince.

• Human-hyung, the crown prince seems to be weird.

‘Huh?’

• I agree with, Raon. We went close to him, just now.
• Right, Hyung! His hair and skin seems to be dyed by magic!
• Do you think someone made that for him?
• Do you think he has a dragon that he knows?
• Don't know...
• The level of magic could only be notice by mighty beings like us! Or is it a natural power?

‘Please stop you two. I don’t need to hear that useless information.’

Roksoo, was about to attempt to cover his ears, when his Uncle Eric stand up.

“Everyone, it’s time.”

 He then notices, that there were less people who are now greeting the Crown Prince. His mother then helps him from his seat, and he was about to be carried by his mother.

“Mommy, I will walk.”

Despite, him wanting to be carried, he decided to just walk.

“Are you sure? The aisle is a bit far.”

“Yes. I’m a big boy.”

Agnella pats him on the head, “Of course, our Roksoo is a big boy. Let your son walk, Cale. He seems to be okay with it.”

“Well, if his fine, then okay”, he looks at Roksoo dotingly. “By the way, Taylor-hyung, Ella-noona, are the both of you not going to greet his highness?”

“I’m going to greet him later at the after party”, Taylor responded.

“Me too, since I have something to discuss with his highness”, Agnella added.

“Then, we are now going to greet his highness.”

“Young Master Eric, Young Master Gilbert, breathe”, Agnella joked.

“Like what Young Mistress said, breathe. Come now you two. Cale, you too”, Amiru stated.

Cale then holds his hand. “Let’s go.”

The journey towards the crown prince table, was going smoothly and Roksoo was thankful for that.

When they were nearer at their destination. All of a sudden, a sound of a glass breaking could be heard.

When everyone followed, where that sound came from. It was at the area of the foreign guests, apparently it came from two princes.

“Imperial Crown Prince Adin and Crown Prince Barrow, are the both of you fine?”

“Your Royal Highnesses, please let us clean this area and we will replace your wine glass.”

 Both the princes weren’t listening to the butlers, because both of their attention were focus on one person.

‘Please, no. No.’

• Why are they looking at mommy like that?

Their eyes were only on Cale Henituse.

Unfortunately for them, Cale was looking at the glass shards. Which Roksoo, was glad. Even his uncles and aunt, didn’t notice the stares of the princes; that was directly to his mother.

“Mommy, aren’t we suppose to greet the crown prince?”

“Oh, sorry about that.”

When they were now in front of the crown prince’s table, Roksoo could still feel their gaze towards his mother. He just holds his mother’s hands tightly. As they were standing behind his uncles and aunt.

“We greet his royal highness.”

“Our Northeastern nobles! I’m glad to see you all here."

Crown Prince Alver, gave them a bright smile.

‘My eyes hurt. He’s too sparkly.’

“Young Master Eric of the Wheelsman Household. I heard of your intelligence and diligence, the future of the county will be at peace in your hands.”

‘His glib tongue must be working hard today.’

“Young Master Gilbert Chetter. I was informed about your achievements in your territory. You’re a great example of nobility.”

‘Way to go, Crown Prince.’

“Young Mistress Amiru Ubarr. The future Matriarch, I hope I could visit your territory. I heard the shoreline there, is beautiful during the sunset.”

‘I wonder, if there is an off and on switch with his tongue?’

And the crown prince keeps going on and on praising the three.

Cale and Roksoo, was actually thankful for that, since they were only here to greet; not hear the amazing performance of the Crown Prince’s glib tongue.

Sadly, their prayers weren’t heard.

“Oh, who might be at the b – ”

‘Huh? Did the switch turn off?’

Roksoo, was curious why the crown prince suddenly stops talking. He wasn’t really looking at the crown prince, when the prince started to talk. He looked at the prince and he wanted to laugh. The prince really froze.

‘He looks like an idiot. Wait – ’

He followed the prince’s line of sight and he regretted laughing at him.

‘Shit.’

Cale, was really oblivious with the prince’s stare. Since his mother finds the floor far more interesting, than the prince.

Eric gently nudge, Cale in the front. Which cause Roksoo to be at the front too, as he was holding Cale’s hand. Cale then looks at the Prince, and bows.

“I greet the shining star of our kingdom. I’m Cale Henituse, the son of Count Deruth Henituse.”

The crown prince then moves. It looks like a curse has been lifted to his frozen state, a while ago.

“Ah, the eldest son of Count Henituse. I didn’t expect you to come – oh, I didn’t mean that in a bad way.”

‘What the? Why does he look shy? Even, the second and third prince, looks at him weirdly.’

“I’m thankful for the Count’s effort, for keeping the Forest of Darkness at bay. We are truly thankful for that, as it not only reassures me but for others as well”. The prince presented his bright smile and continue, “This might be, my first time meeting you. And I heard a lot of things about you, I’m now grateful to finally meet you.”

“No, your royal highness. This lowly noble should be the one who is grateful to be in your presence. This lowly noble, is quite glad to be present in this magnificent celebration”, Cale bow elegantly and gave the prince a smile.

‘Is he blushing? Should he be good at controlling his face? What a disappointment.’

• Hey, Hyung-nim, do something now!

‘Thanks, Asher. I was suddenly distracted by this two-faced prince’, Roksoo then cleared his throat.

“Good day to the shining star and future sun of our kingdom. Your presence is as dazzling as the night star, as it illuminates the dark sky. I will always remember this moment in my eyes. And sorry for the late introduction, I am Roksoo Henituse. Son of Cale Henituse. I’m truly glad to be in your presence”. He then copied his mother’s actions just a minute ago.

Aside from his mother who has a proud look. His uncles and aunt, and even the people who were busy right now is focusing on them.

‘Why do I hear, Aunt Ella’s laugh from here?’

They were all surprise at the child. How can a child that age, have an elegant posture and polite manner, that even their own children who are much older, can’t achieve that.

Because of Roksoo’s action, the rumors about Cale was slowly erasing.

“I guess the rumors about Young Master Cale, being a trash is false.”

“I agree, a child can’t be that polite and elegant, if the parents would set as a bad example.”

“I even heard from the Henituse maids, that Young Master Cale and the Countess was the one teaching him manners and etiquette.”

“Come to think of it, Young Master Cale greeted the prince elegantly, too.”

“Young Master Roksoo is so cute! I want to pinch his cheeks.”

Roksoo, was really glad that the rumors about his mother are slowly fading. But he really doesn’t want to be part of their praises. ‘Those hypocrites.’

“Young Master Roksoo, it’s nice to finally meet you.”

‘Right. I forgot about him.’

“I heard news about you. As I’m seeing you right now, the words didn’t give justice on how charming you are. Young Master Roksoo, I suddenly remember my childhood days in you.”

“Your royal highess, you flatter this humble being. For I will engrave in my mind, this significant event that happened in my life”, he then gives the crown prince a smile.

• Human-hyung, you have that creepy smile on your face. But you still look mighty, only 10%.
• I'm suddenly afraid of this prince's well-being.

Everyone was still in wonder of how courteous the young master is.

Except, Crown Prince Alver. You could see the look of horror, on his face. He even stepped back and turned his attention to Eric.

No one will know, that this tiny child showed dominance against a prince.

‘That’s it, be afraid of me. For I was Kim Rok Soo; Grade 1 - Ability User and a mighty Team Leader’. He suddenly felt goosebumps on his skin, ‘Crap, I sounded like a chuuni. This might be Raon’s doing.’

The adults then continued on their conversation, even the second and third prince joined them. While Cale and Roksoo, were just at the back.

When they were finally finished, they gave their farewell to the prince and was about to go back to their seat.

“Wait! I mean, excuse me, Young Master Cale.”

“Yes, your royal highness?”

“May I ask, if you are staying for the after party?”

Cale, looked confused but answered.

“No, your royal highness.”

“If it’s not too impertinent, may I ask why?”

“I apologize, if my reason may come out as rude, your royal highness. Since this lowly being, tends to get tired easily when it comes to social occasions. As, I’m still not used to the crowd, since it’s been a long time that I participated in this kind of event", Cale looked apologetic. "So, are there other things, that you need from this lowly being, your royal highness?”

‘Good job, mother! Got other things to say to my mommy, crown prince? If not, let us leave.’

“There is, Young Master Cale.”

“What is it, your royal highness?”

“How longer are you staying in the capital?”

‘Is he, trying to make a move on my mother?!? The audacity of this bastard.’

“I can’t say an exact day, but it might depend. Why, your royal highness?”

The prince mumbled something, but Cale didn’t hear it.

“What was that, your royal highness?”

“Nothing, Young Master Cale. I think I already took most of your time. You may now go.”

“Thank you, your royal highness”, Cale bowed and then turned to Roksoo. “Roksoo, let’s go.”

Roksoo, stayed still for a bit and look at the crown prince.

“Crown Prince Alver, as much as this humble being, want to see this shining sight. I regret to say, that we must now depart”, he then holds the crown prince’s hands, “This lowly being is really thankful to attend this event that you graciously held for us. Farewell, Crown Prince Alver.”

Roksoo, then ran to his mother.

“Didn’t know you like that crown prince, that much.”

He tried to control his face, to hide his displeasure. But showed a bright smile towards his mother.

“He’s just shiny!”

“Please, stay longer.”

‘The audacity of that prince! Thank goodness, mommy didn’t hear it.’

• Human-hyung, why did that crown prince want mommy to stay longer. Didn’t they just meet today?
• Raon, the crown prince is just a weird human.
• So, he’s just a weirdo?
• Yes, he’s a weirdo.

They are now walking in the hallway.

After the banquet had ended, they gave their farewells to the others and left the great hall. His aunts and uncles, stayed for the after party, as they have something to discuss with the prince and other nobles.

While they were walking, Roksoo could see a figure of a woman from afar. As they were getting closer, he could now see the figure clearly. The woman, then glance at them and gave an elegantly smile.

“It’s pleasant to see you again, Cale.”

Cale, then elegantly bow.

“Me too, Jopis-noona.”

Jopis looks at Roksoo, “This must be my nephew. He is indeed adorable, like what you said. And my, as such a young age, he’s already well-mannered. I saw how he greeted Crown Prince Alver, that was quite impressive.”

Roksoo felt shy with the praise, he then greets the princess, “I greet her royal highness, Crown Princess Jopis. And thank you, for the praise your royal highness. That’s too kind of you.”

“He really resembles you, Cale. A well-mannered child, indeed”, she then gracefully bends down, to match Roksoo’s height. “And please, since you’re my brother’s son; call me Aunt Jopis.”

“Aunt Jopis?”

“Excellent. I presume Cale, didn’t give you any details about our connection, since I told him not to. Quick history, my godmother is your late Grandma Jour, thus Cale is my brother. The end.”

‘I like this, Aunt. Brief and straight to the point.’

Jopis then stands up and presents her hand in front of Roksoo, “Let’s go, this location is not an appropriate place to form conversations.”

“Noona, where are we going?”

“To your residence, of course. This place seems to be full of scums.”

‘I like the attitude, Auntie! This place is indeed full of scums.’

“Wait, Noona. Are you not going to attend the after party? Are your vassals, not going to find you?”

 “I already told my vassals about it and they agreed”. Jopis frown elegantly, “And I won’t attend the after party, there are going to be full of wackos there.”

“Do you really have to say that, Noona?”

“Well, who do you think I am?” Jopis ended with a smirk.

Cale just give up reasoning with her, he’s going to lose anyway.

“Fine. Fine, Noona.”

“Then, what are we waiting for? Let’s go.”

“Hyung-nim, are you going to break your oath of not marrying?”

“If that’s the case. Thank goodness, my future children will not be a future ruler. You can just have the young master’s son be the king then. He seems to like you.”

“But he did gave Hyung-nim a glare.”

Alver, just ignored his younger brothers jests.

They are already out of everyone’s sight; hence they broke their public façade.

“But you know, I was shock with Young Master Cale’s appearance. He really is indeed a beauty.”

“Right. At first, I thought they are just exaggerating the rumors, like how they exaggerate his attitude.”

Alver is just listening to his brothers conversations.

Cale Henituse. Eldest son of Count Henituse, from his first wife. He was once an exemplary child, but turned trash when his father remarried. And he let go of his right as heir, to his step brother without any complains. After a few years, it was reported he adopted a child, in which the child is calling him ‘mommy’.

Alver, already has information about Cale Henituse, that he acquired from the queen and his aunt. That’s why, he was already prepared to give flowery words to the noble. But he wasn’t informed about one thing.

‘Why didn’t they tell me, about how he looks like? I should have asked a portrait. I look like a fool, in front of him.’

Robbit and Thirdie, seems to be enjoying their chatters, not to notice their older brother’s internal turmoil.

Alver, already saw a lot of beautiful faces. From nobles here in the capital, to princes and princesses from different kingdoms. However, all of them didn’t have an effect on him.

But why does he feel giddy all of a sudden, and he can’t help but notice his heart is beating faster than usual.

And it’s all because of Cale Henituse.

“Please, stay longer.” 

He was actually lucky, that the red-head noble didn’t hear him.

Yet, unlucky.

Because the one who heard him was his younger brothers and worst; the noble’s son.

He was actually impress and scared at the same time, when the child greeted him. It’s like he was seeing another version of him, but only a different face and tiny.

‘Heck, that grip that he got was actually strong. Good thing I trained and exercise. But a child’s grip shouldn’t be underestimated.’

Chapter Text

“Can’t you write a letter, that I got sick?”

“That’s very unprofessional of you, your royal highness.”

“Uncle, were going to be called next.”

“Your royal highness, please have patience.”

Barrow, just holds his tongue and didn’t reply back to the duke. If he did, he and the duke would continue quarreling and it would be an embarrassment for others to see it; as they are the representative of their kingdom, it would bring shame and his grandfather would be upset with him.

He is already regretting his decision of accepting the invitation. But since he already travelled and dressed up for the event, there’s no backing down now.

‘I wonder if he’s here.’

He already asked some of his people to investigate about the red-head he met.

Cale Henituse. The beloved eldest son of the Count, from his previous wife. The only red among the browns. A rumored trash.

And a single parent of a 5 years old.

There is only little information about the noble, because it looks he is well protected by his family and their territory.

‘I want to apologize to what I did last time’. He does admit that even though he excels in different areas, when it comes to the social and emotional part, he is inept.

But despite his ineptitude, he should have not been insensitive and disrespectful towards the man.

His nephew, Naru, really made him reflect about his actions. While the duke, is enjoying looking at his misery. The apple sure does fall far from the tree.

When they were called by the steward, he could already hear the gasp from the people inside. After 3 decades of not showing up in public, of course everyone would be shocked.

After 3 decades, there is a representative that came from the Endable Kingdom. And it was the crown prince, that showed up.

As he reaches his designated seat, he casually looks around for that person. But can’t find someone with red-hair. He did find one, but it was the Breck Kingdom’s princess.

(Cale and Roksoo’s table are in a far area. And aside from that, a pillar is actually hiding Cale’s figure from their viewpoint at the front.)

After Crown Prince Alver, finished his greetings; they started the banquet.

The food was actually great, he could give compliments to the chefs.

He saw some nobles greeting the Roan’s crown prince and some are also greeting other foreign guests. Due to his intimidating aura, no one tried to approach him. He’s just enjoying his wine, at the corner of the hall.

“It’s delighted to see the crown prince of the Endable Kingdom in this banquet.”

I guess someone was brave enough to approach him.

“Pleased to meet you too, Imperial Crown Prince Adin.”

“I didn’t expect Crown Prince Barrow to know me. It’s been a long time, since you step… into this civilization. I was worried about your inexperienced towards this world.”

Barrow, already hates this prince.

“I also didn’t know, that his Imperial Crown Prince is concerned of me. But please, don’t concern yourself. As I’m capable enough to adapt… in this civilization.”

Duke Fredo, is kind of thankful no one was focus on these princes’ mini war.

Their death glare was stopped when they heard Naru’s voice and pointed at a direction.

“Father, look it’s the pretty uncle!”

Barrow and Adin, looks at the direction and they both dropped their wine glasses.

“Imperial Crown Prince Adin and Crown Prince Barrow, are the both of you fine?”

“Your Royal Highnesses, please let us clean this area and we will replace your wine glass.”

 Both the princes weren’t listening to the butlers, because both of their attention were focus on one person.

Crimson hair. Porcelain skin. Lithe figure. Elegant posture. And an ethereal appearance.

‘He really is here. Cale Henituse is here.’

He sees Cale Henituse with his son, and some nobles greeted Crown Prince Alver. He suddenly wishes, to switch his position with the prince. He would pay many golds, just to see that smile up-close.

He was slightly amaze with the action of his son, Roksoo Henituse. He seems to be a polite child, but the time where the child kicked him, flashes in his mind. Even though, he was handed a healing potion; he could still feel the pain that the child inflicted him.

“An angel.”

He turned to look at the Empire Prince, and faintly scowled. His scowled didn’t fade easily, when he sees the others were also in awe with the red-haired beauty. Except for the Molden Kingdom’s crown princess.

‘Wait, I didn’t see that princess after the meal had ended. I don’t care anyways.’

When he saw that they were finished with the greetings, he was about to approach Cale Henituse; when he bumps into someone.

“Oh, I’m sorry, Crown Prince.”

‘This jackass.’

“I also apologize for bumping into you, Imperial Crown Prince.”

“Why are you suddenly in haste?”

“I just saw someone I know.”

“And who might that be?”

“It’s none of your business.”

“Is that certain business of yours, someone with red-hair?”

“Are you pertaining to the Breck Kingdom’s princess?”

“My, you sure are good at feigning ignorance.”

“But aren’t you pertaining to her anyway?”

“Oh please, I’m referring to – ”

When the empire prince turned his eyes to a certain direction, the red-haired beauty was no longer there.

‘Crap. We’ll just see him in the after party then.’

Sadly, that person didn’t came for the after party.

“Ron.”

“Yes, Young Master Roksoo?”

“Where did these flowers and letters, come from?”

“Oh, the letters are from the different noble households. While the flowers, are from the crown prince of the Endable Kingdom. And according to the cards, they were intended for Young Master Cale. Why do you ask, young master?”

“Nothing. By the way, is mommy awake?”

“Young Master Cale, is still asleep.”

“Then I have a request. Can you do it?”

“As long as this Ron, is capable to accomplish it. Then, what is it, young master?

“Can you deliver those letters to Grandpa Deruth and Grandma Violan?”

“Very well, young master. And what about the flowers?”

He looks intently at the flowers.

“Burn them.”

“As you wish.”

Ron was about to exit.

“And, Ron.”

“Don’t say a word.”

“As always, young master.”

He then went back, enjoying his sweet tea.

‘Damn, those bastards. They are trying to make a move.’

“Mommy, how long will the festival last?”

“One week, little blueberry.”

“Are there cakes nya?”

“There will be, little cupcake.”

“What about apple pies?”

“There will, little blueberry.”

Raon and Hong’s eyes started to shine, and imagine the things they will about to see.

After the royal banquet, starts the ‘Boulder Festival’. As the Roan Kingdom is known as the kingdom of ‘Boulders’, not only was it the Western Continent’s greatest source of marble, but the Northwest and Western areas of Roan Kingdom contained a lot of granite. That was why it was called the Land of Boulders (credits wiki.)

It is an annual festival that last for 1 week. In that week, there are going to be a lot of activities such as; a live sculpting contest, art gallery, games for adults and children, magic shows, etc.

When the children heard about the festival, all of them were ecstatic. They even started to count the coins that are in their piggy banks. Roksoo, secretly pinch in some coins in his siblings’ piggy banks.

They are still in their home, and are just getting ready to go to the festival.

“Remember, what did I say?”

“Don’t split up and don’t follow strangers.”

“Besides that?”

“If you want to go somewhere, ask permission first.”

“Also?”

“If you get lost, don’t panic. Stay calm and press the button.”

“And?”

“If you have find something interesting, just buy it!”

“Very good!”

After, Roksoo got lost last time. Cale, bought a lot of emergency buttons from Billos; the guild leader’s son of the Flynn Merchant Guild. He was the wayward son, who abandoned his family fortune and started his business from scratch. And right now, is known to be one the richest man in the kingdom.

Cale and Billos, wasn’t that close before. Cale, just used Billos tea shop as an escape from Ron’s lemon tea and a place to hang out after his drunken escapade. They only started to get close, is when Roksoo keep on coming back to his shop to read books and enjoy some sweet tea (it’s also an escape from the lemon tea at home. Like mother, like son.)

While waiting for Roksoo, one day. Cale started to do some small talks toward Billos and after a few days, the two became friends. And that’s where Billos, became Cale and Roksoo’s supplier for things that they need.

The emergency buttons that Cale bought from Billos, is a tracker and at the same time an alarm that creates loud noises, that could be heard 20 feet away. Billos didn’t even questioned Cale, why he bought a lot of it; since he already knows that the eldest son of the count, is a bit weird sometimes.

As they went down, they already saw everyone are ready. The wolf children seem to be excited and Lark is trying to control his siblings from jumping up and down. Hans, as always is still cheery. Beacrox, looks blank but you could see it in his eyes, that he is excited to get some fresh and unique ingredients from the market. Choi Han, seems to reminisce about something. And Ron, is being Ron.

‘Looks like everyone, is excited to go.’

Cale, smiled at the them, “Let’s go, everyone!”

 ‘How crowded.’

When they reach the capital, they decided to separate and see each other later at home.

The wolf children, planned to participate in some games, while Hans and Hilsman act as their chaperone. Ron accompanied Beacrox, to the market. Freesia, sign up to the live sculpting contest. And they even let some of their workers and knights, to enjoy the festival today. While the others who were left at home, will get a chance the next day.

As for Cale, Choi Han and the children, they agreed to stick to one another.

Roksoo, tried to persuade Choi Han to go somewhere, but it was a failure. As the man, is really serious in doing his job as their guard. They didn’t bring any knights, as they wanted to enjoy the festival freely.

However, Roksoo regretted it since there are a lot of parasites trying to steal a glance towards his mother. He doesn’t want to admit it at first, but Choi Han’s scary aura really does the job. Every time someone tries to get close to Cale, Choi Han will spread his aura towards that person.

“Lots of flavors of cake nya!” The kittens exclaimed.

• Look apple pies!
• Stargazy pie.
• Hyung-nim, your taste is weird.
• Dongsaeng, quite down.

The baby dragons are still invisible.

They are in a Self-Service Restaurant right now, and are currently picking what food to eat. They were supposed to go to a café, but they were full of people. They were fortunate enough that they found this restaurant, since most of the restaurants that they have run into are all fully booked.

There were only a few people when they went inside. So, they don’t have much problem with the line.

“Choi Han, are you sure you can carry that?”

“I can manage, Cale-nim.”

“But it’s 6 plates.”

While Choi Han and Cale, was arguing about who could carry the plates. They didn’t notice, they have caught some people’s attention.

“Look at the couple, over there. They look so adorable.”

“Wow, what a handsome and beautiful pair.”

“The kid over there, must be their child.”

“But aren’t they men?”

“Look, were in a magical world, do you think that logic works here?”

“I heard the child say ‘mommy’ towards the red-hair.”

“Then the red-hair is…..”

“The child got the black from the dad and the eyes from the mom. Great genes.”

“Why are always the good looking people paired up with one another? How about us?”

“Cheer up. Just wait for the next life.”

This is the reason why Roksoo, wants Choi Han to be separated from them. Because, his mother and Choi Han, would most likely be seen as a couple. Like what happened, when they were still in puzzle city.

• Human-hyung, why are you frowning? Are really that hungry? Don’t worry, mommy and Choi Han, would arrive with our food. Just ask your stomach to wait, okay?

‘If only that’s the problem, Raon. If only.’

“Kids, foods here.”

Cale, then place the food on their table. Since the restaurant is animal friendly, the kittens were allowed on the table to eat. Cale, secretly took 2 plates for the dragons, and put them near the empty seat next to Choi Han.

When everyone is now comfortable, they started to eat. The food was good, but children took interests on the desserts.

Roksoo, really wants to agree with Raon. He sometimes wants to question Asher’s taste; how could someone eat that pie happily without looking weirded out with the fish on top of it. He already seen this pie, at his former world.

It doesn’t taste bad and it also doesn’t taste that good; it’s average for him. However, Roksoo couldn’t look at the fish with a straight face. It’s a bit creepy.

‘Oh well, I’ll just enjoy this cake. I wonder when will mommy, return?’

Cale and Ohn, went to the comfort room. As Ohn, accidentally smear her tail with icing, and Cale went to accompany her to clean it.

As they were enjoying their food, quietly. The door abruptly opened and a big man walks in.

“Harol, I smell a strong person here!”

“Toonka, please behave. We are not in our country.”

Roksoo, paled and look at Choi Han, he was about to warn Choi Han to not look at those people. But he was too late.

“Hey, wanna fight?!?”

‘This son of a natural being!’

Toonka, is now in front of their table.

“Sorry Sir, please ignore him”, Harol immediately said.

‘Yes, Choi Han. Ignore, mufasa.’

Choi Han, did ignore Toonka, and respectfully nods at Harol. Harol was thankful that this man, didn’t say a thing to his rude colleague.

“Toonka, let’s go.”

Toonka didn’t move a bit and was just looking at Choi Han fiercely. And Choi Han, was looking at him; but in an impassive way.

“What are you a coward?!?”

‘If they fight, Choi Han would definitely win. Choi Han did beat Toonka in the novel, with just 2 punches.’

However, this is not the right place and time to fight. The other customers are already frightened, and even the owner of the restaurant is hiding behind the counter.

“What’s happening here?”

Chapter Text

“What’s happening here?”

A voice was heard behind Toonka, he was about to shout to not interfere.

“Don’t disturb – ”

Toonka, couldn’t finish his sentence. Right in front of him was the man that he saw at the banquet. He already knows that this man is beautiful but he is much more beautiful up close.

“Mommy! This big scary mister is bullying us! He keeps on shouting and asking for a fight with Choi Han!”

‘Wait wasn’t that kid sitting here just now? Wait, mommy?’

The red-hair then glared at Toonka.

Harol intervenes, before their idiotic commander could say something stupid again. He was not paid enough to babysit this idiot.

“Good day, good sir. I am Harol Kodiang, from the Whipper Kingdom. I’m ashamed to admit this but what your child said was true. This idi – ehem, I mean our commander here, likes to challenge people in an abnormal way. So, please accept our apology for showing an impudent action.”

The red-hair’s posture seems to relax.

“If that’s the case, then I won’t accept your apology, Sir Harol. Excuse me for being impolite, but you should not take the responsibility. The one who should apologize in the first place was the one who was at fault”, the red-haired then look at Toonka with a very a serious look.

Harol, already saw this man at the banquet yesterday. So, it’s obvious he’s a noble and even if he didn’t saw him there. With the way this man dressed and his face, is already a giveaway about his status.

He is quite impress with the man, since no one has the gut to look at Toonka with that look.

‘So, this is a what a noble should act’.

Harol, was already used to wimpy nobles and royals in their kingdom, to the point that their roles are only just for show. This might be the one of the times, he encountered a dignified one.

He turns to Toonka. To be honest, he doesn’t know if he could ask Toonka to apologize. But it’s worth a try.

“Toonka, you should – ”

“I’m sorry.”

‘What?’

“I am not the one you should apologize for”, the red-haired said with a raised brow.

“I’m sorry, little kid and to you - ?”

“Choi Han”, the black-haired man said.

“I’m sorry, Choi Han for picking a fight with you.”

‘Did he just apologize for like 3 times? Is this for real?’

“No worries”, Choi Han replied.

“Roksoo?"

“It’s okay, big mister”, the child said, then hides his head on his mother’s shoulders.

“Then that settles. But I hope you would not do that again. However, if you are inching for a spar, ask them in a polite and a respectable manner”, the red-hair even gave Toonka an advice, like a teacher to his student.

‘What the? Why does Toonka looks compliant all of a sudden? He’s even blushing’.

Harol has a lot of question, Then he hears the voice of the red-head.

“Then, please forgive me for the late introduction. I’m Cale Henituse. This is my son, Roksoo and our personal guard, Choi Han. It’s nice to meet the Commander and Supreme Chief of the Whipper Kingdom, personally.”

Cale Henituse, then elegantly bowed to them.

“I see that you already know us. But I would like to give a proper introduction. I’m Harol Kodiang and this our Commander, Toonka. Please to meet you, Young Master Cale.”

Harol, then raised his hand for a handshake in which Cale happily accepted.

“I do hope you enjoy your stay here in Roan Kingdom.”

“We are. The service at the palace was quite pleasant.”

“That’s good to hear, Sir Harol. It might be impolite to assume, but I believe the both of you haven’t had your lunch yet.”

“I believe you are correct on that, young master. We had a bit of trouble finding somewhere to eat, as all the restaurant are full.”

“Then, why not share a table with us, Sir Harol. Our treat.”

“You don’t have to do that, young master. We had trouble you already.”

“Don’t worry, Sir Harol. Consider this as Roan Kingdom’s hospitality. As you said, all the restaurants that the both of you have come upon are already full, and this is the only resto that is currently available right now. And even if you eat here, there’s no available seats, except for ours.”

“Then we will accept your offer, young master. Thank you for your generosity.”

‘Wow, mommy’s charm is amazing.’

He didn’t just stop a fight, just now. He also made the delegates of the Whipper Kingdom, eat with them. He and the Supreme Chief are even having a friendly conversation.

But the most surprising out of all was.

‘Toonka is behaving respectfully. The Toonka, who refuse to listen to anyone.’

Before, he saw Toonka as a dangerous brute, but right now he is behaving like some kind of a domesticated animal.

‘Is my mother a pet whisperer?’

Even Harol seems to be amazed at how Cale tamed Toonka that easily.

But it really irks Roksoo, that Toonka has been glancing at his mother every now and then. And then, all of a sudden act like a blushing maiden.

If you asked how Cale felt like when he met Toonka, moments ago. It would be this.

‘How did I got the courage to reprimand this bulky guy. Must be mother’s instinct? Good thing, he seems to listen. I thought I would have been beaten up to pulp. Well, as long as the children are safe, that what matters the most.’

His children are doubtfully looking at Toonka. The kittens were barring their teeth at him, every time Toonka would make eye contact with them. The dragons, are already preparing their magic in case he would attack them. And Roksoo, is just being the polite young master. But deep inside, he is giving the stink-eye.

Choi Han on the other hand, keeps on touching his scabbard. Already prepared to protect his lieges.

Roksoo, notice that and admires Choi Han’s diligence. If only, he would stop leaning closer to his mother. Choi Han’s shoulder is already touching his mother, which irritate him. He is tempted to push Choi Han away, but he is in public.

When they are already outside, Cale looked at his wrist.

“It seems that we have to part ways now, Sir Harol and Sir Toonka. It’s time for us to go home now”, as he is looking at his watch.

“If that’s the case, young master. Then I would like to thank you again for your benevolence.”

“Don’t worry about it, Sir Harol. As I enjoyed your company.”

“Thank you for having us, young master. I wish for all of you, to travel safely.”

“Same goes for you, Sir Harol.”

As they are about to depart.

“Wait!”

Toonka ran towards them and shoved a bouquet in front of Cale.

“For you”, he then ran back to Harol, “Harol, let’s go.”

“Thank you?”, Cale could only muttered and still looking confused.

‘I already burned the other bouquets and now I’m facing another one. Worst, mommy had received it. Where the heck did he even get that from? And wait, are they gloxinia flowers?’ 

“Nya, what pretty flowers!”

“Oppa, what kind of flowers are they?”

The twins questioned him, when they got home.

“They are called Gloxinia”, he really wants to burn the flowers now. No matter how pretty it is, if it came from the enemy; then it should be burned.

“Why do you think that big mister gave mommy flowers?”

He gave Raon a shrugged and tries to change the topic, “Hey, do all of you what to go back tomorrow? We haven’t explored that much.”

This made his siblings promptly forget the ‘flower’ topic.

“I want to see the sculptures nya!”

“Me too. I want to see Headmaid Freesia’s art nya!”

‘I forgot that Freesia, joined that competition.’

“I just want to see human games again, Human-hyung.”

“The wolf children really won must of the games. As expected.”

Roksoo was just listening to his siblings, when he thought about something.

“Hey, why can you guys turned into your human form?”

Ohn answered him immediately, “We don’t want to nya. It’s easy to carry us, when were this little.”

“I agree with noona, nya.”

“How about the two of you?”

“I don’t like humans. There are not strong and mighty.”

“I’m human. Well, must in this house are humans.”

“You guys are exceptions, of course.”

“How about you Asher?”

“I find it efficient to just be invisible.”

He was about to ask his siblings again, when their mother came into the room.

“Who’s up for bedtime stories?”

“Me!!!”

“Is that a dog nya?”

“A griffin nya?”

• A goblin?

“Loch Ness Monster.”

• What’s that, Hyung-nim?

“Nothing.”

They are currently in the Art Station, where the works of the contestants that participated in the sculpting competition where placed here.

Right now, they are guessing what Freesia’s work is all about.

“It says in the card here, that it’s a unicorn”, Lark said. Lark tagged along with them, his siblings wants to join them too. Unfortunately, most of them got worn-out because of the games that they did, yesterday.

“That’s a unicorn?” The children look at the work strangely. Except for Raon.

• Hyungs, so that’s how a unicorn looks like? I thought, they look pretty?

Both Roksoo and Asher, shut their mouths. They didn’t agree nor corrected their brother.

‘Let’s just let him discover it on his own’, they nodded at one another.

“Freesia, seems artistic”, Cale unsurely said.

“You’re right, Cale-nim”, Choi Han agreed but also doesn’t look convinced.

All of them look at the art from up to bottom and left and right. But they still can’t figure out, how is this a unicorn.

“What about let’s look around?”, Cale suggested.

They all agreed. Because it will take them a day or more, to figure how did that sculpture became a unicorn.

‘I’m sorry, Freesia. But we can’t really see the unicorn in your art’, they all give their sincere apologies to their head maid.

While they were looking at the sculptures, Cale excused himself to go to the comfort room. His companions want to come to but he pointed to the direction of the comfort room and look at them like ‘see, it’s just close.’

As he finished his business and was about to return to his companions, he bumps into someone.

“Oh, I’m sorry – your royal – ”

A hand then covered his lips.

“Shhh, I’m in incognito right now.”

Cale remove the hands and lowered his voice, “Why are you hiding right now, Crown Prince Valentino?”

Valentine fixes his cloak, to hide his face. He was still busy looking around, not looking at the person he is with. 

“I’m hiding from my guards as I want to explore on my own”, when Valentino finished his sentence, he then looks at the person beside him and was stunned.

“Your royal highness, are you okay?”

Cale, was a bit concerned that the Crown Prince is not blinking. ‘I didn’t attack him, right? Is he scared of my face?’

Contrary to Cale’s thought, Valentino was thinking the opposite.

‘Isn’t he that gorgeous man, that he saw on the banquet the other day? He is much more gorgeous up close.’

Cale, was now nervous and shakes the crown prince’s shoulders. He doesn’t care if this might be considered rude, but he doesn’t want to be labeled as ‘the one that scared the prince, with his scary face’. He likes being called ‘Trash’ than that.

“Crown Prince, please live longer.”

“Oh.”

Looks like the prince is back to life.

Valentino, was a bit ashamed that he showed such an ill-mannered behavior. He then bows, “I’m sorry for showing such an unrefined action. I hope you forgive this action.”

Cale panicked again, “Crown Prince Valentino, please don’t do that. It’s not any of your fault and I didn’t consider your actions unrefined. You were just surprised. The one that should apologize is me. I was the one who was rude.”

“Don’t apologize. You were just worried. How about we just call it quits?”

“If that what his royal highness wants. Then let’s call it quits’, Cale then smiled at the Prince.

Valentino, felt like his heart is beating fast and could feel that his face is heating up.

“Crown Prince, are you okay? Your face is red.”

Valentino shakes his head, “It’s just hot in here”. He then pretended to fan himself.

Cale took something from his spatial bag and handed it to Valentino, “Here, your royal highness. A fan.”

Valentino was about to decline the offer, but he couldn’t say no to that worried face. “Thank you, for this.”

“You’re welcome, your royal highness”, Cale suddenly remembered his companions. “I think, I have to go right now. Good bye, Crown Prince Valentino.”

He was about to go, when Valentino holds his wrist.

“Wait, what’s your name?”

“Oh, I’m sorry for not introducing, your royal highness. I am Cale Henituse.”

“Cale Henituse? You’re a noble right?”

“Uhm, yes, your royal highness.”

“Then, Young Master Cale. Can I request something?”

“As long as I’m capable to do it, then I will abide.”

Cale doesn’t want to be associated with someone from royalty, except his Jopis-noona. But he couldn’t really decline this prince. Crown Prince Valentino, seems to look like someone who wouldn’t abuse his authority or position.

‘He really has that genuine face. And it’s not like his request will be that hard right?’

The crown prince gave him a gentle smile.

‘I hope, it’s easy.’

“Everyone, this is Crown Prince Valentino from the Caro Kingdom. And his going to join us for the day.”

“Please excuse, my intrusion. I don’t know someone from the Roan Kingdom, personally. Well, aside from Crown Prince Alver, who seems a bit busy with his duties because of the festival and same goes with the other Roan princes”, he then gently looks at Cale. “Luckily, I met Young Master Cale and I ask him if I could tag along. I hope all of you, won’t mind.”

Valentino then ended his speech with a bow.

Cale’s companion look at one another. Choi Han, was the first one to greet his highness.

“My name is Choi Han, your royal highness. I’m their personal guard. Please to meet you.”

Choi Han offered the prince a handshake, which Valentino happily accepted it.

“I’m Lark”. Lark, shyly introduce, and Valentino gave him a smile.

“Nice to meet you, Lark.”

“Meow”, the kittens greeted him. Valentino, chuckles.

“These are the twins, Ohn and Hong.”

“Hello, Ohn and Hong.”

Valentino then turned his head, towards the tiny figure that is hiding behind Cale’s back.

“Roksoo? Why not introduce yourself?”

Then a tiny child went in front of him. And bowed elegantly.

“Please to meet you, Crown Prince Valentino. I’m Roksoo Henituse, the son of Cale Henituse.”

‘F*ck this day.’

Chapter Text

‘This prince, doesn’t seem that bad.’

Compare to what Roksoo have imagined.

Crown Prince Valentino, is indeed the prince that doesn’t care about status. He lets them act and speak to him in a casual way. He listens intently to what the others are saying. And surprisingly, he was the first one to guess what Freesia’s sculpture is all about.

“Oh, isn’t that a unicorn”, Valentino pointed out to the sculpture from a far.

All of them look at the prince with a questionable stare.

‘Is he serious?’

• So, that is really a unicorn, Hyungs???

Roksoo and Asher, just didn’t answer Raon. He will eventually discover it one day.

The crown prince seems to be a good person to hang out. However, the only thing that irks Roksoo a little bit is; whenever the prince and his mother would have an eye contact or accidentally touch their shoulders. The prince would instantly blush like a tomato.

But the reason why Roksoo, couldn’t really get angry with the prince is because Prince Valentino knows how to maintain his distance and doesn’t ask anything unpleasant.

‘Not like a certain ugly bastard, I know.’

So, Roksoo was a bit okay with this prince.

After they finished checking out the Art Station, they decided on going to a nearby restaurant. Since it wasn’t lunch time yet, the restaurant is a bit empty.

An attendant who was at the counter, immediately went to the entrance.

“Good day, Gentlemen. How may I help you?” The attendant seems to be nervous, as she can see from the customers that they are from nobility. And it’s not quite often that a noble, would visit inside their resto.

“Can we have an exclusive room?”, a beautiful red-hair said.

If she wasn’t taught professionalism, she would have not uttered a word because of how beautiful this man is. ‘Is he even human?’

“Yes, Sir. We have one, it’s at the second floor. Please follow me.”

The attendant they guide them to the second floor.

“This is a very nice room”, as Valentino removes his cloak.

‘He really is handsome. That nice guy type of handsome’, as Roksoo observes Valentino.

“What does everyone wants?” Cale ask everyone as he was looking at the menu.

“I want whatever Cale-nim wants”, Choi Han happily said.

Cale look at him blankly, “Choi Han, there is no ‘whatever Cale-nim wants’ here. Here is the menu, please pick something that you really want. Lark dear, you too.”

The kittens then put their paws on a certain dish on the menu, “That’s what you guys want?”

“Meow”, they nodded as a reply.

“Mommy, I want this please.”

“Little rocky, this is dessert. Please pick a certain dish first, dessert can wait.”

Roksoo, could only pout and then looks at the menu to pick something.

‘Young Master Cale, sure looks out for everyone’, Valentino fondly looks at Cale.

“Your royal highness? Do you want something?”

“You.”

“Huh?”

Valentino, suddenly blushes and panicked.

Roksoo, stop looking for dish and gave the prince the stink-eye.

“I mean, you – you, what do you want?”

“I pick, this roast chicken.”

“Then, I’ll order this”. Valentino just pointed something random, out of nervousness.

“Oh, are you vegetarian, your royal highness?”

“Sometimes.”

“Okay.”

Valentino, wishes he could turn back time, so that he could look at the menu carefully. He eats vegetables and fruits, on a daily basis. But there is a certain vegetable dish that he doesn’t like and that is “Green Vegan Stew.”

No offense to those who like the stew, but he really doesn’t like the taste of it.

Roksoo smiled evilly as he can see the prince is trying to finish his dish, while enduring the taste of it.

‘Looks like he doesn’t like it. Good for him. That's your punishment for staring.’

• Hyung-nim, you are creeping me out.
• Don’t worry, Human-hyung. You still look mighty.

Roksoo went back into frowning.

After a wonderful meal (except for our Prince Valentino), they decided to scroll in the capital.

There were a lot of items, that were selling on the streets.

‘Should I buy another practice sword for Lily and journal for Basen?’ Cale thought.

“Mommy, are you thinking about buying another practice sword for Aunt Lily and journal for Uncle Basen? If yes, we already bought them yesterday”, Roksoo looks at his mother suspiciously.

Cale couldn’t deny the accusation and looks away.

Valentino who was not that far from them, laughed at the cuteness of the mother and son duo.

“Valentino is that you?”

Valentino turned his head towards the voice and found Adin.

“Hello, Adin.”

“Did you escape your guard, too?” Adin mischievously asked.

“Wait you too?”

“As always”. Adin laughed out loud. “Didn’t know you could find your way here alone.”

Valentino scratch his head, “Actually, I’m with other people right now. I just tagged along.”

“Who?”

“Them”, Valentino then pointed out a certain group of people; a tall teenager, a man holding two kittens, a child being hold by the beautiful man he saw at the banquet.

‘Wait.’

Adin was dumbstruck.

He couldn’t imagine he could meet Cale Henituse here.

“Hey, Adin. You okay?”

He couldn’t reply back to his best friend as he was still dumb struck at the man in front of him.

“Valentino, where did you meet him?”

“You mean Young Master Cale?”

“Yes.”

“At the Art Station, just this morning.”

‘I should have go there in the first place.’

As the two princes turned their direction to where Cale Henituse is.

He is no longer there. However, they saw his companions running to a certain direction.

They saw a familiar child dragging the red-head.

‘Isn’t that the Duke’s son?’

A certain child with light grey hair and violet eyes, was sweating from moving around.

‘This would be the last game and then I’m done.’

Naru, was actually enjoying the games that the festival prepared. He doesn’t get to play that much at their kingdom, as no one wants to play with him. Since he is the Duke’s son and looks a bit sickly. Even though is just his skin color.

He doesn’t mind as he has a lot of quality time with his father and uncle. But there are still times, where he wishes he could play games; where he could run around and talk to someone who is the same age as him.

Well, he just couldn’t force the children in their kingdom to play with him. That would be upsetting and abuse of power.

When Naru heard from his father there are going to be games in the festival. He immediately told his father he wants to join. His father happily agrees with him.

His Uncle Barrow, didn’t join any games but tell them he will just watch over them.

The games that Naru played were; Message Relay (their group won 1^st place, because his father cheated), Quiz Bee (he won 2^nd place, he could have won however he wasn’t quick enough to answer the last question) and last is the Bring Me game.

When Naru opened the paper that he got. He immediately went running, as they only given the participants 10 minutes to find their target. His father wanted to help, but he refused immediately. Because he could already guess his father will cheat the game.

As he was looking around, he found something. More like someone, that would fit the description.

He immediately rush at them.

“Good day, young masters.” Naru politely bowed.

“Oh, aren’t you the child that we met last time and the Duke’s son from the Endable Kingdom?”

“Thank you for remembering me, Young Master Cale. I am Naru von Ejellan.”

“What a polite child”, Cale smiled at him. Naru slightly blushed at being complimented.

Naru, then remembered what he came in the first place, “Forgive my impudence, young master. But can you come with me, as I am participating in a certain game. As you and your son, fit the description on what I am currently finding right now.”

Cale wanted to ask, what is was. However, he pitied the boy’s appearance as he was sweating heavily and his eyes are full of determination to win.

So, he just let the child drag him. While he was holding Roksoo, close to him.

• I wonder, what the game is.
• Me too! Me too!
• I wonder what is the prize.
• I hope it's apple pie.

As they reach the center of the capital. Naru, was happy to see he was the first one to arrive.

“Yes. Were early!” He then turned his head towards Cale and Roksoo, “Young Master Cale and Young Master Roksoo, can you please come with me, up there?”

Cale just nods back, as he wants the child to win. Roksoo, on the other hand was curious and also confuse. 

‘What kind of game did he joined? Why are we the requirements?’

They went to the back stage first, to meet the emcee of the game.

Naru was happily holding Cale’s hand, while he went to the emcee to give the paper.

The emcee then looks at what Naru brought; she looks back to the paper, and then at Cale and Roksoo. She stared at them in amazement, she only gotten her senses back when Naru interrupted.

“Miss?”

“Oh, I’m sorry, young master.”

“Did I get it right?”

“You definitely did!!! Ehem – I mean, yes. You did, Young Master Naru.”

The emcee then turned on her mike, “For our final challenge, we already have a winner. And that is Young Master Naru von Ejellan. For the others who haven’t won, we have some consolation prize for all of you. Thank you once again for your participation everyone.”

“Look, my Naru won!”

Duke Fredo, was jumping with joy while shaking Crown Prince Barrow’s shoulder. The prince just let the duke be, he was worried a while ago for his son, as they lost sight of Naru in the crowd. Barrow, was also worried for his nephew’s sake. They got to relax, when the emcee called Naru’s name.

The emcee then cleared her throat, “As for our winner. Young Master Naru, please tell us what did you bring, that determined your fast victory.”

Naru went to the front and smiled to the crowd. The crowd cooed at Naru’s charm. You could even hear the duke yelling, ‘That’s my son!’

“Well the description that was written in the paper was ‘to bring something/someone beautiful and cute’, and here they are.”

The crowd could see Naru motioning someone from the back stage to come to the front. What they saw, who were the people that Naru brought. As expected; the crowd were all astonished.

They even thought that the word ‘beautiful and cute’ is not enough to describe them.

And the only thing that comes in the people’s mind are: ‘We are being bless.’

Because in front of them are two ethereal individuals that would remind everyone that heaven does exist. If someone told them those two are angels, even without the halo and the wings; they would immediately believe it.

Crimson and obsidian hair; two rare hair colors in their country. And two pairs of reddish brown orbs, that glimmers due to the afternoon sunlight.

“Barrow! Barrow!”

“I know. I just heard that Naru, won”. Barrow was still busy drinking his tea.

Duke Fredo, the brave soul, hit Crown Prince Barrow at the back of his head.

“What is your problem?” he glared at the duke.

“Look.”

He followed what the duke was pointing and had him quiet.

‘Cale Henituse. He is here.’

And that person right now, is standing awkwardly, while holding Roksoo close to him. He doesn’t look at the crowd and was just looking down. He doesn’t want to see how the people look at him. Cale, didn’t even listen to what Naru had said.

Roksoo, compare to his awkward mother was just looking blankly at the crowd. But deep inside, he felt irritated with how people are looking at him. Especially how they look at his mother.

‘Why are their eyes sparkling?’

He then heard Asher and Raon’s voice.

• Hyung-nim, looks like you have fans.
• If I show myself right now. Will they also have recognized my mighty self?
• Ohn and Hong wants to say that you and mommy, looks wonderful up there on the stage.

‘Shut up you two.’

Cale, who can’t stand being the center of attention, then looks at Naru and whispered.

“Young Master Naru, can I ask, if it’s done now?”

“Of course, Young Master Cale.”

When they returned to the backstage, Naru bows down in front of Cale and Roksoo

“Young Master Cale and Young Master Roksoo, I want to give my sincere gratitude of helping me win this game.”

“My pleasure, Young Master Naru. Were thankful that we have helped you.”

Cale smiled at Naru. While Roksoo on the other hand is quiet and is only staring blankly at him.

Naru felt a little nervous with how this little kid is staring at him.

‘Did he hate me because I drag his mother and him to this game?’

Contrary to what he was thinking.

‘I didn’t notice this when we first met, but this child is quite thin and too pale. He’s paler than mommy, reminds me of a vampire.’

The staring contest ended, when Cale speak up.

“By the way, Young Master Naru. What was the keyword of the game? I was a bit distracted, that I didn’t hear what the keyword was.”

Roksoo’s ears perked up, ‘That’s right, I also didn’t hear it too’. Since he was also busy being irritated and was listening to the dragons, that time.

Naru was about to speak out, when the emcee appeared.

“Young Master Naru, I’m here to discuss about your prize!”, the emcee happily said, and suddenly felt embarrassed and nervous when she saw Cale and Roksoo was still here. “I am not interrupting something important, am I?”

She was nervous because she might have interrupted a discussion between nobles.

Cale felt the tenseness of the emcee, smiled at her.

“Don’t worry, miss. It’s nothing important”, Cale then looks at Naru. “Young Master Naru, I think me and my son need to go now. If it’s alright with you.”

“Oh, you may Young Master Cale.” Naru then bowed down, “Young Master Cale and Young Master Roksoo, thank you again for helping me.”

Cale lightly chuckled at Naru, “No worries, Young Master Naru.”

Naru, then felt someone pats his head. When he looks up, it was Roksoo.

“You did great.”

Naru was flustered and happy at the same time. Roksoo was still looking at him in a stoical manner however, he could see a slight smile on his face.

‘How cute.’

An idea then pops up into Naru’s mind.

‘I want to be friends with him.’

‘Why is that pale child looking at me like that.’

Chapter Text

Hi, everyone. Sorry for the inconvenience and sorry for not updating for this past months.

There were a lot of things that happen, and that are about to happen? I guess.

So, it will take a while for me to update. And also, the reason why I just made an announcement just now, that this story will be on hiatus mode, is because I forgot my password. Silly right? Good thing, I finally found my notebook.

Still, I would like to thank everyone for the hits and the kudos, despite me not updating. I'm truly grateful for it. Don't worry, if things are finally settled I will come back to continue writing this story. But for now, I still have a lot of unfinished business, to do.

Also, I just received news from a friend last week, that someone plagiarized my story on wattpad. It's kind of okay if you made an inspiration of it. But you really copied, word by word and also the chapter titles. Kindly take it down, I didn't gave any permission to someone, to copy this story. The title is the same as this story, and the username of that individual is mixy_mix11

Again, its good if you take an inspiration, because I also took an inspiration to write this story from VuiBy's twitter thread. However, copying the whole story, word by word. That's no longer an inspiration, that's an imitation. Which is insulting and a form of stealing someone's intellectual property.

Sorry everyone if you have to see this, this should just be an announcement but all of you just have to see me rant.

And again, this story will be on hiatus for now. I hope to see you again, everyone.