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'It's time'
Today is the day.
November 8 is finally here.
A red haired man, the sworn brother of the Roan Empire's Emperor, Duke Henituse's oldest son, and someone who's wide known in both West and East Continents as the silver shield hero, just wake up with a bright smile...
He had dreamed of a slacker life for so long. Way too long perhaps. Yet even as the war finally over, as a noble as well the Hero, he still have some things to do.
Some little things such as reporting here and there, checking on suspicious movement and all, not to mention, the farm that he needed to personally taken cared of, as it was a promise he made with his former leader as Kim Rok Soo.
Nothing grand- but at the same time, he's not completely enjoying the slacker life he's been dreaming of. And the more he looked at it, the more annoyed he became.
Which is why he has decided.
For one day, he would put himself above everyone else for one day.
He wouldn't careless of things that he must do, he'll forget all of the responsibilities he has just for one day.
'I might not be able to slacks off but at least I'll do what I wanted to do'
-enjoying himself.
After so long, Cale Henituse decided that he would rebel and be a trash the original owner of this body had taught him to.
'And I have come prepared as well~'
He couldn't help the bright grin from forming on his face.
It's so out of character of him who's always so stoic and wears a deadpan face on daily. But the thought of him able to enjoy what ever the heck he wanted even just for the day melts the piling stress as if he forget that responsibilities exists.
"Good morning, human. You're awake early today?" Raon, the seven years old dragon, greeted him sleepily. By then Cale already schooled his expression although, it seems like he can't hold back the twitchings on the corner of his lips.
"Uh... what's with that look?"
"Are you planning on something, nyaa?"
"Human! You looked like you're about to scam people. Who are we going to loot?!" The reactions between the siblings varies. However, Cale merely shakes his head before reaching his hand towards his desk and picked up 9 gold coins from inside the drawer.
"Here" he says, shoving the shiny currency that got the three children gawks in disbelief.
Yet before they can say anything like how crazy he has turned out, like that one time he spends money leisurely, Cale has shushed them first.
"I have mission for you"
That's instantly shut them up. Now the children averaging seven to thirteen years old are paying attention.
"I'll give you each one gold coin. But in exchange, I need you to go to the town with Hans today"
The red kitten tilted his head, "With Hans, nyaa?"
Cale nodded, "today is Choi Han's birthday"
He said in whispers as the three gasped at the new information.
During war, such occasion isn't really something that they discussed before, and it's not like the single-lifer himself cared much about his own birthday. Which is why no one really knows when the swordsmaster's birthdate really is.
Cale decided to use this fact to divert the attention that would usually be around him to the ravenet.
"You all know that we don't really celebrate his birthday before, I planned to change that. So do me a favor and go to the town and buy some gifts, would you?"
The red-head's snicker only gets wider at their excited reply.
"Okay, human! I am great and mighty so the gifts will be special!"
"Yes, yes! We'll buy lots of gifts!"
"We'll do a great job. And we'll keep this as secret, don't worry"
'I am not worried,' He doesn't even care if Choi Han ended up knowing. The ravenet wouldn't dare to say something and ruin the moment for the kids. In that regards, Cale's quite happy.
'Today I wouldn't have to babysits~' he silently cheered.
He pets their head with a gentle smile, "You'll do well"
He then left the chattering children on their own while he get himself prepared.
By the time he stepped out of the bathroom, Ron was there with a lemonade.
"You woke up early today, Young master."
Ron was smiling at him, and normally, Cale would be scared at that benign smile, however today he felt a bit daring than usual. So instead, he smiled back at him- Grinning, in fact.
"Yes. I have so much stuff to do today" his voice is calm as usual, but the assassin-servant was taken aback from the bright expression the red-head has while he mentioned that he has a lot to be taken cared of.
Normally, the puppy young master in fronts of him would have sour expression whenever he says that, but today he's smiling...?
Cale even finished the drink in big gulps before asking Ron to prepare a simple dress.
That red-head is busy debating silently if he should tell Basen, his father, and Alberu about him not going to do any shits today that he missed the odd look on Ron's face.
Before he knew it, he met the next person on his list just as soon he walked down the hall.
"Oh, Cale-nim, good morning" Choi Han was smiling innocently as he greeted the latter.
This time, however, rather than replying to the older nonchalantly as usual, Cale smiled back, "Morning to you too. Heading to the dining room?"
"...uh... yeah" The latter's face turned stiff, not used with the all smiley Cale.
"That's great. Eat a lot and don't forget to rest! You keep training all day long, did you sleep enough?"
"...uh... yeah?" Choi Han still doesn't know how to react, 'is he planning something?'
Cale is definitely planning something.
He was about to ask about it when he heard a chuckle.
The red-head is chuckling.
"What's with that frown on your face, huh?" He said in a teasing manner, "it is not something deep that you need to worry about"
And he was being truthful with his words.
Cale put a hand on the dark locks as he then ruffled it carelessly, "no need to ponder too much about it" he cheekily added before then get going outside, heading to the duchy with a robe to cover his bright red hair from being noticed.
He has a breakfast scheduled this morning, and Cale only agreed to it because he decided to be shameless towards the family as well.
'Better be blunt about it rather than dragging things around'
Cale found himself smiling in satisfaction at the thought as he stepped out of the Villa stealthily and soon find himself arrived in front of the dutchy without any ruckus.
"State your name and business!" The gate keeper told him, to which Cale replied easily by lifting his the hoodie to reveal his crimson lock.
"Do not make a scene, or else" he threatened the guards who was about to stammer and stumble on their words. The two matching bright expression made it obvious that it was a wise decision to shut them up before they could start a parade or something- it has happened before, so it's not like he's exaggerating with that statement.
"W-We'll guide you the wa-"
Before the man could finish, however, Cale already raised his hand, "no need. This place is my home."
'It's not like I don't know where to go by now. Having a guard to escort me would be annoying'
It was the very reason why he didn't ask for carriages and just walked despite the distance.
All the while, hearing his words, the guards' eyes shook before glisten slightly, feeling touched, "yes, this is home..."
As per usual, Cale ignored their sentiment as soon as they let them in quietly.
Soon, he made his way to the duchy.
Cale only took off the hoodie once he's inside of the building. Everyone soon noticed him.
"Young mast-!!"
Cheers almost echoed in the area thanks to one of the workers that noticed him. But today, he's not planning to play nice. So, he said one word with a deep scowl on his face.
"Scram."
Although he did not use his dominating aura, His stern voice startled the approaching people. However, that's not enough, and Cale didn't stop there.
"I wish for nobody to notice me today. I want to relax" He added with annoyance in his tone.
It isn't 100% acting, but that only gained other's sympathy more.
"Understood, young master Cale. We will do as you wish" the deputy butler bowed and the red-head nods in return.
The ex-commander looked around to see others averting their gazes though some of the younger ones sometimes take a peek every so often. Not that he cared.
'It's actually this simple...?' He was quite baffled.
Perhaps he should do this some more some times.
Meanwhile, the workers couldn't help but feel sad, thinking that how their hero always worked so hard that he desperate for a calm day, at least from the people he could trust.
He came alone in a robe with no one to escort him. Their young master looked as if he just ditched work to have peaceful breakfast with his family after so long. The look on his eyes felt like he was begging for it- how could they not listen?
The Henituse Duchy was quiet other than few whispers here and there for the rest of the day.
Content with what he did, Cale's expression returned to its neutral setting until he saw two of his siblings rushing to see him.
"Oraboni!!"
"Cale-hyung!"
They seemed happy to see him. The old man who escorted him had to held back tears from this mini reunion. Their oldest young master hadn't been around for several weeks after all.
"Hey, there's no need to rush. It's not like I'm going to leave soon" Cale nonchalantly told them, to which only then the two slowed down.
Lily's smile was blinding, "it's been a while, Oraboni! How are you?"
"Just so-so. I see that you're getting more taller while I'm not around" Cale ruffled her brown locks, "How's your day?"
He asked back to both of them at once.
"It's good."
"I've been training my swords art so hard! Master says that it is possible for me to have some light spar with Choi Han-nim soon!"
The ex-commander actually hold back his flinch, 'has he gone crazy!?!?'
The mentioned swordsmaster is someone who had killed gigantic monsters brought from otherworld. 'Light Spar' no matter light it is, can be lethal.
Basen seems to understand his thoughts, therefore he immediately replied to that worried expression, "Lily has been training her blade non stop. And though Choi Han-nim is extremely strong. He should be able to match her pace right? Just like how he taught the wolf-children"
But Cale doesn't seem to approve of that, "You've been training non stop?"
A light frown formed on his forehead as he turned to his little sister who enthusiastically replied to him, "yes, Oraboni!"
Cale's scowl deepened.
"Well, that won't do"
The two blinked in shock, "eh?"
"You need to balance rest and work. You're still growing. Have some play time in the mix. Don't waste your time as if you're forced to survive. Enjoy what you can have" he said before then turning to Basen, "you too. I know about both of your dream. So just keep going as it is, you'll realize that it's not something far fetched. That's why, no need to rush things, no matter what happened."
'You're not like me'
These two aren't like Kim Rok Soo who were forced to face reality earlier than it should have been for a kid. His environment made him mature faster than he should, and it's exhausting.
'Why the heck, these kids so ambitious? It's driving me nuts'
But the siblings wouldn't have known what's not being said. All they understand is that their older sibling were consoling them to have some break since war is no more. There's no need of them to rush things.
For some reason they also feel like it's the oldest way to say that even if another inconvenience happened, he'll do something so that they can enjoy the peace.
"...Hyung..."
While the two stared at him the deputy butler and those who eavesdrops on them got teary-eyed.
"What are you staring at? Let's go. We still have breakfast. Aren't you hungry?" Cale who doesn't understand what's with that odd look they're having decided to push the two lightly towards the dining room. He felt iffy thinking that he might have offended them or something.
'No. Get a grip, Rok Soo. Today you're not going to care even if you act like a trash! There's no need of you to feel guilty' he told himself as they finally arrived at the dining table.
After waiting for a bit, the family soon gathered and the breakfast started.
As per usual, it started with awkward silence after exchanging several greetings in the beginning.
But Cale actually prefer this. He can finally enjoyed his fancy dining without the yapping of the children and all of the small talk shared on the dining table.
Don't get him wrong. He doesn't hate it. But sometimes it can be exhausting, 'feels like drinking night with the co-workers every time'
On the contrary, he could have some silence as he enjoyed the juicy meat and the fresh fruit on the side.
'a warm place, great meals, and prioritized safety'
"...I'm so glad to be born in this family" he subconsciously mumbled.
'Born as a noble is really the best!' He couldn't help the slim smile from forming on his handsome face.
The duke and his family could hear his words thanks to the silence. Seeing that Cale doesn't looked like he knows what's going on, it seems like he didn't mention that consciously... which is why, each one of them felt like they're about to cry.
Cale who lost his mother used to openly shows his dislikes toward his step mother and her children. He never did anything to harm them even as he got drunk, but he obviously did not accept them completely.
The words that he uttered so quietly sounds like acceptance to them...
Perhaps it was thanks to war or the other obstacles that he need to overcame these past years. His parents noticed that, 'he has grown,'
Cale has matured.
And of all people in the table- More than Violan who's smiling ever so slightly herself, Deruth is the happiest man alive.
"Cale?"
He called out once the dinner is over.
"Is there something that you want?"
The red-head blinked, feeling a sense of dejá vù with the first day he arrived in this world. He had thought that the duke might found out about his birthday before then realizing that there's no way, 'They don't know of Kim Rok Soo'
Therefore he concluded that the Duke is being generous.
'Still, it's my birthday,'
Regardless of knowing that fact or not, Cale decided to get himself some gifts. And what's better than money?
"Can I ask for extra allowance?" He carefully asked.
He does have money of his own. But today's plan requires a lot of it. And since Henituse household is filthy rich, supposedly slight change in number shouldn't be that bad, right?
"Are you planning something dangerous...?"
Cale did not expect his step mother to asked so, but from the looks of it everyone seems to be worried.
Well, how could they not? They had found out that Cale has been spending a lot of his money to over come war. Most of the equipments he bought and not to mention all the spending he did to increase his friend's skills while at the same time providing them home...
The four of them also know that Cale is rich by himself. So the fact that he asked for extra allowance still, 'his own money is not enough,' that means something big is coming up.
And they all stiffen up realizing this.
All the while Cale stared at her confusedly, "no, not really." He replied indifferently, "I just felt like gifting some stuff to my friends"
That red-head didn't tell them that 'gifts' here actually meant for 'bribes'. He was convinced that it's just a matter of phrasing.
The Duke and Duchess is quiet after hearing that. And Cale take it as rejection.
'meh, worth a shot'
He's really not all that disappointed.
"It's okay if you don't-"
But Deruth had cut him off, "no no no! It's alright." He then added, "how much do you need? 20 billion gallons? 30? 50? You know what? Take 100. If you still need more, just tell me"
By then, Cale was frozen in place.
'What's with that crazy number!?!?'
Suddenly he understood the three children's feeling when he gave them extra gold coins out of goodwill, 'how ominous!'
It is one thing if he loot it from bad guys.
Cale feels like accepting this much of allowance would lead him to something grave. Therefore he intended to refuse, "no, Father. I don't need that much, just-"
"It's not much. Take 200"
'Not much!? He said that amount is not much? And the the number just increased?'
He must have grown crazy. Has Deruth finally lost it?
"You're going to spend it on others right?"
"I mean, yes. But-"
"Then think of it as my way to show them gratitude for everything they've done." The duke smiled.
This time, Cale decided to shut up, 'I mean, that make sense...'
"Well, okay then"
Deruth seems to be satisfied with his reply.
Cale decided not to think too much about it, 'Tomorrow. I'll think on what to do with the extra money tomorrow,'
Today? He wouldn't careless.
That being said, he does feel happy that his money increases soon despite all of his expensive spending for the bribery.
All in all, the breakfast finished on good note...
40 million gallons in cheque and 60 million gallons in cash inside 6 different magic bag.
With a lot of money that he received, he felt that he needs to at least spend the cash as much as he could. Which is why, rather than going with a carriage, Cale decided to wear his robe again and take a walk.
'I'll buy something if I found them interesting'
It's quite a hassle, but he felt oddly good thinking how excited the children and his friends would be with these gifts from the Duchy.
'It'll strengthen their bond too'
He was satisfied with that thought as he bought many latest and strongest armory and magic devices, since apparently that's what the children's like.
He also bought them some traditional toys and new clothes. But even then there are still a lot of money to spend.
To be honest, he didn't really choose them carefully as he normally would. That would take too much time, so all he said to the workers are: "give me ALL of the best quality items you have and pack it up before I changed my mind"
It was the quickest shopping he ever did in his whole life. That being said, he was sure that the others would appreciate it all the same.
'If not, I can sell them to Billos or something'
Speaking of the merchant that looks like a piggy bank, he's heading to the tea shop where that guy should be waiting.
On his way there, however, Cale found himself stopping in front of a florist.
He hummed, thinking for a bit, 'should I buy some flowers for her?'
Original Cale's mother is quite a chatty soul. She's sealed in the book that he carried even now. The ancient powers has been quiet per his request yesterday, but he felt that the woman might chime in when he arrive at the hill later on. Therefore, a way to silence her...
'It's not bad to pay respect. So might as well bought a bouquet'
He looked around but found no red roses. They seemed to be out of stock.
"Excuse me, but do you have other bright red flower?" He asked the florists herself.
"Ah, of course, sir. Over here" the lady politely showed him another red colored flower at one of the vase.
"This is Lisiantus, it represents-"
Cale doesn't care, so he cut her off, "it's perfect. Please wrap a bouquet of it"
The lady seemed to understand that he's in a rush, so she simply nodded, "right away sir"
The red-head smiled, liking her reaction.
Soon enough, Cale found himself walking to [The Fragrance of Tea with Poetry] with the bouquet on his hand.
"Uh... Young Master Cale, what is that?"
Billos had asked as they got seated on the third floor that the ex-commander has reserved before hand.
"A gift" Cale nonchalantly replied, still with his hoodie on.
"A gift for-"
"None of your business"
That might seemed cold, but it's really not his business. Thankfully the merchant doesn't make a big deal out of it.
"You've got what I asked?"
"Yes"
The round-man took out several items.
"15 million gallons worth of high-grade magic stones, a pendant with pink diamond, a fancy black and gold fountain pen, and lastly two teleportation scrolls."
Cale hummed, as he take the items without needing to check on them. He was sure that Billos won't scam him. The merchant wouldn't dare doing that to one of his biggest benefactor.
He then carelessly tossed four bag of cash and the rest of the money inside. "I'm sure that's enough" he nonchalantly replied.
And with the sets of colorful ribbons he had brought for Eruhaben, as well as the dead mana from the dead dragon for Mary. He's all set for his slacker hours he's been dreaming of.
He subconsciously smiling brightly- it startled Billos who was paying upmost attention towards the other's change of expressions.
"Well then. Since I'm done here."
Cale packed up as he then used one of the teleportation scroll to get him to the Palace.
To be specific, to the emperor's office.
"What the-"
Alberu Crossman, the blond who's having a casual discussion with Tasha and Queen Litana was startled at the sudden arrival of this unknown figure.
"Ah. Did I come in a bad timing?"
Cale, who lowers his hoodie as soon as he arrived, not to startle the others for thinking him as assassin or something, looked around confusedly.
'I thought he said that he doesn't have any important meeting today?'
Well, the truth is, what Alberu meant by that is 'there's no important meeting that involves you' the quarter dark elf really keen on keeping his promise on letting Cale have his slacker life.
The ex-commander internally shrugged.
'Welp, it doesn't matter'
With a smile, he then activated his glib tongue.
"your majesty the star of the empire, I cannot possibly compare to the wonderful and glorious shining sun of the Roan Empire who always worked so hard for our peace and-"
"What do you want?" The Emperor casually cuts in with a sour expression.
To which, Cale openly snickers about.
"Nothing much. In fact, today I'm feeling generous~" his sing song tune is extremely out of character that the three of them couldn't help but get wary.
Even Tasha and Litana found his greeting a bit too much for the usual Cale.
"A gift from me for all the hard work you've done" he handed him the fountain pen he bought from Billos with a smile that if Raon was there to witness, the young dragon would start to yaps around asking if he's going to scam the Emperor.
'Technically speaking, it's not a scam'
He's still smiling, but that only gave Alberu the chills seeing it.
However, before he could ask what's this supposed to mean, Cale already turned to the two ladies.
"My sincere apologies, I did not know that the two of you would be here at this hour, so I hope you don't mind"
He reached for two neatly wrapped box to the two of them. Each of the box contains dark colored jewelries that would match with their skin.
'Even though they're warriors, they wouldn't turn down luxuries right?'
In a way, it's still worth a lot.
Cale was relieved that they seems to like it.
"You shouldn't have, Young Master Cale"
The red-head shook his head, "it's the least I can give you"
'The weapons and the magic devices are strict for the ones at home. Besides, the children wouldn't care much about jewelries. It's not their time yet'
He didn't notice the odd looks the three have.
"What do you mean by that? My dongsaeng, did something happen?" Alberu couldn't help his worry with how things are going.
This felt ominous, no matter what angle he's trying to see it from.
"Nothing happened."
Again, he couldn't say that it's his way to bribe them not to bother him for a while. They should be thankful enough and give him the freedom he's been asking about for a long while now.
'Even though half of the day already gone'
He doesn't mind. On the other hand, it's actually quite hard to condition his facial expression from smiling at the peaceful slumber he would be able to enjoy soon.
To the other's, all that they can see is Cale averting his gaze, trying to hide something...
They also couldn't ignore the bouquet that the red-head is holding.
However, before anyone can ask what's actually going on, Cale already said again, "welp, unfortunately I'm a bit busy today. It's nice to meet you all, but I must excuse myself for now. Goodbye" he bowed lightly at the three before ripping the other teleportation scroll that sends him back, in front of the Black Castle.
Cale smiled, 'now, to deal with the dragons'
Sheritt, Eruhaben, and Dodori.
The three of them should be in the black Castle today. The dragon lord says that she wanted to have a talk with her fellow dragons.
Though it's not appropriate for him to meddle, he decided to barge in, handed them their bribes then dipped.
As easy as that.
To be honest he's actually looking forward to this one. He's not doing this pure of goodwill, actually. Cale was feeling mischievous when thinking about the gifts for the two ancient dragons especially.
"You, disrespectful brat, What are you doing here?"
Eruhaben scowled at Cale who doesn't seem to care with his words since the gate was opened for him.
"Today, I'm a postman"
"a what?" The three stared at the weird statement from this unlucky human before them.
Cale merely smiles as he went to Dodori and wordlessly take out the pink diamond pendant and helped the pink dragon wears it.
"As expected, it suits you" he nodded as if satisfied with himself.
"Eh? Cale-nim? What is this fo-"
"A present" Cale cuts him off, "I haven't gifted you any welcome gift ever since you join us. And then I saw this pendant"
He shrugs, "I know that it must be nothing but a colorful rock to all of you, oh the great and mighty dragons. However, when I found this, I feel like it would look good on you." He genuinely think so.
Dodori was out of words despite his sparkling eyes.
It was the first gift he ever received from anyone else. Not even his own mother ever gifted him something without any other meaning behind it. Further more, even though he's still quite young as a dragon, he understands that this 'colorful rock' actually worth quite a lot for humans.
However, he did not get to thank Cale, for he already turned to the goldilock this time.
"What do you want, you unlucky bastard?" Eruhaben still has that deep scowl on his face.
Cale decided to teases him for a bit, "stop frowning from every little thing I do, Eruhaben-nim. What if those lines stuck on your face?"
"Heh. That wouldn't happen"
'Yeah, that wouldn't happen.' Cale knows that the dragons would appear as beautiful and majestic creatures no matter which form they're taking.
That doesn't matter, all he need to do now is do what he needs to do then leave.
"Here, for you" he handed him a box of colorful ribbons.
"Huh? What the-"
"Please allow me" Cale already stopped him from complaining by stepping forward and got to the goldilocks' back as he began to touch his hair.
"What are you doing?"
"Shh... just let me be for a bit, Eruhaben-nim" Cale disrespectfully answered him as he skillfully braided the long hair before Decorating it with the ribbons and the flowery hair clips from the box.
"All done" he tried not to laugh at the other. That being said, he did try to make him look good.
Apparently, Dodori and Sheritt loves the new style.
"Woah! You looked beautiful gramps!" The pink dragon chirped.
"Indeed. You seemed like whenever the elves children visit me and play with my hair."
Eruhaben looks annoyed. But hearing the two compliments him like that, all he could do is glaring at the red-head who's still trying his best not to laugh here and then.
"Don't worry, Sheritt-nim. I haven't forgotten about you"
"Oh? Me too?"
Cale nodded before reaching out for a beautiful blue flower crown from his magic bag.
"May I?" He asked respectfully, to which the dragon lord lowers her head a bit so that Cale can put it on her head.
"Raon made this"
The white dragon stiffens, "...Raon did?"
"Yes," Cale confidently replied, "two days ago the children were making crown flowers in the garden. When I asked who they're making these for, Raon says that he wanted to give one to you. Particularly this one."
He then continues, "that being said, he seems to be shy and contemplating a lot on whether you'd like it or not, because per his words, it looks shabby"
It's not. The crown might not look full or perfect. But Shabby is not the word to describe it at all.
"I think it'll be a waste to toss it away so I steal it" he said with a smile.
The dragon lord chuckled, "You stole from a child?"
"I feel like I'll be forgiven for this one time" Cale retorted cheekily.
"I guess I couldn't be fully mad at you"
"I'm sure Raon would only ignore me for a bit from being flustered"
If anything Cale feels like he's done a really good deed this one time the whole day.
"That sounds like him" Sheritt nodded in agreement.
"Well then, thank you for sparing your time for this humble being" Cale then excused himself.
"Eh? You're leaving already?" Dodori asked, to which the ex-commander replied by patting the magic bag on his side.
"Today, I'm a postman" is all he says before leaving the three.
Before he can head to the grave, there's one last place he needs to visit.
Without missing a beat, Cale found himself stealthily heading to the kitchen. He had skipped lunch before, but he did eat some street snacks he brought on his trip earlier.
'At this hour, Ron would be checking at the Love and Hope inn at the Eastern Continents and Beacrox would be checking for their food stock on the back'
Cale already timed his arrival to lined up at the time when the kitchen is empty.
One of them would bound to appear in less than 30 minutes.
But even if he's not done yet, he'll tell them not to bother him.
'I am still their superior in this house. I have the power to tell them that much'
He always have that power in his hand had he not get all scared with the Molans. And today, he's putting aside he's genuine fright about the two.
Pulling his sleeves up, he mumbled, "alright, let's just get this done with"
Soon enough, he found himself grabbing various ingredients and utensils that he'd be using to make the meal of his choice.
He was too engrossed with what he's doing that he didn't realize how two individuals has stepped into the room.
"Young Master Cale? What are you doing he-" before Ron can even finish his sentences, Cale has silenced him with a shush without even looking at the Father-Son duo by the door.
"Can't you see that I'm busy?" He sternly mentioned with a light scowl.
"...you can cook?" Beacrox was shocked to see the swift and graceful movement of the other. The chef could have sworn that Cale has never been in the kitchen to cook, like, ever. Yet the way he flicked his hands and moving all the ingredients to create the foreign yet delicious smelling meal, had him staring.
Meanwhile with the red-head, the soul inside of this body, one that used to be known as Kim Rok Soo is actually a decent cook. He had lived alone in Korea therefore cooking is one of the skills he must have in order to survive.
'It's not like I can cook anything grand. But simple dishes like these are easy to made'
Mieyokguk, Japchae, and Rice Cakes.
Cale has decided to make the three must have Korean Food to participate on the celebration of Choi Han's birthday.
'Also mine and Choi Jung Soo's...' he has a rare longing look on his face that got Beacrox and Ron baffled- not that Cale would notice since he's still concentrating on what he's doing.
Once in a while, he would take a bite to check if it tasted the similar if not the same as the one he had before.
"descent" he snickers in satisfaction before turning to the Chef.
"I might be late for dinner tonight, since I have to meet someone. So in my place, serve these meals to Choi Han, got it?" It was an order.
That ex-commander was glad that the swordsman nodded wordlessly.
If only he had paid more attention, Cale would have realized that the Chef was staring at him as if he has grown two heads. He still couldn't believe on what he's witnessing.
"There's enough for everyone, so if they're curious, they can have some" the long haired man added as he quickly cleaned up after himself and the utensils used.
Ron finally made his move, "this someone, who is this person you're meeting, young master?"
"Important figure." Cale fearlessly answered before then added, "Don't follow me. Things will get complicated if you do."
His gaze was sharp and Ron's pupils shook in exchange.
"Just remember what I told you about the surprise. Make sure he won't find out until the time."
'I need to threaten him a bit, or else he'd silently follow me anyway. And that just won't do'
The last thing he wanted to do is be in total seclusion. With no one to bother him. No person to be around.
He disliked loneliness, but it was only for a couple of hours, he planned to have some time alone and read a book or something...
'A peaceful time for myself'
And he couldn't do that in the Villa, the Duchy, or the Harris Village. Which is why he decided to go to the hill where Drew Thames is buried.
Taking a rest in such a big tree would be his ideal final destination for the day.
'And she is an important figure alright' so he's not lying to Ron either.
Cale felt accomplished. Since that's pretty much everything to do and everyone that he needed to met.
'I can drop the items for the others with Lock'
The silveret is trustworthy enough for the task.
However, It seems like he doesn't need to go to the Village after all, on his way outside, he was greeted with two different voices.
"Ah, Young Master Cale-nim!"
"Good day, Cale-nim"
He could hear an enthusiastic voices of the Magic Tower Master, Rosalyn and GPS-like tone of Mary's. Cale was glad that he crossed path with both of them, 'What a great timing!'
He greeted the two of them at the same time, "good day to you two."
Cale had called them in advance to help him distract Choi Han. Of course he already told them about planning the ravenet's birthday in advance. Which is why they looked overjoyed and happily agreed with the task.
"Where is he?"
"Training with Lock"
Cale shook his head in disbelief hearing that, 'does that punk even know the word rest?'
"Well, whatever" he mumbled, but the two could hear him and actually felt rather amused of his reaction.
"Anyway, here. Before I forget" he then handed the two of them, The magic stones for Rosalyn and dead mana to Mary.
"What is this for, Young master-nim?" The red haired mage confusedly asked.
"Payment." Cale shortly replied.
"I can't have him tailing me today. I paid you to give him enough distraction"
"But isn't this too much...?"
The ex-commander shrugged, "no refund" That's all he said.
'It's not like it's my own money anyway'
Spending other's money is truly the best. He also doesn't need of the dead mana. So it's a good riddance, really.
"Just do your job well so we don't fail" his words was so serious. The tone he used is that of Commander that he was when he leads the troop to their victory.
However, 'isn't this just for a birthday party?'
The two doesn't understand why he's this serious.
While with Cale, he needs to make sure that these two will do what he asked well, since of all people, second to Raon, Choi Han is the hardest to be avoided.
And if he truly wanted a peaceful break, he needs to get away from the MC and his shenanigans.
Cale then also asked the two to deliver the gifts that he had brought earlier to the wolf children that has volunteered on taking care of the farm today and the trio who still hasn't returned from their own shopping. Saying that he don't have time to pass it to them himself.
"I'm counting on you"
Thankfully, they easily agreed though feel a bit confused at Cale's slightly pushy attitude.
It's almost as if he's hiding something.
'Is it the surprise birthday party?'
That's all they could think of for now as they watched Cale wearing his robe once more and heads outside with a bouquet or red flower on hand...
"I am here"
Cale feel proud of himself as he reached the hill where the red maple tree that grows right on tip of Original Cale's mother's tomb is located.
Cale clasped his hand for a bit to pay respect before then heading to the tree and sit down under the shadow.
No other people, no responsibilities, no annoying voices.
Just he himself alone with the nature.
'Ahhh~ How peaceful'
He doesn't care if it'll only lasted a few hours, Cale was happy as it is that he get the break he deserved.
The breeze brushed past him as the fatigue form walking for so long finally reached him.
Though he's not as exhausted as when he was at war, he is tired from all the stuff he did since morning hits.
Which is why, it's really not that hard for him to give up the idea of reading a book while enjoying the scenery once in a while and skip it all to fell into a deep slumber.
'Oh my, if only I could do this everyday'
With that last thought lingering in mind, Cale let his thoughts drifted away as his body fell limp, eyes fluttered close to sleep...
Meanwhile at the Villa.
It's been a few hours since anyone last seen their crimson haired friend and family, Cale Henituse.
It's dinner time and everyone gathers to celebrate Choi Han's birthday.
The birthday boy was genuinely surprised as he had forgotten that today was his birthday. It was when Beacrox served him the Korean food that Cale had made especially for him that he realized the meaning behind Cale's giddiness this morning.
"Human can cook!?"
"I never know!"
"Ah! I want to try it too!"
Soon enough it is revealed that the red haired man was indeed the one that planned it all.
Choi Han felt even more touched hearing it. He tried his best not to get all emotional and worries the others.
That being said, as the time passed, and the celebration goes on, there's still no sign of the person responsible for this.
"Cale-nim still hasn't returned?" He couldn't help but ask.
Ron had mentioned how the young master told him to tell them that he might be late into the celebration. However, it's almost the children's curfew and normally around this time. No matter where he is, as long it's not emergency, Cale would be back home or at least informed one of them.
This time, however, there's still no info of his returning, and it's starting to get them feeling anxious.
"Today, young master Cale is acting weird..." breaking the silence, Mary's monotone voice startled them all.
"He is a good man, but today he is extremely nice." She said.
"Now that you mention about it..." Alberu, who was there to celebrate his instructor's birthday as well Kim Rok Soo's, started to frown. The ominous feeling he had earlier when Cale visits only increases.
"Cale gave us each one gold coins" On added to that statement.
It is weird for him who wanted to teach the children the importance of saving money to give them that much of allowance all of the sudden.
"He also gifted us a lot of weapons and new clothes!" One of Lock's siblings said as the cheerful atmosphere around them starting to change.
"Young master said that he's going to meet someone important as he leave earlier..." at last Ron revealed.
"Someone important?" Choi Han asked suspiciously.
"He told father not to follow him or else things would get complicated" Beacrox followed up, and now the whole table is highly alerted.
"Why didn't you tell us earlier?!" That swordsmaster snapped.
Yet Ron still calmly replied, regardless how disrespectful the other is being, "young master was confident. I have no other choice to obey. After all, if my disobedience ended up risking his safety, that would be something even more unfortunate"
He said so, but knowing the old man these past years, they can also tell that the patriarch was rather twitchy from that order the red-head gave him.
"In any case, he said that he's going to be slightly late from dinner. It is already past the time mentioned." Rosalyn tried to take control of the situation and calmed the crowd for their own behalf, "Raon-nim is not with him, so he's supposedly nowhere fa-"
"Actually, he came to the palace earlier with a teleportation scroll." Alberu cuts in.
Although he knows the chaos he brought by mentioning that, it is something important for them to know.
"Then human can be anywhere!?!?"
"Oh gosh..."
"Shit. Where did he get them???"
To which Hans who was there all along reported with a controlled expression. "Billos Flynn. Earlier today I've got the info that Young Master could be seen visiting [The Fragrance of Tea with Poetry]."
"I'm contacting him now!"
Raon waste no time to call for the merchant.
"Oh, Raon-nim? Did something happen-"
"Do you know where Human went?" The black dragon asked immediately.
His question caused the piggy-bank man to frown, "so something did happen to Young Master Cale after all"
The merchant's reaction made some of them flinch.
"What do you know?" Eruhaben sternly said whereas Billos quoted his interactions with the missing red-head today.
"Also, does anyone else paid attention to the bouquet he brought?" He looked nervous as he mentioned this.
"The flowers?"
"Yes. It is a bouquet of red Lisianthus..."
Those who knows what it means stiffened.
"Wait, what's with that flower?" Raon asked impatiently.
"Raon Miru-nim... Red Lisianthus represent appreciation, gratitude and charisma. With this flower- especially in Roan Empire, it is a way to say 'thank you' to the deceased."
"What!?"
They all get a bad feeling now.
Thank you to the deceased.
What if Cale bringing the bouquet around and shows it to people he met today as his way for him to say thank you as he is about to die.
Chaos soon ensued...
"WE NEED TO FIND HIM NOW!!!"
At least they already found out about the fact that Cale is very likely already used all of the scrolls he has.
Which means, he shouldn't be that far.
"We're going to divide ourselves into some groups." Alberu said, leading this operation himself.
Cale has a feeble body and refuses to exercise. So he's supposedly not somewhere far from the entrance of the Villa since that's where Mary and Rosalyn last seen him.
He couldn't possibly outside of the empire.
"Keep a cool head. The Vow of Death that he made still can be felt. He is alive" he reminded them, since it would be bad if these strong figures lost their rationality and began to flip the whole thing around to find the missing person.
Although, honestly speaking, Alberu himself shared the sentiment knowing how the red-head tends to get in deep trouble in span of short time. He is just as restless for his dongsaeng's well being...
In the end, the search party got dispatched. Each one of them have someone that can teleported the group around in case needed.
That Single-Lifer clenched onto his scabbard with a stoic expression on his face.
'Wait for us, Cale-nim. We'll save you soon!'
All the while those ruckus are happening. That lone individual can be found awkwardly laying on the ground, no longer sitting while leaning on the tree trunk like he did earlier.
His hoodie were blown away as his beautiful red hair flutter lightly due to the night breeze.
That being said, the owner is still unaware of anything else and simply enjoyed his peaceful time sleeping his break time away.
It was a deep slumber that supported by voice canceling magic device which he has activated before falling asleep.
He couldn't hear any annoying noises as long the item is active. Which is why, he couldn't hear the panicked screams of his friends who finally found him after quite a while.
"There he is!"
"Human!!"
"Cale-nim!!"
They are even more worried since the red-head doesn't seem to responded to any of their cries even as they got closer.
Raon sent a quick message to the other group that they've found Cale before following Choi Han on being by the human's side.
"Cale-nim! Cale-nim! Please wake up!" The swordsmaster sounded desperate and so does the three children.
They flinched at how pale and cold looking the red-head is.
'How long has he been exposed to this cold!?'
Thankfully, on the contrary of their belief, Cale woke up rather quickly.
"Hmm?" His long lashes flutter as the owner sleepily reopened his eyes after a great nap.
"Human!"
"Cale-nim!"
"Oh thankgoodness..."
They all seemed to be in deep relief while the center of their attention can only blinked in confusion.
"Am I still dreaming...?" He muttered to himself before then asking with a louder voice that were meant to be heard, his magic items has been deactivated by then, "what are you guys doing here?"
Ron decided to be the one to answer that query, "it's already way past dinner, Young Master Cale. Almost midnight even"
At the new info, that reddish-brown orbs rounded before looking at the sky which has indeed decorated with the stars.
"Ah. I am late. My apologies" he casually apologized as he pets the children's head before then turning to Choi Han.
"Sorry I missed the party."
"No, it's okay. That doesn't matter"
'It doesn't matter?' Cale frowned, "it is matter. And I will make it up to you tomorrow." He insisted.
He didn't even give space for the ravenet to argue as he paid more attention to the children that's snuggling onto him on their animal form.
"Why are you guys here and not in bed? I am indeed late. But it's not like I'm leaving forever"
His words actually made some of them openly flinched. All the while, Cale can only stare in deep confusion.
"What?"
Alberu and Eruhaben let out a deep sigh that they've been holding back since earlier.
"This unlucky bastard..."
"My dongsaeng is unbelievable..."
Cale decided to just ignore them.
"Human... aren't you freezing?" Raon's question actually made him remember something.
'Ah right, I have the thermal magic device with me. No wonder I'm not awaken from the cold.'
The red-head smiled comfortingly, "No, I am not. You guys are here now as well. I am warm"
And that's the truth.
"Are you sure? You're not going to catch a cold?"
"If you feel sick, tell us immediately, nyaa!"
Hearing this, Cale doesn't know if he should felt smug on how overprepared he was for this plan, or annoyed that now he has worried his friends.
In the end, he could only sighs, "it's fine. I am okay. I was just asleep"
"Are you sure? But you looked so pale!"
"Cale-nim, Are you really not sick?"
"Human! Don't get sick! I-I'll heal you!"
'These punks, honestly'
His sigh only gets louder, "I am not sick. It is just my skin color. I just fell asleep as I watched the scenery."
Not intended to voice out his annoyance, however, he still did. Just a slight change of tone, but they heard it.
"Are you... irritated?" On had asked.
"No, I'm not"
His tone stoic, but in actuality he's slightly irked.
"You are" Alberu bluntly stated.
To which Cale smiled brightly about, although his words did not match with his expressions, "with all due respect, Hyung-nim. Shut the fuck up"
Some snorts could be heard as the Emperor growing tick mark on his forehead.
"You do realize that you can get arrested for blasphemy to a royal family member right?"
Cale doesn't seem to care in the slightest, "might as well try once in my life time"
The blond can only facepalm.
"Human... are you mad at me?"
Raon who already flew and sat at Cale's lap asked with a worry shown in his face.
"Like I said, I'm not. So don't worry" the red head calmly replied as he pats the black dragon's head.
"How about me, nyaa?"
"And me?"
Hong and On followed their youngest's pawsteps and had their heads brushing against his sides.
"I am not"
Cale then pick up Hong as well, placing him on his lap next to Raon while petting On's head gently.
The others have smiles on their faces as they saw this. It seems like his irritation slowly crumbles due to what the children did.
They then hears him yawn before grumbling under his breath.
"I guess sleeping on a bed is the only thing suitable for me" His back and neck hurts from the position he was supporting as he fell asleep under the red maple tree.
"That's right, human! Bed is the best! Let's go home and have some sleep?"
"I think Young Master already have enough sleep, Raon-nim. How about dinner?"
"I don't think he has lunch either- Beacrox, prepare another feast"
The chef only nodded silently before heading back first.
At this, Cale can only shook his head. He was sure that he wouldn't be able to get anything across if they're already going this far.
So instead, all he did was smiling a genuine smile this time as he faced his dearest family.
"Alright. Let's go home"