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Chapter Text

[Lante Agriche's POV]

"My Lord, we've entered the Red Gastors territory."

The Head of the Black Agriche’s Family glared with a small grin on his young handsome face.

"Let's see. What kind of welcome will be greeting us? From a family that is known to be very secretive."

And having just arrived at the gate, their visit was immediately rejected, as usual.

A small smile spreads on his face. With dark red eyes, the head of the family glanced towards Gastors's gate.

"Well, what a cold official welcome." A small chuckle made several listeners shiver in fear. If the crazy patriarch was already chuckling, something unpleasant would soon happen.

"Anyway, we didn't need their welcome in the first place."

"Let's go to the west side of the Gastors Territory, near the Red Fall forest."

*****

The welcoming forest was still as beautiful and quiet as it had been when Lante Agriche had first arrived.

The trees that grow in this forest have white trunks, with reddish maple leaves. It is still a mystery how these trees grow, considering that when planted outside the region, they will not grow. As well as leaves that never dry or change color in various seasons that come.

His eyes stared flatly at the interior of the forest, taking off his furry coat as he lit his cigarette.

"I will go in alone." He unsheathed the sword at his waist. Red eyes stared at the subordinates who followed with a burning gaze. Warning them that if they disobeyed the order, the punishment would be severe.

Entering the forest, Lante Agriche's face darkened.

This job was actually an assignment for Dion Agriche, one of his children who had shown potential and had been very useful lately. The boy had also come to this region, based on a report a few months ago.

However, two of the Agriche's monsters escaped the restraints and went separate ways. If Dion Agriche got the passage to the White Huipelian area, then he headed for the Red Gastors. Considering that several of his children had died due to failing to capture the monsters released in this area.

Using his keen sense of smell, red eyes shine brightly at the trail that showed the direction the annoying monster was running.

A bloodthirsty maniacal grin drenched in rage burned brightly in the head of the Black Agriche's mind at the sight of the monster baring its fangs.

Not waiting for long, nor caring about the blood soaking his clothes, the monster died a horrible death. Slightly easing his anger at the uselessness of Agriche's 'children' who failed to fulfill this easy task.

The black-haired man hummed.

Other than Dion, the second child of Sierra, Roxana is her name? Showed a little potential to be useful. Unlike her brother who was as weak as Sierra herself.

The small foothold caught by his sensitive hearing made the sword draw to its origin. With a murderous aura so strong and crimson eyes glinting coldly and promising painful death, Lante walked towards the source of the sound.

Slow and silent, he stood not far away. Concealing his presence, crimson eyes observed that the source of the footsteps came from a child.

Lante's eyes widened when he saw red hair as bright as a fiery sunset. It was blown by the wind that moved lightly around him, making several maple leaves follow the flow of that force of nature.

From his clothes, he looks like a child of royalty.

Perhaps he’s lost in the forest?

Perhaps sensing Lante's presence, the boy gave a small gasp, then turned to face him. Making the boy's face clearly visible.

A very angelic face. Lante Agriche thought, somewhat mesmerized.

He had milky white, healthy skin with bright red hair framing a heart-shaped face. The delicate eyebrows and eyelashes that matched his hair, made the garnet reddish-brown eyes shine so beautifully, wide and innocent with a jeweled sparkle.

Lante held back the grin that was about to creep onto his lips. Looks like one of Gastors's children got lost.

He waited patiently to see the frightened face of the boy, who was scanning the bloodied appearance of his body.

However, all he got was a small head tilted in confusion and a look on his face that began to show... pure worry-?

"...Sir? Are you alright?" What a very innocent voice. But the sharp edge of his gaze could not be hidden. Lante's hand moved to cover half his face, holding back the smile that was almost etched on his lips.

"What do you think, little one?" Those unique jewel-like eyes blinked twice, before giving a small hum.

"Are you alright?" asked the little boy again, eyes darting briefly towards the monster corpse Lante had left behind. The older one did not answer, there were only eyes that curved even more, at the smile behind his hand.

"The blood of monsters could contaminate this land," muttered the child, boldly walking up to Lante, past him, and approaching the monster corpses. Meanwhile, the head of the Black Agriches family followed close behind. His interest increased even more at the sight of the boy's calm face.

There was no fear at all.

There was only acceptance with a small sad (?) smile as his right hand reached out to touch the monster's head.

However, he did not show weakness, as Lante had assumed. Sadness and tears were weak parts that could be exploited by anyone, showing how weak humans were and useless in solving problems. The very thing he did not tolerate in his 'family' rules.

Until he saw the smile of this little Gastors.

The weakness he showed fascinated the Head of the Black Agriche Family.

"I'll take care of it, Sir." Lante's thick eyebrows raised one side.

"How?" The sad smile became a small smile containing many meanings. The eyes with jeweled reddish-brown beads were almost curved by the smile behind the index finger with a small 'sshh' gesture.

"Secret."

Lante refrained from laughing out loud. It had been a long time since a kid had tried to joke with him. So far, only Dion had dared to counter his arguments back without fear in the emotionless red eyes.

"Alright, alright. So-" Lante bowed with a playful grin.

"-would the little one be so kind as to show me the way out of this forest?" No matter the lie, the boy turned in a different direction from where Lante had entered this forest.

"That way," he whispered, sending up a cold, deadly breeze from the forest. It made various voices chime in, hypnotizing anyone with weak strength into giving in to nightmares. Lante tried hard to hide the smile that threatened to spread across his lips. If it was an ordinary person, he might have been scared to death. But, not for a strong man like him.

"This straight road will penetrate into your territory, Sir. And don't worry about your subordinates, they have already been guided there."

Interest was maximized.

The child was at one with nature. His presence even felt like the world itself. The wind swept through his hair, delivering a cold, cool, warm, and deadly scent. But while his smile was laced with sharpness and caution, it did not hide a side of rare kindness, sadness and... it was beautiful to behold.

"Have a safe journey, Lord Agriche."

Such was Lante Agriche's growing determination to bring the boy into his territory.

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A few months later
[Roxana Agriche's POV]

It was early in the morning when all the servants serving the Head of the Agriche Family came into their rooms.

Delivering the news that all the family members, whether 'useful' or 'useless', had to come.

Glancing at her mother, Sierra who knew nothing but had a worried expression on her pretty face. Then her brother, Ashil, who was biting his lip with a pale face, Roxana clenched her hands into fists. What is going on?

After getting dressed as best as possible, they walked towards the family living room, accepting the strange tension that evaporated between all the family members. The bright blonde little girl refrained from backing down. In her entire life, she had never seen this many members of the Agriche family. Perhaps it was because some of Lante's children had not died yet?

Then, the rare, carved black mahogany door swung open. A tall man with well-built shoulders and an aura of blood and a smirk on his face entered. Roxana's ruby red eyes flattened, hiding emotions with a probing gaze.

All eyes were focused on the Head of the Agriche Family who was now standing in front of them all. Then, the red apparition came out behind the strapping body of the father of all her half-brothers-sisters. Roxana's eyes widened even more at the sight of the newcomer.

"Everyone, this is Cale Gastors, the youngest of the Red Gastors family. The only person who can enter Agriche territory."

All the eyes of the Agriche family members stared at the figure of the 8-year-old child standing next to the head of the family, Lante Agriche.

His shoulder-length red hair glistened in the sunlight, with pale milky skin that was blended with a rosy hue on his cheeks. Perfect eyebrows with a chiseled jaw of baby-fat aristocrats. His lips were rosy as rosebuds with a pair of reddish-brown eyes that had a unique jeweled pattern.

'How beautiful.' That was all Roxana Agriche could think of when she saw the Gastors' youngest child.

"Thank you for the warm welcome, Mr. Agriche." The little boy took a step forward, smiling a small, sweet smile. Letting out an aura of innocence and childlike innocence, Roxana could not help but feel her inner shock.

Why was Lante Agriche, who had never tolerated such a 'weak' attitude, now smiling with a different emotion at the child? Why was there the epitome of 'good' in 'evil' like this Agriche family?

"Introducing myself, my name is Cale Gastors. Just call me Cale. Greetings everyone." A small, delicate hand moved towards the heart and bowed gracefully.

This was different from the original novel-? Because the family characters other than Black Agriche and Blue Pedelian, were rarely introduced....let alone the Red Gastors? That one family was more mysterious, and was only introduced in a simple paragraph.

Why-?

The door then opened again. Roxana mentally gaped as she noticed the newcomer.

... Dion?! Why is he here?! In a bloody state too?!

"Cale." the person who broke into the meeting, Dion Agriche walked towards the newly introduced boy. He did not pay any mind to his rude and audacious act of interrupting Lante Agriche's speech.

"Dion," whispered the youngest of the Gastors, with a gentle concerned face, almost reminding Roxana of her mother. But there was a drastic difference. She didn't know what it was, but the kindness shown by the Gastors's son wasn't 'split'.

Roxana could hear several other Agriche family members, especially Dion's own mother, gasp as Cale Gastors moved closer while pulling out a handkerchief. Seemingly out of habit, the hand reached out, almost on tiptoe at his height to gently wipe the blood still dripping from the forehead of one of the Agriche sons.

"... treat your wound first."

And... Dion just accepted it?! Obediently?!

"Lord Agriche, can I treat Dion first?" Roxana could feel Ashil trembling beside her at the youngest of the Gastors's courage to ask the head of the family.

Officially, Roxana managed a small gape for real when the middle-aged man nodded.

"With pleasure, little one." ... little one?

Dion let himself be led out by the tug of Cale Gastors' small hand. Before going out of the door, Roxana could see a small grin along with a sharp-edged look given to all of them, quickly returning to Lante Agriche who was already chuckling like crazy.

"That bastard. Getting bolder, huh?"

Roxana was stunned in standing.

... actually, what was going on!?

This isn't in the novel!

Chapter Text

"....why are you doing this...?" Reddish-brown eyes glazed over at the sight of the man who had once stopped by with a warm embrace in his heart.

"What did I do wrong for you to become like this, Dion?"

At the sound of a sword sheathing, the younger man found himself walking backwards as the others approached.

"Your fault?" The smile given curved blood-red eyes that looked like rubies that reflected no light.

"Because you cared about them." The red-haired man's eyes widened with a pale face.

"...just because of that?" He asked tremblingly. The black-haired man nodded with a smile that gradually disappeared.

"Yes."

The wall made the path a dead-end. The red-haired figure watched weakly as the other man raised one of his hands to caress his cheeks.

"Cale," he whispered sweetly, like poison.

"I don't like that." A kiss was placed on top of his head.

"I'm the only one worthy of your attention."

The black head tilted, now smiling gently at him with eyes sparkling with obsession.

"Okay?"

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The one thing Cale Henituse regretted about entering the temple of that damn god, was that he heard a voice, and he didn't tell his companions and family.

It was like the whirring of an engine. It was faint but very clear and resonated in his mind and memory.

When he asked his ancient powers, they heard nothing.

It was as if only Cale could hear it.

And it all happened so fast, so unexpectedly.

Raon's scream was the last thing Cale heard while he was in that cursed temple.

With the darkness and the rattle of chains surrounding him, Cale could hear someone laughing with loud voice. An unfamiliar image, almost like a flash of someone's memory entered his mind. Along with a faint voice that whispered agony to Cale about endless nightmares.

... come back to me, Cale- who?!

-You are mine!

-I won't let you go-

-chains-

-I'm crazy because of you-

STOP-!

"-CALE-NIM!" he gasped violently.

In the black haze, and the swirl of painful memories, reddish-brown eyes glanced sorrowfully at the black-robed knight in front of him.

... ahh... Choi Han... choked up, the words 'help me' were tongue-tied and frozen in his gaze.

Total darkness took over his consciousness.

Cale felt like he had fallen into someone's arms with a cruel feeling of tightness.

He cried in that darkness.

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Somewhere in unknown place...

[Third Person's POV]

There was a rumor among the servants.

That the Head of the Family had brought home an illegitimate child.

The child was rumored to be very beautiful, giving rise to various rumors that the mother might be of fairy, elf, fae or even dragon descent.

His hair was as red as the Gastors' family crest.

Milky pale skin that glowed softly.

A beautiful face, combined with lips that were as red as a rose.

Eyebrows and eyelashes the same color as his hair, framing the unique jewel-like eyes.

And the aura of innocence, calmness, and innocence exuded by the child makes it hard to hate.

All of this further proves the theory, resulting in the rumor that the child was born with an extra blessing. The blessing that his presence alone was loved by gods and nature.

Because of these rumors, Cale Henituse, now in the body of a 1 year and 5 month old toddler, sat before the members of the strangest family in the world.

The baby's eyes, with eyes that could not hide its intelligence, blinked at the faces of the men, women, boys and girls in front of it one by one.

To be honest, Cale's head hurt now. He had just woken up in this world a week ago and didn't remember any of the events during that time except for the screams of Raon and Choi Han as well as the other comrades.

Then, the pain he suffered was as if he was 'forced' to wake up in an incompatible body. It was very painful at first, but now it was better even though it still hurt his mind.

"So... this is the child born out-of-wedlock that you brought here, My Lord? " the black-haired woman broke the silence of the who-long-stared contest with sharp violet eyes not leaving the other man's face. Cale's reverie was also broken by the woman's cold voice.

"Yes," replied the man, the Head of the Family, with a flat and calm face.

"Please give a more detailed explanation, Father." The voice of a boy, probably around 12 years old, replied with an equally flat face.

"There's a letter saying that I have to pick him up. Otherwise, the Gastors' family secret will be made public." The eyes of all the family members widened slightly.

"...not just a bluff?" the voice of a girl, around 8 years old asked in a wary tone.

"No, it's not. I've read it, and it does contain the Gastors' family secrets."

"That's quite worrying," said the last voice of a teenager not far from the 16-year-old range with an unconcealed cold stare.

"We will discuss this further, My Lord." The eldest man could only nod at the other woman's cold, intimidating voice.

Silence engulfing the room, Cale refrained from shivering at the intensity of the gazes given by the 5 people before him. Even the smallest one, the 8-year-old girl, gave off the same terrifying aura.

Okay. Another short explanation. Now with a complaint.

Cale had only been in this world for a week, had not had time to mourn the previous world, the family he had left behind, and was sickly with a memory that was empty and broken with a grudge against that damn Sealed God. And a second later, he was shocked to be in the body of a toddler in such cold weather, and now being judged by this unknown family?

...please give Cale some time to fucking breathe.

And involuntarily, the baby let out a long, tired-sounding sigh. Startling the entire family.

As they could see, the baby's intelligent, knowing eyes blinked unafraid of them. There was only a tired, curious and sleepy look. But, what was most striking was... the sadness that surrounded his beautiful eyes.

"...I guess what the servants said was true." A small smile could not be hidden. The oldest woman in the room walked over to the baby, taking a closer look.

Cale, with a small sense of caution that went against the baby's ego, gave a little smile.

A small chuckle, almost like a laughter like fairy bells rang out, making all give a small gasp, even more so at the Head of Household's companion.

Glove-covered fingers reached out to touch the baby's cheek, as her heart melted as the jeweled reddish-brown eyes closed playfully with a leaning motion in her hand.

Cale, on the other hand, held back his internal scream. That what he wanted to do was not to lean like this! This family in front of him was clearly very dangerous and Cale's vigilance should have kept him from giving an opening like... like laughing!

"How sweet." Cale's baby eyes blinked at the incomprehensible foreign language. But, what he could read, was the change mood of the woman who was now smiling slightly at him. Her gaze could not hide pleasure and fondness as well as interest.

"Children, come here. My Lord, you too."

Baby Cale's eyes trembled lightly as everyone suddenly approached him and formed a circular formation with him in the center.

... aigoo... my poor life...

"Is this baby really a boy? He looks like a doll!" the smallest child exclaimed with emotion full of interest in her purple eyes.

"Yes. He's a boy," replied the Head of the Family, a dark red-haired man with golden eyes that sparkled like frightening embers.

"He looks like a girl. And cuter than you," chirped the middle child, a 12-year-old with black hair and golden eyes.

"...hmph. That's okay. Because he's really cute! After me and Mother! " replied the little girl with an unconcealed grin.

"Don't plan anything, little brother." The eldest, black-haired with violet eyes, who had an amused little smile on his face.

And just as the girl wanted to interrupt, Cale cursed at his baby body which suddenly let out a small yawn. His chubby hands also subconsciously moved to rub his eyes and muttered a little.

Apparently Cale's baby body was already exhausted.

The tiny head stumbled to prevent itself from falling asleep, soon falls asleep on the armrest of the head of the family. Who was quick to hold him before Cale fell down.

"Looks like it's time for the baby to sleep," murmured the woman with long black hair and sparkling purple eyes indulgently.

"Hu um. I'll take him to the room-"

"Father, can we come too?"

"Yes! I want to see the nursery!"

"..."

The mother stifled a laugh at her children's unconcealed enthusiasm. Even the eldest had a small blush on his face but did not to deny his wish.

"Sure."

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[7 months later]

[Red Gastor's POV]

Cale is now 2 years old.

And so far, there is no clue as to why he is in this world.

An empty memory is also very annoying, because it causes Cale to be stuck looking for a way home. And no matter how calm he looked on his face, Cale was actually devastated.

The cruel realization hit him mercilessly every time night came.

That he was alone in this strange world.

Even the God of Death, did not respond to anything. The oath that Cale took also had no effect, as if it didn't work here.

His Ancient power was silent with his plate faintly trembling.

His jumbled memories and the Record that sometimes activated itself, further worsened Cale's mood.

He didn't know how to get home.

And Cale Henituse was... tired.

Hence, Cale Gastors was known as the Young Master who was always filled with sadness.

The Gastors family, who took care of him during this time, were not sure why Cale looked so lethargic, tired, with dull eyes that lacked spirit. Upon arrival, the baby was still expressive and sometimes laughed. However, the youngest of the Gastors looked like he was carrying an enormous weight on his shoulders with sad eyes and a knowing but fragile little smile.

It was painful. To watch a small baby have the aura of a man who lost everything. The violet eyes of the Lady of the Family, Areetha Gastors, couldn't hold back her tears as she held the sleeping youngest in her arms.

Even if Cale was not her biological child, Areetha could not bear to see the sadness surrounding the child. Whatever sadness engulfed her son, Areetha just wanted to lift him up.

She wanted to see the bright smile with eyes that sparkled so warmly and the childlike laughter that indulged the heart.

"Oh little one... how I wish so much to lift that sadness of yours," Areetha whispered, kissing the top of the red head fondly.

Her prayers sounded like poetry in every kiss she gave.

*******

At other times, they would sometimes find Cale lingering in the Gastors library. The little boy would immerse himself in a sea of books with a serious, calculating, and understanding gaze. It was something that brought much surprise to the servants, as well as the rest of the Gastors family. Considering the youngest was only 2 years old.

The head of the family, Reagan Gastors, once found himself observing the youngest still immersed in his reading. It was still a mystery to them, how a 2-year-old could learn something so foreign and, in fact, was never taught to them?

"Cale." The little boy looked up, reddish-brown eyes with jeweled sparkles blinked and nodded simply.

"Yes, Sir?" Absolutely perfect pronunciation in just 7 months. Cale's genius rivaled that of his first child.

"What are you doing?" Reagan then crouched down, to sit by the side of Cale who was inching away from him. Although it was subtle, he could realize it. The little boy had created his own distance from them.

"...the history of this world," Cale muttered in a hollow voice. That made the older man blink his eyes. Suddenly remembering one of the ridiculous rumors that implied that Cale's presence was an 'anomaly' in this world. As if the little boy was an existence that had just appeared out of nowhere.

Not wanting to make his little one feel even more defensive, Reagan then explained everything without leaving out any details.

That in this world, there are 5 families that really stand out.

Including their own family, the Red Gastors.

He explained all the characteristics of each family, its members, then properties, annual meetings, territories and holdings and even official papers. The library floor was full of the Heads of the Gastors discussing together with the youngest.

Cale, miraculously understood.

Those inquisitive reddish-brown eyes seemed to absorb everything quickly and Reagan could feel how his little head started to work hard.

At first, he watched attentively, until golden eyes crinkled in worry as a reddish hue and sweat soaked his youngest son's body.

"Cale." The little boy shook his head. The scary blank eyes that did not match the image of a 2-year-old still looked at the information around him with alarming speed.

Reagan then covered those eyes with a concerned expression.

"That's enough, son," the man whispered, deeply saddened by Cale's state. The baby's body was hot with excessive perspiration. The little boy in his arms trembled, adamantly shaking his head.

"Can't stop... go home... must go home..." the language that escaped from the little one's lips sounded unfamiliar, but it was so full of desperation that it pierced his cautious ego.

The child then calmed down and nestled in his arms.

Even in its sleep, the little face still looked pained.

Reagan's heart broke seeing it.

"The little guy, whoever you are, a person who lost in his journey." A hand stroked the red head gently.

"We are ready to be your home."

*******

Next time, Gastors Family Heir, Liuzak Gastors would find his youngest brother staring at the sky for such a long time. No matter the time of day, morning, afternoon or even night. It was as if that little body was just an ornament where his mind was in the middle of nowhere.

He had already grown up. Liuzak himself was almost 17 years old, but the gaze he saw in a 3-year-old child was that of an old man.

From a distance, his small shoulders looked so lonely and unreachable.

Standing on the center balcony of the Gastors manor, his frame was like a dream.

Cale Gastors' presence in their families felt like memories being knitted. Like an addition given by an embroiderer, forcing but ending up blending in beautifully.

Liuzak interpreted Cale's presence as a traveler who lost his direction and purpose.

"Cale."

The small head turned, the wind blew, taking turns as it brushed the bright reddish hair with a warmth that was very pleasing to the eldest's eyes. The reddish-brown eyes with their jeweled sparkle that never ceased to amaze Liuzak.

With a small, loving smile, the young adult knelt down by Cale's side, taking out a plate of cookies that he had hidden behind him.

"These are for you, little brother."

The plate contained pieces of apple pie.

The servant made it because they had just gotten a shipment of apples from one of Red Gastors' resident gifts.

The little boy's eyes widened and Liuzak witnessed a thousand emotions flash through those normally very empty eyes. With his heart beating fast, he watched as those eyes glazed over with a beautiful smile on his doll-like face.

"... apple pie," whispered the youngest, with a longing so strong that Liuzak felt like crying.

"Yes." Small hands accepted the plate with trembling movements.

Cale was still silent.

Before finally chuckling.

And Liuzak fell in love with that voice.

He wanted to keep that precious laugh.

As strange and mysterious as Cale Gastors was to his family, to Liuzak, Cale was the little brother he had to protect and bring home when his beautiful eyes began to get lost in memories.

******

Eskel Gastors, the second child of the Gastors family, would sometimes notice his youngest brother would be sitting not far from the Knight's training center. There were times when Eskel wanted to say hello and other times when he would just observe Cale's petite frame from a distance.

He may be 13 years old and still considered a child by his mother and father, but the aura of sadness that surrounded Cale did not escape his notice. There was a small, longing smile on that beautiful face as he watched the interactions of the knights practicing their swords, his eyes had an intensity that stunned Eskel as Cale observed the jokes and laughter on the field.

"Today, Young Master Cale is here again, isn't he?" One of Eskel's mentors, came to his side and asked with one voice that were both amused and affectionate.

Although rumors were rife that Cale was lucky to be guarded because he had the blood of Gastors despite his bastard status, that did not stop the servants and knights from falling in love with the boy.

With just a small smile, Cale became a very easy person to love.

"Why not bring Young Master Cale here, Young Master Eskel?" ask one of his mentor's subordinates nosily, bringing a blush to the 13-year-old's face.

"...I don't dare. Cale doesn't seem to want to be disturbed." His mentor gave a small chuckle.

"Indeed, we don't know what sorrow is in Young Master Cale's heart. But..." The man's eyes stared with an understanding gaze at the sight of the lone Cale.

"...leaving him to grieve in solitude makes us even worse off." Those words, pierced Eskel's heart. His golden eyes once again glanced at Cale and felt a little guilty.

Cale had been at Gastors Manor for almost a year and still kept his distance from them. And everyone also gave him privacy and did not push or bother him. But...

Subconsciously, Eskel walked straight to where Cale was sitting. He could see how the blank gaze blinked in small surprise, before looking up to see him. The sadness was still there with a sad and gloomy expression on his face that did not hinder the doll-like beauty.

"Cale." The little boy blinked his jeweled eyes twice.

"Don't sit here alone," Eskel said loudly with his hands clenched on his wooden sword. He saw Cale's small shoulders jerk, and Eskel's heart felt guilty of the sight. But he had to do this.

With a shaky smile, the 13-year-old extended his hands.

"Let's go to a cooler place? You can sleep or relax there. Nanny will bring your favorite apple pie."

Silence.

Cale's response was staring blankly at his hand while Eskel still waited patiently. One year had passed and it was only this time that he extended his hands to the youngest again. This time or not at all-

-golden eyes widened as a smaller hand reached out to receive his. Choking, Eskel could feel his eyes tear up, realizing that no matter how mature Cale's aura was, the hand he was holding was still fragile and tiny.

Involuntarily moved, Eskel then took Cale into his arms, earning a rare look of shock from the little one.

The teenager laughed happily and rested his cheeks on Cale's red head.

"Cale really likes apple pie, huh?" Eskel grinned, finding himself more determined than ever to bring Cale out of his shell of sadness.

"Then this big brother will give you more!" In such close proximity, Eskel could see the puzzled look of complexity in those jeweled reddish-brown eyes. As if not knowing how to act on Eskel's sudden action.

"Whatever you want, we'll grant it, Cale! So-" smiling smugly, Eskel's golden eyes gazed fondly at the youngest.

"Don't be sad alone anymore!" the child in his arms was stunned. His eyes widened with a look of mild shock. His hands that had been resting on Eskel's shoulder, in order to get a firmer grip, clenched involuntarily.

With the soft wind blowing, making the bright red hair like dusk framed the beautiful face that was now smiling so softly at him. The small hand that had first received his hands now moved to caress Eskel's cheek, which turned surprised.

"Thank you, Eskel."

The black-haired teen's heart tingled with a thousand warm feelings. His cheeks flushed with golden eyes sparkling brightly as if he was presented with a star or a world.

Cale Gastors, no matter what kind of soul languished inside his tiny body, with all his sorrow and wisdom, would always be the one Eskel admired and loved as a brother.

Eskel wanted to protect this little warmth.

******

Rhreethe Gastors, the only daughter in the Gastors family would always take a walk in the family garden after her Noble Etiquette lesson was over. Her parents did not ask her to push herself, but rumor had it that the other four families, especially Black Agriche and Blue Pedelian, were in a cold war. The rumors made her feel anxious.

She wanted to help the Red Gastors, so that they could maintain their neutral status.

At the age of 10, all Rhreethe can do is studying hard to prepare herself for her debut at the age of 14.

Long immersed in her own thoughts, a familiar glimpse of redness entered her field of vision.

Rheethe stopped her steps, walking closer to the figure she believed to be her younger brother, Cale Gastors.

Suppressing a small smile, the little girl's violet eyes watched silently as her brother just sat pensively, observing the red roses.

One of those strange hobbies that Rheethe realized after watching Cale pass by in the garden.

"Cale," Rheethe called softly, making the other children turn their heads.

The Gastors' daughter found herself always marveling at how Cale's every simple movement fell so gracefully, beautifully and mystically. Despite having such a gloomy and sometimes unfriendly aura, Rheethe did not mind.

It was just one of her reasons for making Cale more cheerful and friendly!

"What are you doing?" Rheethe asked, taking her place on Cale's left side, propping her chin in her hand as her eyes gazed at the other’s doll-like face.

"Not doing anything. Just... looking at flowers," replied Cale, in his usual quiet and emotionless voice.

"Pretty flowers, huh? Cale likes roses?" Reddish-brown eyes blinked for a moment before shaking his head.

"Not really."

And silence.

Cale went back to his thoughts and Rheethe watched in silence. The younger brother's face did look flat and calm, but his eyes told many stories.

"Cale?"

"Hm?"

"You're my brother," Rheethe said offhandedly without realizing it, making the little girl surprised as well. Then, she mentally shook her head. Gathering all the willpower to say the words she had long wanted to say.

"I love you, Cale." Rheethe's hand rose up to ruffle Cale's red hair and came down to stroke the baby's chubby cheeks.

"We all love you."

"Remember that, okay?" Eyes curved with a sweet smile and a face full of sincerity and warmth.

Rheethe wanted Cale to remember that his little brother was well-loved in the Red Gastors.

Relieved to have said the words, his focus was now on Cale's expression.

Reddish-brown eyes with a jewel-like widened in tears. His thin lips were pursed and trembling, as his face began to turn red. However, the emotion expressed in his eyes left Rheethe speechless.

"Cale? Are you alright-?"

Her brother immediately stood up from his crouch.

"I..." Cale's voice trembled, filled with guilt and anxiety. The sight made Rheethe's heart ache.

What burden did Cale carried that even love made him feel unworthy?

"... Excuse me." Cale backed away and disappeared from Rheethe's sight. Leaving the Gastors girl who was watching from a distance with a sad face.

It had been almost 2 years since Cale had been in this house, and the boy still could not open his heart.

However, today's situation was new.

Rheethe had to report it to the family.

.
.
.

[Cale Gastors's POV]

Being in this world hurt Cale every time his eyes opened in the morning.

Being in a child's body didn't feel real and sometimes Cale felt out of place.

Being in the manor of the family who loved 'Cale Gastors' so much was also suffocating.

Kim Rok Soo.

Cale Henituse.

For those two identities, he could accept them. But not for Cale Gastors.

He fell into this world in an accident, there was no authority, no pros and cons, and it just happened and was left without certainty.

Cale could not stop the guilt of taking away 'Cale Gastors's destiny and place in this world.

He felt that he did not deserve the love of the Red Gastors family.

Why do they still love and cherish him?

Hasn't Cale been acting strangely?

He's a strange baby.

Quiet. Gloomy. Emotionless. Broken. And filled with sadness.

Shouldn't they be afraid?

But... why do they want to embrace him even more?

The Family Mistress, Areetha, did not stop being the first person to wake him up in the morning, instead of a servant. To Cale's blank gaze staring at the window -the ceiling- with a nostalgic look, the violet-eyed woman would whisper soft words into his ear and hug him.

Then, his study schedule was also directly supervised by the head of the family, Reagan. The red-haired man who was slightly darker than him would sit by his side, observing silently and intervening when needed. He would also stop Cale when he was pushing himself, close his eyes and kiss the top of his head.

The first child, Liuzak, would always come at Cale's leisure, covering his blank gaze at the clouds with the image of a face filled with a gentle smile. Or sometimes he would come with apple pie, sweet lemon tea, and sit with him to enjoy nap time. Cale still remembered how Liuzak's big, warm hand would rest on his forehead and stroke his red hair softly, pampering him.

The second child, Eskel, would sometimes drag Cale to the Gastors's military training center, having a strange determination not to leave him alone and trying to make him laugh a lot. If Cale accidentally let out a laugh or a smile, Eskel looked like he had won a trophy with his chest puffed out proudly.

The third child, Rheethe, on the other hand, would become a walking companion in the park when Cale was bored. The girl was talkative and her topics varied. For such an extrovert, she seemed to have no problem with Cale's silent responses. Rheethe would occasionally take Cale on picnics with Liuzak and Eskel, then introduce him to the many flowers, show off every piece of knitting she produced, and much more.

The kind servants who wouldn't stop asking how he was doing as he walked down the hall.

The good knights who didn't stop greeting, stroking his hair and smiling at him.

Cale's heart ached.

This warmth was so real and dreamlike at the same time.

It was excruciating how similar this feeling was when he thought of Raon's smiles and cheerful exclamations. Choi Han's smiling face when helping him or arriving at Harris village. Then Alberu behind the communication balls who was grumbling tiredly. Eruhaben who complained about being a nanny. Ron and Beacrox, the scary father-son duo who probably secretly now made the secret organization Henituse with On and Hong.

It hurts so much.

This longing is so excruciating.

He didn't react this extremely when he realized his longing for Kim Rok Soo's old life with Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo. But why now?

Cale should be able to accept this and think of this world as a test. He just needs to wait for his return or for his family to pick him up.

However, the kindness given by this family melted Cale's heart.

He was afraid.

Afraid to accept this kindness, affection and love and leave them.

Or that they would leave him when they learned the truth.

And feeling guilty for accepting the kindness, basking in their attention, when his family might be tormented by Cale's absence.

So fucking hurt...

Please take Cale away from here.

Please?

... anyone?

Take Cale where he belongs. Not here-

"Oh, Cale..." sobbing was what he realized as Areetha's voice began to enter his realm of thought. Ah... he's crying again? Cale was really troublesome for this family.

"How's the fever?" Even Reagan is here to see him? Please... use your precious time for something worthwhile. Not for Cale...

"High, Father," Liuzak said, with worry that could not be hidden.

"Is this my fault?! Forgive your big brother, Cale! I shouldn't have forced you to come with me!" Cale wanted to shake his head. A child as good as Eskel who did not want to make him alone should not to cry like that...

"No, it must be my fault for taking little brother out for a walk," Rheethe said trembling. Trying to hold back the unstoppable tears as Cale was panting in agony, crying and shaking on his small bed.

.....

How could Cale not melt into the kindness of this family?

Hurt.

Hurt...

hurt... hurt, hurthurthurthurthurthurthurtsofuckinghurt-

Please... if it's true that this world is imaginary, unreal, and a test from the gods, let him go.

Let Cale return to his waiting family.

Don't hurt this family with Cale's presence!

They... don't deserve a wound like Cale Henituse.

******

[2 years later]

[Cale Gastors's POV]

It has been 5 years and a half that he has been in this world.

Cale Henituse, now Cale Gastors, sighed for the umpteenth time with an ordinary blank look at the bright blue sky.

He was now 6 years old.

And until now, there was no definite clue for him to go home.

And every day feels so real, that the dreamy and wishful images of the sealed divine test are beginning to distort.

If not for the Record's help, Cale might have forgotten the faces of his family.

And in that long time, Cale began to try to make peace with himself. He tried to live as Cale Gastors in this world. He didn't want to make the time of good people like this family ruined by his immature reaction. Slowly and gradually, he would try to start accepting this new family and give them a proper reply, so that at the time of separation, Cale could give a smile of gratitude later.

Even if the feeling of guilt was still strangling him so tightly, Cale tried to hold it all in.

Cale began to return Areetha's hug.

Then leaned on Reagan's side while studying.

Letting Liuzak holds him.

Following Eskel and playing with the boy.

Accompanying Rheethe at the park and sometimes in her class.

Half a year of this and it still surprised them how Cale gradually began to change and not close himself off anymore.

Cale also started to fantasize.

If he returned to his world, he would enlist the help of Eruhaben, Rosalyn, and even Bud to try to find a way to reconnect with the Gastors and give them a tour of his Super Rock villa.

Ha ha.

How sweet is that dream?

Besides being a Rich Slacker of course.

Discarding thoughts that could ruin his mood this morning, accidental footsteps lead Cale to the furthest, most remote part of the Gastors' garden.

However, there was a strange change.

From the garden that looked so greenish, it had a color that faded into redness. With curiosity that could not be contained, he walked further and further.

And found himself in a forest with white branches and red maple leaves.

The forest seemed so unreal, out of a fantasy novel, giving off an aura of mystery and a great desire to explore.

Deciding to indulge his inner Kim Rok Soo reader, Cale walked through the forest. Occasionally, he would be stunned when he felt the tickle of soft sounds entering his eardrums. Almost like the call of the elements in Cale Henituse's world.

Cale can also feel the feelings of nature.

The smell of wind, leaves, and everything.

He felt at one with nature itself. Making his plates, which had long been silent, vibrate lightly with a spark of ancient power energy. Cale's jeweled reddish-brown eyes widened.

... feels like a clue.

Cale's arrival to this forest felt like someone was leading him.

Hypnotized, Cale followed the sound of the wind and the rustling of the elements in his ears.

He walked.

Walking.

And kept walking.

Until his steps stopped in front of a tree.

Where there was a dark-haired boy leaning against it.

As if sensing Cale's presence, the boy looked up quickly. Making a pair of sharp red beads collide with Cale's jeweled reddish brown eyes.

Then, a familiar voice was heard.

Like the chirping of the wheels of a machine starting to turn, a familiar hum, spreading throughout Cale's soul.

The last memory of being in the temple flashed and eyes widened as realization hit his mind quickly.

"...who are you?" the boy asked coldly. His body was trembling with one hand pointing a sword and the other covering the wound on the right side of his abdomen.

Cale walked closer, and the chugging sound of the machine became clearer.

It felt very ancient.

"You..." This boy.

Unafraid, Cale ignored the sword at his neck and crouched in front of the black-haired boy, pale skin contrasting with his red eyes.

"You're hurt," Cale whispered in a gentle tone of voice. Not wanting to put the boy on the defensive. And apparently, Cale's actions worked. The boy lowered his guard, allowing the sword to be thrown by his right side.

"Let me treat you." Cale reached out his hands and the boy immediately held it. That touch, created a strange feeling that made both of them gasp slightly.

The chiming of the spinning wheels became clearer. It was like the fabric of fate that was being knitted back together after a long period of not starting the engine.

As the faint sounds and faint memories flashed by quickly, Cale's head hurt a little. Wanting to say something, he froze when the boy suddenly brought his face closer. With the distance separated by a handshake, the boy's red eyes greedily scrutinized every inch of Cale's face.

"Who are you? Say your name."

Cale was silent for a moment, allowing himself to be entangled in that gaze, to reinforce his theory and then smiled sincerely.

"My name is Cale Gastors," Cale replied sweetly.

"What about you?" he continued to ask, bringing his other hand to grasp the boy's. For a moment, just like Cale, the boy was silent. The red eyes, which had not stopped staring at Cale then curved with a smile.

His face, which originally looked pale, now had a rosy hue on it.

"Hello, Cale." Cale's hand was grasped and this boy brought it to his lips for a soft kiss.

"My name is Dion Agriche." A smile spread behind Cale's palm, with his face slightly tilted, the boy, Dion held his hands in front of his lips with a hypnotic smile.

"Call me Dion."

Cale smiled too, brighter now and nodded.

"Hello, Dion."

His clue to go home.

The wheels of fate are turning again.

As the two figures smile at each other.

Greet by the laughter of someone behind the scenes who watched it all happen.

That tragedy will repeat itself.

"Human... please wake up? I miss you... "

Chapter Text

"Hey, you know what? There's one webnovel that's taboo to read, you know."

"Webnovel? Are you sure? Taboo to read or banned by the platform?" The speaker shook her head with a very serious face.

"It is indeed taboo to read. That said, those who have read the webnovel say that this story is real and alive." The person listening then chuckled.

"So, if it is indeed taboo to read, shouldn't it be banned?" Her friend's eyes had a strange emptiness, and she shook her head.

"It's been tried, and the novel keeps reappearing."

"Hmmm, a hacker?" A shake of the head was given in reply.

"Hey, that's pretty scary." The emptiness in her friend's eyes disappeared, sparkling just as anxiously.

"Yeah, right? Even though the story isn't horror, the neighboring novel, Flower of Hell, is famous too. It's so weird."

"Flower of Hell? I read the story! Although the rating was a bit... eerr..., but I didn't know the author wrote other novels."

"Yes. The novel is still posted on the author's account. Although it's considered taboo among fans, quite a few have read it." Her friend tilted her head with a thoughtful hum.

"And the story is still in the same background as the Flower of Hell novel."

After hearing the words of her friend at the office that day, her unstoppable curiosity couldn't be contained anymore. So, the woman opened her cell phone and searched for the author of the Flower of Hell novel (via the Internet), and sure enough, the novel in question was still listed.

The cover is just as simple as Flower of Hell, except that it has a visual image of dusty dark brown gears, two hands that seem to be trying to reach each other, and a red rope that wraps around, looking like a vein, around the two hands that are obstructed by a title titled The Snare of Destiny or the alternative title, Limerence, which means One's Madness to Others.

The webnovel's chapters were few, along with the author's announcement that he/she had stopped writing it before focusing on Flower of Hell.

Surprisingly, it's a novel about a love story between two men.

However, the LGBT genre disappeared as she became immersed in the story.

And the comments were filled with readers wanting more.

The comments, which started out fine, gradually escalated to the point of being downright scary.

It was as if they wanted the story to continue, were addicted to the flavor, and were obsessed with watching the receiver get more and more tormented by the giver's love.

Scary.

And it's true what her friend said.

This story was taboo for webnovel fans.

Against her will, she tried to log out of the online platform. And the she tried to sleep, ignoring the chorus of the machine that sounded like it was echoing in her mind out of nowhere.

.
.
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[Cale Gastors's POV]

Dion Agriche.

The boy who was still faithfully staring at him was from the Black Agriche family, which was hostile to the Blue Pedelian.

Undoubtedly, those bloodshot eyes are indeed the trademark of the Agriche family now. Pale skin, dark hair, and a void of emotion.

"How did you get here?" asked Cale, still maintaining his soft voice. No matter how scary the child in front of him was, Dion was still a child. Cale's old and tired heart would always melt when dealing with children.

"...hunting monsters. Mission," muttered the boy, still maintaining the intensity of his gaze on Cale. The red-haired boy, on the other hand, frowned. He had indeed heard of the Agriche family system from his father, but he did not expect to actually hire a child for a monster hunting mission.

"And you're hurt right now," Cale said in a pained voice. Couldn't imagine his children having the same look as Dion Agriche.

"I certainly can't take you to the Manor now. You're too heavy and too injured for me to carry," Cale said with a calm face, ignoring the way the blood-red eyes followed his every move.

"Are you okay with me leaving you here for a while? I'll go get my emergency first aid kit at the Manor." It was a stupid idea, but Cale had no other choice. He had brought nothing with him, and his ancient power, if any, could not help anything.

Staring at the other boy's black robe, Cale picked it up, used the blood-stained sword to tear it off, and then wrapped the deep wound on the right side of his abdomen.

Dion didn't even grimace, still faithfully staring at him. That was rather frightening.

"How is it, Dion?" After nearly 15 seconds of silence, his red eyes curled with a small smile and he nodded.

"Alright, Cale. I'll wait for you." Before Cale got up from his seat, Dion's hand grasped his, pulling Cale closer to his body so that the boy's lips were only inches away from the corner of his lips.

"Don't be long, Cale. Or I'll die," Dion whispered, still with that saccharine smile. Cale looked at the boy with slightly wide eyes before giving a small, comforting smile. Making his reddish-brown eyes shine beautifully with understanding. In contrast to the red eyes that stared with demands and dominance.

"I won't let you die, Dion." Because you are my clue to go home.

"Good. Good boy." Dion's lips moved to lightly kiss the temple of his head, inhaling deeply Cale's scent and being satisfied with his strange action.

Not forgetting to give Dion one last reassuring look, the youngest of the Gastors took off running as fast as he could.

And before his feet reached the backyard of the Gastors Manor, where he lived, Cale stopped. Reddish-brown eyes gazed at his appearance, realizing how messed up it was with Dion's blood marks. This was not good; his family would overreact and might even declare war with the Black Agriche family.

Using his ancient powers of water and wind (he could still use them, though the owner's voice could not be heard), Cale's appearance was cleaned up as usual. Then his eyes glanced at the sky, squinting as he felt that it was almost evening. It was approaching time to go for a walk with Rheethe or perhaps be picked up to play by Eskel.

If he said he was sick, then, the whole family will bring various doctors to check him (his experience in the past).

If he said he was moody as usual, then the Lady, Areetha, would not leave him alone.

If he was studying or doing his home assignment, the head of the family, Reagan, would come to stop him.

If he said he was going to sleep, then Liuzak would accompany him.

There was no gap.

The Gastors were overprotective of their youngest.

"There's no other choice. Dion is waiting for me," Cale muttered in a cold, serious voice. He walked towards his room, giving polite nods and short replies to the greetings of the knights and servants.

Once it was deemed safe, Cale hurriedly took the first aid kit he designed himself (considering Eskel was often injured during sword training), putting in a lot of healing potions, blood enhancers, and stamina-boosting mana.

The redhead then stretched slightly forward, peering from the room door to the left and right, finding himself not seeing many people in the hallway of the building. Then he glanced at the window; fortunately, Cale's room was on the first floor. He opened it, then quietly left the Manor.

It wouldn't have been that difficult if he still had a little control over his ancient power. Without making a sound (which he learned from Ron and Beacrox's footsteps), Cale breathed a sigh of relief when he felt he was out of the backyard, heading straight for the red-leaved forest. He would think of an excuse to disappear later; Dion was his top priority now.

And thankfully, Dion was still where he was, but with a paler face.

"Drink this first, Dion," Cale said with worry that could not be hidden. Dion accepted the pain relief potion without complaint or suspicion, completely trusting himself in the hands of Cale, who was a stranger he met 30 minutes ago.

Cale's potion had an immediate effect on Dion, who gradually recovered. Although the wound was not as deep as before, Cale found himself removing the bandage and treating Dion's wound with great care.

Silence engulfed them. They were so comfortable in silence.

"After this, you must return, Dion." The boy nodded briefly, with a flat face devoid of emotion.

"Yes. I have to report back on my mission," he replied in a cold voice. Seemingly unhappy with the idea of going separate ways and being away from Cale.

"I can't go out," Cale said, coming out so casually that it somewhat surprised his inner self.

"Why?" Chuckling, Cale just shrugged his shoulders in ignorance.

"My family is too protective. Every move is watched." The red eyes that were so intimidating now glanced all over. From top to bottom, as if searching for the wounded part of Cale's body.

"I'll be back, Cale." Dion gave a small smile. His right hand came up to stroke Cale's cheek, his thumb gently rubbing the bottom of the red-haired boy's left eye.

"You'll have to wait for me." It was a statement with a strong voice, not to be denied.

"I will always wait for you," Cale replied in a firm voice. Thankfully. He did not need to force Dion to come. This way, he could slowly investigate his clues and return home through this Agriche boy.

"Good. Good boy," Dion whispered again in a sweet voice, lilting like a flower that attracts bees. Releasing his hand, with Cale's help, he tried to get up from his seat. Trembling, not even a cry of pain escaped his lips. Making the youngest of the Gastors even more worried.

"Are you sure you'll be back now, Dion? Why not stay at the inn first? I'll pay-" Dion shook his head. After being able to stand unaided, his right hand moved to half-hug Cale.

Reddish-brown eyes blinked like an owl. Seemed very surprised by the other Agriche boy's clinginess. He was about to say something, but froze again, feeling Dion's hand grasping the right side of his waist tightly. Making Cale sink further into Dion's embrace with his right hand touching the older boy's chest.

.....

"Dion?" Unable to contain his confusion, Cale looked up and was stunned when the other boy already looked down at him.

"Hm?"

"You're sure you'll be okay?" murmured Cale against Dion's chest.

His interlocutor only hummed and gently ruffled the crown of his head with a light kiss.

"Yes. For you, I'll always be fine." Strange. But Cale could only nod.

"Alright." Somewhat reluctantly, Dion released his embrace. Red eyes never left the movements of the youngest of the Gastors.

Feeling that he could move freely, Cale then took some food that he had tucked into his healing equipment bag. Although it consisted of snacks, he hoped it would fulfill Dion's needs.

"Since the Agriche region is a bit far from Gastors, this is for you, Dion." The boy accepted Cale's bundle of food.

"Then some potions in case you get hurt on the way home."

"I'm not going home," Dion cut in sharply. Cale blinked his eyes in surprise with a questioning look.

"I'll leave and come back to you." Red eyes shone with an intensity that was both unfamiliar and familiar at the same time.

"You're my home." Cale's heart throbbed painfully when he heard that.

What was his relationship with Dion Agriche that the boy could say such a thing?

Cale was just a stranger he had met an hour ago. Why would Dion dare to say such a thing?

But, as if being controlled by something, his lips knitted out other words.

"Yes. I'll wait for you to come home, Dion." blended so beautifully with the smile that Dion produced for him.

Giving Cale one last kiss on the crown of his head, Dion said goodbye and left the red-leaved forest in one blink. Leaving Cale staring blankly at the last sight of Dion's back before clenching his hands tightly with trembling lips.

How strange.

Why did everything feel the way it should when he was close to Dion?

As if this was how Cale was supposed to act and speak.

This was how Cale was supposed to smile and laugh.

And this was how Cale was supposed to receive Dion's gentle treatment.

Mostly, this scared Cale.

Afraid of being so attached to the Agriche boy.

Afraid of how the knitting between them blended so beautifully that it was frightening how compatible Dion Agriche and Cale Gastors were.

However, on the other hand, Cale held back his fear.

If there was indeed something behind Dion and Cale's relationship, then he would accept it. He would endure all his feelings of anxiety, fear, and caution.

For the sake of his clue to go home.

Cale let the sound of the machine knit his destiny in this world.

.
.
.

[Third Person's POV]

The Gastors family had noticed a small change in the youngest's demeanor.

Cale Gastors still went about his daily schedule as usual, but the gloomy aura that surrounded him was slowly fading away.

The 6-year-old boy had a new hobby. That was to stare blankly at a part of the city from a distance, with his hands lightly clenched. As if he was waiting for something.

"Cale." Snapped out of his reverie, the summoned master looked up, seeing Reagan standing to the right of the youngest, who was staring silently at the city above the front balcony of the Manor.

"Yes, Father?" Smiling a little, Reagan lowered his head, taking his son into his arms and joining the activity of looking at the city.

"You want to go out into the city?" Knowing hazel eyes glanced briefly at his father before tilting his face with a doubtful look.

"Are you sure?" Reagan furrowed his brows in confusion.

"Sure about?" Cale gave a small hum and a blank look.

"Your reputation. Because I'm an illegitimate child," Cale replied calmly. In contrast, Reagan's heart seemed to fall into his gut with a thousand burning sensations in his blood. He already officially considered Cale Gastors his legitimate son. So, who would dare instill such a vile thing into the youngest's mind?

"Why would I worry about that? You're what I'm worried about, little one," Reagan whispered softly, kissing the top of his son's head repeatedly with affection.

Even if it had been years since Cale had tried to open up to them, there were still some thick walls between them.

"..." Cale did not reply but gave a sweet, sincere little smile. His eyes looked at Reagan with new eyes.

"Thank you for not leaving me," murmured the youngest, having a million secrets behind those words. It made Reagan feel as if he had won the world with that small, genuine smile.

"Never, my son."

*******

After six years of not leaving Gastors Manor, this was the first time Cale set foot in the capital city.

The capital city?

Yes.

The capital city of Garnett, where the Red Gastors family was the leader.

This world was ruled by five families, and Cale found the background of this world rather interesting.

It wasn't like the Royal or Imperial families ruled it. Instead, the power that these five families possessed became the rule in this world, and one of them was Cale's family, the Red Gastors.

While families like the Blue Pedelian and Yellow Bertium were conspicuous by their wisdom as well as their power of justice, the Black Agriche family was famous for its unreasonable family systematics and many defiances of the law. While the White Huipelion family had decided to be neutral like the Red Gastors.

However, the Huipelion family did not attract attention like the Gastors. Where the Cale family had been very passive in activities that showed themselves to the outside world. Making the Red Gastors' territory very closed and difficult to enter without a strict system.

Cale did not know why the Gastors had decided on that, as the rule had been in place since Reagan's father had pulled his family in.

"How was it, Cale?" Snapping out of his reverie, Cale glanced at his older brother, Liuzak, who decided to accompany and give the youngest the first tour.

"Pretty crowded for a town that's supposedly closed." The dark-haired man chuckled at his younger brother's flat reply.

"Our family has its own system that Huipelion cannot replicate," the Gastors heir replied with his chest puffed out proudly. Cale gave a small snort, not answering. Instead, he looked around, taking in all the shops in the center of Garnett's capital city.

His purpose in the city was to buy a gift.

It had been a month since Dion Agriche had returned.

And out of nowhere, Cale wanted to get a gift for Dion when the boy came back.

And maybe some small gifts to the Gastors who were willing to take care of him.

"Where are you going first, Cale?" Feeling that he was already a bit hungry, Cale pointed at the food stall. Liuzak nodded and immediately lifted the youngest into his arms.

The waiter, knowing that his new customer was the heir of the Gastors family, bowed respectfully and prepared a separate table with the best service. Although their gazes did not leave the little boy on their Young Master's lap.

Cale let the 22-year-old man do as he pleased.

He was too mentally exhausted to deny it, while on the other hand, he asked to always rest.

Only his little boy's ego kept Cale in his current position.

"What do you want to order, Cale?"

*******

The gift shop had many eye-catching accessories.

It once again surprised Cale that his reclusive family could afford to provide jewelry outside the continent.

Liuzak, who was his bodyguard, forced by Cale to wait outside.

Cale did not want the gift to be seen by the young man before he gave it to him.

A light pat on the pocket money, which his father gave him every week, must have been plenty. The mentally over-40-year-old boy walked lightly through the aisles and shelves of the shop. For the servants and knights close to him, he gifted simple gloves with the Gastors emblem on the edge. He ordered about 20, and the responsive shopkeeper immediately completed his order.

His eyes then accidentally caught a small bag decorated with violets. Vaguely, he could smell the calming scent of the small bag, which instantly reminded him of Areetha.

Without hesitation, Cale picked it up. He made a mental note to add a string, as Areetha sometimes hung things on her fan.

Then his eyes caught a pen with gold engravings that reminded him of Reagan's eyes. Considering his father was always dealing with paperwork, this gold quill was perfect for him.

Cale picked it up.

Liuzak had a gentle, firm, and calming personality. He also traveled a lot from the Manor due to his duties as the heir. So, upon seeing the purplish-colored earrings, Cale couldn't help but imagine how handsome Liuzak would look when wearing them. He took note of the need to infuse Glutton's protective magic into the earring.

Then, the brown fingerless gloves with maroon lines captured Cale's heart, instantly reminding him of Eskel. His second brother was a swordsman; perhaps these gloves could protect his palms? Moreover, it was made of leather. Hmm. Cale could make the Gastors' family crest later.

Then, for Rheethe, Cale was a bit confused about the gift. A cup? A dress? Jewelry? What would a 14-year-old girl like? But Cale didn't want to give an ordinary gift. He wanted a gift that would help his older sister.

Rheethe loved flowers.

Every time they met, they would talk about flowers and their meanings in life. Then, considering that the girl was about to make her debut, the daily schedule was bound to increase, creating stress. Maybe a book ?

Cale decided to buy a diary. He would decorate each of the 10 pages with frozen flowers and a schedule that he created, so the diary would be colorful. This gift almost brought a smile to Cale's face, as it reminded him of On, who was looking forward to the same gift.

Lastly, for Dion.

What should he get for the Agriche boy?

They had only met once, and he had no idea what Dion liked or what his character was like.

Perhaps a healing kit? Since Dion would often be given missions by his family? Hmmm, not quite right.

A sword? Hmmm, Dion must already have one he likes.

Bracelet? Necklace? Earrings? Diadem?

Dion wouldn't fit into it for some reason.

Then his eyes accidentally saw a reddish glow.

It was an ornament, like a robe pin. With a ruby stone that shone brightly golden.

Cale's eyes lit up a little at the sight of the gift.

Dion often wore black robes, which were fastened with pins sideways. This suited him; Cale could also apply his ancient power to protect Dion. Thus, enemy attacks would not directly penetrate the boy's robes.

Then he also saw what looked like a red knitted hanger with a floral pattern. Eastern art. It almost reminded Cale of one of the traditional Chinese pins, thus luring Cale's eyes to look at it. The gift was suitable as a hanger on the hilt of Dion's sword and exuded protection magic.

Unconsciously, the male figure trapped in the small body smiled warmly. Gazing at all the gifts in his lap with a gentle gaze. He slipped everything into the bag, storing it tightly there for Cale to wrap up in the room.

The gifts were small, but Cale not chose for no reason.

Cale Gastors hoped that everyone would like the gifts.

*******

[Areetha Gastors's POV]

Before Areetha went to her usual tea gathering, the youngest arrived. Peeping with his unique reddish-brown eyes behind the door. Earning amused smiles from the servants and guards who saw him.

"Youngest," greeted the lady of the house with a warm smile.

"Mother," the youngest replied back, making Areetha's heart beat with a million affections for her. Ignoring her possibly wrinkled dress and messy headdress, Areetha squatted in front of the boy, waiting quietly.

"Which fan are you wearing?" asked Cale softly. Confused but not asking, Areetha handed him her favorite purple fan. She often wore a fan to hide some of her expressions, and it had been a habit since she was a teenager.

Cale took the item carefully, then took out a small bag that exuded a soothing scent. Expertly, the little guy wove and attached the scent bag to his fan before smiling a little. As if proud of the result.

"This is for you, Mother." Stunned, Areetha accepted the youngest's small gift, observing with great care and affection the little one's simple weaving.

Six years of trying to get close to Cale, and this little bag somehow made all the effort worth it.

With teary eyes, Areetha looked up to say thank you. Only to be stunned to see Cale already smiling sweetly at her. His knowing reddish-brown eyes were now just filled with a cute, childish twinkle of delight. Like a little fairy who was happy to spread happiness.

"Thank you for the gift, Cale," Areetha whispered, kissing Cale's cheek, earning a sweet giggle that thrilled her soul.

 ******

[Reagan Gastors's POV]

This time, the youngest was on Reagan's lap.

They were in a normal study session; what was new was that Reagan had his paperwork in front of the desk, while Cale was with a book on his own lap.

As his hand was about to reach for the quill, Cale's small hand stopped him. Glancing in mild confusion at his youngest, he saw that hand take something out of his bag and place it in his father's hand.

Reagan's golden eyes widened to see that there was a new quill there, matching in color and having a simple little engraving on the end. It bore his name.

"New pen for Father," Cale said, looking up at him with those beautiful, knowing eyes of his.

"For Father?" Reagan pushed his youngest son's body aside to get a better look at his face. Cale nodded, with two hands resting on his left arm.

"For Father." He emphasized.

Would dying because of Cale's sincere little smile count as dying silly ?

Reagan thought his heart would melt when Cale's head rested back on his shoulder. With a soft hum and tiny hands playing with the hand that held his gift.

For the first time, Cale showed a childlike side that was so endearing that Reagan could not resist kissing the top of the youngest's head.

"Thank you, little one."

******

[Liuzak Gastors's POV]

Before the day of his departure, Liuzak took time out of his schedule to accompany his little brother.

He arrived at the usual balcony where Cale brooded gazing at the sky—the place where he first fell in love with Cale's little laugh, one of Liuzak's best memories.

"Hyungnim," Cale called in his strange language for his older brother, giving instructions for Liuzak to kneel. Confused but obedient, the eldest faced the youngest.

His heart skipped a beat at the sight of those knowing reddish-brown eyes tracing every inch of his face. Too fixated on the angel's face, he didn't notice when a tiny hand moved to his left ear.

"Matches hyungnim's eyes," Cale murmured, snapping Liuzak out of his reverie. Glancing with a stunned face at the simply carved purple earrings Vaguely, he could feel the protection and tranquility behind the earring and smell Cale.

"For hyungnim?" asked Liuzak hopefully. Cale gave Liuzak a look as if he were acting silly, instead just nodding.

"Yes. For hyungnim to not have a headache handling tasks," Cale explained simply.

"And to make hyungnim even more handsome." Then Cale nodded firmly at his own thoughts.

"My hyungnim will be the ideal man for every woman..." Liuzak froze, giggling silly with the words 'my hyungnim' ringing in his soul. But... Cale was praising him now, wasn't he? Him? Handsome?

Grabbing Cale's gift, Liuzak held it in his hands as he tilted his face, smiling so widely for the youngest.

"Alright. Hyungnim will be an ideal man and very handsome just for Cale!" Although somewhat confused by the eldest's proclamation, Cale just nodded with the same little laugh from a year ago.

"Thank you very much, little brother."

Liuzak's hand rose up to stroke the red hair like the petals of a newly bloomed rose, finding himself refraining from melting at the sight of Cale leaning on his hand.

... really adorable, motherfuc-

*******

[Eskel Gastors's POV]

The training this time was rather harsh, resulting in many small scratches on his arms and legs. Inevitably, his palms also had many wounds, whether they were friction wounds with the sword hilt or other wounds. But it did not destroy the 18-year-old's passion to become a swordsman.

Then, his golden eyes accidentally saw the youngest already sitting in his usual place to supervise the training of the Gastors knights. Unable to resist, Eskel called out to him cheerfully.

"Cale! You came to watch my training, little bro?" Abandoning his sword, unconcerned about the wounds on his body, Eskel ran over to his younger brother. Out of habit, the 18-year-old knelt in front of Cale with a sweet smile.

"Your hand, Keli-hyungnim." Oh Lord, Eskel would never get used to the sweet nickname from the youngest. With a shaky smile, Eskel handed over both hands, letting himself be washed by Cale's simple care. Almost bouncing to the ceiling to see his angelic face contorted in worry.

His personal nurse, Cale Gastors Eskel refrained from kissing the chubby cheeks of his youngest.

As was customary, Cale took out a healing salve and rubbed it on his injured palm. Silence engulfed them as the wind blew in, bringing comfort.

When he was done, Cale didn't let go of his hand on his lap; instead, he took something out of his bag.

Eskel's eyes widened as he saw gloves placed on each hand. A simple brown color with a maroon stripe and the Gastors' family crest, it was also flavored with Cale's warmth.

"To protect your hands, Keli-hyungnim. Don't get hurt too often." The angel's face looked up, giving an understanding smile with his head slightly tilted.

"Okay?" A sweet smile threatening his heart was given, and-

-it ended with the knights supporting their Second Young Master, who suddenly lay weak with two hands tightly hugging Cale's gift.

******

[Rheethe Gastors's POV]

The only daughter in the family came to attend her scheduled outing with the youngest. An afternoon where she would spend a lot of time with Cale!

Smiling happily, she did not forget to pick many roses as red as her brother's hair to give away later. Because it was her hobby to fill her brother with a sea of flowers.

What greeted her was a heart-red book in Cale's hand. Finding himself unable to say anything, Cale carefully exchanged his gift for the book.

"For Noonim," Cale said sweetly, hugging the bouquet of roses that Rheethe had removed all the thorns from. Rheethe looked down at the book on her lap with trembling hands. The 14-year-old girl had heard rumors from other family members that the youngest gave them gifts.

And she was also given the honor of getting one?

"If you don't feel up to anything, you can write it all down in this book," Cale explained in a childlike tone. However, Rheethe found herself not objecting. Allowing herself to be cared for with the wisdom and affection of the youngest.

"Noonim can organize Noonim's schedule here. I've divided it up neatly... then the motivational words... Noonim's favorite flower...," Cale murmured with a thoughtful look on his face. Glancing at the roses on her lap, the youngest plucked a petal to put on the first page.

"Happy writing, Noonim."

I wish this moment could be painted.

The sight of Cale smiling his sweet little smile with a bouquet of roses in his arms, the breeze making the reddish hair that framed his beautiful face blow, swaying beautifully, touching his sweet pearly cheeks

Rheethe found herself always looking at the painting frame with teary eyes.

"Thank you for the treasure, Cale."

Rheethe took a rose and placed it behind her brother's left ear. Hoping that every prayer she said would protect Cale's fragile, loving heart.

.
.
.

[Dion Agriche's POV]

The encounter with the redhead has loomed large in Dion Agriche's mind for the past two months.

Finding himself confined to a mission outside the Red Gastors' territory was like pouring oil on the fire of his anger. That he had no time without being watched by the bastard head of his family. That he could not see and meet the figure that made his heart beat fast.

Every night, the 8-year-old boy could feel himself dreaming of his meeting with Cale.

The dreams were random and sometimes vague. They showed many versions of themselves and Cale, interacting at varying ages.

He could also hear the chiming of strange machinery, like the gears on an old clock chiming when the time came.

His meeting with Cale Gastors was like fate.

As a pair of reddish-brown eyes with a jeweled sparkle looked at him, Dion could already feel the void within him begin to fill.

As two smaller, softer hands touched his own, Dion felt heat flood his every vein.

As the scent of nature wafted through his raven hair, a foreign comfort washed over Dion's cruel heart.

And as a small smile was offered, Dion's heart skipped a beat. Suddenly feeling very alive all at once.

"Cale, Cale, Cale, Cale," Dion muttered in his dark room. The body that was still covered in enemy blood, as it had just finished its mission, littered his bed. The boy's body was curled up. Almost devoured by the madness of the foreign disgusting feeling, so tormenting and addictive in every second of memories.

Who was Cale Gastors, and why did his presence in their brief encounter affect Dion Agriche so much?

In fact, his relationship with his mother didn't even drive him this crazy. Shouldn't it be the family that had this effect? From what he had heard from the words of Sierra, his father's youngest wife.

He had to see Cale.

He had to.

No matter what.

Dion Agriche must meet Cale.

His Destiny.

*******

Dion could feel the look Lante Agriche gave him when he took the initiative to take on such a difficult mission. Why not? Because the mission crossed Agriche's territory line. Given the difficulty of the mission, it was given a week to complete.

That's fine.

Dion would complete the mission as soon as possible so that he could spend the rest of the day with Cale.

Even the boy did not want to be given bodyguards or companions. Insisting on completing it himself, which Lante misunderstood as an ambition to achieve first place among the other Agriche children.

Giving a cold shoulder to the gloomy Agriche Manor, Dion left as quickly as he could, not turning around to look at the 'home'.

********

And the world felt like perfection as Dion wrapped his arms around his beloved's waist.

It was like Dion could breathe again, out of a world that was so suffocating and so empty. Filled by the comforting presence of Cale Gastors and his warmth.

"Cale," murmured the Agriche boy behind his sweet-scented red hair.

"Cale," he murmured again, tightening his embrace even more.

"Cale."

"Dion." A sweet smile, which curled his eyes like a scythe, was given in response. His calls every night seemed to be answered all at once by this boy in his arms.

"What took you so long, Dion?" Confused, Dion looked down. Looking intently at Cale, who had a small frown on his face.

"I've been waiting for you for a long time." Dion's heart was beating very fast now. He could barely keep the grin from appearing on his face at Cale's simple statement.

Waiting for him?

Cale was waiting for him.

Like him?

That meant... Dion wasn't the only one struggling with this knot of fate?

Aahh...

"Really?" whispered Dion in an innocent voice, holding so many meanings of contentment bordering on madness.

His Cale nodded.

"Yes. I was waiting for you. I thought... we should exchange letters?" Dion immediately shook his head. He did not like the relationship between himself and Cale being known by his 'family', even if it was just exchanging letters.

"My family will kill anything foreign when it enters the territorial border," Dion explained, seeing Cale's face become glum.

"I see. It will be difficult for us to communicate then."

"No," Dion replied in a cold, fierce voice.

"I won't allow it. I will always come to see you, Cale." The little boy on his lap looked at Dion knowingly. It was as if just looking at his face could tell what was right and wrong.

"Alright then. As long as Dion is comfortable, I'm comfortable too." Dion placed a light kiss on Cale's forehead. I enjoyed how the young face blushed a little but did not resist his loving touch.

Good boy.

His Cale.

"Ah, Dion? Can you stand up for a moment?" somewhat unhappy that Cale had moved from his lap, Dion nodded. He watched the little one's every movement, staring greedily at how each movement contained attention that was only for him.

The rather drastic difference in their height made Cale tiptoe lightly. He glanced at the two small hands starting to attach something to the pin of his robe before patting his shoulder twice with a proud face.

"Where's Dion's sword?" Obedient and mesmerized, Dion handed it over. He watched attentively as Cale attached a knitted red hanger with a square floral motif to it. The symbol of good luck

"My gift to Dion," Cale whispered softly, instantly filling Dion's senses with his mere presence.

His beauty. His majestic. His softness. His warmth. His love.

Cale, Cale, Cale, Cale, Cale...

Dion momentarily envisioned himself at the pinnacle of his power. With the world at his fingertips, even the fates of the gods were subject to him. Then, he would always go to the back garden of his mansion, far away from the Agriche family, with Cale already waiting there.

Cale, who wore Dion's clothes, had the finest quality products from various countries.

With the jewelry Dion had given him, covering hir forehead, hair, ears, wrists, ankles, and then his slender neck.

Every inch of his red hair would be adorned with pearls, so that his beloved would be the most beautiful person in Dion's universe.

Eating the food Dion bought him.

Sleeping on the bed Dion bought him.

Dion wanted to give Cale with everything that made him Dion's own. So that wherever Cale went, they knew that this angelic redhead belonged to Dion.

"-Dion? Are you alright?" The beautiful daydream that would soon become real was broken. Dion found himself smiling at the boy, then leaned down to plant a kiss on each of Cale's cheeks.

"I'll always be okay for you, Cale."

Finishing the cheek kissing, he took it in turn to take Cale's small hand and kiss each of its tiny fingers.

"Thank you for the gift, Cale. I will repay you soon." His Cale, who was so kind, gentle, and beautiful, shook his head. There was a look of understanding on his angelic face, gazing at Dion with an understanding that was, oh dearest, just for him.

"No need, Dion. I'm happy to give you this gift." Dion chuckled, his head tilting with a smile that turned into a small grin.

"So am I." The Agriche boy hummed softly.

"Even I would love to give the world as my gift to you, Cale."

On the other side of the world...

"Has there been any progress today?" The figure being asked shook his head with a gloomy look.

Any news without progress would always make the group feel like pieces of their souls were being crushed.

"But Father is still alive, right?" The youngest whispered, making the black-haired knight's figure freeze. The man immediately knelt down to hug the little sky-eyed dragon tightly.

"I'm sure Cale-nim will come back to us and welcome us, Raon-nim. Please don't lose heart, okay?" The little dragon shook his head ferociously.

"Never! I am a great and mighty dragon, as the human say! I-I will not lose!" A swipe at the hand made him look up, seeing an ancient dragon with slit yellow eyes almost curved by a smile.

"Good."

The eyes of the adults in the room could not escape the figure of the hero Roan, who was now lying on his bed. Looking so frail, vulnerable, weak, and helpless. His skin had become very pale, with red hair extending past his thighs and cheeks that were increasingly tapering, as well as not being supplied with life energy by Jack.

It had been almost six months since Cale Henituse fell into a coma after a long sleep.

With traces of his soul disappearing, only a weak heartbeat in his veins indicated that Cale was still alive. As to what that bastard Seal God had done to Cale, this condition had been investigated by Rosalyn as well as Glenn and Harol, even with a relative dragon intervening directly.

Raon, who was now 8 years old, flew over and immediately fell asleep on Cale's right side, followed by On and Hong. As well as Choi Han, who each sat and guarded the right side of the bed.

"It's really like he's sleeping, huh?" Raon's whisper was the last thing Eruhaben heard as the dragon went out to focus on his research again.

"I wonder if you were dreaming?" Murmured the youngest, wonderingly.

"I think so," Choi Han replied softly.

"Hmmm, then, I hope you had a sweet dream! With all of us there, and me feeding him apple pie!"

"Hong too! Then bring Father the best poison I made!"

"Hong. You're going to pass him out." He sighed but couldn't hide his excitement.

"Then I'll be there to watch over Cale-nim," Choi Han said in a shy voice. The three children were silent for a while before laughing lightly.

"Silly Choi Han! Of course Choi Han will always be with us!"

Laughter erupted in a light atmosphere full of warmth.

It ended with Raon planting a sweet kiss on his human's forehead before curling up in his own sleep.

"Good sleep and sweet dreams, Father."

Ilutsration of the Gastors Family's Member :

Chapter Text

[Dion Agriche's POV]

Dion Agriche's hand was still reluctant to let him go.

With the time approaching late afternoon, Cale couldn't help but worry about his family's reaction. His absence at the Manor could cause an uproar and unnecessary commotion.

"Dion..." Red eyes shone with a complicated look, there was a frown full of displeasure on the boy's face.

"I'll go to your room tonight." Dion broke off suddenly after being lost in thought for so long. Hearing this, the redhead was suddenly worried.

"Are you sure? I don't want you to get hurt trying to-"

"I won't get hurt," the Agriche cut in fiercely.

"And I'm going to your room, Cale. Wait for me." It almost sounded like an order, but Cale just nodded. Not wanting to argue any longer because of Agriche's stubbornness in front of him.

"I have to go back now, Dion. My family will be looking for me." The boy finally nodded although still unhappy. Cale gave him a small smile.

"We'll spend a lot of time tomorrow." At these words, Dion's eyes widened hopefully. Suddenly making Cale hold back the amusement in his heart. That Dion could finally act like a normal child.

"I'll try asking Father." Black Agriche nodded and smiled slightly.

"Alright."

Almost as a habit between them (ignoring the mind that whispered they had only met twice), Cale closed his eyes. Finding himself enjoying (strangely) in silence as Dion again kissed his forehead then the top of his head. Lingering there to breathe in his citrus.

After that, Cale turned to leave. He gave a smile while waving to the other boys.

And all the way back, Dion's gaze never left his back.

As well as his adult thoughts that exclaimed loudly that there was something strange about their encounter.

******

Nine o'clock at night is the youngest Gastors' bedtime.

All schedules stopped at that hour and Cale would always find himself already in bed and under the care of Reagan, the family patriarch himself.

"Good night, Father."

"Good night, youngest," his father whispered at the top of his head and kissed him softly there. Cale closed his eyes, pretending to be asleep until Reagan's presence disappeared from the room.

As the room darkened, Cale quickly sat up from his slumber. Almost familiarly, as if he always did this, Cale turned his head towards the window on the left side of his bed.

As if hypnotized, the redhead moved from his seat, ignoring the cold under his feet to approach the window. The hand then stretched out to open the window, almost smiling at the sight of Dion landing in front of him with a graceful and educated gesture.

(-something is strange, Cale. Why did you let this kid in? Cale's adult side whispered in disregard-)

"Dion."

"Cale," called the other boy, full of fondness.

"Come in," said the smallest one, opening the window wider and letting his guests in.

"Were you waiting for me?" With the moonlight behind Dion, it made his red eyes seem to shine brightly in the darkness. His face was shadowed by a blank and hollow expression, but somehow Cale knew what this boy was feeling.

"Yes. I was waiting for you." In the moonlit darkness, Dion smiled. It looked as if he was very satisfied with Cale's instant answer.

His right hand rose up to stroke his cheek, leaned down softly and planted a kiss on his cheek. Making Cale widen his eyes, very surprised by the sudden closeness of the other Agriche.

"Good boy," Dion whispered and somehow made Cale's heart beat a little faster.

Strange.

Was this appropriate behavior for 7 and 6 year olds like them? Reddish-brown eyes refrained from narrowing at the thought. He even felt no objection (?) to this closeness... as if the attachment between them made 'Cale Gastors' behave like this.

(-don't mind. He should be wary, right? Moreover, this child was his guide home, but at the same time-)

Trying to compose himself, so disturbed by the contradiction in his thoughts, the youngest Gastors simply nodded slowly.

"Are you hungry, Dion?" Before the boy could answer, Cale walked over to the wardrobe and took out a picnic box filled with various cakes, food and drinks.

Taking another blanket, he spread it near the moonlit window, then placed the picnic bag in the center.

Once satisfied with this job, Cale moved to take the three candlesticks, placed them in the center, then the right and left sides, and lit them. Creating such a peaceful, beautiful and simple atmosphere for dinner under the moonlight.

"Come sit down, Dion." The red-haired boy sat in his place with his face looking up expectantly at the other boy.

"You'll be cold, Cale," murmured Black Agriche taking off his black cloak and wrapping it around the youngest's shoulders.

"Thank you." The others nodded, before taking a seat across from Cale.

Silence engulfed them for a moment.

Where suddenly the food in front of him became more interesting to stare at for Cale. And Dion who still couldn't take his eyes off him.

"So... Dion?"

"Hm?"

"What kind of food do you like?"

"Food that Cale likes." The answer was direct, thoughtless and constant. Reddish brown eyes narrowed at that answer. His mature side melted a little. Imagining that the 8-year-old in front of him could not express his preferences properly.

"Not my food, but yours." Dion almost looked confused.

"In Agriche, there is no favorite food category. Just survival," was the monotonous reply of an emotionless boy. Which in that instant looked very pitiful in Cale's eyes. It was as if he was talking to a doll.

Feel pity, Cale decided to drop the topic.

"Then, try tasting this food. I wonder if there's something you like? I can prepare it whenever you come back here," Cale explained, starting to put some food onto a small plate. When he looked up, his heart almost froze at the intensity of Dion's gaze for him.

(-throw away the sympathy. There's something wrong with this kid's gaze-)

"Prepared it? Cale prepared it especially for me?" Confused, the master in question nodded. Dion suddenly smiled so wide and satisfied.

"Then, I'll go find my favorite food." At that simple reply, Dion began to scan the food in front of him. Smiling a little, Cale started from simple ones like sandwiches. The Agriche boy accepted with a blank face and ate it quietly.

"I'm not here for long," Dion said between bites.

"About 3 more days..." he continued almost in a reluctant voice. Cale nodded, smiling in understanding. Earlier, the older one -physically- had also said that he could come here because of a mission.

"I can accompany you in town," the little redhead replied, eating his own apple pie. Could feel Dion's relentlessly intense gaze watching him every move.

"But, you'll have to blend in with the people in town... or change your appearance." Brows furrowed, almost displeased.

"My family doesn't like Agriche very much." Despite that, the crimson eyes remained blank. There was no face of offense, hurt or anything else. Dion looked more like he didn't care.

"And I almost have a schedule every day. If I'm absent for even a minute, there will be a ruckus." At another slice of apple pie, Dion suddenly reached out his hand and bit the pie right out of Cale's hand.

"If it means meeting Cale, I can do it." Dion then smiled. With eyes that barely sparkled and looked empty, a normal child would have been terrified by the expression on the face of the child in front of him. But, the redhead could only snort and give his own little smile in return.

"Thank you. In exchange, I'll show you around." Dion's smile turned into a smirk, making his eyes curve.

"So, you're going to take all your time for me? Not going to fulfill the schedule?" asked the black-haired boy. Making the redhead in question ponder.

"Yes."

Liuzak wasn't home anyway. Eskel had also gone on an expedition in recent days, while Rheethe was busy preparing for her debut, all that was left was to persuade his parents. Areetha would usually have tea with her relations or work, Reagan was either busy in the study or checking in on the field. But both of them would always make time to meet up with him.

"There might be bodyguards later, but you can be my friend in the city later." Dion nodded, no problem as long as it was with the youngest of the Gastors.

"And I'll sleep with you every night." Cale tilted his face.

(-children aren't this sticky, their attitudes and relationships shouldn't be like this-)

"But, you have to leave in the morning," muttered the redhead. If his family saw Dion in the morning and slept in the same place as him, there would definitely be a fuss.

"That's fine." Dion's hand reached out to bring the front strands of his red hair behind his ear.

"As long as I'm with you, I can do anything."

******

[Dion Agriche's POV]

The black-haired boy had tried his best to restrain himself from devouring the youngest of the Gastors in front of him. He realized that the intense gaze he gave to the others made Cale uncomfortable, but, he had tried to limit himself.

The urge to claim Cale as his own grew continuously at a frightening pace. However, Dion did not mind.

He allowed himself to get lost in this obsession.

Savoring every second of how Cale fit so perfectly, beautifully, in his arms.

It should be strange, that Agriche seemed to be so attached to this kind of touch.

But, Dion was addicted to feeling Cale's heat on his skin.

"I'll put your robe here." Looking up from his reverie, Dion saw Cale standing up while tidying up their evening picnic. Dion helped too, satisfied to see that Cale seemed pleased by his actions.

"You can wash your face and brush your teeth here." They got ready for bed.

Behind the calm facade, the Agriche's heart was beating fast. Finally... he could sleep with Cale.

The dream and longing that tormented him every night had now paid off.

Lying next to the red-haired boy, Dion leaned forward with his right arm as a head cushion and his left hand moving to touch and trace every inch of Cale's face.

"Dion?" Calm and holding back a smile, the summoned one answered.

"Hmm?" reddish-brown eyes flashed with emotion. He seemed to be nervous, about to say something but held back. Squinting unhappily, Dion urged him gently.

"Just say it. I'll listen well to Cale," Agriche whispered. The thumb of the left hand stroked Cale's white, sweet-toned cheek. Hmm... so sweet, his Cale.

"Perhaps this question is a bit strange... but... " Dion kept nodding, convincing the youngest to continue with his question.

"When we first met... " the Gastors' youngest face looked up, gazing at the Agriche with a pair of beads that seemed to pierce straight into the recesses of his soul.

"-did you hear a sound?"

Dion's movement in caressing Cale's cheek froze. The red blood eyes that originally had a slight twinkle of joy were now extinguished. The little one's question was simple, but it touched a line that Black Agriche did not like very much.

There was something about Cale's subject matter, 'sound', that displeased him.

He heard what it meant. The strange chant, the hypnotizing sound, and the omen that Dion thought meeting Cale was their destiny.

But why was Cale asking this with a worried look on his face?

Shouldn't Cale be happy that they were destined to be together and complement each other?

"Dion?" His reverie was broken by the pair of reddish-brown beads now staring at him with a stern look.

"What happened? Are you okay?" Startled, Dion froze then with his gaze not leaving the young face in front of him. That stern look was one that worried him?

Was it?

Yes... of course.

Cale should be worried about him!

For what are the smallest afraid of him? Afraid of the sounds they hear? The sign of their bond?

However, seeing the anxiety on the youngest's face, Dion decided to lie.

"What sound, Cale?" he asked almost innocently, polished with the white truth that had been practiced for as long as he had held a knife.

"It... sounds like an engine?" replied the youngest of the Gastors rather doubtfully in a voice edged with... dissatisfaction? What emotion should this be called?

"Machine?" Like some new theory of technology that's starting to run wild among originators or scientists? Dion smiled to himself at the doubt taking over Cale's emotions. Seeing how passive Dion's answer was, it certainly made Cale not know what to answer.

"No... it seems... I misheard," the redhead muttered in a diminished voice. Dion furrowed his brow, suddenly unhappy to see Cale's face like this.

Cale shouldn't have that expression!

Shouldn't Cale also be relieved?

That Dion didn't deny their destiny? Is that why he lied?

Was he sad because of what Dion did?

No.

Dion would rather see Cale looking at him with that warm look, not with... disappointment.

"How about this instead, Cale," Agriche murmured starting to hug the younger's small body tightly.

"We'll stay together until that sound you're referring to is heard," he whispered almost sweetly, starting to rest his cheek on the crown of red hair. Heart beating even more reminiscently as his tiny face rested against Dion's chest, he grinned in silence.

The face hidden from Cale.

"How was it? Hm?"

Cale was silent for a moment. Not answering, however, the Black Agriche was satisfied to imagine that the youngest of the Gastors was thinking about him -though more precisely about his proposal-.

Then he felt the figure in his arms move slightly. Forcing himself to let go of him, before he protested, there was a small face that faced his own.

"All right, Dion," Cale replied softly, then began to smile at him with a warm twinkle in his eyes that filled the void in Dion's soul.

Yes...

Yes!

This is what Cale's face should look like!

"As long as Dion's not bothered," the Red Gastors continued with a sweet voice that was very appealing to Black Agriche's heart.

Cale Gastors.

Dion Agriche would never mind.

As long as it means being by your side.

Even the world will pay the price if we are separated.

.
.
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[Cale Gastors's POV]

It was morning when Areetha's familiar voice woke him up gently, informing him that Dion had left as he had promised.

Vaguely, he could feel a casual peck on his forehead as well as a gentle stroke on his cheek.

Sometimes, Cale wondered.

Why would Areetha be able to love a child like him? Wasn't the 'Cale Gastors' in this world an illegitimate child?

But, the look in her eyes that was so warm made Cale not dare to hope. That Areetha's attitude towards him all this time was in the name of love and affection.

"Cale? What's wrong, child? Are you not feeling well?" Cale shook his head lethargically. Closing his eyes and snuggling further into his blanket that somehow felt so cold and empty.

He could then feel the lady of the Gastors family sitting by his bedside.

The 40-year-old mentally snorted at hie childish and unstable attitude. How uncontrollable his emotions were to make someone as kind as Areetha worry again about him being so... inappropriate.

"I've prepared your favorite apple pie for desert. How about it? With sweet lemon juice," the violet-eyed woman coaxed in a tone full of fondness, making Cale's heart feel squeezed.

Was Areetha not angry or disgusted to think of himself as a child of infidelity?

Sometimes, waking up on some mornings with lodged thoughts like this knocked out Cale's senses. Making him feel like an empty shell that might never even be filled with anything worthy of him.

His place was not here.

"Cale."

Deciding to be brave, the little red-haired child unfolded the blanket and sat down with his face down. Suddenly unable to see any expression on Areetha's face right now.

"... Mother." Patiently, the woman nodded and waited.

"Don't... you feel angry?" asked Cale softly, laced with doubt, sadness, and confusion. Making the pretty purplish eyes widen in momentary surprise at the unexpected question.

"Angry? Why would I feel angry, hmm?" Cale raised his head, staring blankly straight into Areetha's eyes, not knowing that that face made the purplish-black haired woman's heart ache to see it. That the little boy in front of him was capable of making such a face.

"...because I'm an illegitimate child? A destructive outsider-" Not letting the little one continue, two hands touched each cheek with commemorating eyes.

"Who said that to you, Cale?" The little boy shook his head, somewhat surprised as Areetha reacted beyond his expectation. On the other hand, the mistress of three gave a small, sad smile. Two thumbs of her hand gently rubbed Cale's pale cheeks.

"Mother never feels angry for you, Cale."

"All I know is that Mother has loved Cale since he first arrived home." Her right hand moved to fix his messy red hair.

"And no matter where Cale comes from, he's still Mother's lovely son," Areetha whispered, ending it with a soft kiss on the forehead.

Hearing this, made Cale's heart ache with various feelings.

Kim Roksoo's childhood was not the happiest. Despite living with his abusive uncle, having a place to sleep and a meal once a day was enough for him. He spent his childhood trying to survive. Rather than dying in vain without a struggle.

Therefore, 'love' was an aspect that was so foreign to his childhood.

Cale's eyes unconsciously glazed over.

...was becoming 'Cale Gastors' like redemption for him? To have a real childhood?

But, for what?

Cale could selfishly claim that he did not need a father or mother figure. He had been trained to live independently, even as Cale Henituse. Deruth Henituse and Violan Henituse had never played an important role in his life. Jour Thames? The original Cale was the one who had memories of his biological mother.

Just ... why now?

Why is his children's heart, which was once tightly buried, coming back to embrace his heart?

Was it because the attention was so indulgent that it was able to break down the walls in Cale's heart?

As if on his own, Cale then hugged the woman in front of him. Areetha looked surprised for a moment, but hugged him tightly. It was as if Cale was so precious and the world would destroy him that she protected the little guy in the folds of her slender arms.

Just catching his breath for a moment, closing the eyes and savoring the warmth he received.

Cale rarely allowed himself to be embraced like this. But, just for a moment, he would selfishly accept this kindness.

"Thank you very much, Mother." He could feel Areetha smiling and placing a kiss on the top of his head.

"You're welcome, youngest."

*******

Keeping his promise with Dion, Cale went to the capital.

Despite his father's objections, his mother let him go. Giving him a witty smile. Making Cale unconsciously give his own giggles. Sometimes, having the instinctive nature of a child is exhausting.

And as he guessed, his three older siblings could not accompany him to the city. His father had a non-negotiable tight schedule, while his mother also had pressing engagements. As a result, he ended up with two of Gastors' best bodyguards given to him by his father.

"Where are we going, Young Master Cale?" Casting a glance at bodyguard A -he was too lazy to call their names even though he knew them-, the one asked then gave a small smile.

"To meet a friend." Hearing the answer of the beloved Young Master, made the two of them surprised. That Cale Gastors, who lived hidden for 5 years in the manor, already had a friend!

"Wow, that's wonderful, Young Master Cale!"

"Good news! We're glad to hear it!" they said sincerely with smiles on their faces. Cale snorted, putting on a flat face.

They then walked through Garnett's city park with Cale looking around. Suddenly feeling like he was fooling himself because Dion must be in disguise.

"Cale." Called a familiar young voice, Cale and his two bodyguards turned their heads. Seeing a boy with dark brown hair and piercing black eyes approaching them. His skin was less pale, with a surprising slight facial change.

If not for the voice and the gaze given, Cale would have been caught off guard in realizing Dion Agriche's disguised form.

"Dee," Cale greeted with a short nickname. The little boy in disguise blinked at the new name, then gave a small smile. Black eyes glanced at the two people behind Cale for a moment with a blank stare however, the smile had not disappeared.

"Ah, Dee, they are both my bodyguards. This one is Ed, then Al."

"Ed, Al, this is my friend, Dee." There was a certain tension between Dion and the two bodyguards.

Although Cale is reluctant to introduce them, he wants to avoid his father's suspicion of Dion, and searches for his identity and background. Then it will end with them separated and Cale losing his clue to go home.

He would ask the two bodyguards to keep their mouths shut later.

For now, he would act as naturally as possible, hoping that Dion could come along and understand him.

 "Cale." The reverie was broken and the sight of Dion's disguised face filled his vision. There was a touch on the hand with a smile that still did not slide off.

"Where are we going?" the youngest of the Gastors returned the handshake, giving a sweet little smile of his own. He would let his inner child come out to handle Dion now.

Because Cale had promised that they would play together until just before Dion returned to Black Agriche.

"Follow me, Dee."

*******

Three days passed with so many new memories.

Cale also learned more about Dion Agriche.

And what his nature is like, even if it's in broad strokes.

This boy had trouble feeling emotions. Let alone to express them. Many times the smile given to Cale almost felt hollow with endless darkness. Like the longer you looked at him, the deeper he would devour you.

Undeniably, it was sometimes frightening to see Dion's gaze for him.

(-he might be dangerous. You should run-!)

Then, on the positive side, he found a... sweet nature in Black Agriche.

Dion really liked it when Cale complimented him.

His chest slightly puffed out proudly, a proud face like 'this is how it should be', accompanied by a wide handsome smile. What made Cale feel speechless was that this 7-year-old was already showing such strong good looks at such an early age.

Then, Dion loved dark chocolate cake with strawberry spread on top. Often he would see the boy stare blankly at the gooey spread before stabbing firmly at the cake with a fork.

Dion was initially reluctant to talk about his 'family'. The boy felt they were not worth telling Cale about.

However, this was another new side that the youngest of the Gastors discovered.

If he behaved in a sweet, gentle, ingratiating manner, Dion would slowly melt away on his own.

He describes his family in rough terms -his two bodyguards are out of the discussion-.

That Head of Black Agriche's Family, Lante Agriche had married many women and had dozens of children.

Then, to Cale's dismay, Lante Agriche used those children to see which tools/assets were worth developing. So the man created a 'mercenary' system as well as a 'ranking' to measure the abilities of Agriche's children.

Not a day goes by without a murder at the manor.

Servants and bodyguards were often used as an outlet.

Cale's hands clenched into fists when he heard that story.

That Dion had to grow up in such a 'sick' and 'disgusting' environment. His reddish-brown eyes could not bear the thought of his children experiencing that. Every day felt like a second countdown to his death. Having to fight for survival every day.

The second Cale remembered, he hugged Dion tightly.

Hoping that the boy in front of him could lean on him a little.

That they had created this kind of Dion Agriche.

So hollow, empty, echoing in the darkness.

"I'm okay, Cale," Dion murmured softly. Almost drowning (what was wrong with him?) Cale in the hollow warmth of the dark-haired boy's voice. A hand came up to stroke his cheek.

The little Gastors looked up, speechless at the sight of Dion blending so beautifully into the nighttime scene on the balcony of Cale's room.

"As long as Cale is by my side, I will always be fine."

[-"-mine! No one can see-!"

"-your only family is me-"

"-Cale-"

"-look at me, Cale." ]

Huh.... ? What was that sound...?

"Cale?" Startled, the mentally old little boy winced slightly.

"I'm sorry, Dion... just momentary fatigue." His reply was instant, a displeased twinkle present in his crimson eyes.

"You should have told me you were tired, Cale." The redhead quickly shook his head.

"No, I didn't. I don't want us to be separated too soon. You're leaving tomorrow...," muttered the youngest of the Gastors, wanting to see the strangeness that had crossed his mind earlier to become clearer.

Moreover, he could vaguely hear the chirping of gears turning with the overlapping unpleasant memories.

"I'm glad you don't want to be separated, Cale."

Dazed, he looked up and saw Dion smiling so sweetly at him. Making his dark red eyes sparkle slightly with emotion.

[-that sweet smile felt like a nightmare to him.

It felt like the farther he ran, the more constrained je became in the warmth that felt so hot.

"Good boy," he whispered. Red eyes did not leave his face, even if Cale was trembling with blood on his hands-]

Gasping, the youngest of the Gastors pulled away from Dion's embrace quickly.

W-what was that?

A memory? Prophecy?

Why... does he look more mature? What...

"Cale."

Straining and flinching, the summoned master looked at Dion's small face that overlapped with the face in his memories. Slightly forcing himself to be more conscious, the image of the adult Dion disappeared in a single blink.

The youngest of the Gastors was now confronted with little Dion's face looking at him worriedly.

"What's wrong?" Slowly, Cale shook his head. He would sort out the theories, opinions and memories later after Dion left. Agriche did not like being put on the back burner while the boy was in front of him.

"Are you sure? I'll hold off-"

"Don't. You'll get caught by your Head of Family later," Cale cut in, immediately feeling bad seeing the other boy's dark face.

"I'll be right back then. As soon as possible." Agriche looked very reluctant to leave his room at the moment. Gastors only smiled a little and nodded.

"I'll wait for you." The tension eased a little to reveal Dion's usual vacant smile.

"Good boy." Reddish-brown eyes trembled slightly at that sentence. An unfamiliar fear strangely began to creep into his heart.

(-run while you can, Cale Henituse!-)

Throwing those feelings away, Cale then put on his usual indulgent smiling face. Alberu would probably get goosebumps if he saw him now -making the smile even more sincere- making Dion widen his eyes.

Not forgetting to give him a final hug and a kiss on the top of his head, Dion disappeared from his room in a single gust of night breeze. Leaving the youngest of the Gastors in a lonely, dreamy state. Slowly, he began to walk to the window. Hands raised, glass with a nostalgic smile.

"I'll be fine," Cale whispered, trying to encourage himself.

He had gotten another clue to go home.

In addition to Dion's presence that clarified the echo of the engine, it produced the sounds of memories. Later today, those voices conjured up images, like the flashes of memories he saw earlier.

It feels like... Cale began to float.

Torn between reality, dreams, and even hallucinations.

This was scary. Cale's hands moved to hug himself. Trembling body, downcast gaze with red hair that began to lose light.

The test given this time seemed to be destroying him.

Both from the identity, then memories, views, even his senses.

Even the Record slowly felt distant with foreign memories that began to invade his mind.

However, filled with such cold rage, reddish-brown eyes stared up at the night sky with teary eyes.

He will go home.

Cale will face the Sealed God test and return safely to his world.

Even if he started to lose his sanity on the way, Cale did not mind.

Home would be his place to heal later.

And surrounded by false hope, Cale fell asleep in a pool of painful memories.

.
.
.

[Cale Gastors's POV???]

[-he saw a girl with golden hair running in front of him. Followed by a boy with matching hair.

There was a strange, warming laughter between the two children. Especially in such a gloomy family environment. He did not know how he had survived all this time.

Was it because of Lante Agriche's 'mercy'? Who was staring at him like Clopeh's gaze but silently, just observing intently. Was it also because of Dion? Agriche's son who was starting to rise to the top three, thus gaining more power from the Lord of the House?

"Cale."

The friendly atmosphere around instantly disappeared. It was replaced by a suffocating tension. Especially between two boys with black and blonde hair.

"Why are you here?" Reddish-brown eyes watched in silence as the older hand pulled him along.

"Because Cale is with us," the other boy replied boldly. The girl by his side also joined in with a face full of hateful glares.

Who were they? ]

The days passed as usual. But the chill of winter that engulfed the Red Gastors was able to freeze Cale's mind against the memories of the future that began to emerge.

Who were the boy and girl in his vision? Did they recognize him? But their apparent height suggested they were still children. Then, why did the blonde boy look so protective towards him? The girl also seemed to hate Dion?

What was going on?

When did that vision-?

"Youngest?" Flinching slightly at his father's call, Reagan, the redhead looked up from his breakfast. Still with a blank look in his eyes and a light tremble in his hands.

"Are you alright, son? Are you cold?" Hearing this question, suddenly the whole family glanced at him.

"Cale. Is your coat too thin?" asked Liuzak concerned. Being on his right side made it easier for him to check on the youngest's condition.

"It's too snowy today to play outside," Eskel muttered with an unhappy look. As if blaming the weather for Cale's illness.

"Should your sister sew you a thicker shirt?" Rheethe said in a pampering voice.

"Have the servants lit the fireplace yet-?" on the other hand, Areetha began instructing the many servants to warm up the house.

"I'm... fine," Cale's voice sounded calm with his usual flat face. However, everyone knew that something must have happened to their youngest child/siblings.

"Alright then. Just tell me if you need anything," all the older siblings nodded with their own affectionate smiles. It comforted his heart and was always a reminder alarm of how much pain they would suffer if Cale came home.

However, Cale replied with a small, genuinely sad smile.

.
.
.

[-not leaving me, are you?" His eyes glanced wearily at the question that was chanted every night, almost like a spell rather than a prayer.

However, he found himself shaking his head. Giving a small, poignant smile as well as a touch that pricked like a thorn on his cheek.

"I'm glad you are my destiny, Cale." Eyes red as a pool of blood flashed lovingly. His gaze sharpened then, demanding an answer.

Numb but moved by the thread of control, he answered.

"Me too, Dion-" ]

It had been almost three months since Dion had left again.

The month approaching the end of the year. With a chill that was becoming bone-chilling. Tormenting Cale with longing.

Why did Cale Gastors miss him?

... was their bond that strong that he could feel that way?

(-It's destiny. It's always about destiny. And you are not Cale Gastors! Run, Cale Henituse! RUN-!)

Shaking his head -as if being controlled-, Cale's lips trembled. His inner child felt extremely sad for some reason. Was it really because of this longing? To meet again and bury themselves in Dion's arms-?

Cale Henituse's adult mind was silent, watching from a side angle with keen observation.

Were children really this clingy? To hug and kiss each other?

Snapped out of his own thoughts, Cale's eyes then gazed at the white scenery from the window of the room.

For some reason, there was something guiding his steps towards the Red Fall forest. The thick snow did not deter him. Even the laziness and lethargy that engulfed him disappeared at that moment. The child who was now 7 years old continued to walk through the thick snow.

Panting in steps, nose and cheeks reddened by the cold. The wind blew softly for a moment, making his reddish hair flutter out of the embrace of his winter coat.

[-remember, Cale? We always met in the Red Fall forest. Three times meeting in the forest without telling each other, feels like destiny," whispered the red-eyed man, one night. Kissing his forehead fondly, in a gentle embrace. ]

The memories disappeared like mist, replaced by the silhouette of a boy in the distance.

Cale froze.

Reddish-brown eyes widened, almost surprised by the feeling that had moved him here. Leading to their third meeting.

Like Destiny.

The black hair stood out in the sea of snow, blending in with the white branches of the red maple-leaved trees. His skin had also grown paler, with a blush on the cheeks, nose and chin-to-jaw area. The eyebrows that were once furrowed, now softened and framed a pair of piercing red eyes, yet looked so gentle at the same time.

Those thin, framed lips now carved a smile.

The two hands hidden under the thin coat were raised, opening to ask for Cale's greeting.

(-don't welcome that hug. You know that it's a trap, right?)

No, I don't.

The youngest of the Gastors ran as fast as he could, accepting those arms that held him so tightly. A cold face was hidden in the crook of his neck, inhaling deeply the scent as Cale kissed Dion Agriche's cheek desperately.

"Cale," called the older boy, like a whisper but very clear. The Gastors nodded, laughing wetly in their embrace.

"Dion."

The coldness of the snow was not felt.

There was warmth between them (-warmth that would one day become blinding sunlight-).

The embrace was released. Dion rested his forehead against Cale's.

"This is our third meeting." There was a sweet -saccharin- smile on his face.

"And being in this forest, without telling each other." Dion's hands each clasped hers tightly (-felt like handcuffs-).

"Isn't this our destiny, Cale Gastors?"

[-three times meeting in the forest without telling each other, feels like destiny-]

Is it really?

That Cale Gastors' destiny in this world was already written and had to move in such a way?

If that's true...

Cale then nodded, with a small -fake- smile of his own.

"Uhm. As destiny would have it." Dion looked very pleased at Cale's reply.

"That means, it was also destined that we would be together?" His question sounded so innocent, but at the same time aroused a hazy feeling of caution.

And as he waited for an answer, the echoing machinery and unfamiliar memories began to return.

Reinforcing Cale's theory. That the closer he followed Dion, like fate, the more visible the clues to his return.

Cale was sure that there was a reason why those glimpses of the future had been appearing in his dreams lately.

He would find the answer there.

"Yes," replied the owner of warm reddish-brown eyes (-no. Don't go on. DON'T-! ).

"It's like we'll always be together."

Black Agriche was silent for a moment, then laughed so freely that his blood-red eyes bulged. The wind fluttered gently, framing the dark hair on the beautiful face that looked so alluring in the shade of snow.

Cale's hands were brought up to Dion's lips, kissing them tenderly.

"Always be together."

(-you're trapped, Cale.)

[-you lock me up." the voice felt like he was starting to cry.

"Why, Dion?... Why?" red eyes looked at him confused, yet still maintained the same laughter.

"Because you promised me? To always be together?" ]

[In TCF World]

"Wh-what?"

"C-can you repeat it again?"

"You mean? His soul-?"

"YES!" sobbed the Death God Saintess in a voice that sounded so desperate.

"The Death said that Young Master Cale is currently trapped in that world..." Golden eyes stared at one by one the occupants of the room with blurry, teary vision.

"His soul possesses the destiny of someone who should not be there." Eruhaben froze upon hearing that. Sensing there was a dangerous meaning behind the words spoken.

"What do you mean it should not be there?" Cage inhaled and exhaled. It was painful to say now, that her information could break the hearts of Cale's family, colleagues.

"The Sealed God chose this world for no reason," she began with suppressed anger.

"From the information said, there is someone from there, who has a will so strong that it can turn the wheel of destiny."

"Young Master Cale... the 'him' over there should already be dead." Everyone stiffened at Cage's words. A second later, the surrounding atmosphere changed and was surrounded by dense power. What stood out belonged to the figure of the black dragon and the sworn knight.

"The wheel of destiny, which was silent for centuries, was then moved by the desire of 'this person' and strengthened by the Sealed God." Cage looked at everyone with a regretful look.

"Young Master Cale, who has the same soul, was forcibly taken by the Sealed God to fulfill the destiny of the desire owner," whispered the dark brown-haired woman, hearing several gasps and roars of power for revenge.

"We must bring Young Master Cale back here." Cage's voice began to tremble, not even Taylor's rubbing of her shoulder could calm her.

"If we're not..."

"If not what...?" asked Raon, slit blue eyes starting to tear up. Following the instinct that sensed an ominous feeling from Cage's tone.

"If not... Young Master Cale will die, to fulfill his 'destiny' in that world."

Chapter Text

[Roxana Agriche's POV]

The faintly slit red eyes never left that gaze.

Where is Dion Agriche, one of Agriche's children who has rarely been seen recently. It's not like the child is seen often, he rarely even attends meetings. However, his presence often disappeared when Agriche's ranking was announced.

The 7 year old little girl narrowed her eyes.

There's something going on.

Moreover, Lante Agriche's attitude has been strange lately. The man's red eyes often looked dreamy. Looking out the window with a distant gaze, as if he was waiting for something. It would then suddenly grin sadistically, leaving many of those present frightened by the sudden change.

... What is going on?

Seriously.

Agriche had never been this peaceful before.

Lante Agriche seemed to be planning something with the twinkle in his eyes that didn't fade.

And Dion Agriche who disappeared but returned with a strange smile on the little psychopath's face.

"Xana? What are you thinking, hm?" Agriche's signature ruby beads turned to look at her brother who took over the seat beside her. Look at the window with Roxana who looks at Lante Agriche in the yard.

"Just watching Father leave," said Roxana in a bored tone.

"Hmm. It's strange, Father has been going out a lot lately," said her brother, Ashil, in a reflective tone.

"Dion Agriche too," said the youngest Sierra coldly.

Well, this peace is indeed worth celebrating. Because Lante also issued strange decrees, such as that there should be no blood scattered in the Mansion and Courtyard within the next month. Fighting is generally prohibited, even pet monsters must be strictly guarded. Don't forget the Mansion garden which must be beautified.

"You realize that, Brother Ashil?" The blue eyes of the mother's offspring flashed like sapphire ripples. Then smiled a little.

"Umh. Something interesting is bound to happen soon." Roxana could see a strange glint flash across her brother's eyes which were usually full of a glint of warmth.

There was a cheerful laugh escaping the boy's lips with his eyes flashing far beyond the view of the window.

"Good things will come to this house, Xana," Ashil whispered as if sharing a secret.

"I can feel it."

The little girl's reddish eyes widened. Seeing her brother suddenly touch her chest with his eyes closed but covered by a gentle smile that the little girl had never seen.

"Fate is showing the way."

And in that second, foreign memories began to ripple like the roar of a broken radio in her memory. That she had heard -read?- the same sentence as that said by Ashil.

But   where  ?

.
.
.

[Two years later]
[Cale Gastors's POV]

"Cale! My sweet little brother!"

The figure who was called turned around, giving a small smile when welcoming his family.

"Keli- hyung ." The golden-eyed young man grinned. Without warning, he immediately transported the body of his little brother, who was now 8 years old, almost 9 years old on his birthday this spring.

"Where were you yesterday, hm?  This hyung  has been looking for you everywhere!" Cale's reddish brown eyes blinked.

"Isn't hyung on an expedition? Why are you looking for me?" Eskel smiled so widely and warmly, it made Cale's heart clench a little.

"I just came back from my expedition, and caught a lot of game! So, your hyung wants to gift his donsaeng lots of warm scarves !" Eskel exclaimed, easily taking out the gift in question and placing it on the youngest Gastors' tiny body.

His new gift was a maroon robe lined with snow-colored scavenger hunt books. There is a Gastors motif along the ends of the sleeves and the cape and a ribbon decoration in the middle of the chest. Don't forget the hood part is also raised, showing a pair of rabbit ears made by  request  from Eskel himself.

"Warm?" Cale was stunned for a moment. His hand moved to touch the warm fur, feeling strange ticks settle in his heart.

His cheeks flushed then he gave a small smile of appreciation to Eskel.

"Thank you very much for the gift, Keli-hyung." He got a cheek kiss in return.

"Anything for my sweet little brother!" Cale just chuckled sweetly, melting the heart of the Gastors' second child in an instant.

"Ah, where are Cale going? Let hyung  take you before hyung goes back to base for a bit."

"Just go to the park, hyung. Today... the Mansion looks very busy," Cale's words made Eskel's body flinch a little. Reddish brown eyes lost their light for a moment. Realizing that there was something this family was hiding from Cale.

Eskel looked nervous for a moment before chuckling awkwardly.

"Well, let's just say that a lot of pests have been bothering the Gastors border area lately." Red eyebrows rose in interest at the brief explanation.

"Border?" Eskel nodded.

"Northern part. Someone is blocking our trade route in that area." That's why Liuzak is rarely seen these days. Seeing his younger brother's pensive face, Eskel ruffled the youngest's soft reddish mane and kissed his temple.

"Youngest, that's not something you have to worry about, okay ? Let your father, mother and older siblings take care of everything, hm? My lil' brother can just enjoy everything and live peacefully!" 

The old Cale, if he heard this, would immediately agree with a sly grin. He would relax in bed, enjoying wine and apple pie, with his three children by his side. He would ignore all urgent calls, continuing to sleep for 15 hours a day.

But, for Cale now, who lives as a Gastor, does he still act the same? Remembering that there was another family waiting for him in the middle of nowhere so far away?

No.

"Then, Father, Mother and my older siblings have to be careful, okay?" said the youngest Gastors in a gentle voice. One of his gloved hands moved to brush Eskel's cheek, then smiled slightly.

Making young man' hearts vibrate with love and affection. Had a chance to see the youngest's sweet smile which is very rare, ho! It will show it off with all its heart to Liuzak and Rheethe!

"Okay, we've arrived at the park!" Eskel regretted not being able to carry Cale. With a heavy heart he lowered his little brother's tiny body.

"Don't stay too long in the park, okay? Especially now that it's winter! Is there a servant with you? Never be alone! Or do you want this hyung to accompany you-?"

"It's okay, hyung. I'm not alone and the maid will arrive later." Eskel sighed and nodded. He placed a final kiss on the top of Cale's head before leaving with a dramatic goodbye.

After feeling alone, Cale walked towards the center of the Mansion garden. The footsteps were slow, his hands raised to touch each tip of the winter rose petals that were close by, not forgetting the nostalgic smile on his little face.

Dion ...

How is the boy? Has he reached Agriche safely? No matter how far apart they were, Cale couldn't bear to see the 10 year old body that forced itself to meet him at Gastors.

It had been almost two years...  since he had known Dion Agriche, who Cale once considered the key to his way home. Their initial meeting gave Cale many clues, as well as leaving thousands of questions unanswered.

Reddish brown eyes looked at the cloudy sky with an empty twinkle.

For a moment, Cale thought that he recognized this world, no. The body that Cale was in recognized  this world . The remaining memories have provided many strange visions that occurred  in the future during the two years since meeting Dion Agriche. Even though it's just a glimpse of the incident, not the whole thing... it still shows the mature form of Cale Gastors.

Cale Henituse, however, couldn't be sure if the memory was actually going to happen, because Gastors' powers weren't supposed to provide visions of the future. Their powers are element-oriented and tend to be thermal in nature, which greatly helps the family to manage weapons (the center of their trade). 

There were many wild theories messing with his mind and one of the most probable was that Cale Gastors' body  had already  experienced those visions. Aka, this body goes back to the past...  but  with the soul of Cale Henituse (Kim Rok Soo) instead.

Little hands clenched tightly. 

Where did Cale Gastors soul go? 

Why was this child's soul replaced by Cale Henituse (Kim Roksoo)?

Did Cale Gastors also have a deal with the God of Death, like the original Cale Henituse? 

(...  or a deal with the Sealed God-?  )

"Haha..." Cale laughed lightly, feeling sorry for himself, because the theory as a guide only resulted in many unanswered questions.

The young body then he sat down in the middle of the snow, with his face facing the winter rose, the red petals contrasting greatly with the whiteness of the snow.

The beautiful face saddened when his fingertips touched the flower petals.

The red reminded Cale of the pair of eyes at the initial meeting last fall.  

Lante Agriche.

Head of the Agriche Family, who was present at one of Cale Gastors' future visions. 

Their meeting will be the key to him going to the Agriche region, where his next clue is to go home. Because some of the visions that Cale had seen over the years were set in the Agriche Mansion. However, sadness soon replaced Cale's expression, realizing that he would soon be leaving this Mansion. 

Eyes closed, remembering every feeling Cale Gastors had that filled the recesses of Cale Henituse's mind.

( -or Cale Henituse's feelings that filled Cale Gasto- )

This place..  there is so much love here.

What had Cale Gastors done that he was so cruelly snatched from the blanket of love and entangled like a helpless butterfly in Black Agriche's net? What is the quality of Cale Gastors in that vision that creates so much madness? The presence of Cale Gastors in that memory alone has also hurt many hearts.

Cale Gastors broke the hearts of the family who cared for him.

It also broke the hearts of a pair of Agriche brothers who helped him get out.

Destroying the bluish-white Pedelian's trust with his rejection.

And... broke Dion Agriche's heart to the point of breaking the limits of his sanity.

"Oh Cale Gastors...,"

( -I didn't do it!  )

"I'm not as weak as you." The rose that Cale previously caressed, he grasped and gripped it tightly.

( -I wasn't the one who caused that tragedy-  )

"Whether the vision is true or not, I will not let your sad fate stand in my way of returning home," he whispered softly, grimly. Looking at the rose petals with a cold gaze, no matter how his grip made scratches on the palm of his hand.

"No matter the hearts you break..." a sad, grimacing smile of grim anticipation graced the angel's face.

"... I'll still go home..."

The crushed rose, in the palm of his hand, Cale rested his hand on. Then close your eyes as if praying.

"... where I belong." 

( - are you sure about that, Cale Henituse?  )

.
.
.

[Third Person's POV]

"This is the fifth attack," a man's muttering could be heard echoing in the quiet work room.

Golden eyes glanced at the latest reports regarding their business which were being destroyed one by one by annoying anonymous figures. The attacks were so sequential and orderly, but at the same time destroyed their basic trading system.

"Reagan?" His drooping shoulders jerked when he heard the sound of his wife walking slowly towards his work desk.

"Areetha." The Head of the Family's heart warmed when he saw the smile on his wife's lips, enjoying the gentle caress on his cheek and then leaning there for a long time.

"How's it going so far?"

"Still the same," whispered Reagan looking completely exhausted. The Gastors' Mistress looked at her husband with concern. For almost a week now, both of them have been busy with various problems, making their time for their family very less.

Areetha's purple eyes glanced briefly at the documents on the table, her eyes narrowed.

"The pattern is random." The scarlet haired man nodded. 

"It's as if this anonymous just wants to cause trouble and will stop if his wishes are fulfilled," muttered the Mistress once again with a hardened look.

"... Black Agriche."

The two people clasped hands tightly.

"I already suspected that the mastermind behind this attack was Black Agriche, but there was no evidence to condemn them," Reagan was confused, starting to pinch the bridge of his nose.

Agriche is one of those families that is very shunned by other families. Because it is clear, from their motives, that murder is a common occurrence. This family makes every effort to get what they want, not even caring if they receive criticism from war from other big families.

"Should we turn this matter over to Pedelian?" The long red haired man shook his head again.

"We have to find evidence first, Areetha. Only then can we ask for cooperation... especially since the two families have been enemies for a long time. We might be affected by their war."

"Okay, husband." The woman with purplish black hair stood up from sitting on her husband's work desk and kissed him briefly on the lips.

"Let's rest for a while tonight, hm? Don't you want to visit Cale?" Only with the last question, Areetha could see that Reagan was slowly melting.

I don't know what magic their sweet youngest has that can make them both love Cale Gastors so much.

While watching Reagan getting ready, Areetha's mind drifted to a moment in the past.

When she questioned her husband's actions in daring to have an affair. However, Reagan repeatedly said that he had never had a relationship with another woman. The Head of the Family is also willing to take an oath on behalf of the family, or even be tested by the Blue Pedelian scales of truth.

Finally, Areetha decided not to bother with it anymore.

She is a grown woman, with 3 children.

She shouldn't blame the birth of a child. Moreover, children who are born don't know whether they were born because they are wanted them or not.

Then, when he decided to meet the baby, a pair of beautiful reddish brown eyes that sparkled like jewels captured her heart.

In that second, Areetha immediately knew that the baby was not just any baby... and whoever entrusted this beautiful baby to her family, was sure that the Gastors could protect him-

"What is my wife thinking, hm?" Reagan's whisper interrupted his reverie. Feeling a kiss on the tip of her temple made the woman with 3 children laugh softly.

"Just thinking about our first meeting with Cale." Her husband's golden eyes softened.

"It's a blessing for us to be able to take care of our youngest." Areetha nodded. Holding hands with Reagan, walked towards their youngest child's room.

"You're right. I'm happy that we can raise Cale well," said the violet-eyed woman. Chuckling again as sweet memories with her youngest flashed through her mind.

The two of them walked, chatting a little, until they arrived in front of Cale's bedroom door. The maid and guards guarding the surroundings bowed respectfully, smiling back at each other. Slowly, Areetha opened the door, smiling a little seeing their child sleeping sweetly by the fire.

The blankets are stacked in a circle, with various pillows on the sides. There were several books, biscuits, and milk that had cooled on the top of his head. Don't forget the doll Areetha gave him in his left arm.

"Oh my," cooed Areetha, feeling annoyed by the sight. Her hand brushed the bangs, then kissed his forehead repeatedly.

Reagan, beside him looked jealous and wanted to give the youngest a kiss too. Areetha chuckled and granted access. Her husband's usual flat face, etched in tiredness, immediately lit up with a small, happy smile.

Cale Gastors, whoever this little guy is, has such a fragile heart.

Reagan and Areetha were willing to accommodate the wounded heart. Cherish every moment as the broken pieces begin to heal, and smile when the love given is worth it.

"Areetha," Reagan whispered. His hands trembled when he felt Cale's fingers grip the ring finger of his left hand. Seeing the difficulties her man was experiencing, the woman just laughed a little teasingly.

"Just wait. We will take Cale to bed later." The older man nodded. The face softened, the gaze never leaving Cale's sleepy face.

"Wait a moment..." Areetha nodded. The two of them sat on the side of Cale's small bed, allowing themselves to look at the little boy who was sleeping sweetly for hours, as a feeling of warmth washed over their hearts.

Cale my sweet... sleep well, hm? Your father and your mother will take care of you.

.
.
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[Cale Gastors's POV]

Towards the end of the year, the atmosphere at home looks increasingly quiet.

It seems that the problems experienced by the Gastors family are getting more serious, requiring Rheethe to help out on her mother's side.

Meanwhile, the three male members of the Gastors each separated to solve various problems. Trade routes, shops, transportation, even knights. All ratings and quality of work suddenly decreased and were at a critical point due to the emergence of this problem.

"Young Master." Cale, who was left alone in the Mansion, just pondered. Even though everyone had apologized and reluctantly left, it still left bitterness within Cale.

The source of this problem really tested the patience of the youngest Gastors.

He had a guess as to who was causing all this trouble. Just like the thoughts of other family members. However, they had no evidence to charge the man.

This problem also caused Gastors to be unable to attend the Yggdrasil meeting at the end of this year.

"Young Master..." Cale's thoughts were interrupted again when he heard a maid call. He looked up, not liking to see the pitying eyes aimed at him.  

"It's okay, Lariette." Cale's firm answer also seemed to muddy the waters. They looked very sad, that Cale was left alone. Sighing, the youngest Gastors then gave his trademark expensive little smile.

"Even though I'm alone, I still have you, right?"

Next, the little boy returned to focus on eating his breakfast. He saw a dessert that reminded him of apple pie...

Raon.. On... Hong.... Choi Han...

Raon.. On... Hong....

Raon.. On... 

Raon...

Ra-

Blinking, the memory was immediately replaced by a whisper of promise.

A small smile unconsciously appeared on the angel's face.

Dion will visit him.

Cale couldn't wait to wait in the forest. He should probably bring more snacks, then a warm blanket, a winter hat? Then cloak, gloves-

( -human... please, come back-  )

-ah, don't forget a medical equipment box. Maybe Dion just returned from hunting, right?

(...)

******

"Dion." 

A sweet smile appeared on the youngest Gastors' face when he saw the figure he had been waiting for all winter, standing not far from him. Waiting for Cale to approach him, he slowly opened his blood-soaked robe, then his arms to ask for a hug.

"Cale," the older boy called in a sweet whisper. The red eyes that always looked so empty and dark now had their own glint. They shone with tenderness as they welcomed Gastors' tiny body into his arms.

"How are you?" Cale asked quietly. Set up a thick carpet in one of their best spots to sit, one that doesn't have a lot of snow on it. 

"I'm good, just got back from hunting," answered the Agriche, about to help Cale arrange the snacks on the carpet before being stopped by a smaller hand.

"No. You're not wearing your robe yet." The younger one then took out a black robe with white feathers and put it on Dion. Not forgetting he gave earplugs, seeing how red the skin of the older ear was. Denotes that Dion has been waiting for Cale's arrival for so long under the cold snow.

"Are you hurt anywhere?" Dion stretched out his left arm, right at a scratch wound that had a dark color around it.

"It's poison," Cale muttered wearily. Start treating Dion's hand like he always does when they meet. It was as if it had become routine for him to treat Agriche's wounds.

"I'm resistant to poison," Dion answered flatly.

"It still hurts, doesn't it?" the others didn't answer, just looked at Cale with a look full of adoration before giving a small smile. 

"It doesn't hurt if Cale is the one treating me." 

"That's it. Now are you hungry? I brought your favorite steak today. It's still warm so eat it before it gets cold-" 

After the activity of treating wounds, activities will continue with activities to fulfill Agriche's son's immune system and body weight. The drastic difference in Dion's appearance shows how Cale's treatment was able to make the boy look healthier and more alive. His skin is more radiant, the eyes are sparkling, the hair is healthy black, and his eye bags are gone. 

Observing how Dion was eating with gusto, Cale smiled slightly. He then touched the black-haired boy's cheek, laughing when Dion immediately leaned there.

"I missed you, Cale."

[ "I miss you, Cale." ]

Those two voices echoed in his mind. Along with two faces that have different expressions, the overlap between dream and reality.

"I missed you too, Dee." Agriche smiled at the nickname. 

After eating, Dion packed all the equipment in front of him aside. Opened a place and gave instructions to sit on his lap.

"Dion..." At first, Cale was going to protest. Don't want to be held on your lap like a child in front of Dion either. It was enough for his family to carry the youngest.

"I'm almost 9 years old, you know?" Dion shook his head. Don't care about the smile on his face.

"Huft." Agriche always knew that the little Gastors in front of him would melt into him.

Two arms immediately hugged Cale tightly, burying his nose in the crook of the youngest's neck, gently stroking the sweet reddish hair while occasionally muttering.

"Cale..."

"Hm?"

"Did you know..." Jewel-like reddish brown eyes blinked, glancing at Dion who seemed lost in his memories.

"I was so empty before, Cale," said the blood-eyed boy. Closing his eyes, he leaned his cheek against the younger's temple again.

"Life in Agriche is very boring. None of them can make me feel anything." One of the arms moved to grasp Cale's hand.

"But, meeting you brought so many colors." Cale blushed a little when he heard this. Don't forget to repeatedly try to make yourself aware that the person speaking is a 10 year old child!

"You make me live, Cale." 

At these words, Cale felt a part of his heart freeze with fear. Why... why did he feel like... this? 

[ "You are my life, Cale."  ]

"Really?" Cale looked up, slightly surprised when their faces were so close.

Dion nodded, still smiling a little. Makes the young face look very handsome and bright. 

"Yes." 

Then Cale was given all the sweet kisses on his cheeks.

“Therefore, wait for me, Cale.” Blinking confused, Dion just hugged him back in response.

"We'll be togethe soon  ."

[  "-till fate and death cannot take you-"  ]

(... you are afraid, Cale Henituse. )

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.
.

[Third Person's POV]

That day arrived.

Precisely at the beginning of the day after the new year. 

They received a letter with blood inked on it.

Reagan Gastors was devastated when he saw that the letter was intended to request the presence of his youngest, Cale Gastors, at a meeting near the Red Fall forest. His tired golden eyes widened with hatred, hurt, tiredness and anger.

How dare Lante Agriche target their youngest, who was still small and didn't know anything?! 

"I will take Cale away, Father, to the Mansion on the Western," said the eldest, Liuzak, sharing his father's cold anger. By his side, Eskel wore a cold expression. Meanwhile, two women in their family were holding each other's arms. Don't forget their sharp eyes with an expression of hatred.

Cale was not in the room, they immediately secured the youngest in a separate room with trusted maid and bodyguards, as well as assassins who watched as this bloody letter arrived at the guard gate.

In the letter, it was attached full of flattering words but implied a threat so that Cale could visit their mansion. There is also information that if Cale is willing to stay at the Agriche Mansion, then they will stop the attacks and problems that occur at the Gastors.

"As I thought, they carried out the attack," Areetha muttered, asking for the letter from Reagan to read carefully.

"But, why are they targeting Cale?" Eskel's question was answered by silence. Everyone didn't know why the Head of the Family was interested in bringing the youngest into their house.

"No way, Father! Cale won't be safe if taken there!" Rheethe exclaimed with a sad face.

"Agriche doesn't care about family! They kill each other!" 

Everyone was silent about this fact.

It is no longer a public secret that the Head of the Black Agriche's family married many women, had many children but ended up pitting them against each other to get the best heir. It doesn't matter if they are removed by being killed, poisoned or whatever takes their lives.

Then send their sweet youngest, Cale, to the poisonous snake's nest?

"Prepare a letter," asked Reagan, glancing at his eldest son.

"We have to contact Pedelian. If possible, we will send Cale there." His gaze then looked at his daughter.

"You're in, Rheethe." There is a conflict between the teenager who is now 16 years old. Her golden eyes looked at her father intently, before nodding with a firm face full of confidence.

A series of orders came from the lips of the Head of the Gastors Family, even to the point of preparing himself for war if Black Agriche intended to attack them. Areetha, who was about to go out to give orders to the council, stopped when she saw that at the door, Cale was standing there.

Their youngest child wore a maroon robe, with the Gastors symbol in front of his heart. There were snow flakes gathered around his auburn hair, glistening softly under the room lights. His face, which was originally flat, now softened. The reddish brown eyes rippled like garnetts caught in the flicker of a campfire. 

In the midst of the chaos that was engulfing the family's hearts, Cale suddenly appeared with his calming presence.

"Mother."

Areetha's heart sank when she heard her youngest's call.

"Oh my sweet Cale-" the woman immediately knelt down to take her youngest child into her arms.

"Why are you here, darling? You should be in your room." Liuzak nodded, with a worried expression. Followed by 2 other siblings and the head of their family. Reagan then tagged along to hunker down with his wife.

"Father." Cale let go of his mother's hug, then looked at his father with the same gentle gaze. Reagan nodded, moving to place a kiss on the heartthrob's forehead.

Cale looked at the faces one by one that were worried about him. 

Father, Reagan.

Mother, Areetha.

Hyungnim, Liuzak.

Hyung, Eskel.

Noona, Rheethe.

His left hand rose to stroke Reagan's cheek. Observing how the head of such a powerful family seemed to droop under his touch. He could feel sadness, love, and affection in his gaze.

In Cale Henituse's entire life, he had never felt the warmth of being loved by his parents and siblings. 

In his life as Kim Rok Soo, Lee Soo Hyuk and Choi Jung Soo were present as comrades, friends and family. Siblings without blood ties.

Later in his life as Cale Henituse for three years, Deruth's presence did not really touch the inner father-son bond. Likewise with Violan. Or even Basen and Lily. 

He suddenly returned to life as Cale, caring for three children and becoming a parental figure for them.

Seplatonic partner... guardian of relative Dragon... then Alberu-hyungnim ...

(- but never blood family- )

"Cale?" Liuzak's voice interrupted the memory. Eyes rimmed with curly red lashes blinked. 

8 years.

He has lived in this world for 8 years. 

Given the opportunity to feel the warmth of the blood family of the Red Gastors.

"Are you okay, youngest?" Eskel asked worriedly, seeing how passive their youngest member was.

"Are you in pain?" Rheethe said again, worried too.

"No..." 

...can Cale Henituse, no, Kim Rok Soo accept this family as his family ?

(- they are the Cale Gastors family- )

But! Just for this time! Cale would accept that fact for a while, that he was part of the Gastors family.

(- what?  )

"Let me repay you for your services."

Silence greeted Cale.

The 8 year old blinked confusedly at the different responses. He released himself completely from Areetha's arms and was surprised to see their blank faces. The eyes widen and the skin becomes increasingly pale.

"What are you talking about, Cale?" Liuzak asked, his voice flat but edged with cold displeasure.

"What services do you mean?" Eskel whispered, weak for a moment in front of him.

“To take care of me,” Cale muttered. 

"We take care of you because we love you, darling, not to get paid," whispered Areetha looking devastated with teary violet eyes.

"But, you guys are full of problems because of me," replied Cale, trying to tell how logical his current decision was. 

Cale Gastors became the source of the destruction of the Gastors family. Now or never, this family must sever ties with him, if they still want to survive Black Agriche.

"We never blamed you," said Rheethe, already crying on his right side. 

"If you hand me over to Agriche, all problems will stop-"

"STOP-!"

Cale froze.

Reddish brown eyes widened, for the first time he heard Reagan raise his voice in front of him.

Cale fell silent. Observing how the reddish hair that once shone brightly, now withered and lost its color. The shoulders, which were previously straight, now drooped as if defeated, with two arms stretched forward. 

Cale's heart ached to see his father figure, who was so great at loving and leading, now bowing before him.

"Please... don't bow, Father." Cale's hand moved, brushing the hair that shadowed a pair of bright eyes, a fondness that reminded him of gold. Calmly, he raised his face, which now had a mustache and beard, and then laughed softly.

"Let me help, Dad." Reagan immediately protested, shaking his head. Others did the same movements, some already crying.

"I'll be fine," said Cale. He nodded confidently even though his heart was heavy to say goodbye. It feels like their love for Cale so far isn't enough... but Cale can't be greedy, right ?

( -you have to go home. )

Cale had another house and they were waiting for him.

After all, Cale Gastors was not the legitimate son of this family.

It just appeared suddenly in this world, like an anomaly.

So... it's fine if Cale leaves, right?

After all, based on his vision, Cale Gastors followed his father's plan, who took the youngest away with Rheethe. However, it ended with the Gastors family being destroyed by the Agriche regime. So to stop the criticism, Cale was forced to be handed over as a hostage to the Agriche family, under the care of Dion Agriche.

So, Cale Henituse decided to follow Lante Agriche's gameplay.

He can save the dignity of the Red Gastors family.

"I'll try asking to go home, arra ?" Reagan still didn't answer. His face remained flat with his eyes starting to lose their light.

"Father..."

"No, Cale." The hands on his knees were clenched tightly. Golden eyes stared intently at Cale, before looking down. Give a decision.

"Liuzak… take Cale away now."

"No-!" A small 8 year old child has a light body and is not trained as a knight. He could only scream in protest when Liuzak started carrying him.

"Rheethe, get ready to go with your brother."

"Father! No! Let me go!" Cale's heart ached when he saw Rheethe move to follow orders. The little boy shook his head repeatedly, trying to struggle from Liuzak's embrace.

"NO-! LET ME GO-!"

"Eskel, prepare our strongest knights." The teenager who had reached adulthood nodded. His eyes stared blankly at Cale, before looking away and leaving the room.

"Areetha..." the woman just cried, but hugged Reagan tightly.

"Let us protect you, darling," said Areetha. Her hand reached out to stroke Cale's cheek and kissed the youngest's forehead lovingly.

Liuzak slowly started to walk away from the room.

No ...

Why... why would they want to sacrifice themselves for him?!

NO.

"LET GO OF ME, HYUNGNIM  !" Liuzak seemed to have deafened himself to Cale's screams.

"I HAVE TO SAVE YOU!" Listen to him! The Gastors will be destroyed for protecting him-!

"DON'T SACRIFICE FOR ME!!!"

Unnoticed, Cale's face was now filled with tears.

"PLEASE! PLEASEPLEASEPLEASEPLEASE-!"

Cale Gastors is screaming.

NO-!

Cale Henituse screamed in anguish.

The sadness that made Kim Rok Soo's heart crack again.

After a long time watching his two friends die in front of him.

"FATHER!"

"MOTHER!"

"HYUNGNIM !"

"HYUNG !"

"NOONA !"

"DON'T- ugh -!" His reddish brown eyes widened in surprise, he felt a pain in his neck.

His heart felt betrayed. Seeing that Liuzak dared to try to make him unconscious!

Why ....

"Liu.. hyung... nim..."

The last thing Cale could feel was a kiss on his forehead. Then a gentle whisper, that everything would be okay.

No ...

"Don't ..." Gradually, Cale could feel himself being taken into another embrace.

There was a riot around him, before ending in silence with faint sobs.

Cale's consciousness was slowly starting to fade away.

No...

Don't leave me alone... please?

.
.
.

[Third Person's POV]

[   "-you're stupid, Gastors. Why protect your bastard child?" laughed a middle-aged man, his blood-red eyes flashing with mockery. Apathy looked at the body of the head of the Red Gastors family who was covered in blood in front of him.

"You should have handed the child over to me if you wanted to survive." Golden eyes glared at him, full of hatred.

"I... will never give up my child, you damn motherfucker Agriche."

At the unexpected response, Lante burst into laughter.

"Oh my, what unwavering power the Gastors have~" sighed the black-haired man, cackling madly to himself as he puffed on his cigarette.

Then, the expression disappeared completely. Red eyes widened full of anger and hatred and vengeance.

"Just as annoying as Pedelian!"

Areetha let out a strangled scream. Her heart was broken when she saw her husband being beaten so cruelly.

"WHERE DID YOU HIDE YOUR CHILD!"

Reagan now wore an expression of disgust. Why does a man like Lante lust after his youngest child so much?! What had Cale done to be confronted by this cursed man?! His intuition as a father did not want to hand over his child to this depraved man in front of him.

"Why... do you want my child?" Lante Agriche looked completely taken aback for a moment at the question.

"You... damn Red Gastors, can't feel it?" Seeing silence fall, Lante laughed even more hysterically uncontrollably.

"HAHAHAHAH!"

"YOU! HAHAHAH! DON'T YOU REALIZE IT?!"

Satisfied with seeing the confused face of his prey, Lante's laughter turned into chuckles.

"You guys aren't aware of that kid's power~ hmmm~?" A wide grin with eyes full of adoration was etched there. Areetha refrained from directing inappropriate eyes at her youngest child.

"He has the power of God... isn't that obvious? Nature follows his will..." the man walked casually, giggling at the trail of blood that followed him.

"The light illuminates his smile."

"And..."

Two open hands with a face facing the moonlit sky.

"Death colored his eyes."   ]

.
.
.

Cale realized with a gasp.

He reflexively woke up from lying down, widening his eyes when he realized that he had been taken by the train.

No!

"Cale! Calm down, youngest! You're safe with me!" Rheethe's voice echoed in his panic.

The irregular breathing, dizziness, racing heart, and adrenaline flowing through his blood made Cale want to vomit, feel sick, and short of breath.

"No! I have to go back-!"

Damn!

The vision that plagued his dream was getting clearer!

That the Red Gastors will die!

-BECAUSE OF HIM!

"CALE!" Frozen, reddish brown eyes widened. The blurry vision suddenly cleared up and Rheethe's face with tears in her eyes filled his vision.

"Rhee...  Noona ?" The 16 year old girl immediately hugged her youngest brother. Rheethe's heart broke, seeing how fragile Cale was right now.

More fragile than usual.

He stroked his younger brother's hair repeatedly, occasionally kissing Cale's forehead. As all family members always do.

The little boy who was 8 years old withered instantly in that embrace. The tension was still intense but calmer than usual.

"Rhee-noona."

"Yes, your Noona is here," Rheethe whispered sweetly despite her own tears. Trying to push away thoughts of her family's situation left behind at the Mansion.

".... let me go, please?"

With a heavy heart, the older figure let go of her embrace. However, her hand immediately kissed Cale's cheek and lifted the youngest's face to face her.

"Noona... you have to take me back, please," Cale said, almost pleading with a pitiable face yet filled with sadness and teary eyes.

An expression she had never shown to anyone and Rheethe cursed Agriche for making her little brother make that expression.

"If you protect me, you will be destroyed," the trembling whisper made Rheethe's heart ache even more. That such thoughts resided in the minds of their youngest, the most beloved.

Cale, never hated such a weak self.

The ancient powers did not respond to him in this world.

The death god's ritual gave no reaction.

Even Cale couldn't feel the disc.

Cale Henituse's connection was completely disconnected from his world.

Pathetic.

"No, Cale! You're not pathetic!" Reddish brown eyes glistened with uncontrollable tears.

This little body sucks .

But, still... could Cale let all of this happen as he saw?

He had tried to change Lante Agriche's perception! In his eyes, the man only saw himself laughing innocently playing at Red Fall with his brother.

Then he also tried to take care of Dion Agriche as best as possible, so that he would get the boy's protection when he arrived at the Agriche Mansion. Regardless of Lante's supervision.

Will Cale let everything go to waste, while Agriche won't suffer a loss from the destruction of her family ?

No.

Reddish brown eyes fluttered with determination.

For a moment, the red-haired girl was equally surprised by the sight.

"Cale...?"

Her brother was silent, did not reply. However, there are certain strengths. It was invisible but surrounded Cale's small body.

"Sorry, Noona ." Seconds later, what Rheethe felt was that she was being pushed away from Cale's side.

"Cale-!"

Her eyes were wide as she saw Cale force the carriage door open. Before she had time to react, Rheethe's heart dropped when she saw her little brother jump from the horse-drawn carriage.

"CALE! NO!"

Immediately she tried to move from the tangle of her dress, asking the coachman to stop and the Gastors knights to catch Cale.

"CALE!!!"

Trying to ignore calls is difficult.

Cale ignored the urge to turn to Rheethe and stop.

So, the reddish-haired little boy ran as hard as he could. Realizing that he was still not too far from the Mansion. Reddish brown eyes glanced around, at the unfamiliar streets but a familiar feeling in his heart guided him.

It felt suffocating.

His breathing was erratic.

However, his steps remained sure and full of determination.

Cale Henituse cannot let the Gastors family be destroyed!

His determination grew stronger when the back gate of the Manor came into view. There were several guards there, so Cale turned towards his hiding place which he often used to meet Dion secretly.

Cale didn't realize that it was already evening. However, the moon that was slowly taking on a red color made Cale's heart feel frozen.

"No..."

Reagan Gastors is getting closer to death.

Then followed by Areetha Gastors.

When he arrived in front of the Mansion's courtyard, the sight that Cale faced made him freeze.

There were corpses of Gastors' soldiers and servants scattered everywhere. So that their blood filled the garden tiles, making it a sea of blood.

And right in the middle of that, his father, who Cale adored and loved so much, was on his knees with blood all over his body.

"Don't..."

In front of his father, stood Lante Agriche with a blood-stained sword in his right hand.

The full red moon makes the night sky seem to bleed.

As the sword began to swing to kill Reagan, Cale's body moved on its own.

"NO!!!"

The sword stopped, right on the right side of the youngest's neck.

Lante Agriche was surprised by the presence of the last Gastors child who stood tall protecting his father's body. Two arms outstretched with eyes closed, anticipating the pain of the sword thrust.

"Little one," chuckled Lante, finally given the chance to see the divine form again.

Cale was panting, he could feel the heavy gazes from his father, mother and two brothers.

His eyes slowly opened, revealing to the world a pair of eyes with a luster like jewels. It is reddish brown in color and shines like a garnet  in fire.

The black-haired man Agriche gasped at the sight. Lante immediately knelt in front of Cale with his sword thrown to his right side just like that.

"I've come to pick you up," said the Head of the Agriche Family with a saccharine grin, making his blood eyes sparkle and curve with a smile.

"Are you ready?" The question was so sweet and caring. Cale's heart beat in fear at that voice.

His eyes carefully watched Lante, wondering why the man's attitude was so different towards him. Is it because he smells of divinity as intended in his vision?

"Mr. Agriche." Cale could feel the entire family members with the remaining subordinates tense up, getting ready to attack if Lante made a move to hurt the youngest.

"Yes?"

Now or never, Cale spoke again in a cold tone.

"I would follow you and satisfy your curiosity but in exchange-" the little red-haired child's eyes glanced briefly at his father, who looked at him with sadness and regret, but filled with cold anger as he shook his head.

"-free the Red Gastors."

"NO, CALE! DON'T DO THAT-!" Areetha screamed from her brother Liuzak's side. Protected by Eskel and his knights.

"Other conditions?" Lante asked casually, happy to finally be able to bring the Gastors' last child to his Mansion.

"...I will return to Gastors 4 days every alternate season per year." Red eyes blinked displeased at the suggestion for a moment, but it was undeniable that the cold voice from Cale made him unable to look away.

There was something about that child that radiated, making Lante always want to be by Cale Gastors' side.

"Four times a year for four days? Alright."

Better or nothing.

"Anything else?" Lante will do whatever it takes if he can bring Cale home.

"Don't ever try to hurt my family, outside of my supervision. Whether physically or mentally, silently or openly, front or back, I will not tolerate it," said Cale, his eyes narrowed as strength increasingly flowed throughout his body.

Liuzak's eyes widened when he felt the power.

All Gastors members were surprised.

Golden light with the smell of nature emerges. Cale reached out his hand in front of Lante, which the other man immediately took.

"Promise me, Lante Agriche."

Cale remained silent as his hand was raised closer to the man's lips, then kissed the back of his hand with great tenderness.

"I promise, little one."

The golden light faded, but left a trace that cleared Lante's mind.

The man immediately asked his subordinates to get ready again. Then, Lante turned back to face him with two open arms, hoping to be able to carry Cale.

Reagan's heart sank when he saw his youngest child reluctantly move towards Lante and let the bastard carry him.

Areetha was crushed in her position as Lante smiled happily, having the scent of nature in his arms.

Liuzak stared darkly and coldly, holding back from slashing the hand that was hugging Cale.

Meanwhile, Eskel's face was contorted in disgust and burning anger. Occasionally it will growl when Lante moves too close.

Before leaving, the Agriche man glanced at Reagan who was looking at him hatefully. The smile did not fade from the man's face.

"If only you had listened to your youngest son, things would have been better for you, Gastors." Lante turned, looking over his shoulder.

"See you soon, Gastors."

Lante Agriche walked away from the Mansion and Cale refused to turn around.

The youngest knew that if he turned around, then his defenses would be destroyed.

That's fine.

He can still visit his family next spring.

"Oh, little one. Don't cry, hm?" Lante whispered, visibly entranced as he watched the tears roll down his rosy cheeks.

The child in his arms felt like a doll that was so alive. His face, his eyes, his smile, and his little grip on his clothes. The tears he witnessed that day did not represent weakness.

But sadness filled with determination.

How beautiful.

"Mr. Agriche..."

Walking into the carriage, Lante didn't let go of Cale from his arms. Instead put the youngest Gastors on his lap.

"Yes, little one?" The eldest Agriche glanced over attentively. Observing every second change in Cale's expression and movements.

"I... didn't bring any clothes," muttered the redhead innocently, with his hands gripping the front of  his black coat even tighter. Cute .

"It's okay, little one. I can fulfill your needs, hm?" Agriche laughed, feeling free around Cale. The little one's scent was so calming to his mind.

"Thank you, Mr. Agriche."

Lante leaned against the wall of his carriage, chuckling as he felt Cale's surprise resting against his chest.

"Rest, little one. I know you're tired," said the black-haired man, his hands starting to comb through his soft red hair, even though it was now soaked with sweat.

His clothes were also wet with snow, making Cale shiver in his lap. Lante took off his thick black coat and then covered the little boy.

"Sleep."

And Cale obeyed.

Exhaustion soon took over, drowsiness replacing his consciousness.

Cale Gastors fell asleep on Lante Agriche's lap.

Please don't do anything...

"I won't do it, little one."

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[Dion Agriche's POV]

It had been two years since he met Cale Gastors.

And it had been that long since the reddish-haired boy had lit up his heart, filled the emptiness and guided his path.

"Cale..."

Dion sighed. Throws monster blood as far as possible.

The boy, who is now 10 years old, was observing the area. Satisfied with the monsters he had exterminated, keeping the Mansion's path open.

For a moment, Dion's thoughts drifted to his conversation with Lante Agriche. It was unknown how that man knew about Cale and planned to bring him to their Mansion.

Dion remembered that at that time he felt a cold feeling creeping into his heart. That Lante knows what Dion has been doing behind his back for the past two years. However, the older man was strangely not angry. Instead he chuckled and looked happier.

Most of the whispers in his heart growled. That someone as pure as Cale Gastors didn't deserve to set foot in Agriche territory. Afraid that the child's purity and innocence would be tainted by their disgusting plague.

However, on the other hand, his heart whispered happily. That Dion will have more time to meet, talk and pamper Cale.

Blood red eyes widened in anticipation.

He will look after Cale, so that his light is not polluted and can only illuminate Dion.

How sweet is that plan?

Only Dion Agriche can guard Cale Gastors?

And only Cale Gastors can guard Dion Agriche?

They need each other!

Their destiny ... made them unite beautifully, completing the incomplete parts to create perfection.

Dion hummed.

He would not allow someone of Lante Agriche's caliber to stand in his way.

He still tolerated the man, because his strength was still not fully developed to kill him.

And Lante seems to really like and adore Cale...

Hands clenched tightly.

Red eyes narrowed with hatred.

As long as Lante hasn't crossed the line, Dion will restrain himself.

However, if not...

The whirring of the engine that echoed in his mind answered the bloodlust.

Instantly Dion felt calm.

( There's still time, Dion Agriche. )

Yes.

There's still time to prepare.

( Everything will arrive at the right time. )

Dion nodded.

Faintly hearing the sound of the train, a smile immediately appeared on the young face. Until it curves the eyes and makes the cheeks blush softly.

Cale!

Dion immediately straightened himself up, exchanging his bloodstained robe for the robe that was a gift from Cale. Then tied the ends with a ruby pin, which was also the red-haired boy's first gift.

The 10-year-old Agriche then stood outside the forest. His body was straight, two hands extended and resting on the hilt of the sword he was standing on the ground. Red eyes wandered, watching a horse-drawn carriage approaching Agriche's territory.

Looks like Lante succeeded in bringing Cale to Black Agriche!

Dion shivered.

Not because of the cold, but because of anticipation.

Soon, when a strand of red hair emerged from the carriage window, Cale's eyes met Dion's.

....it had been two weeks since their last meeting, but the redhead looked more beautiful by the day. The way his eyes widened at the sight of him, before wrinkling with an awkward smile. He could hear a sigh which then turned into a chuckle.

"Dion."

The sound was small from a distance, but it sounded close and clear to Dion.

( He's getting closer to me. )

Yes. Cale is getting closer to him.

And Dion will take good care of Cale.

( I won't repeat the same mistake. )

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[Cale Gastors's POV]

As consciousness started to take over, what Cale felt first was warmth.

Eyes contracted slowly, trying to open even though they felt heavy with comfort. When the little boy had fully woken up, Cale could feel the long gaze of the man holding him.

"Morning, little one," said Mr. Agriche, with a small grin. The man's hand rose to gently rub Cale's head.

"... morning, Mr. Agriche." Lante looked satisfied hearing that reply.

"We'll be there soon." Reddish brown eyes blinked slowly. Try to move to get a clearer view of the view from the train window. The black-haired man didn't stop him, looking interested in watching the movements of the youngest Gastors.

"Be careful of the cold wind, little one." Cale nodded slowly. Doesn't want to bother if he ignores an older man.

The region that greeted his eyes were vast tracts of land and swamps.

It was vast as far as the eye could see and there was no trace of life in the swamp. Surrounded by mist and tall, shaded grass. The sun seemed reluctant to shine that morning, making the cool air shiver his body.

"The swamp contains poisonous water, so all the plants that live on it are poisonous," Lante explained suddenly, without being asked.

"There are nameless creatures also hiding there." A hand stroked his hair again. Cale gulped, his mind thinking about the forest of death in his world, although this one was more dangerous.

"There it is, the initial border of the Agriche teritory."

At those words, Cale's eyes then turned to the right. Due to the lack of a solid view, he stuck his head out to get a better look.

Cale's eyes looked at the darkness of the forest that surrounded the Agriche region. They looked very dark and scary, with various scary sounds calling out in the forest.

Cale could feel it, that the forest smelled of death. However, there was someone standing there.

The youngest Gastors sighed for a moment, before chuckling with an awkward smile.

"Dion."

The boy he called responded, and greeted Cale with a sweet smile.

The smile did not fade, until Agriche's carriage stopped outside the forest.

"Cale."

The hairs on the back of his neck stood up. It felt strange for some reason when Dion called him in that tone.

( You already know, Cale... why are you so stubborn, hm? )

Well, at least there is Dion who can protect Cale at the Agriche Mansion... maybe also Lante with his power as Head of the Family.

"Come in," said the oldest man from behind Cale. Dion's eyes seemed to brighten at the command, then immediately faded as he went inside.

They sat facing each other with Lante sitting next to Cale's right.

The youngest child decided to glance at Dion's overall appearance. The black-haired Agriche in front of him looked neat as usual, wearing the robe and pin that Cale had given him. Even so, his ears were red and his lips were slightly pale. Indicating that Dion has been waiting under the snow for a long time.

Cale pouted a little.

"Dion." Part of him tried to ignore Lante's interested gaze on his right.

"Come closer." The older little boy immediately crouched down on the bottom tile of the carriage, between two seats. His head looked up at Cale with a flat expression. Although it doesn't cover the light from his red eyes.

"How long have you been standing there?" Cale asked gently, carrying two sleeves of Lante's coat  which he used to cover Dion's ears.

The younger Agriche was stunned, but soon fell into Cale's warm touch.

Lante held back a chuckle at the sight, that Cale had made his stubborn child docile. All the more reason to make Cale stay in his Mansion.

"I'm waiting for you."

Hearing that answer, Cale fell a little. It's a bit betrayed that Dion also participated in kidnapping him. Even though the little boy didn't take the lives of the Gastors, he still followed Lante's plan in the shadows.

"...I'm already here," whispered Cale. Holding back his anxiety. The whine of the revolving wheel machine echoed through their bond.

The younger Agriche nodded in his caresses.

"I will take care of you."

Dion then sat there, with his head resting on Cale's lap. Gastors' hand moved from his ear to stroke his black hair.

He could then feel Lante leaning back in his chair with his left hand stroking Cale's head.

There was a grin on the man's face, before turning around to look at the view of the forest.

( There's no escape anymore, Cale .)

Yes... Cale know that.

( You have to face everything .)

...

( Can you fight Cale Gastors' fate?  )

Reddish brown eyes sparkled with determination.

This destiny. That destiny.

Fuck destiny.

Cale Henituse will ride that destiny, embrace it and then throw it away.

His path to the truth and home was getting closer.

The little black dragon's heart was pierced when he saw the sleeping form of his beloved human with such a sad face.

There were teardrops that came out and rolled down his pale cheeks.

The human is crying.

The lost soul screamed and Raon Miru knew that Cale was in pain.

"Human," the black dragon whispered, slitted blue eyes now watering with unshed tears.

"Is it that painful?" 

Raon then moved towards the right side of Cale's head, arching his body to rest with his cheek touching the red-haired human's cheek. The face that was sleeping in sadness seemed to reflexively turn slightly to lean against the warmth of the dragon.

"Human..."

Raon rubbed his head against Cale's cheek repeatedly and gently, wiping away the remaining tears that came down the cold cheek.

"How I wish to erase that sadness," whispered Raon, looking crushed in his pseudo-hug.

"I love you, Father." 

Raon placed a sweet kiss on Cale's cheek, really hoping that his love would encompass the human's wounded soul.

"We'll take you home." 

Raon smiled slightly.

"Wait for us, Human."

Chapter Text

[Cale Gastors's POV]

When Agriche's carriage arrived in front of the manor, all the servants stood in line to welcome Lante Agriche who had been away for a month.

However, something else caught their attention.

There was a little boy with his face wrapped in bandages all over his face and body. He had dull red hair, with a pair of reddish-brown eyes without light. The child was about 9 years old, looking like a broken doll in Lante's grinning arms.

"Welcome to your new home, my Cale."

The little boy gave a languid nodding response, earning a chuckle from the head of the Agriche family.

"You, you and you, follow me inside." The three designated servants obeyed with flat, emotionless expressions.

Making something inside the child feel shattered. Again and again.

His eyes sadly, shadowed by painful memories, looked on from a distance.

This was all his fault.

Hands gripped the front of his captor's robe tightly. Conscious of the fact that some of his family members were already dead in the hands of the man who was holding him now. Mercilessly telling him how his sister, Rheethe, was doing in the middle of nowhere.

Tears blurred the view.

Agriche's scenery was so bleak, that the blur did not even cover their darkness. Except for a beam of blonde-

Reddish-brown eyes widened.

Blinking away tears to see more clearly, he was surprised to find a boy not far from him standing not far from them and hiding behind a tree.

His hair was bright blonde, the opposite of Dion Agriche's night black.

His skin was milky pale, with a healthy blush. The opposite of Dion Agriche's corpse-like alabaster pallor.

Not to forget a pair of beautiful blue eyes, like sparkling sapphire from the blue sea looking at him curiously. Full of... emotion.

The opposite of the ruby eyes that haunted the youngest Gastors' nights. Dion's blood-red ones were emotionless, sparkling only when he saw Cale crying in front of him.

Who was that child? Was it one of Agriche's children?

No way-

"What's wrong, little Cale?" Garnett's eyes immediately turned away, wearing his most innocent expression while shaking his head.

"Nothing, Lord Lante. It just... the garden is nice," he muttered calmly. Lante, on the other hand, seemed pleased by the attention of Cale, the little Gastors he had just picked up.

"I made all this garden for you, little one. I tidied it up, decorated it, and preserved it. There is no smell of blood, only the smell of flowers, which is perfect for you, my Cale."

Emotions eroded at that explanation.

Lante tried to pamper him even more. However, it felt like a new prison for him.

"Let's go inside. I've prepared a room for you."

It's really hopeless, isn't it?

Haha... was that sky-eyed boy also included in his hopes?

Cale Gastors wished he could erase the image of those beautiful eyes.

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[Cale Henituse's POV]

They reached the front gate of the Agriche Mansion.

Mentally, Cale gaped wide-eyed at how vast Agriche's home grounds were with various renaissance buildings lined up neatly. Well, considering the man himself married many women, all of them got their own castles, right?

But, still. Wealth on this scale reminded Cale of empires? This world had 5 families that ruled the entire continent. It feels like there are 5 kingdoms-

"Take it easy little one," Lante said suddenly. Grinning brightly at the surprised expression of Cale, who tried not to look shocked but failed miserably.

"You'll be staying close to me." The little boy cringed at that sentence. With Dion putting on a flat face, but his eyes flashed with murderous lust. Which Lante easily ignored.

"One of my most beautiful wives will take care of you." A saccharine smile spread across the aristocrat's face.

"All forms of beauty must come together." Finally, it was now the cold command of the bodyguard who escorted them behind the window.

Cale's reddish-brown eyes stared at Dion. Hands moved to brush the other boy's black strands, while the expression on his face was grim.

"Does... Dion stay with me?" This question made the two Agriche freeze.

To Dion's delight, Lante looked amused.

"Dion Agriche lives in his mother's castle." The older man's hand moved, brushing the rosy hair behind the little one's ear.

"All the Agriche children live with their mothers and are called to the main castle for monthly evaluations." The blood-red eyes then widened, as if surprised.

"Take it easy, little one! You don't need to do monthly evaluations in this house, hm? I will take very good care of you." A child's instinct prompted Cale to cry out in fear. His adult instincts were also screaming.

What a disgusting gesture. His touch was so intimate, filled with adoration and if Cale could, he would burn every trace the damn man left behind.

"Let's go to your room."

The carriage stopped in front of a castle that was adjacent to the main castle, though smaller in size. Spacious gardens, fountains with clear sparkles, and the distinct smell of earth, flowers and spring. Made the youngest Gastors frown in confusion.

Wasn't the Agriche region dominated by the stench of blood?

"I prepared everything for you, little one." A large hand patted his head once.

Dion on the other hand moved first to get out of the carriage and immediately extended a hand to Cale. Garnett's eyes saw the pale scarred hand for a moment, ignored the sharp gaze on the back of his neck, and took Dion's hand.

Suddenly it brought a smile to the 10-year-old boy's face. Getting a frozen reaction from the servants and bodyguards lined up to greet their master. Never had they seen the strongest Agriche heir so expressive.

"Take Cale inside. I'll take care of other things." The Agriche boy nodded briefly. Kissing Cale's hand briefly with tenderness, then pulling the smaller body to his right side. While the right hand moved to embrace the slender waist.

Without looking around, Cale was led into the castle.

The luxurious mahogany door was opened and the reddish-brown eyes had to hold their breath at the castle furniture that screamed money. Just by looking at it, a poor person could tell the value of every inch of the castle.

The marble walls, covered in white, red and golden, so opposite from Agriche accent decorations. The distinctive Victorian style was even more sculpted compared to the world of Cale. It was as if Lante Agriche brought out all the best creations for the youngest of the Gastors alone.

"Cale will be staying in this room."

The room was on the second floor. It was a calm red color, mixed with shades of brown. A large white bed, a white nightstand (must be marble), a large window that looked out on the neighboring castle, a chair, a separate wardrobe, an adult-sized mirror, a carpet, a bookcase, and a sofa and fireplace with non-Agriche decorations -almost like Pedelian decorations-.

"How was it? I chose this color for you and some clothes too," Dion explained in a soft voice, full of affection and clearly expecting compliments from the redhead.

Ignoring the small sting of betrayal, Cale gave a small smile.

The smile was not a lie, fake smile.

It was just tired and ended in false acceptance.

A hand moved to lightly stroke Agriche's pale cheek. His heart pounded as the handsome face leaned fully into Cale's touch.

"If Cale misses me, just call me." The corner of his eye glanced at the large window on the right side of his bed.

"Our rooms are opposite each other, even though they are far apart." The little red-haired boy nodded in understanding.

"Thank you for taking care of me, Dee." Blood ruby-eyed Agriche's face was smiling.

"Anything for you, Cale."

( I would do anything to keep you by my side, dear )

Cale's free hand clenched into a fist. Dion's adult voice rang out, echoing and threatening in his mind. His voice was loving, but his actions were aggressive and full of obsession.

"Let me help you get ready. You're exhausted." As soon as Dion said that, dizziness took over. His entire body ached, especially his legs and neck.

The last two days had been crazy, scary, stressful and devastating to both Cale Gastors' mind and body.

"Thank you," the smaller boy whispered, no longer having the energy to rebel. Letting Dion carry him over to the bedside chair.

Removing Lante's coat, throwing it away. Then Cale's robe, shirt, simple corset, pants, shoes. Leaving him half-naked, leaving only his underwear to cover the sensitive areas.

Dion turned quickly, carrying the basin of water that had been set out on the bedside table. Slowly starting to wash Cale's skin. He didn't make any comment, even when he saw the bruises and scratches on the soles of his feet from running. But the eyes grew dimmer, darkening the red color until it looked like dried blood.

Secretly plotting murder.

(-Cale Gastors sighed, with affection. This was the Dion he knew-)

The silence was comfortable and suffocating at the same time. Dion's touch was no longer soothing, instead it became more heated. Especially when those fingers were now touching his neck.

Reddish-brown eyes firmly averted their gaze. Unable to bear the gaze of a ten-year-old who was so... hungry and strong. Glued to the level of his neck with trembling hands. Restraining himself from clutching and claiming-

"Feeling better?" Instead, Dion asked calmly. His voice drifted, like a pseudo-storm in Cale Gastors' small heart. Only tiredness gave a nodding response.

A second later he realized that his legs were bandaged, as well as his neck (was it the bruise from Liuz-?). The front of his red hair was lightly braided back with a white ribbon and matched his nightgown that extended to his calves.

"Sleep well, my Cale." Lethargic, the little red-haired boy only gave a sleepy look. Dion was silent for a moment, as if waiting for his obedient response to 'my Cale'. But only silence was returned and Cale's innermost side smirked at the visible veins around the little Agriche's chin.

Deciding to relent, Dion picked Cale up easily and laid the little boy down on the large bed.

As soon as his head hit the pillow, so did Cale drift off into sleep. The angelic face turned to Dion's side lightly, the soft movement of his chest, the hypnotizing breath, the sweet murmur on the pink lips.

Beautiful.

Dion couldn't imagine how beautiful Cale would be when he grew up?

( So beautiful and precious. You must take care of him, little Dion. )

Always.

"Is the little one asleep yet?" The smile faded as Lante Agriche entered Cale's room with his disgusting grin.

"Yes."

The eldest man nodded with a pleased hum. Eyes glanced appraisingly around the room, ending at the tiny body lying comically in the middle of a large cotton wad.

"Make sure everything is safe if you want to visit, Dion."

A small mocking grin appeared.

"Isn't that your job?"

"Ho? You acknowledge me?"

"In your dreams."

Red eyes curved in an amused, threatening and intimidating smile.

"When I say 'make sure', you have to make sure, Dion Agriche." Agriche's signature eyes shone strongly.

"I'm not compassionate just because the little one likes you."

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[Present]

[Roxana Agriche's POV]

"Sierra Agriche."

After the brief introduction of Cale Gastors, who had gone out of the room with the injured Dion, all eyes now focused on their mother.

The mother of two gasped as her beautiful blue eyes widened nervously, nervous and awkward.

"Y-yes, my Lord?" Roxana suppressed a small smile as her brother, Ashil, gently grasped their mother's hand. The 10-year-old's presence was so calming, it allowed Sierra to refocus.

"Cale Gastors will stay with you and your castle will be moved to the castle next to mine." Everyone sucked in a shocked breath. Some of them gaped, eyes flashing with panic and fists tightly clenched.

Roxana, on the other hand was wary of Lante Agriche's orders. Why was her mother chosen over his other wives? For example, a strong one like Dion's mother?

"Cale is completely under your care. You will take care of him, teach him, and watch over him as you would your own children." The little girl squirmed uncomfortably as the blood-red eyes glanced coldly at her and Ashil.

"Remember one thing."

The family patriarch's hands were clenched on his staff. While the face was serious, the gaze was sharp with an intimidating aura.

"Cale Gastors is the top priority. Even more so than your children."

His grin was wide, bloodthirsty, full of warning as his eyes scanned all the wives and children present in the meeting room.

"The same goes for all of you." The cane smacked once against the floor tiles. Then the terrifying expression turned relaxed.

"Pack your things immediately. The servants are waiting outside."

Before the head of the family walked out, his red eyes did not miss Agriche's 10-year-old children.

"In the upcoming Monthly Examination, I don't expect another useless death."

The door closed with a loud sound. Leaving the room silent for a moment, truly feeling the powerful effect of Lante Agriche's presence. Even if that man was already gone from the premises.

"Roxana," her mother called softly. Her face was still pale, but maintained a small smile.

"Let's go. The guards and servants are waiting," Ashil continued. Trying to calm their mother down, he grasped the hand of the woman with two children. Dragging Sierra and Roxana towards the exit.

The little girl's ruby eyes tried to glance at the wives and children in the room. Staring apathetically at the expressions of hate, envy, fear and jealousy on the faces of each occupant.

Whoever these Cale Gastors were, as long as that child was with them (Sierra, Ashil, and Roxana), their chances of survival increased.

Roxana could see the strong possessive and protective glint in Lante Agriche's eyes. Just like Dion Agriche.

If he could make Cale Gastors kind to their family, perhaps Cale Gastors could persuade Lante Agriche to leave them alone?

"Xana?" Red eyes glanced at her brother. Their mother was busy ordering the servants to move the necessary furniture.

"Yes, Brother?"

"Are you okay?" The older child's hand ruffled Roxana's hair. The little girl's heart ached for that gentle action.

Ashil's presence was like a small light in Agriche's darkness.

Agriche blood flowed in that small body, but his nature was unaffected by the evil of this black family. His kindness was like Sierra's, but clothed in a firm, detached, and courageous behaviour.

"I'm fine, Brother," Roxana replied simply. Getting a reassuring smile from the boy.

"How about you?" The head tilted playfully. Blond hair that looked so soft to the touch fell to frame the left side of the cute face, which Roxana imagined to be so handsome when Ashil grew up.

"About the castle transfer or the new child?" Asked the older child playfully, earning a snort from the younger child. They were currently organizing books and learning tools into storage boxes.

"Both."

"Hmmmm~" The right hand moved to grasp the tip of the chin, humming thoughtfully. It looked like an ordinary puzzled expression, but Roxana could feel a small change from the boy.

"I'd like us to move to a safer place," began Ashil, smiling absentmindedly. Roxana lost count of the expressions that had appeared frequently in the past few months.

"Our castle is far from the main castle, it tends to be unsafe with less escorts." Roxana nodded proudly at Ashil's analysis. Behind his gentle and affectionate nature, there was no denying that his brother was very smart.

"Then, as for Cale Gastors..." the 7-year-old girl paused her activity, more interested in the change in Ashil's expression.

"He's beautiful."

The book she was holding almost fell over. Roxana gaped mentally, eyes staring blankly at her brother's flushed face.

10 years? And already thinking about... that ?

Well, Victorian children were different from modern children. They even got engaged from a young age so, naturally. Still, Roxana wasn't used to it.

"Do you like him?" The little girl was flat. Ashil's face was still flushed, but did not deny. Instead nodded enthusiastically.

"Umh! I wish we could be friends!" Roxana didn't know whether she should be relieved or laugh. Her brother was smart, but still so innocent and untainted by Agriche's ugly thoughts.

"Xana?" Blue eyes blinked innocently as the sister ruffled Ashil's hair.

"Good boy, Brother."

The elder grinned in embarrassment and pleasure. Letting Roxana ruffle his hair with an aura full of flowers and imaginary angel wings on his back.

Ashil Agriche was truly a blessing to Sierra and Roxana.

A light in the darkness.

Despite being born into this cursed Agriche family, for Roxana's once lonely self, an only child with divorced parents, she was grateful to have Sierra as her mother and Ashil as her Oppa.

"Young Master Ashil, Young Miss Roxana." Both children turned to the door, to the servant who called in a flat voice.

"All the luggage has been moved. Lady Sierra is waiting in the main hall."

"Alright. Thank you for letting us know, Evan." Ashil's smile was sweet, making the servant flinch slightly. Didn't expect an Agriche to be this... friendly.

"Come, Xana."

The little girl nodded. Letting the other servants pick up their things. Following her brother to the main hall where Sierra was waiting with a small smile on her pretty face.

"Our rooms are ready, children. We just need to go and welcome Young Master Cale Gastors."

Ashil and Roxana nodded obediently.

The blonde-haired family left for the castle of their new home.

******

The castle was large and majestic.

It had brighter colors than all the castles in the Agriche region.

It was filled with gems, gold, silver and all kinds of beautiful stones decorated by the best craftsmen.

Roxana could feel Ashil gaping at her side. While their mother was still stunned by the luxury displayed before them.

Then the servants arrived, leading each of them to a new room.

Roxana learned that the three of them were on the second floor. It was a bit far from Cale's room, but had closer access to be able to serve Young Master Gastors.

"We must get ready, Lady Sierra. Young Master Gastors will be arriving soon," the butler said without emotion, making the other servants move to prepare the three blonde members.

After changing into more luxurious clothes than usual, the three gathered in the center room of the castle. Along with a line of waiting servants bowing respectfully.

The door then opened and the figure of their little Young Master entered.

Cale Gastors was silent for a moment. His eyes widened slightly at the sight of the three of them.

It seemed Lante had told the youngest of the Gastors nothing.

"Welcome back, Young Master Gastors," her mother greeted gracefully. Making Roxana nod with both relief and pride. To be given such a narrow task (in that order) and have Sierra pull it off without a hitch.

"Welcome back, Young Master Gastors," greeted all the servants. Roxana and Ashil also joined in, bowing respectfully after the other servants.

"Ah..." Cale Gastors looked amazed. Then his face immediately regained its composure. The beautiful face flashed a small smile, neither warm nor cold, while nodding briefly. Acknowledging their greetings.

"Thank you for the welcome, Lady Agriche."

"Please call me Sierra, Young Master Gastors." The little boy nodded.

"In that case, please call me Young Master Cale." Roxana admired the child's mature side.

Cale Gastors seemed to be aware of his position in Agriche as a guest of honor and understood the position of the servants here.

The blonde little girl found herself liking the Young Master's attitude more and more.

His eyes idly peered at Ashil, mentally tapping her forehead later. At the sight of her brother, he still looked mesmerized. His cheeks were playfully flushed, eyes sparkling with stars and trembling with enthusiasm.

"We've prepared your lunch, a bath, then a resting place in the garden-" Cale walked over to Sierra. Nodding along with her mother's explanation before the pretty garnett eyes glanced at them.

"Ah, permission Young Master Cale. Introductions, these two are my children." Sierra instructed them to introduce themselves.

Ashil came forward first. A friendly smile broke out sweetly, arching bright blue eyes framed by lustrous lashes. Soft blonde hair shone under the room lights, blending in with her fair skin and noble attire of white, blue, and gray.

"My name is Ashil Agriche. Greetings, Young Master Cale."

Ashil bowed gracefully and Roxana clapped her hands mentally. Sensing a long response, the little girl then glanced at Young Master Gastors.

Astonished when she saw the stunned look on his face. The emotionless garnett eyes now emitted an unfamiliar twinkle that Roxana dared not describe.

Ashil was still motionless. Waiting for a response from Cale.

"Greetings, Ashil," replied the youngest of the Gastors almost in a voice so soft and smooth. Suddenly, the brother looked up. Blushed a little again and nodded shyly.

Now it was Roxana's turn.

"My name is Roxana Agriche. Greetings, Young Master Cale."

The little girl bowed just as gracefully as Ashil. Expanding the skirt of her dress that was colored white, red and gray. Cale's response was not as long as Ashil's. Now nodding lightly at her with a small smile.

"Greetings, Roxana." Oh wow... the name 'Roxana' had never sounded this grand in the little girl's ears. Making her involuntarily blush softly.

"Thank you again for the welcome and introduction. Let's go have lunch first, hm?" Sierra nodded happily. Taking a position behind Cale, followed by the two children and the other maids to the dining room.

*****

Throughout their day together, the seven-year-old little girl's ruby eyes never left the Young Lord Gastors' every move.

Three days passed and Roxana had never felt so peaceful.

There was no commotion, no cold stares, no condescension, no reproach and no smell of blood. The castle felt so normal, like the feel of other Kingdom genre novels Roxana had read.

Sierra decided that Ashil and Roxana could be friends with their Young Master. This made the little girl's mission to observe one of her survival chances closer.

Cale Gastors is 9 years old.

Cale Gastors has a quiet personality and speaks as needed.

Cale Gastors is not expressive, but his eyes radiate his every emotion.

Cale Gastors has a soft spot for animals and children. Which Roxana realized after seeing a nostalgic look while observing the interaction of the two blonde siblings.

Cale Gastors was very smart.

Cale Gastors was polite, even to low-level servants.

Cale Gastors could calculate quickly, memorize everything in an instant, and even sketch things in one glance.

Cale Gastors is willing to help and does not hesitate to give opinions.

Everything about Cale Gastors screamed of the perfect Young Master. Inevitably, Roxana's respect for this child grew. Moreover, her chances of survival because Young Master seemed happy to be friends with them.

"Young Master! What about today's dessert"

They were currently gathered in the garden, so quiet. Softening the feeling of safety and tranquility that they rarely got if they lived in the corner castle.

"It's delicious. New recipe?" Ashil, who was sitting across from Cale nodded cheerfully.

"That's right. This is a recipe from Mother's family. I helped spread the chocolate cream," explained her brother, looking like... an enthusiastic puppy. Roxana could even see the image of a happily twitching tail with ear pups raised playfully above his head.

"Thank you for the dessert," Cale said simply. Smiling a little and nodding appreciatively at Ashil.

"Anything for you, Young Master Cale. If there is anything missing, please let us know." Ashil sat quietly, his expression softening with a gracious smile.

Roxana was happy for him on the one hand. That Ashil had a friend of the same age who did not mock his kind nature. This trait often made Roxana's brother a target of ridicule by the other Agriche children.

On the other hand, she was wary of their closeness.

Seeing their relationship was like seeing a thin ice. Which could crack in one touch, considering that the most dangerous Agriche child, was the child who brought Cale here.

As well as Agriche's child who could only be calmed by Cale Gastors.

... what is this deja vu feeling?

Why did Roxana feel that she had seen the dynamics of these three boys somewhere?

"Xana? Are you okay?" Ashil's voice interrupted the little girl's reverie. When her eyes focused, she saw the two boys watching her. If Ashil was filled with a worried, then Cale was filled with a calm, watchful eyes.

"Can I ask you one question that might be sensitive, Young Master?" Roxana broke off, finally venturing out. Ashil lost his smile, the eyes momentarily wary, but expected Roxana to be wise in her actions.

"Of course, Roxana. As long as I can answer it."

"...can the young master tell me about his family? Perhaps your siblings?" Ah... the question is very sensitive isn't it? But, this sense of deja vu, this curiosity... to remember something... from just one keyword-!

Ashil tensed by Roxana's side. The hand on his thigh clenched lightly and nervously. Especially at Cale's expression which was now emotionless, flat but still had a strange calmness.

"... I am the youngest child of the Gastors family." The two brothers were quickly relieved when Cale began to answer. Seemingly not objecting, yet his eyes carefully assessed each of their reactions.

"A father, a mother, two older brothers and one older sister." Cale's eyes were shaded, with a dreamy touch on his tea glass. Roxana could feel the boy's sadness in an instant. Her heart ached, imagining that Lante must have done something to Cale's family.

Ashil by her side was also expressive with a concerned and warm face.

"My father is Reagan Gastors, my mother is Areetha Gastors, the first brother is Liuzak Gastors, then there's Eskel Gastors and Rheethe Gastors-"

... Liuzak Gastors?

Roxana fell silent. Staring blankly at Cale who was now explaining his family's personality in a soothing, longing voice. Ashil listened carefully, eyes providing emotional support while lips formed a fond smile.

As Roxana recalled, the Liuzak Gastors in the novel she was reading did not have a youngest child. Tragedy struck the family, leaving Liuzak as the only surviving heir. This is why the Gastors family didn't attend the five families' gatherings for several years.

But there was no mention of Liuzak's family having a fourth child.

Then Ruby's eyes glanced at her brother. At his warm expression. His sweet smile. His expressive eyes-

While the memory replayed the image of Dion Agriche. Entering the room with his body covered in blood. Hugging Cale Gastors tightly. Calmly obeying the words-

Uh oh...

Is...

Is Roxana in the plot of that novel that is rumored to be taboo to read?!

The novel called 'The Snare of Destiny'?

The plot of the novel unbidden began to wander in Roxana's mind.

It tells the story of a Young Master of the Gastors family who became the object of two Agriche's obsession.

As you know, the character is Cale Gastors. While the two Agriche in question are Dion Agriche and... her brother Ashil Agriche.

However, in the end there is a reason why the novel is taboo to read or discuss. Given that many empty chapters disappeared, it was difficult to reassemble the plot. Even then, Roxana was only able to read half the storyline, because she could not bear the anxiety of reading it.

Which means there is no definite information about Roxana Agriche or Ashil Agriche.

This was confusing. Roxana's mind was restless.

Many realized that Flower of Hell, had a background of the novel The Snare of Destiny. If Roxana linked the two novels, then she could assume that she was now in the storyline of that taboo novel... or the pre-canon novel Flower of Hell.

Unconsciously, Roxana's hands clenched tightly and trembled lightly.

This is so fucking scary.

The Snare of Destiny was crazier than Flower of Hell.

Because she didn't know the whole story.

"-na?! Xana?! Are you okay, little sister? You look pale-!" The voice of her brother, Ashil Agriche, broke the little girl's reverie. Suddenly, the ruby-eyed Agriche saw her sweet brother looking so worried.

Then at Young Master Gastors who looked calm as usual, but his eyes were analyzing.

Ugh. After realizing the situation, Cale Gastors' presence became heavier than before.

"Young Master Cale," Roxana called calmly. Receiving a brief nod.

"Can... can I take my leave first? I think I'm a little tired and sleepy," moaned the little girl, starting to feel her head throbbing ominously.

"Of course. Rest well, Roxana." Her brother, sweet and kind as always, patted his sister's blonde hair. There was an understanding smile on his face as well as blue eyes twinkling so innocently

Roxana's heart sank at that image. Then at the sentences describing Ashil Agriche in The Snare of Destiny.

They were exactly the same.

"-do you need company, Xana?" Ashil asked softly and Roxana shook her head.

"It's okay, Brother. I'll take a short nap and then join you at dinner." Ashil still looked worried, but decided not to force any further answers.

"Well then, sweet dreams my sister." Roxana nodded, trying to give her brother a genuine smile in return.

As quickly as she could, the little blonde-haired girl rushed out and into her room. Unable to forget Young Master Cale's sharp gaze, as well as Ashil's intense calculation.

... her brother's nature was exactly the same as in the novel The Snare of Destiny.

So, what was the problem? Roxana's mind tried not to care.

Of course it was a problem!

Because Roxana didn't know how Ashil had survived the entire novel with such a... non-Agriche nature?!

Or was... was it because of the Cale Gastors who were a big help to Ashil Agriche?

Doubtful but there is a possibility that the theory is true. Because after all, Ashil Agriche was the potential male lead for Cale Gastors.

Come on, Xana. Try to remember the dialog between Ashil Agriche and Cale Gastors in that novel!

And nothing.

The entire novel is told from the point of view of 15-year-old Cale Gastors. Not the 8-year-old that he is now.

There are only a few paragraphs that tell the past between the three characters, but they are not fully explained. One of them is how Ashil Agriche survived the Agriche children's monthly examination.

Given that her brother had not yet manifested Agriche's power, Roxana was increasingly anxious about the upcoming day.

... in the end, it came back to the first option, right?

To get close to Cale Gastors and persuade the Young Master to help Ashil?

Hah.... Roxana chuckled sadly, hiding her face behind the pillow with tightly clenched fists.

If everything happened according to the novel, then her brother would be safe.

Her brother would live, she would survive and Roxana would make sure that happened.

.
.
.

[Cale Gastors's POV]

The boy's eyes were bright blue, and brighter than the slit blue eyes Cale remembered. But they had a ray of kindness that did not characterize Agriche's nature.

"My name is Ashil Agriche. Greetings, Young Master Cale."

Reddish-brown eyes glanced at the calm boy reading quietly at his side.

After his sister's departure, they were left in comfortable silence. The older boy then began to perform his duties, while ensuring Cale's needs were met.

So, this was the Agriche that would destabilize this Black Agriche family system in the future.

( Also the only remnant of Cale Gastors' sanity while he was trapped in this cursed territory. )

Cale sighed inwardly. Beginning to feel his head throbbing with the Record that activated some of Cale Gastors' past memories.

Although disjointed, Cale was a smart individual who could put all the pieces together in perfect order.

Ashil Agriche and his sister, Roxana Agriche did not escape those future visions.

Let's just say, if Dion Agriche becomes the figure that erodes sanity then Ashil Agriche becomes the figure that holds it together.

And Cale Gastors is caught in the middle of them.

Moreover-

Reddish brown eyes closed. Trying to focus on the faint sound that could be heard, the chirping of the engine that he usually heard if he was near Dion.

... what is this?

Why did Ashil Agriche also produce the same sound, but the beat was different?

"Young Master?"

"Hm?" Cale grimaced at the reflex answer.

"Is Young Master getting bored?" Glancing over, he saw the blue eyes that sparkled so sincerely looking at him attentively.

Cale's heart ached.

That look reminded the red-haired youngest of the gaze of someone familiar, someone familiar. His kindness so contrary to his family, Cale would not deny if anyone argued that Ashil was of Pedelian descent.

"Not really. Just sleepy," the younger boy replied casually. Making the others nod, he closed his book.

"Then, can I ask you one thing, Young Master?" Feeling apprehensive, as well as curious, the youngest of the Gastors nodded slowly.

"Does Young Master feel restrained?"

... an absurd question, yet it directly penetrated the recesses of his soul.

Cale was now actually looking directly into the eyes of the bright sky. Finding Ashil Agriche not turning his head, still replying just as intensely. The shining sunlight washed Agriche's other beautiful features. Making his messy blonde hair look very soft, milky skin, combined with a pair of blue eyes like the sky. Then there was a strange aura around the boy that was very different from Dion.

... strange but not oppressive?

"Restrained?" Beo Cale in a whispered voice. The other boys nodded. Breaking their gaze to stare at the ceiling of the garden they were visiting. At the unfolding blue sky, so colorful and in contrast to this claustrophobic Agriche Mansion.

"Hu um. I don't think I've ever seen a Young Master feel at ease," said the 10-year-old boy, like a typical child's opinion but capable of making Cale stunned.

8 years he had been in the world and yes.

When had Cale ever felt at ease?

The Gastors did love him, but in the end it always came back to the first opinion. That Cale Henituse was not Cale Gastors and this family was not his family.

Although the child in him melted at their sweet touch, Cale quickly intervened and pulled his collar. The Record was always active, mercilessly pounding Cale mentally with images of his family in the previous world.

He forgot.

Then he remembered again.

Over and over again, like an endless maze.

Dion Agriche was a figure of hope for the past two years.

The chirping of the engine that the boy produced was a wake-up call for the trapped Cale Henituse, who was beginning to sink into the facade of Cale Gastors.

The realization that he was not of this world and needed to go home.

( Cale could not deny. That on the one hand, the black-haired boy was a snare. Not a hope. )

"-Cale?" The call broke the reverie of the youngest Gastors. With a grim look, Cale gave an empty smile.

Empty.

So fuckin' empty.

Mixed up.

All mixed up.

Was he Cale Gastors?

Or Cale Henituse?

...

This is... scary.

( Help me. )

When Cale's sanity started to get mixed up with delusions, dreams and reality. Making him float without direction, losing his compass, ending up on the shore and letting the waves wash over him, pulling his body in this madness slowly-

( -elpmehelpmehelpmehelpmehelpmehelpmehelpmehelpmehelpmehelpmehelpme- )

"Cale."

Soft hands pierced through the dark vision. Cale was stunned, feeling Ashil already sitting beside him with one hand touching his left cheek. Gentle and careful, Ashil turned his head until their eyes met.

"Relax," said the older boy. His blue eyes were filled with a warmth that was so... pungent. Cale's heart fluttered with the strange feeling that surrounded him.

"...Ashil?" There was a small smile on that face. Echoing the overpowering deja vu and strange longing that washed over Cale Gastors.

Why... what happened?

"You're not alone, hm?" The warm gaze turned into fierce firmness and Cale choked.

The hand from his cheek dropped to his shoulder, gently pulling Cale closer to lean against the other boy's body. Closing his eyes softly, letting his nose bury itself in the citrus crest of the maple's auburn hair.

"I am here," Ashil whispered again. His voice was strange, but wrapped in kindness and unfamiliar sincerity.

"I'm always here."

It felt like it had been said over and over again, like a prayer chanted every night.

And Cale let himself lean into that warmth.

******

The new room in the castle felt more spacious and claustrophobic at the same time.

Cale couldn't sleep that night.

So, the little boy who was about to turn 9 let himself be washed by the moonlight behind his balcony window. Eyes looking at the light source with a dreamy gaze, the Record on the other hand actively flashed memories of Raon laughing. Choi Han who chuckled. On and Hong in the form of purring cats. Alberu who was stressed. Eruhaben who was always complaining. Rosalyn who laughed cheerfully. With Lock and Mary by her side. Ron with his lemon tea. Beacrox with his cooking-

-Reagan who always held him on his lap while working. Areetha who never forgot to praise him every time. Giving him kisses on his forehead. Liuzak with his soft, handsome smile. The carefree Eskel, showing off his sword skills at all times. Then Rheethe with her collection of flowery language while occasionally kissing his cheeks.

It was hard.

It was very hard to choose.

It wasn't here, but Cale was starting to grow to love the Gastors.

If one day Cale returned to his original family, would the Gastors family get back their real youngest child?

( ... why does it feel annoying? )

"Cale." Startled, the little boy who was called looked up and saw Dion Agriche standing at the edge of the balcony.

It was like the scene the first time Dion visited his room and made Cale automatically smile at the blood-eyed boy.

"Dion."

Hands moved, opening the glass door and then with slow steps approaching the waiting Agriche.

Dion began to smile. Arching his eyes until there was a lively twinkle in them. Snow-pale skin began to blush like spring, while long black hair fluttered gently in the night breeze.

The older boy then jumped to Cale's side. He easily picked up the youngest Gastors who sat him on the edge of the balcony. Without saying anything, Dion then embraced the smaller body. Sinking into the recesses of his sweet rose-scented neck.

Reflexively, the red-haired boy wrapped his arms around the shoulders of the black-haired Agriche. Resting his cheek on the strands of hair and closing his eyes softly. Letting a comfortable silence envelop them.

"Cale."

Cale on the other side hummed.

"I missed you."

Garnett's previously closed eyes slowly opened. Staring blankly at the castle's front garden, as Dion's embrace tightened around him.

"I missed you too." The arms that had felt like plant snares loosened and there was a happy chuckle from the boy in his arms.

Dion's embrace or Ashil's embrace?

Both were soothing.

But slowly drowned Cale Henituse.

.
.
.

[Ashil Agriche's POV]

"My name is Ashil Agriche. Nice to meet you, Young Master Gastors."

Ashil could feel those reddish-brown eyes blinking intently at him. Intense, but the sky-eyed boy's heart was beating sweetly.

Their meeting felt like a reunion.

Ashil did not know why he felt that way. It just felt like the blond Agriche had been looking forward to the youngest of the Gastors' presence in this Castle.

Then they moved to the dining room. His mother gracefully began to fix the layout of Cale's meal, while the other servants took care of their food. Roxana looked calm by his side and Ashil was proud of his sweet little sister.

"Sierra."

"Yes, Young Master Cale?"

"Is there an appointment for me next?" The red-haired figure, so radiant and flowing like rose petals, asked her mother.

"None, Young Master Cale. The Great Master has ordered Young Master Cale to rest completely today." The boy nodded briefly. Returning his focus to his food.

But Ashil on the other hand was enjoying every movement of the youngest of the Gastors.

The pounding of his heart was also chaotic.

Clouded by a strange longing.

To reach out to the young lord and ask him. About the strange feeling that came over Ashil, just from meeting those jeweled eyes.

Cale, on the other hand seemed to notice Ashil's gaze, looking up from his plate. Suddenly making the blonde Agriche look down nervously. Caught peeping without permission and the familiar heat heating up the youngster's cheeks.

"Ashil," Cale called softly.

"Yes, Young Master Cale?" Thankfully, Ashil was quite capable of controlling his voice.

"You will help me get ready for bed."

Eyes blinked at that order. That meant, Ashil would take care of Cale when the young lord was about to rest, while his mother took care of preparations such as banquets, meetings and other events?

... sounded good? And thrilling?

"Yes, Young Master Cale!"

Ashil's enthusiastic exclamation immediately earned a small pinch from Xana. His mother by their side also looked more relaxed without the usual tension surrounding their castle. The staff around them also slowly looked equally calm. Ashil could have sworn he saw smiles on the faces of some of the servants and guards.

After lunch, as requested by Cale, Ashil would be in charge of taking care of and changing the Young Master's resting clothes. On the other hand, his mother escorted Xana to her room, speaking with the butler about the castle's needs and Cale's further schedule.

They walked in silence with the red-haired child two steps ahead. While Ashil behind him watched the upright back with a dreamy look. Familiar voices then echoed, accompanied by images in front of him that overlapped.

They entered Cale's room, followed by two male servants.

Almost as usual, Ashil opened the wardrobe and one of the servants brought a basin of water to wash the Young Master's face. Carefully, the sky-eyed Agriche selected a soft blue nightgown. The lace was light on the chest and the hem of the dress was knee-length.

"Excuse me, Young Master Cale."

The younger boy nodded briefly, garnetted reddish-brown eyes avoiding his gaze skillfully. However, that playful side actually created a sweet smile on Ashil's face.

This touch and this activity somehow felt familiar.

So familiar that it felt like Ashil had done it every day. As his hands moved to take off the outer clothes, then the accessories that adorned both the chest, shoulders, and in his beautiful red hair. Almost jolted by the touch on the pale alabaster cheek, as Ashil moved the strands of hair behind the red hair.

Clothes were replaced with sleepwear.

Ashil nodded proudly.

( You've done this many times. )

He gently and carefully led the other boy to bed. Cale complied with the strange atmosphere around them. Large reddish-brown eyes peered under the blanket and Ashil reflexively gave his best sweet smile.

"Have a good rest, Young Master Cale. We will call you at dinner tonight."

Cale did not reply, but gave a small smile before finally nodding briefly.

Ashil watched the eyes close and it only took a few seconds to feel the other little boy already in dreamland.

His hand itched.

It felt hot, full of desire to reach out to the child and touch the delicate cheek. Touching the faint tips of the eyelashes that brushed the skin, a hauntingly sweet touch.

What was this strange familiar feeling?

Why did Ashil feel this way?

"You're like deja vu," Ashil whispered. Smiling softly with a warm glance at his little Young Master's sleeping form.

Sweet dreams, Cale Gastors.

( My sweet deja vu- )

******

The world began to feel so different when Ashil Agriche turned 7 years old.

No doubt, his mother and Roxana would often find the eldest blonde silent for long periods of time. Staring at the sky behind the window with a blank stare. As if drowning in thoughts that wandered erratically.

Atmosphere, touch, sensitivity, and senses began to feel sharper.

Ashil would often be jolted by touches, sounds, and whispers.

The sky-eyed boy also slowly began to listen to strange sounds. Like chains on iron. The faint octaves became clearer and echoed loudly as he grew older.

His mind was also more mature, but Ashil's kindness had not changed. Those celestial eyes still sparkled, but the light began to blind. Her smile was still sincere but edged with a cold blade.

Roxana could sense the change but allowed it so that Ashil would always kiss the top of his cute sister's head. His mother also looked worried sometimes, so Ashil would hug the woman while kissing his cheek.

Not stopping there, the sound of iron chains accompanied by flashes of strange memories began to shadow his night dreams.

Strange laughter.

A strange smile.

An unfamiliar touch.

Fluttering reddish hair.

Pearl-pale skin.

A pair of opaque garnett jewel eyes.

And a heartbreaking cry.

The dreams came one after another. Changing Ashil Agriche's self slowly, but strengthening that innocence into realization. That-

-a pair of arms that held him tight.

A head resting on a shoulder.

The sweet, thrilling laughter.

-It felt like Ashil had passed through that blurry future. On the other hand, even though the dream that was looming over her looked very beautiful, at the same time it also broke Ashil's heart.

A 10-year-old child, standing with the world beginning to take shape around him. The light that blinded him, and the darkness that calmed him. Everything felt so balanced that all Ashil wanted was to run around in the sun, enjoy the moon and dance.

However, Agriche's name curbed those false desires.

However, that didn't stop Ashil from growing within the restraints.

Because even though it's false, hope is still hope.

And that form is manifested in a jewel-eyed figure with a beauty that can make the whole world dumbfounded.

In an instant, Ashil knew that the blurry dreams that had plagued him for the past two years were related to the rose-haired boy. Ashil knew that those false touches became real when the smaller hand touched hims. A weary smile, which felt as wrenching as the one she saw in the dream. And the same laughter that thrilled Ashil's heart every time he woke up from that brief dream.

Cale Gastors was the figure Ashil Agriche dreamed of-

Blue eyes looked up at the sky beyond the window and smiled a little.

"Brother?" Roxana's voice broke the reverie. The eldest child turned his head, opened his right arm and chuckled softly as the youngest walked over to hug him.

"Feeling better already, hm?" Sweet little Xana nodded softly. Grumbling in his arms.

"How about you, Brother?" Asked the little girl. A pair of familiar red eyes with a very distinct twinkle looked up at him worriedly.

"I'm fine, Xana. There's nothing to worry about." It seemed Ashil's answer was unable to calm the little girl's heart.

"Are... are you happy to meet Young Master Cale?" asked Xana suddenly. Making the blue eyes widen a little for a moment, then smile again.

"I'm so happy to meet him," the eldest boy replied in a whispered voice. It was like telling Roxana an important secret.

"Why do you like Young Master Cale, Brother? What do you see in him?" The hug was released and Xana's hand did not let go. The little girl looked at him seriously with the aura of an adult.

Ashil smiled at the small affection shown. It was nice to have a little sister, although as he recalled in the blurry cross-section of memories, there was no form of a blonde-haired girl with a pair of red eyes typical of Agriche.

"I see uncertainty in Young Master Cale," Ashil said, after a long pause. Staring at the link of their hands with dreamy eyes.

Xana fell silent and the sky-eyed boy could feel his sister startled by this sentence.

"Why... Brother think so?" Ashil tilted his head lightly then hummed softly.

"Everything about Young Master Cale is uncertain. And I like that," Ashil explained, sounding like a contrived excuse. But it was true because that was exactly how she felt.

"I like the thought of Cale will having certainty," blue-eyed Agriche whispered again.

"And to bring the young master back to his true place."

On the other side of the blurry dream of the red-haired figure and the sound of strange iron chains, Ashil heard a call filled with a tone of desperation.

It was not the voice of anyone she knew, but they called Ashil's dream figure with cries full of longing and regret.

Waking up with an empty feeling then, broke Ashil's heart over and over again even though the sky-eyed boy did not know why.

"Xana, my little beautiful sister."

Ashil felt the youngest start to tremble and immediately hugged him.

"Whatever you're thinking right now, don't drown in it too much."

Hands moved, patting the identical blonde hair fondly and kissing the top of the head.

"I'm still here."

( And will always be here. )

Ashil nodded at that voice.

The promise that had always echoed in him since he was 7 years old and became him life's goal in a blink of time.

Not like last time. Ashil would make sure everything was fine-

Sky blue eyes widened.

Astonished by the thought that soon disappeared, leaving a void and confusion engulfing the poor boy's heart.

"I love you, Brother." Ashil's heart warmed.

"I love you too, little sister."

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[Roxana Agriche's POV]

Two weeks had passed.

Dion Agriche was rarely seen in Agriche territory and all assumed that the boy had gone on a very difficult mission.

The atmosphere of Agriche had also started to change.

The children of Agriche began to look more ethical and civilized.

It wasn't like they would argue, swear at each other, mock, denounce and even kill each other outright. Littering the castle hallways, courtyards, as well as other furniture with their murders.

Yet, in just two weeks Agriche's atmosphere had changed like Pedelian?

Roxana didn't know whether to laugh or worry about this frightening change in atmosphere.

Because it was all brought about by the presence of Cale Gastors.

Seeing an impact of this magnitude strengthened Roxan's resolve to gain the alliance of the youngest of the Gastors and guarantee the safety of her family.

So, with the contract she had written elegantly on her paper Roxana walked into Young Master Gastors' study which was separated from the bedroom. The little girl also made sure Cale was alone, without her brother following like a puppy or her mother helping Cale with his chores while talking about the fashion of banquet clothes.

"Young Master Cale," Roxana called softly. Immediately getting permission to go inside. Ruby eyes glanced around the room, realizing that Cale was completely alone in the study. With no bodyguards in front or servants serving around him.

Where had Ashil gone? To his sword class. Cale had kindly rented a sword mentor for her brother.

Where was her mother? Getting an invitation to tea from Marie Agriche and one could not refuse the invitation or one of the servants would die in vain.

A perfect time to have a discussion with Cale Gastors.

"What is it, Roxana? Do you need anything?" Cale asked calmly. The eyes that had been glancing at the study book now looked up at her.

"Can I speak directly, Young Master Cale?" It only took five seconds of tensing and the red-haired boy in front of her nodded.

"I want to make a contract with you."

Silence engulfed them. Cale looked surprised for a moment but his face soon calmed down. Roxana on the other hand was in a cold sweat.

This conversation was high risk, like instant death. Because Cale was an important figure who had close connections with the head of the Argiche family more than his wives and children.

Then, Roxana was currently 8 years old and had no power to defend herself.

"Contract?" Reflexively, the little girl nodded vigorously.

"Why would little Roxana want to make a contract?" The emphasis on the word 'little' almost made the ruby-eyed Agriche's guts shrink.

"After two weeks, I realized that Young Master Cale had changed the dynamic of the Agriche family." Was it just Roxana's imagination, that she saw those eyes dimming with a gloomy light and... sadness?

"I, Roxana Agriche, among the other Agriche have no power at the moment." Ruby eyes stared at the change in Cale's expression carefully. Hands were clenched tightly in the light blue dress, feeling the heart beating very fast with tension.

"Young Master Cale on the other hand seems to have a close relationship with the Head of the Agriche Family." There was no change. Still calm though now met with a cold stare.

"Although it is presumptuous, I would like Young Master to help 'my family' survive. Valid for the next four years."

That was it.

Roxana managed to say the wish that had been pent up for the past two weeks. The wish that had been tormenting also haunted her dreams every night.

"... alright." After a pause of almost two minutes, Roxana saw another boy leaning on the sofa. Right across from her.

"Tell me, Roxana, what wish should I agree to?" Choking, the little girl forced herself to breathe. Trying to calm down while feeling suffocated was a funny damn thing.

"I will help you get out of here." The firmness that came out of the tone of her sentence did not come from the voice of an 8-year-old child. However, Roxana did not fuckin' care.

"I will be loyal to you, Cale Gastors." Eyes closed and the little girl then bowed gracefully forward with one hand in front of the heart. Completely willing to surrender herself to Cale in order to secure her family.

"... is this related to your Brother's test?" The unexpected question after a minute's pause startled Roxana. Although the cold began to sting and send goosebumps down her spine, the blonde Agriche forced herself to nod.

"Please help my brother not to die regardless of the consequences after the test."

"Then... keep 'our family' by your side. My mother, Sierra. My Brother, Ashil and myself, Roxana. Just as it is now." Her request sounded numerous and insolent. Roxana's heart stung at burdening the Gastors' captive with such a meaningless contract for Cale.

But, Roxana sincerely hoped that the Young Master favored by Ashil, had a crack in his heart to extend his kindness and compassion.

A sigh was heard and Roxana's body tensed.

"Read the contract once more and we will discuss the details."

It took a split second for Roxana to stop herself from screaming out loud. That Cale agreed to the contract!

Cale Gastors was willing to help her!

A genuine, blossoming smile spread across the little Agriche girl's face. Her heart was pounding with sweet feelings, overwhelmed by the relief and realization of the kindness of Cale who was willing to help her.

Roxana Agriche would help Cale Gastors.

She would make sure the plot of the taboo novel did not go wrong.

About the terrible entanglement of fate between Dion Agriche and Cale Gastors.

Roxana would decide.

The little ruby-eyed girl might be weak now, but not in the future.

Cale holds that promise and Roxana will die if she breaks it.

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[Third Person's POV]

A week later, anxiously, Roxana watched as her brother was led by servants to the main castle. Along with the other Agriche children who were already 10 years old and above.

This was a special test, which determined Agriche's talent through some gruesome tests.

Ashil Agriche did not show any Agriche talent so that was what gave Roxana the courage to ask Cale for help.

The Young Master in question wasn't in the castle either.

After Lante Agriche's return two days ago, the castle had become even quieter without his presence. The old man did not send Cale home and Roxana gritted her teeth.

Various disgusting scenarios began to play out in her mind and the little girl promised to give that bastard a painful death if anything happened to Young Master Gastors.

Five hours of waiting with her mother, Sierra, in the main room.

The door opened roughly and someone familiar entered. Dragging a figure Roxana recognized as her brother. Both blond Agriche's hearts sank at the sight of their family member being thrown so violently and a sword extended mercilessly to the right side of Ashil's neck.

The eyes of Dion Agriche, who was the nightmare of every other Agriche child looked dull.

Oh no.

Roxana's heart sank.

Did... Dion was now playing the role of Agriche's executioner?

Where was Cale?

Why... why is her brother-?

"You failed your test, Ashil Agriche." Trembling, holding back both anger and fear, Roxana could only watch helplessly as the black-haired Agriche began to speak.

His tone was flat, like a puppet. As if Executioner was just a job, not the killing of someone's life.

"Dion Agriche."

Sierra gaped at Roxana's side. Seeing the eldest bravely raising his head, even though the body on the other side was shaking with tension and fear.

"You are the one who failed." The words were said in a small voice, almost a whisper. But the tension increased to a murderous aura.

"Oh yeah?" Dion tilted his head, still expressionless even though the red of his eyes turned eerily black.

"My job as Executioner has nothing to do with that. You fail and you die. That's Agriche's Examination requirement."

... it's impossible, isn't it?

His brother... would die...?

"No!!! Please, stop Young Master Dion! T-take this mother's life instead! L-let Ashil live-!"

"Mo-mother-!" Roxana suddenly held her mother's body that fell to her knees. The beautiful woman with two children began to cry, begging for mercy pitifully. Suddenly it made Roxana cry too, but her voice was too weak to say anything.

Ruby's eyes stared blankly at her brother's gaze who now turned to glance at them. Tears made the eyes of the sky shine beautifully. Filled with kindness, sincerity and... understanding. Then there was a smile.

A smile as if saying goodbye.

No...

Ruby eyes widened, seeing Dion start to swing his sword.

"NO-!!!"

The wind picked up and for a moment the two Agriche women closed their eyes.

"... Cale?"

It only took one name and the atmosphere changed drastically.

Roxana stared wide-eyed at the red-haired boy who now stood in front of Ashil. So calm that the blood that began to ooze from his arm was distracting. Was there a golden aura behind that body or was it just Roxana's blurry vision?

"Dion."

The voice was cold, yet contained a storm that was able to make Dion's body flinch.

"Ashil."

Her brother, who had been sitting down, also flinched but slowly began to stand up.

"Stop all this and treat me."

That was it.

The first paragraph of a glimpse into the past between the three main characters of The Snare of Destiny.

It was like seeing writing projected in the form of a picture. Ruby eyes reflected the view where Dion was anxiously grabbing Cale's injured arm. While his brother Ashil was still standing silently behind Cale. But his hand grabbing the hem of Cale's clothes.

However, what caught the eye was the linking of two Agriche boy's hand in each of the Gastors' youngest hands.

Roxana Agriche was stunned for the umpteenth time.

The Snare of Destiny was playing out its story.

Chapter Text

So... hello, guys? 
Still remember me and my fanfics? ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)

Forgive me for disappearing for so long _(:з)∠)_
Some readers contacted me and asked about updates. I guess a lot of Ao3 readers don't follow me on wattpad.

So, yeahhh, I can only confirm one thing. That I'm not stopping to write all these fanfics. In fact, I have more TCF crossover drafts to share with you guys. I'm obsessed with making Cale collect many men from various fandoms HAHAHAHA ψ(｀∇´)ψ
But, like the announcement has already been made on wattpad, I don't have more time to write.  So, I will be on hiatus for quite a long time....

Currently, I'm busy with research activities in my college and my target to finish everything is in 2/3 months :)
After all my busyness subsides, I will come back and present BOOM UPDATE to all of you heheheh (´▽`ʃ♡ƪ)

Thank you for your willingness to look forward to my fanfiction! 
I hope my writing is worth your time (✿◡‿◡)🙏✨

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I'll be back!

Neri 💛🌻✨
PS. If you have any questions, you are welcome to contact me via email, telegram, X (you can see the usernames on my wattpad).

PS. TBH, this fanfic has been on a very long hiatus, hasn't it? 😭😭😭😭😭🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏
      Maybe I can give a double update as my apology...