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The time has come for winter, October 31st.
The city of Rozarith was filled with a festive atmosphere. The streets were alive with festive cheer for the annual tradition that welcomed the winter's largest celebration since the fall harvest. While in Rosaria, in this duchy blessed by the Phoenix, extra meanings arose. On this great night of Halloween eve, with the lead of the great Dominant, departed souls shall wander through the mortal realm and journey to the afterlife. When darkness fell, the flames of ritual bonfires were a beacon of hope for the living.
Families adorned their homes with decorations while children gathered in small groups, eagerly anticipating the customary pleas for firewood and sweets. In the castle of the Rosfield, servants busied themselves stringing torches that burned aggressively bright. Banquet halls and gates were scrubbed spotless in preparation for visiting dignitaries who would spend the night near the castle on the eve of the festivities.
When night crept across the land, the restless spirits stirred from their graves to briefly wander the earth. Folks, though, would gather around towering bonfires in plain clothes and masks to avoid. Through the dancing flames, they prayed for the wayward dead to follow the righteous path and leave the living in peace. As daylight breaks while the night ends, the restlessness of the dead shall return to calm under the newborn sun.
Then there came the Open house; with the restless spirits calmed and the longest night survived, the people celebrated with feasting and dancing in the castle courtyard.
Dressed in formal attire, Archduke Elwin Rosfield himself ventured beyond the city to share in the commoners' jubilation. The Duchess Annabella, though reluctant to participate in such an un-gorgeous affair, would also show up. The masses embraced them, and beneath the glowing embers, songs of prayer and joy resonated throughout Rozarith.
While the public celebration carried on, within the sheltered walls of the castle...
"Joshua, I know you're awake," called Clive Rosfield, eldest son of the noble Rosfield family. He stood outside his younger brother's closed bedchamber door, followed by servants carrying a meal and drinks, as well as medicines.
There was no response.
Clive knocked again, but no answer came. The servants exchanged uneasy looks.
"I got this," Clive instructed. "you shall leave these to me and go about other duties now."
"But we have been given explicit orders to ensure these be eaten up, my lord." one servant replied hesitantly.
"It's quite alright, Mother isn't here now. Besides, there are plenty of preparations that require your attention this evening. Now go, I'll handle this."
"With the greatest trepidation, my lord."
With reluctant deference, the servants handed Clive the tray and took their leave. Only when their footsteps had receded down the corridor did the bedchamber door creak open by a sliver. Behind it peeked Joshua's wan face, the youngest Rosfield.
"Are they gone?" he whispered.
"Yes, as you expected," Clive affirmed wearily. "Now, may I come in?"
Joshua nodded and pulled the door wider to allow his brother inside before swiftly closing it again.
"My apologies...I don't want to see them today." the boy murmured.
"Don't be. I'm not upset, but you should know they are just doing the duty; don't make things too hard for them." Clive replied softly.
The stale air assaulted his nostrils, and the untouched lunch tray and medicine cups on the table made Clive frown.
"I'll make an allowance since it's Halloween, but you must eat and take your remedies, brother."
Joshua looked down. "I know... It's just…"
Clive held up a hand. "Let's have no excuses this time."
"I'm sorry." The younger boy said timidly.
Seeing his crestfallen face, Clive softened his tone. "No need to be this anxious. Mother isn't here after all."
Joshua's eyes brightened. "You won't tell her about this, will you?"
"It will remain our secret," Clive pledged, then grew serious again. "However, you must take your health seriously, Joshua. This is for your own benefit, even Mother."
Joshua sighed. "And that's what you would say so..."
Clive glanced at the unappetizing food on the tray. He had to admit it appeared rather unpalatable. Some flavorless bone broth, mushy boiled vegetables, carrots, lots and lots of carrots, and the tinctures lay aside. The bland, soft foods-standard sickroom fare but far from festive.
"Let's start slowing down with a few bites, hmm? The cook may have improved the taste, so it isn't so unpleasant."
Joshua's eyes were fixed out of the window. "But there is feasting and celebration outside! Children are laughing and eating candied raisins, dressed in costumes and carrying carved pumpkins. Yet I'm trapped here, deal with..." He finally looked at the tray, "...this."
Ah, yes, the joys of the festival that Joshua would be deprived of. Unlike Clive, the "useless" one who often got excluded for such activity, Joshua was repeatedly urged to be present on most occasions, for the fact that he was the Dominant of Phoenix, the champion of Rosaria.
Clive found it hard to deny the boy simple childish amusements. He longed to say, "when you are well, you may go out and play." But such statements seemed almost cruel for one battling an endless cycle of frail health. As the Dominant and future heir apparent, great titles brought loads beyond what any man could bear, while Joshua was just 10. Sickly from birth, the act of recovery itself had become his never-ending way of life. He had to spend more than half the year recuperating since he was younger, and even so, he still looked too thin and weak.
Annabella, their mother, was convinced Joshua's perpetual illness stemmed from a fundamental "inattentiveness" in his constitution. She thought him of being inattentive in everything, from every delayed medication dose to simply spent lying abed and resting. His days became strictly regimented, and he was forbidden from going outdoors or eating sweets. Even relaxing with a book was only allowed during designated class times. As for play or games, frivolities were absolutely out of the question.
Clive felt his mother's discipline far too harsh, though his situation was scarcely better. Yet Joshua suffered even more under Annabella's extreme rigor and exacting expectations that no child could reasonably satisfy.
And Joshua was barely a teenager.
"Let's not speak of such gloomy things!" Joshua interjected, redirecting his attention out the window.
Dusk had fallen over the city, and the castle lights would soon be extinguished by decree. In the distance, a rosy glow topped by faint from the public bonfire ceremony near the city gates.
The flickering points of light transfixed him.
"What do you suppose Father and Mother are doing now?"
Elwin, the Archduke of Rosaria, and their father would be ceremonially kindling the bonfire to signal the official commencement of the All Hallows Eve festivities. He harbored a genuine affection for the ordinary people and happily participated in these traditions. Their mother, on the other hand, was less enthusiastic, only attending out of obligation and deference to her husband.
"Father is likely lighting the bonfire as we speak and perhaps leading the crowd in prayer afterward." Clive guessed.
"I wonder if he might be dressed up for Halloween," Joshua said eagerly. "He would make a dashing Durahan! Though a lion would also suit his majestic bearing."
Clive had to stifle a laugh." Woe woe slow down. Father is not there for theatrical amusement."
"I know, I know! But imagine if he pretended to be one of the evil undead while he was actually fending off them and protecting the townsfolk," Joshua proposed dramatically. "and… WHOOSH!"
He swung his arm with such enthusiasm and almost spun out. Clive caught him safely in his arms as the boy plopped down obediently.
"Easy now, I understand you're excited," Clive said, affectionately ruffling his brother's mop of unruly hair. "But remember, our family's duty is only to kindle the sacred flame and guide wandering souls. They were once the people here, our people, you get what I mean?"
Joshua's face fell instantly. "You're absolutely right, Clive, I got carried away. Please forgive my thoughtless words."
Seeing the boy's crestfallen expression, Clive felt a pang of regret.
Blast and confound it! Now, he sounded like their rigid governess, ruining what should be a carefree night with lectures.
An idea sprang to mind that raised his spirits. He held his brother's hands and looked at him in confront.
"Say, how about we sneak down to the kitchens and see if there be any special desserts we can nip? We can hide away, tell stories, and properly celebrate the night ourselves. I'll share a few tales from the shields if that interests you. "
Joshua's eyes flashed with eagerness, but he quickly deflated. "I suggest we don't. Mother would surely hear of it, and there'd be trouble if we got caught..."
"Soon, the castle will be darkened, and most servants will retire for the night," Clive coaxed enthusiastically. "No one will spot two clever lads out for mischief on a holiday."
But Joshua still hesitated. "Wouldn't they be upset if anything went missing? And they might get blamed..."
"Hey, it's Halloween! Any unusual occurrences will be dismissed as pranks by visiting undead, and we're far more harmless," Clive declared brightly. "So, what do you say? Shall we chance a covert kitchen raid?"
Hearing this, a tentative smile crept onto Joshua's face once more.
>>>
The clocks tolled seven and the lights all went down. The castle was plunged into darkness per decree.
Clive traced the pitch-black halls by memory, one hand grazing the wall while the other guided his younger brother.
Joshua followed on his heels, matching him step for step. Unlike Clive, who often snuck to the kitchen for treats, he was rarely allowed to wander the castle. Everything they passed now felt new and unfamiliar.
The kitchens were located on the first floor of the Castle. Beyond the heavy wooden doors of the Court of Visitors and the majestic Banqueting Hallm lay a cavernous space with high, smoke-darkened ceilings from the crackling fireplaces and woodstoves. The mingled smells of cooking ingredients and day-old garbage clung to the worn stone floors, underlaid with the acrid tang of hot ashes. Their quest was to slip through this bustling room unnoticed to take the tempting desserts prepared for the next day's lavish feast.
As Clive suspected, no servant was wandering around, likely retired for the evening or tending the gates as protocol dictated that nary a light should disturb the ceremonial darkness tonight, save at the entrance.
The two boys stealthily crept from Joshua's bedchamber into the silent Great Hall, down the winding staircase overlooking the gathering auditorium, where not a sound could be heard except their own muted footfalls.
"Are we there yet?" Joshua whispered, a thrill of nervous excitement putting a slight quiver in his voice as if their late-night kitchen raid was not a childish lark but a grave quest into the heart of the Forbidden Forest in search of unicorns.
Clive had to stifle a small laugh at this solemn tone. "No, it's just the banquet hall up ahead."
Joshua nodded gravely. "Ah, our actual destination lies even deeper within! "
"Quite right, so we mustn't drop our guard just yet. "
"Yes, my lord!" the boy responded enthusiastically.
Seeing Joshua so entertained and invested by their midnight adventure, Clive decided not to correct his use of the formal honorific.
Pale moonlight filtered into the silent hall through the lofty windows, glinting off the woven tapestries lined the soaring walls. Far below, the towering stone guardians flanking the room cast long, eerie shadows across the rows of tables and benches awaiting tomorrow's feast. Joshua clutched Clive's hand tightly as they picked their way past the great sculptures.
Noticing his brother surveying the darkness warily, Clive met his apprehensive gaze reassuringly until Joshua's posture relaxed, comforted by the familiar visage. Their fractured whispers scattering echoed in the enormous hall.
"You scared?" Clive gently teased, giving Joshua's hand a comforting squeeze. "We've been here countless times before, remember?"
"I know..." Joshua edged closer, his voice tinged with unease. "But do those statues seem...larger somehow? And why do I feel like we're being watched?"
"Perhaps the spirits grow bolder tonight," Clive suggested ominously. "Tis the eve of All Hallows after all."
At this, Joshua froze in his tracks, unwilling to stir another inch.
Clive laughed lightly and drew him into a protective half-embrace, rubbing his back consolingly. "Worry not. Even if ghosts and ghouls do appear, I will defend you!"
"But...but—" Joshua sputtered uncertainly.
"Did you not just indulge in imagining Father's valor battling wicked creatures?"
"I guess so..." Joshua conceded.
Their hushed conversation halted abruptly as the imposing arched entrance to the kitchen loomed before them. Forged from ancient oak, the tremendous door was banded with black iron, the giant hinges embedded directly into the weathered wood. A heavy wrought iron handle served as the only visible means of entry. The sturdy door itself formed an impenetrable barrier; there was no need to count on the locks, where chaos and cacophony only appeared within.
Joshua grimaced as his boots stuck to the grime-encrusted floor. "Ew... It's so gross down here!"
"An unfortunate necessity, I'm afraid," Clive sighed resignedly. "Such messy industry fuels the engine of feasting upstairs."
"What is this gunk anyway? It's like walking through slime!" Joshua complained.
"In short, a noxious mixture of cooking oils, rendered fats from meat, the remnants of spilled meals, traipsed in the dirt, and who knows what else accrued over time, you have no ideas." Clive smiled.
"It's so slippery--whoa!" Joshua nearly toppled face-first onto the filthy floor before Clive seized his shirt, bracing him firmly against the wall.
"Mind your steps. Take spill here, and Mother will surely hear of it."
Joshua looked up at his brother, who stood solid as a stalwart knight. "How do you manage not to slip?"
"Skill and experience," Clive replied loftily. "Behold."
He positioned himself squarely before the huge door. Crouching slightly for maximal stability, he grasped the wrought iron handle in both hands. With a determined grunt, he hauled with all his might on the stubborn latch, then pushed hard, the hinges reluctantly squealing open to grant them passage.
A pungent miasma of sour rot mingled with mouthwatering aromas instantly billowed forth. Clive paused on the threshold and held his breath while standing still in defense of the assault on his senses.
"You alright?" he asked Joshua worriedly.
Joshua gave a frosty nod. "You just hauled that giant door open so easily!"
"I'm your Shield, after all. How does the smell strike you, though? Can you stomach it, or do you feel ill?"
"Not much compared to the impressive of you!"
Clive smiled, honored by the praise.
He hoped his brother could endure the noxious fumes. Clive always needed a moment to steel himself before entering the chaotic kitchen. It was no doubt that Joshua's first exposure would be even more overwhelming.
But Joshua shook his head stubbornly. "I'll be fine! It smells strange but not awful."
"Good call. We are onward then." Removing one glove, Clive waved the stagnant air from his face in distaste, then led his brother inside by the hand.
The inner warmth soon smothered any lingering discomfort as the banked cooking fires continued radiating heat. Joshua's vision adjusted rapidly to the dim lighting. His gaze darted around excitedly, eagerly absorbing the strange workspace. Bundles of drying herbs hung from the rafters, exuding faint perfume. Bins overflowing with diverse vegetables lined one wall, interspersed with numerous plump pumpkins soon to be carved and then presented in decorative splendor at tomorrow's feast.
Clive casually hefted one of the more miniature pumpkins, appreciating the waxy, smooth rind that would soon bear an ornate etched pattern before making its eventual appearance amid the sumptuous Halloween fare.
Meanwhile, Joshua explored enthusiastically, utterly enthralled by the intriguing kitchen implements, exotic seasonings, and bewildering ingredients. "What are all these things? It's like a secret treasure trove!"
Clive chuckled fondly at his brother's captivation. "Mind your step and try not to trample anything critical to tomorrow's meal."
Joshua turned to him with an awed gleam in his eye. "Do you really use all this stuff for cooking?"
"Of course, they'll use all these ingredients," Clive explained patiently. "Tomorrow's grand feast requires elaborate preparations."
Joshua's eyes widened. "We are definitely not helping, and even worse."
Clive squeezed his shoulder reassuringly. "Don't worry, no one else will possibly return tonight. We're just borrowing a little extra treat, not stealing."
His attention drifted as moonlight revealed the disorganized kitchen. Dirty pots were haphazardly stacked in precarious piles, and smudges of old food still clung to their insides. The staff must have departed hastily without even tidying up. The restrictive protocols tonight left no opportunity to clean properly.
Venturing deeper inside, enticing aromas intensified. The remaining desserts would be stored on special shelves somewhere. While much had been sealed, leftover cake strips, cream trimmings, crumbs, and scraps would surely still litter the area - more than enough leftover sweets to craft a small celebratory feast of their own!
"What's that?" Joshua exclaimed.
Clive gazed upward towards his gesture; from the ceiling rafters, he saw an immense iron cauldron suspended by a thick chain.
He recalled the cooks utilizing the giant vessel to sterilize dishes and utensils with intense heat. As Joshua approached it, he could see how large it was as it nearly matched the boy's full height.
A thrilling idea sprang to Clive's mind. Halloween night was meant for mischief, adventure, and plenty of sugary treats. With the kitchen temporarily abandoned, who would notice two curious boys briefly borrowing a few kitchen scraps? And the lengthy night invited more games before the dawn summoned tedious obligations.
He made up his mind.
"Get away from that ominous pot!" Clive warned in a foreboding tone.
Joshua recoiled away, staring at his brother apprehensively. "What's wrong?"
Clive strode to Joshua's side, gently steering him farther from the looming cauldron as he scanned their surroundings warily. "Something about that vessel feels... odd, it was never here before as far as I remembered." he whispered. "Could this be the brewing pot of an evil enchantress?"
Joshua tensed, huddling against Clive's protective frame as he followed his gaze anxiously. "A Sorcery?! Here?! Should we tell Father?"
"Only if we survive long enough to escape..." Clive murmured darkly, letting his words trail off ominously.
Late moonlight filtered through narrow windows, glinting across the arrays of knives, cleavers, and hooks that adorned the walls. The orderly shelves and storage containers stacked floor to ceiling formed a treacherous maze filled with shadowy hiding spots, surely concealing supernatural secrets lying in wait.
"Watch your flanks carefully," Clive warned, stealthily moving towards the perimeter wall. "We know not what might leap out from these dark recesses. "
Suddenly, a loud thud resounded through the chamber as something heavy toppled to the floor. Joshua jumped, instantly on high alert as his wide-eyed stare probed the gloom. But Clive had already vanished from sight.
"Clive...? " Joshua whispered anxiously. Only silence answered at first.
Clive smiled in the dark.
Behind him, the dormant fireplace radiated residual warmth, embers awaiting but a spark. No fire now, yet other tricks tempted—
A crackle snapped from the stove. Joshua's head whipped around. Seizing the distraction, Clive yanked down the heavy curtains, swallowing the moonlight and sealing them in shadow.
"Clive!" Joshua's panicked shout rang out. "Is that you?"
Silent as a specter, Clive slipped through the cluttered blackness by memory alone. At the far hearth, he repeated his trick, making the fire sputter.
Joshua's upraised hand flickered, a wisp of flames dancing across his palm, then vanishing. Clive had warned against exposing one's powers in battle.
From the shadows, Clive watched his brother creep toward the cookware shelves, crouching behind a toppled sack—mere steps from Clive's hiding spot. Congratulating himself on his foresight, Clive's hand groped around and grabbed a burning stick, which he then violently threw to the ground.
With a clang, he instantly flashed to another spot. In the same instant, he hurried to a third hearth, still making the fire crackle.
Hesitant but boldly, Joshua chose to head towards the hearth to try and figure out what was going on. Such a decision was somewhat unexpected by Clive: his brother was stronger and more intelligent than he had expected.
Suddenly, a bolt of fire slashed at him. Clive managed to dodge it, and the smell of charring rose instantly, accompanied by two clanks; presumably, something had been broken.
"I... I know you're there! Show yourself!" Joshua called out, "Let go of my brother!"
This was way too far against his original plan, now that Joshua had ignited his undead instincts and the glint of silver in his hand... Clive realized in shock that he had taken the kitchen knife.
Before Clive could act, angry voices and footsteps echoed from outside.
"See! The door was left unlocked!" bellowed the intruder.
>>>
Clive grabbed Joshua in a sudden embrace. The younger boy struggled wildly, trying to get free with every hit and kick he could muster. Clive wrapped his arms tightly around Joshua and covered his mouth, pressing his face close in an attempt to calm him.
"Shh, it's me," He whispered.
Joshua stopped fighting as he recognized Clive's voice. "Clive?" he asked in confusion. "So that noise was just..."
Clive tapped his cheek, signaling him to stop talking. They could hear footsteps approaching the kitchen from the hallway.
"That's strange, I clearly remember...,” said a voice.
"Every time you say you completed something, it was left unfinished, always!" Another voice shouted angrily, banging on the kitchen door. "What's your excuse this time?"
Clive spotted the grease stains pooled on the floor. He pulled Joshua under a nearby wooden table cluttered with things on the side, using it as cover.
Soon after, two men entered the kitchen.
"You can't even handle a small task. If a thief breaks in and something happens before the open house tomorrow, do you know the trouble you'll cause?"
The brothers glanced at each other upon hearing "thief."
"Just... Let's get this cleaned up. Luckily, I already took stock of everything..." said one of the men.
"Fortunately, we have extra supplies on hand. Who knows what this mess would've gotten us for tomorrow morning."
The two footsteps approached and stopped right in front of the table, casting shadows over the hiding spot.
"It's too dark in here; who closed the curtains?" said a voice. The sound of curtains opening was followed by moonlight flooding the kitchen.
The mess on the floor was now clearly visible. One man bent down and picked up a smoldering stick Clive had dropped in their scramble to hide. An uneasy silence followed as they all stood still.
Oops.
Clive mentally kicked himself for the mistake.
"Was it this messy in here before we...I mean, before I left?" asked one of them, catching himself.
"Open your eyes, man! It's not 'messy' but 'intrusive'! Someone had been here obviously!" shouted the other angrily. "This is what happens when you leave doors unlocked!"
Joshua stifled a sharp gasp. Clive squeezed his hand comfortingly, signaling continued quiet.
"What should we do? Inform the chef? Was it someone or something ?!"
"Don't wade into trouble willingly!! First, go check if any food was taken or touched!"
Clive knew that the last part wasn't true. They hadn't taken anything. He listened anxiously as the footsteps retreated.
"Should we slip out now?" Joshua whispered, tugging Clive's shirt.
Clive shook his head. "That would make this worse. Don't worry, they'll leave quite soon."
Soon, two sets of footsteps returned, this time with the sound of boxes being set down. Peering out, Clive could see each man carrying a large wooden crate.
"Good thing the food seems untouched," one sighed in relief.
"Yes, though it's sheer luck thanks to you leaving that door open!" the other growled.
There was a pause in conversation as one of the men abruptly pivoted toward the wall, sucking in his breath at the sight of the charred marks marring the surface.
"Look at this..."He said in a tense voice, "Is it... It's a scorch mark!"
"Don't be absurd. Who could start a fire in here?"
"Not only so! It appeared so high that no smoke from the fireplace could ever reach it!"
Joshua unconsciously held his breath at the sight and words, his body tensing up.
The two servants fell silent as they stared at the blackened wall.
"That's not happening... That's not happening!!" said one in a hushed voice.
"Stop the crazy talk!"
"But remember, today is—"
"At the most secure place in Rozarith. Who could possibly get in here?"
"What if... "The man gave up convincing his partner, "What should we do then? Should we tell the chef or the shields?"
"And admit you left the door unlocked?"
"Well...but..."
"It's nothing! It's probably just a couple of cats or rats messing around. Pesky things always find their way in to cause trouble!"
The bickering continued as Clive racked his brain for ideas on convincing them to leave so he and Joshua could slip out, too. Perhaps he could mimic an animal noise? But without Torgal here, that likely wouldn't work. Maybe create some illusion of a "psychic" event? But hearth was too far away for him to reach.
As Clive pondered the dilemma, Joshua suddenly stretched out a hand. Clive grabbed him, anxious they would spot something amiss if they turned. But then, a muffled boom erupted from the direction of the hearth. The men jumped in fright.
"What was that?"
Flames erupted violently from under a pot before vanishing instantly. Joshua lowered his hand, the brief fire leaving only the scent of burning in the air.
A tense silence followed.
"I... I saw it," one finally uttered in a trembling voice.
"Shhh!"
"It's something! It's happening!!"The man yelled anxiously, "Why me? I don't want—"
"Don't panic! It was... just a warning! You moron are still standing, and that's what it has wanted!?"
"Y-yeah, it's too dark in here, and we don't have torches...it probably didn't see us."
Joshua leaned in and whispered worriedly, "Why are they stalling? Just get out!"
"They clearly lacked the sense of life-protection." Clive stifled a laugh and gently squeezed his brother's thin shoulder in reassurance.
The men continued panicking, "Seal off this kitchen! We must tell the head chef...no, inform the shields! Phoenix, please protect us—"
"Get a grip! It's the open house tomorrow. Do you want to cause more of a scene?"
"So we just left the castle in danger and do nothing!?"
"Here's the plan. We seal this kitchen tight, and don't let anyone else come here tonight. Whatever it is won't dare show itself and cause trouble in daylight. Tomorrow night, we'll report everything to the chef and Order..."\
"Agreed," The other voice calmed, still with a little confusion, "But why does it choose to be here... Could it be hungry?"
Enough.
Clive got no impatience cramped under this table anymore. His back ached against the hardwood, and his neck felt ready to snap. Beside him, Joshua was also struggling with his clenched arms. After another ten minutes more of this, Clive felt sure they'd both be walking crooked the next day.
He carefully adjusted his position and calculated the distance to the hearth in his head. It's OK, he said to himself, Joshua had made him a perfect demonstration, then—
A loud crackle rang out, followed by terrified shrieks. The men scrambled away and called out prayers to Phoenix until the heavy kitchen door finally slammed shut behind them.
Clive and Joshua crawled out from under the table with sighs of relief. Surveying the undisturbed mess in the kitchen, Clive shook his head; though fled in panic, they didn't forget to take the goods with them, what great servants.
"Somehow, I don't think 'Phoenix' would approve of their behavior," Clive chuckled.
Joshua shot him a stern look. "That's not funny, Clive."
"Okay, okay, sorry..."
"That sound... That cracks, it was you all the time?" Joshua demanded.
"Urh..." Clive blinked innocently at him.
Joshua pounced, lightly punching his chest in exasperation. "I was worried! I thought you got caught! And may even be eaten up!"
Clive just laughed and hugged him close. "Those are quite strong words, but I'm fine...did that entertain you a bit?"
Joshua rested silently against him with a small huff.
Suddenly, he recalled the smash of the door. Clive raced to check it. As expected, it was locked tight from the outside.
Joshua hurried after him. "What's wrong?"
"They've locked us in. " Clive frowned at the fact.
"Oh no..."
"We'll have to sneak out later... we go by the window once the moon sets. For now, it looks like we're stuck here waiting."
Joshua nodded in understanding. "So what should we do?"
"Might as well take a break."
Clive picked a clean crate for them to sit on. Joshua still looked rather sulky. Clive playfully poked his cheek.
"Hey, still mad at me?"
"A little..." Joshua reluctantly admitted.
Clive reached over to ruffle his hair. "You were far more brilliant than I'd expected you to be."
At that, Joshua perked up hopefully. "Really?"
"Absolutely. I was trying to scare you for Halloween, but... you did well and almost caught me off guard." Clive assured him. "You were fantastic, no doubt."
Seeing Joshua subconsciously puff up at the praise, Clive smiled in relief. Crisis averted.
"So... now you think it fun after all?"
Joshua huffed, "Just this once! It can't happen again."
Clive laughed amiably. "Fair enough."
"But I do have one question—" Joshua fixed him with a smug, appraising look. "Those fire tricks...did you mess them up on purpose? Or you haven't mastered the Bless of Phoenix that well yet?"
Clive quirked an eyebrow. "I wasn't permitted to start fires tonight, remember?"
"Then I'll give you the permission. I'm the Dominant of Phoenix, after all," Joshua pressed eagerly. "Come on, show me! This could be fun!" His eyes shone with curiosity. "Or are you admitting defeat against my superior skills already? What a 'qualified' shield you are!"
Clive raised his eyebrows.
"Let's see..."
>>>
Clive inhaled deeply and slipped on his gloves. He stretched out his right hand with closed eyes, picturing the flames igniting.
At first, there were just a few sparks mingling as the tiny embers strained to break free. With a faint poof, a gentle red glow quietly emerged from the darkness. Simultaneously, a searing pain made Clive open his eyes.
Joshua's excited exclamation rang in Clive's ears. He examined the flame in his palm, modest but deadly. It marked him as a qualified shield of the Phoenix, worthy of the title "First Shield."
"I knew you could do it!" Joshua said happily. "Try lighting that hearth now!"
"Better not attempt something so risky," Clive replied.
"Oh..." Joshua sounded disappointed.
"Let's try something else..." said Clive with a slight smile.
He moved his fingertips, making the flame jerk upwards. In his mind's eye, he pictured how it might change-bursting open like a firework, blooming brightly before fading away. The tiny flame obeyed, holding exaggerated shapes as its master commanded. First, an oddball, then suddenly leaping up and stretching out. And in that instant, Clive sharply withdrew his power.
Red specks dotted the air, the fleeting warmth leaving only a few sparks.
Joshua watched closely. "It's beautiful," he said in awe.
"Well...could have done better," Clive admitted, a little embarrassed that the flames hadn't bloomed more dramatically.
"But it was fascinating!" said Joshua, unbothered.
"Your turn now," laughed Clive. "Let's see what the Dominant of flames, 'Phoenix,' can do!"
Joshua thought briefly before raising his hand. Tongues of fire danced at his fingertips, fluttering lightly as he moved them, ethereal as feathers on the wind. Unlike Clive's rigid style, these fireworks resembled a gentle floral bouquet.
Suddenly, the flames entwined, exploding into a glowing halo, wrapping the boys in warm, immortal firelight.
When the last embers had faded into darkness, Clive regained his senses, as enthralled as Joshua by the display.
"Wow," he finally said.
Joshua smiled. "Yours looks much more impressive, though!"
Clive remembered the scorch marks on the wall. "We both have our strengths, but I'd give you an 8."
"And yours?"
"A 4, lack of skills," laughed Clive.
Joshua smiled, a stronger and more vigorous flame rose. He carefully lifted up and turned to Clive.
"Here, want to try something new? " he offered.
Clive cautiously cupped the gentle blaze as if shielding a seedling. Joshua's small hand in his, he could feel the warmth of Phoenix flame spread through his palm, calling his power. The flames began to flow slowly as Joshua concentrated. Gradually, a fledgling bird emerged and fluttered upwards.
"Unexpected," Clive remarked.
"Yeah, unexpected," said Joshua. "I've never shaped one this beautiful myself."
The little hatchling of flames traced a delicate pattern over the ceilings before finding its nerve and zooming out into the freedom of the sky, vanishing into the night.
Simultaneously, twelve chimes rang out as brilliant fireworks burst in the air, illuminating nearly half of Rozarith City.
"Happy Halloween," said Clive, grasping Joshua's shoulders.
"Happy Halloween!" Joshua smiled back at him.
Leaning together in the pitch-black hut, watching the fireworks blossom, was amazing. For a moment, Clive thought the fledgling was almost symbolic, as their shared power as Dominant of Phoenix, eternally.
Clive caught himself immediately.
What was he thinking!? Shared power as Dominant of Phoenix? He was merely Joshua's Shield, the one and only useless one in the Rosfield.
The flashing sky faded to the half-hung moon. Clive glanced at the shut door, still trapped without food or water. Joshua had loyally joined his foolish plan, and they ended up in a mess, nearly discovered by servants and having not eaten since noon. His stomach must feel hollow...
Aware of what Clive had been thinking, Joshua touched his grumbling stomach embarrassedly.
"Good thing that I actually feel hungry."
"We shall leave as soon as the moon sets. You go back to your room, and I'll prepare some food for you...I know where they store it now. It's okay."
"There are still leftovers. Mother will be angry if she returns to find I didn't finish."
"But it's cold..."
"Don't worry, " Joshua assured, "It's not that bad except for the carrots. I've had it hundreds of times, trust me. "
Clive's heart sank in regret over his reckless idea tonight.
Joshua yawned hugely, slumping limply into Clive's arms. "You'll have to carry me back later," he said drowsily.
Clive helped Joshua sit on a crate, propping him against the wall.
"I wanted to scrape together a cupcake for you...have a simple Halloween...now we're locked up thanks to my foolishness," Guilt tinged Clive's voice. "Shouldn't have played with fire today. You'll get what's coming to you."
Joshua winked playfully. "Actually, I started the fire first!"
"That's different."
"What's the difference then?" The young boy was disgruntled.
Clive stood, dropped to one knee, and bowed his head. Joshua was surprised by his sudden demeanor.
"Wh.. What is this for?"
"Great and merciful Phoenix, I confess and ask your forgiveness," said Clive respectfully.
Joshua looked at him, puzzled. "Hold on, what are we playing at?"
"One of tonight's rituals, not to be done lightly, even by me."
"You're serious?" Joshua looked at him incredulously.
Though Clive couldn't see his expression bowing down, he guessed it was complicated. As a brother, Joshua disliked Clive's deference to his lord or god. Yet, as the Dominant of Phoenix and the champion of Rosalia, Joshua was not that prepared.
Whether he liked it or not, Joshua would eventually have to embrace his duty and realize their differing missions. Clive wanted him to grow strong enough to do what was necessary, at all prices that might sound cruel.
Even use him as the one, if necessary.
As Joshua's shield, Clive could only protect him. Any desire to "share the burden" seemed arrogant, though he hoped for it. This plea for forgiveness had a bit of selfishness, too.
Joshua sighed heavily. "You won't get up until I do as told, right?"
Clive acquiesced silently.
The young Dominant put his hand firmly on Clive's left shoulder and claimed.
"I forgive you in the name of Phoenix."
"May your flame guide me with hope." finished Clive, rising up to see Joshua's complicated expression as he gazed out the window.
"You know I don't like this," Joshua muttered. "Duty, deference... we're brothers, remember?"
"But beyond that, you are the Dominant, and I'm your shield."
"Not by my choice!"
Joshua cried out in frustration, emotions bursting like a floodgate.
"It was all perfect! We did it together! The flame and the fledgling! The Phoenix's power is mine but also yours! Isn't that good? We'll inherit Father's power and protect our place and people! Together! That's what brothers should do! Why must you always—"
He cut himself off, biting his lip as if to stop crying.
"I had fun tonight, nothing more," Joshua finally offered.
Clive opened his mouth uncertainly. For a moment, he had nothing to say or to defend.
Joshua scowled away. Clive patted his pouting face to meet his eyes.
"Hey, look at me."
But Joshua stubbornly ignored him.
"Okay, I promise to never mention duties again, alright?"
No response.
Clive scratched his cheek with a sigh, sitting beside the resolutely turned back. Another apology clearly wouldn't help.
"Remember when I became First Shield?"
Silence.
"I'll always treasure gaining the right to protect you...not as a brother, but as your shield." Clive smiled wistfully. "We were inseparable since birth. Nobody can, and nobody would separate us. But from that day..."
Joshua's shoulders loosened. Clive gently turned his face to look firmly into his eyes.
"I can say with certainty, you just be yourself, and I'll handle the rest for you."
After a long pause, Joshua sighed, managing a shaky smile.
"We weren't supposed to..." He shook his head, not finishing the thought. "What if I mess up? I don't know what to do or how to do it, honestly..."
"Then we'll figure it out together."
Clive winked reassuringly. "I'll always be there for you, every day you exist. Past, present, the life after. We're brothers, remember? There's nothing we can't stick together."
"Then swear you'll only treat me as a brother when we're alone. No more deference."
"If that's what you expect, your highness..."
"Clive!" Joshua glared.
Clive laughed, "Alright, alright! I won't say it again."
"Promise me."
Joshua extended his tiny finger. Clive gently hooked it with his own.
"Yes, brother."
>>>
Night deepened.
Joshua woke in a sudden; around him was the quiet darkness before dawn; he would still have a bit more time to sleep before the open house ceremony.
His heavy eyelids beckoned a return to warm dreams. Yet, rolling over, he caught sight of something that snapped his eyes wide open.
Above his bed hung a pumpkin lamp, unlike normal ones filled with candles and flame; this was overflowed with candies and sweets.
"Told you not to bother... " he murmured fondly before sleepiness gently closed his eyes again. Still, a smile lingered.
FIN