Black Spots

"Young Leo, what are you doing outside my room again? I told you, wait for me in the dining room."

"Hmm I did. But Mrs. Tressler keeps on bugging me to go out because breakfast is not done yet. You know how scary she can be. You can ask Sally here, she's the one was scared first."

"Good morning, Mast... Mister Ryou." Sally, who was the maid, greeted Ryou but an embarrassed look was evident on her face. Ryou smiled and nodded to acknowledge her greeting.

"So, young one, it's your birthday tomorrow. What do you want for your present?"

"Well, you can teach me magic. I can already learn now right? I'm already three years old so my body can handle it now."

"Hahaha of course, of course. Hmm let's see if your father will let you practice or wait another year. If he agrees, then my special gift will be yours. I already gave it to your father. Please don't annoy your mother again to persuade him to give it to you early. You know your father is powerless against her."

"You are leaving Uncle Ryou?"

"Smart child, I am indeed ready to go. However, I'll be staying until tomorrow to celebrate with you."

"You are just staying for the wild ranga chicken, aren't you?" A teasing smile appeared on the young boy's face.

"Of course not."

"Is that so. Come on then Sally, I know that Mrs. Tressler is cooking her specialty this morning to prepare for tomorrow. I guess I'll tell her that Uncle Ryou's share will be given to me because he is busy preparing his things." Leo smiled innocently at Ryou and started walking towards the dining room.

'What a sensible kid. He doesn't want both of us to be sad so he just changed the subject. Sigh... wait a minute... Mrs. Tressler's specialty...'

"Come here, you naughty kid. Don't you dare eat my share. Wait for me."

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Nothing special happened the rest of the day inside Lord Cromwell's castle. However, noble visitors from other towns, both enemies and friends, were heading towards Hopeful Light Town to greet the young lord personally.

During these past few years of overseeing the new dungeon, Lord Raygen profited a lot by taking some of it as permitted by the capital. Of course, Raygen used this to develop his town and by now, the whole town is surrounded by a thick wall strong enough to guard another attack. His friends, like Matt Meltor, came with their sons and young daughters to form a stronger relationship with him.

The night fell, and a new day came. Leo, who was the star of this event, wore a cute blue suit prepared by his mother which complimented his handsome young face. He is now headed towards the main hall where the banquet is to be held with Sally and her sister Molly.

The main hall was filled with many attendees and he saw Ryou already sitting with General Clave drinking. General Clave gave a sour look when Ryou extended his hand and picked up a fancy wine bottle in the table and started pouring it in his glass. Leo already guessed that this old man was extorted again with his premium wines.

Leo saw his parents already sitting in front and quickly tried to see if his suit is okay. This scene was seen by his mother, and she can't help but to smile on how adorable this little fellow acting so mature.

"Ladies and gentlemen, seeing that my son is here now, we can finally start eating. But before that, let's wish him a happy birthday."

"Happy birthday"

"Happy birthday"

"Happy birthday"

"Please enjoy and eat to your heart's delight."

Maids holding the food started coming and serving the guests. Big pieces of meat were served and fine wines are given to adults who were mingling with each other.

Leo also started eating with a bunch of kids, smiling happily. Raygen saw this and started to recount the things that happened when his son was born. He can't help but think that his son is really lucky to survive such ordeal.

'I hope my child can still enjoy this peaceful days.' He turned his head towards Ryou who was drinking merrily without problems. It was all thanks to this man that his whole family was still alive.

Out of nowhere, a scream was heard and all of the people inside tried to see what's going on.

'Shit, don't tell me someone wants to ruin this occasion.' Ryou already stood up headed towards the noise.

He was shocked to see Raygen holding the unconscious Leo.

"What happened?" Ryou saw that Leo was still breathing normally but when he saw the dumbstruck Raygen holding his son instantly showed how grave this situation is.

"Leave. Everyone leave. Men, please escort the people outside, don't let anybody in until I say so. Marie please come here." Ryou quickly responded to the situation.

He then scanned the little boy and saw little black spots starting to appear on the kid's hand.