Adult-FanFiction.org : Anime

Wild Child
By : FlayraDowitcher
Category: +M to R > Ronin Warriors
Views: 1521 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I do not own RW/YST. I'm making no money off this fic.
Chapter List
- 4
- 5
- 6
Chapter 5

He couldn’t believe it.

Rowen was prepared to stand his ground, alone, to protect his fallen friend, yet the arrival of the other three baffled him. The warriors backed off in defeat, but not because of the threat of four young men. Rowen knew it was because Sage was amongst them; their young lord and master. The fighters had all turned away from the five, dropping the ropes as they did. Kento quickly jumped up from the ground, pulled off the ropes, and stood next to Rowen.

“I had a grip on things, you know.” Kento stated with smug annoyance. “But thanks anyway, I guess.”

Cye lowered his spear. “They had you tied up like some sow! There was no way you could have beaten them without some help.”

“Besides,” Ryo sheathed his swords “They were cheating; and while such a despicable tactic is accepted here, it is not allowed in my presence!”

“Agreed!” Kento gave a sheepish grin and put his arm around Rowen’s shoulders. “Well, I guess it doesn’t hurt to have some buddies show up and scare away the bad guys!” He turned his smoke-blue eyes to Sage, raising a heavy brow. “Surprised to see you here.”

Sage stood perfectly poised as he dropped the borrowed sword into the mud. “I share the same philosophy as Ryo.”

“SEIJI!” Shouted his uncle in the old tongue, and then started a slew of yelling that only Sage and Rowen could understand.

“I should go.” Sage said plainly. “Rowen, meet me in my room tonight after supper. I’m calling an end to this meeting right now and have much to do.”

Rowen watched as Sage left the group, walking away with such grace and poise as if he were a god. He also noticed that, for wearing mostly white and standing the mud, Sage didn’t have ONE SPECT of dirt on him. It was as if dirt and grim never touched that porcelain skin and if it did, it would just bounce off. Still, Sage had come to his aid and that of his friend when he didn’t have to. Now the blonde was getting scolded for it, and not just by his uncle but by the other old men as well. Sage seemed to pay it no mind, continuing on away from them with stoic features and a straight back.

“Meet him in his room, huh?” Kento tapped a finger on Rowen’s shoulder and the blue haired man shoved him off.

“Get over yourself. It’s not what you think. I just saved your ass, so be grateful for that!”

“Geez, what’s with the attitude?” Kento gave him a light shove.

Rowen placed his hands on his hips and watched as Sage left from sight. “I wish I had a banana peel that I could throw and make him slip!”

Ryo gave a crooked smile and Cye just laughed.

“He’s the Warrior of Grace and Beauty!” Cye mocked playfully.

“He’s not THAT good looking!” Kento waved the word off with his hand.

“Oh, I could think of a few more words for him.” Rowen snuffed. Even though he was growing to like Sage, there were still bits of the man that ruffled his feathers.

Cye took Kento’s large hand in his own. “Come on, let’s get you back to the barracks and cleaned up! I’m sure you’ve pleased many of the nobles today! You fought brilliantly!”

“Thanks Cye!” Kento turned to Rowen. “Hey, Ro? You okay?”

“Yeah, I’m fine.” He gave Kento a thumbs up. “Just keep hangin’ in there, buddy! I’ll get you out of there!” After a wave goodbye, Cye led Kento to the barracks and Rowen turned to Ryo. “Now what?”

Ryo scratched his cheek. “Um…I guess just…do whatever you want until it’s time for you to see Sage. Walk around a bit. There’s lots to see! We have the gardens and the farmyard and the library to see!”

Rowen grinned then. “Ah, the library! I think I’ll stop there first.” There was so much more he wanted to learn about the Empire, as well as the growing Dynasty. All thoughts of Sage were pushed out of his mind as he let Ryo lead him to the library.

///

“I won’t hear of it!” Shouted his uncle, slamming a fist on the table. “I don’t care what your father said, but I will NOT approve of this! How dare you ask something so rash of your father as he clings to life day after day! How shameful! To make your father suffer so! Asking him such ridiculous boons when he is barely able to articulate!”

Sage sat at the opposite end of his uncles desk, arms crossed, with a piece of paper nestled in his hand. Within the document was his written request to start building up a council of his own. While he had begun the process some time ago after Cye had come, Sage still needed the permission from his father to do so, since he was underage. After seeing Kento fight in the arena today, and hearing the nobles speak of the peasants attacking them in the streets, Sage wanted all the help he could get. TRUSTED HELP. He did not trust the men in his father’s council, viewing them all as treacherous spiders and double-talking demons. Sage was certain they would happily stand by while his father died, with not one lifting a finger to help. He knew that his father’s final days were approaching, and the doctor said it would only be a matter of time for each day the elder man grows worse. Sage was preparing for that day, had suffered with the reality of it, and now was set to face it with willful strength and grace. He would be named the young lord and heir, yet his uncle would be Lord Regent until Sage came of age. How silly, he thought, that ruling could only come at a certain age without giving any recognition to skill and intelligence. However, it was tradition, and Sage was bred to follow it…but not without bending the rules a little.

“Uncle, my father was in full cognitive processing when I presented him with this paper. He agrees that I should start having my own council, and asking them for advise instead of these old men you bother yourself with.”

His uncle was taken aback. “Foolish boy! These men may be old, but they have experience under their council robes! Experience you will need in the days to come! The Dynasty grows stronger by the day! Soon their armies will outnumber ours!”

“Yes, which is why there needs to be some changes made around here.” He uncrossed his arms and opened the document, presenting the signature of his father to his uncle. “This is my father’s signature; with it comes his word of permission for me to do as I please. I will build my own council, and you will not stop me.”

“A council of premature boys!” His uncle threw the paper at him. “A council made up of COMMONERS? A swordsman, a servant, a slave, and what, a fighter now? Do you wish to bring shame upon this family name by adding PEASANTS? Servants and whores have no place at a council table!”

Sage flashed his uncle a cold glare, one that sent a tremor down the old man’s back. “Everybody is somebody. Unlike you, uncle, I look for qualities needed in a council, not just money, title, and status.”

His uncle threw his head back and laughed. “Wait, I know what this is about! Your NEW little blue haired slave awakened these ideas in your head! Seiji, are you really that easily controlled by a lithe body, soft limbs, and exotic features? That blue haired slave is a wild child! A primitive beast from the woods! His father was a mad scientist and a traitor! This pretty boy will end up being a traitor just like his father! Do not let such wanton desire and boyish lust clog your thought process, Seiji!”

It was Sage’s turn to slam his fist on the desk. “Do not think you know the motives behind what I do, uncle! Do not speak of Rowen as if you know him personally because you don’t! This is my decision, and that of my father, the TRUE DATE family leader! I will choose whom I want on my council! I will even take the new fighter, Kento, as one of my bodyguards!”

A gasp. “No! You would let a filthy forest dweller- “

“You do not know as much as you think you do, dear uncle.” Sage stood up from his chair. “Changes are to be made around here, and they will be made by ME. I am the heir to the Date family name! I will see things done MY WAY from now on! Your input is still welcomed, uncle, but be prepared to have them mostly fall upon deaf ears!” He tossed the paper onto the desk and turned to leave. “I bid you good day, uncle.”

His uncle growled and flopped back in his chair. “Insolent boy!”

///

Rowen had lost himself in a pile of books near the stain-glass window, completely and utterly amazed by the knowledge he was observing from various pages of written word. The ‘Keeper of the Books’ worked tirelessly to put back the finished books, which just seemed to be a never ending tower. Rowen studied the pages very closely, focusing on every genre from history to science. He never wanted this to end! Right now he was in heaven, and all previous thoughts or annoyances were wiped out by numbers and words. Time was lost to him, and he barely noticed that the sun had stopped shining through the colored glass. Even his candles were burning down to their last bit of wick before the bookkeeper came over to him.

“My friend, I’m sorry to say, but the library is closing for the evening. Please come back tomorrow morning.”

Rowen looked up at the old woman. “Closing? So soon?”

She looked surprised by his words. “Sir, the moon is already high in the sky. I have left the library open for you longer than it should be.”

“That late?” He looked at the five books that were still piled high atop of one another. “May I borrow these, then? I wish to finish reading them in my room.”

“Of course. Take as many as you like, just please, bring them back.”

“Sure, no sweat.” He gathered up the remaining five books. “Sorry for keeping you here so late, miss. Just kick me out next time!” He chuckled. “Lord Sage won’t mind if-“ He gasped “Lord Sage!” Rowen was supposed to meet him in his room but he had so much reading material that he didn’t want to abandon the books. What did Sage want him for anyway? Rowen figured he’d just bring the books along with him, so he carried them to Sage’s room and knocked on the door with his foot. “Sage? It’s me, Rowen.”

“Come in.”

Rowen carefully balanced the books on his forearm and pushed the door open. “Sorry if I’m late. Got caught up in a lot of reading.”

“No matter. I was on my way to bed, though.” Sage said from his standing spot in front of the fire.

“Oh, should I leave then?”

“Not yet. I would like to tell you something.” Pale purple eyes focused on the arm full of books. “Put the books down and join me on the balcony.”

Rowen placed the books on Sage’s writing desk and walked through the sheer curtains to the balcony. Sage was resting his arms on the stone railing and gazing out into the city when Rowen stood beside him. A look of determination was evident on his face and Rowen reached a hand out to place on the other’s shoulder. “What’s eatin’ you?”

“There are going to be some changes around here in the next few days, and you are part of it.”

Blue brows rose in curiosity. “Oh?”

Sage would not meet his gaze as he spoke. “Today I spoke with my father about building my own council, and he agreed to let me do it. When I told my uncle, he wasn’t happy. The last thing we need is a civil war going on in my family on top of everything else. Yet I’m going to proceed with building my own council regardless.”

“I think it’s a great idea, Sage. I saw the guys your family has now and let me say this, out with the old and in with the new!”

“Precisely.” He replied with a soft sigh. “But my family is very traditional. If only my father was well then things would be much better. Even with my own council my uncle will still overrule me until I am of legal age. I will still fight my hardest.”

Rowen casually crossed his arms. “Can’t that be changed? I mean, your dad is the boss here, can’t he name you the full heir and kick your uncle out?”

Sage closed his eyes. “Tradition.”

“Oh.” He rolled his eyes. “Sometimes tradition needs to be refreshed. But I must ask,” He smirked “Who do you have in mind for your council?”

“You’re smirking, aren’t you?” Sage smiled and opened his eyes, but continued to stare at the city. “Since you already know the answer, I still have to ask.” He turned and looked at Rowen. “Would you consider being on my council?”

“Hm…let me think about that.” He said in a teasing tone.

“And before you ask, yes, I’m adding Kento into the council as well. Ryo needs an extra set of hands when it comes to protecting the family name. And of course, Cye and Ryo will be on my council as well. There’s five of us in total.”

Rowen grinned. “Make me the head advisor and you’ve got a deal!”

“You must prove yourself, then.” Sage said and turned to walk back into his chambers. “Tell me your thoughts on the meeting today and I will make my decision.” The young lord took a seat on the fainting couch and looked at Rowen, awaiting the other’s feedback.

“Am I allowed to speak plainly since we are in private?” Sage nodded. “Alright, then let me start by stating that your uncle and father’s council men are a bunch of cowards. At today’s meeting, when mentioning the Dynasty, each one appeared to be shaking in their robes! With great fear like that comes surrender, and from what I saw today, the underling tone WAS surrender. The Empire has been at peace for too long and the people have grown gluttonous, lazy, and greedy when it comes to their perfect daily life. Hedonism doesn’t even begin to describe the nobility of the Empire. I am confidant in stating that these councilmen will hide behind their money and let the Empire fall in the hands of the Dynasty. They will surrender to fascism in hopes they may keep their happy little lives, avoid the taxes that come with war, and keep on taking from the people. If we don’t fight off the Dynasty then the Empire will fall, along with everything we own. We need to fight back; and fight for the freedom of our realm.”

“I fully agree with you.” Sage replied. “However, we are only one county. I cannot speak for the many others that may or may not support our philosophy. Shortly there will be a group county meeting where delegates from each one come to present their terms of business. The topic of this upcoming county meeting will be whether or not we choose to go war with the Dynasty.”

“Then you have to be that delegate! Don’t let your uncle go or else this family name is doomed!”

Sage narrowed his gaze. “I understand that, but it’s going to be hard because I am not of age to be present at such a meeting.”

Rowen stomped his foot. “Get your father to sign a document stating that you are going to go in his place! What good is being a noble lord if you cannot request something so simple as having a trusted family member go in your place? How can anyone deny that?”

“You’d be surprised.” He replied. “But I will see what I can do.”

“Sage,” Rowen’s tone was stern and even “You need to go to that meeting no matter what the cost!”

“You’re right, but I fear being one of the few there who wants to fight and not surrender. Majority vote wins.” He laced his fingers together. “The question is, how do I convince these old geezers to go to war? And what about the people? A war will frighten them and add a heavy tax to their wallets. Our army is small compared to the Dynasty, and we cannot recruit young men and women to fight if they don’t want to. The Dynasty-“

“Forces them.” Rowen finished. “They’re forced to fight because they fear their leader. Fear can work in two ways. One, it can drive a warrior to greatness in order to gain respect and safety from their lord. Playing on the greediness of human emotions forces them to act immorally to save their own skin. The second being, of course, that there is no fighting spirit within the warrior. Their fear of battle and death forces them to run or surrender; and holds them back from fighting to the best of their ability. I read up on the Dynasty tonight, in great length, and have learned a great deal about their reign. It’s forced famine and empty promises at the hands of that tyrant, Talpa.”

“Yes, and with any hope the Empire will recognize that and choose to fight so we can keep our ways. Still, there is that worry of majority vote; and then we have to wonder where we go from there. If our armies won’t fight and the people hide in their beds, then how do we proceed?”

Rowen rests his hand on the desk and places the other on his hip. “Simple. Send a group to kill the tyrant and his reign will end.”

Sage turned to gaze at Rowen, realizing what he meant; and was even considering it.

///

Ryo yawned loudly as he leaned back into the warmth of White Blaze. He was awakened from a deep sleep by Rowen, saying for him to come to Sage’s chambers. Cye was present as well, resting his head on Kento’s shoulder; another who was pulled from his peaceful slumber. They all gathered in Sage’s chamber by the dying fire, trying to keep their eyes open as Rowen and Sage stood before them.

“Guys, what’s this all about?” Ryo asked, still groggy. “I got a bunch of stuff to do in the morning.”

“Yeah, and I need my beauty sleep!” Kento added in.

“You’d need a hundred nights to achieve that goal!” Cye politely teased, followed by a small yawn. Kento stuck his tongue out at the other, too tired for a proper comeback.

Sage cleared his throat. “Sorry for dragging you all out of bed, but this is something that couldn’t wait till morning.”

“Sage and I have been doing some talking about the future of the Empire.” Rowen started. “As you all know, they Dynasty is-“

“The what?” Kento interrupted. Rowen quickly explained it to him before continuing on.

“So, as you all know, the Dynasty is creeping closer and closer to the Empire. Sage and I both fear that the majority of the nobles in the Empire will not choose to fight the Dynasty, but instead surrender. If that happens, then we will all fall under tyrant rule, including our clan.” He said, looking at Kento who seemed to wake up after hearing that.

Cye spoke next. “But if they surrender, then what can we do?”

“I rather die than live under such dictation!” Kento said loudly, slamming his fist into his palm. “There is no justice in that kind of rule!”

“Well, I won’t surrender!” Ryo spoke next. “I’m not giving up!”

Cye narrowed his gaze in Ryo’s direction. “But what can we DO? If everyone is against us, then how can we-“

Sage interrupted him. “Well, Rowen had an idea about that. Rowen.” He motioned for the other to speak.

“If that’s the direction things are moving in, than we will take matters into our own hands! We will kill the tyrant Talpa ourselves and save the Empire! If we’re the only ones left in this world with the spirit and strength to fight, then I say let’s do it! What we want to know is if you guys are with us? As a team.”

The three men looked at each other momentarily, considering the offer. It was Ryo who spoke first.

“Count me in!”

“Me too!” Added Kento.

“Me three!”

“That was lame, Cye.” Rowen scolded. “Remember, this is only if the Empire votes to surrender, but we are still a team!” He turned to Sage and motioned for the other to speak.

Sage quickly explained to them about the making of his own council, what his father is allowing, and what his uncle had said. “So what I am asking is if you four will be a part of my new council?” Kento and Ryo were completely stunned and Cye looked up at Sage with surprise. “I have your positions in mind already. Rowen will be our main advisor.” Rowen puffed his chest proudly. “Ryo, you’re still our head swordsman and Kento, you will typically be our bodyguard. Cye, you’re…um…you’re our…” Sage tapped his lip, trying to think of a position and title for Cye that wasn’t just his personal servant and groom. They were all warriors already, so what else could Cye be?

Kento grinned and pulled Cye into a tight, one arm hug. “He’s our trusted messenger and speaker! Let him talk to everybody and deliver stuff! He’s nice and sweet and friendly, no one would suspect him!”

Sage smiled. “Just what I was thinking!” Cye wasn’t fooled by his smile and knew he was lying.

“I will humbly accept the position.” Cye answered. “I think the five of us will be a great team. It feels like we’ve all been friends already.”

“Wait.” Rowen raised his finger. “I just thought of something. Should we set out on our own we’ll be running into enemy territory, and I don’t just mean the Dynasty. I know that even the city residents aren’t thrilled with the government the way it is. If they see Sage out and about without an entourage of guards they may attack him.” Rowen looked at Sage. “There’d be a high price on your head if you’re kidnapped.”

“Maybe we can hide his appearance?” Ryo offered.

“There’s no mistaking that blonde hair and those purple eyes.” Said Rowen. “He’ll be recognized immediately.”

“I could wear a cloak.” Sage offered.

Cye chuckled with, “we can always cut your hair?”

Purple eyes widened slightly. “No.”

“Hey yeah, that could work!” Rowen snickered, along with Kento. Ryo was amused but knew when to keep his mouth shut. “Just one quick snip ought to do it!”

“Don’t touch my hair!” The blonde said through his teeth.

“Perhaps we could tie it back?” Cye offered. “Or maybe put it in two big, fat braids?”

Ryo laughed out loud at that. “Then he’ll look like a doll!”

“Be quiet, all of you!” Sage demanded, and four sets of eyes were on him. “I’ll tie something around my head or wear a veil to cover the blonde.”

“So before we continue on, do I still have to sleep in the barrack cell?” Kento asked Sage. “Do I get my own room?”

“You can bunk with Ryo tonight. Tomorrow we’ll make everything official, for the sooner we get this established the better off we’re going to be.”

“But I bunk with Ryo!” Cye pouted. “What about me?”

“We’ll slide ya in the middle!” Kento slapped the other’s back. “You’re skinny enough!”

“Am not!” Cye counted with a playful punch to Kento’s shoulder.

Rowen started to head for the door. “Well, I need to get some more reading done so I’m going back to my room.” He gathered up his books “I’ll see you guys in the morning.”

Sage wanted to call the other back but he was hesitant to do so in front of Kento. Although he trusted the other because Cye and Rowen did, it still didn’t change the fact that Kento was ‘technically’ Rowen’s intended. The last thing he needed was to start a fight, and when it came to brute strength (as he had seen in the arena) he wouldn’t last that long. It would be better to let Rowen handle Kento. He had to admit that he was looking forward to having Rowen stay with him tonight because the young man shared many of his interests on an intelligent level. Rowen is ideal for a match of wits and intelligent conversation. Cye was like a second mother, offering gentle care and comfort when needed. Ryo was great listener and loyal supporter. He didn’t know Kento on a personal level just yet.

But Rowen had already left, with the other three following a moment after. Cye held Kento’s hand as they left with Ryo bringing up the rear with White Blaze. They had all said ‘goodnight’ to him and now Sage was alone in his big room; but he didn’t feel alone inside. It was a tender feeling, and a comforting one that came without the help of Cye. His sleepiness suddenly hit him full force and without bothering to change he settled down into bed. Tomorrow suddenly looked a whole lot brighter.

///

The next morning, Lord Sage had invited his new council members for a private breakfast in the main meeting room, which was currently closed off to anyone except the servants. He had awakened early to make these demands on the servants and have everything ready by the time the others came down. A messenger was sent to each of their rooms telling them to meet for the breakfast. He had everything made fresh, from the coffee to the bread. There was a wide assortment of meat, fruit, grains, and cheese since he really didn’t know what all of them liked to eat. Normally he never had a sit-down feast with Cye or Ryo, for they were always on duty to him. At least this way he covered all bases and everything was in order. However, there were only three of his council members present, not four. Ryo, Cye, and Kento had come, all waiting patiently for the arrival of the fourth to finally eat. Sage noticed Kento was squirming in his chair and whining softly as he took in the array of food on the table. Something told him he should put in for another round of breakfast food.

“Where is Rowen?” Sage finally asked. “The food will grow cold.”

“He’s probably sound asleep.” Kento answered. “I can go get him, because I’m starving and I wanna eat!”

“I’ll go with him.” Cye offered and Sage gave a curt nod.

“Yes, go and fetch him.” Sage wasn’t very found of tardiness but would let it go this time. Watching the two of them leave, Sage glanced at Ryo who was trying to sneak a roll without being noticed. “You’ve been noticed.” Sage said flatly.

Ryo quickly pulled his hand away and placed both in his lap, trying to appear innocent.

///

“Do you suppose he’s still asleep?” Cye asked Kento as he led the other to Rowen’s room.

“If he stayed up after that late-night get together we had; then I would say ‘yes’.” Kento put his hand on the door handle, ready to open it when Cye stopped him.

“We should knock first.”

Kento rolled his eyes. “You could bust through this door with a wreaking beam, it won’t wake him.” He pushed the door open and stepped inside. “Ro?” There were some books left open on the floor while a long limber body snored softly from the bed, one arm hanging over the edge. “Yup. Just like home.”

“Aww, he looks so peaceful. Maybe we should let him sleep.”

Kento let out a short laugh. “He’ll sleep all damn day! Here, just for laughs, you try and wake him. Go ahead.”

Cye gave the other a skeptic look before approaching the sleeping form on the bed. Softly, Cye rubbed his back, shaking him slightly. “Rowen, it’s time to get up.” No response. “Rowen. Come on now, it is time to eat.” The response was a snort, and then a snore. Cye huffed. “Rude!”

“I told ya!” Kento pushed him aside and gave Rowen a violent shake. “HEY! BUDDY! WAKE UP!”

Another snort, furrowed angry brows, and Rowen shoved his head under the pillow. Kento gripped the pillow and gave it a quick tug, but Rowen’s fists were clenched tightly at the edge. “COME ON RO! TIME TO EAT! YOU’RE KEEPING ME BACK FROM ALL THAT FOOD!”

“Go away.” Came a muffled voice.

“Fine then, we’ll do this the hard way.” Kento rubbed his hands together and stood at the foot of the bed. Gripping the sides of the mattress he pulled the bed away from the wall. Walking around it, he stood behind the headboard, lifted from the bottom with a slight grunt, and forced Rowen’s body to slide to the floor. Cye gasped at the rather extreme act of waking up the other with hands flying to his mouth. Rowen tumbled to the floor and snorted awake, eyes narrow slits as he quickly perceived the situation, and then curled back up on the tangled covers. Kento calmly walked to the pile that was Rowen and untangled the limbs from the sheets. Kento lifted him from the floor in his arms and the blue haired man continued to snore even as they left the room. “He stayed up all night reading.” He told Cye as they proceeded back to the meeting hall. “Probably forgot to eat, too.”

“He needs to get on a steady sleeping pattern.” Cye watched the sleeping man’s face for any signs of waking up. “I wonder what Sage will say when he sees you carrying him like this? Sage likes to have everything planned and in order…as well as on a proper schedule.”

Kento shifted the sleeping form in his arms as they started down some steps. “Don’t let Sage blame him for being late. He can’t always help his tiredness.”

When they reentered the meeting hall, the first thing Sage noticed was Rowen still asleep and being carried. He narrowed his gaze, tapping a finger on the table. “Kento, put him down. Carrying around a grown man like that who is too lazy to get up is unacceptable. He is not a child.”

“Eh, I don’t mind it. I’m used to it. I’ll just sit him in a chair and-“

“Make him stand.” Sage demanded in an even tone. Kento made no move to do so, and Sage repeated himself again. “Put him down and let him walk.”

Ryo used this chance to go unnoticed as he popped a grape in his mouth.

“Is fine…Kento.” Rowen slurred from the warm chest that was his makeshift pillow. “I hear’em.”

He slowly slid out of the other’s hold and stood on his own two feet, scratching the back of his head. He peeked a blue eye open at Sage, noting the look of annoyance on those pale features. Rowen didn’t care if he offended Sage with his tardiness, and gingerly took a seat. His eyelids were still heavy from lack of sleep but he forced them to stay open; along with the smell of food being a big help.

“So good of you to finally join us, Rowen.” Sage kept his tone even and polite. “Stayed up late?”

“Mmhmm.” Rowen answered.

“Doing what?”

“Reading.”

“Can we talk and eat?” Kento cut in. “I’m starving!”

Sage waved them on with his hand. “Yes, go ahead.”

“Great! I’m hungry as a horse!” Ryo said with a grin and began to fill up his plate. Kento was piling massive amounts of food on his plate with most of it tumbling off the sides. Cye instantly went for the oatmeal and Rowen was still trying to keep his eyes open as he filled his plate.

Sage had to remind himself that two of these men were used to eating in the servant’s quarters and the other two came from a clan. In time he would have to teach them how to act and behave like proper councilmen…starting with basic table manners. Ryo had belched not once, but twice, since putting the first piece of bread in his mouth. Kento was inhaling the food, appearing to not even be chewing as he gorged like a man starved for days. Cye was the most appropriate out of the four with a napkin on his lap and cutting the food to smaller portions. Rowen looked ready to fall face-first into his oatmeal as he kept nodding off and jerking awake. But, he wanted his council to be made up of trustworthy people, which didn’t need to include etiquette. Although it wouldn’t hurt. But his gaze focused on Rowen again, taking a solid moment to carefully study the still groggy man. Rowen’s hair was all disheveled from sleep, and if he didn’t know any better he would have thought the man had just come from a tumble in the hay. Yet the rather rugged, tasseled look allured him somehow. Rowen’s brows suddenly furrowed in irritation and for a second Sage thought he was caught staring. Instead, a piece of bread from Kento’s gorging had hit the blue haired man’s wrist as he was eating. In retaliation, Rowen threw the piece back at him. Kento picked it up and this time meant to toss it at the other.

“Come on you two,” came Cye’s voice “don’t fight.”

But they weren’t fighting. Instead, the two were having fun tossing the piece of bread back and forth. Yet Rowen decided to step it up a notch to win and tossed not just the bread but a grape as well. Sage was ready to stop them but Kento’s elbow landed on the handle of a spoon, sending a glob of oatmeal in Ryo’s direction. Ryo was taken by surprise when the sticky mass of white landed on his left cheek and eye. The dark haired man just looked dazed, mouth hung open in that ‘what just happened’ manner. The other three, minus Sage, started to laugh at Ryo’s stunned reaction. Glaring in mock anger, Ryo, with little shame, picked up two quail eggs from his plate to chuck them at Kento and Rowen. Now it was a three-way food fight, with Cye laughing along in the fun but shielding his face with the napkin. Sage couldn’t believe what was happening, that was, until he was slammed in the face with a rather large pad of slightly melted butter. Everyone froze. The pad of butter slowly slipped down Sage’s cheek to fall and make a loud ‘plop’ as it hit his lap.

“I guess this means we’re in trouble?” Rowen asked. “I mean, we already ‘buttered’ you up first so…” he started to snicker. “We off the hook?” The other three had started to chuckle as well.

Sage, very calmly, looked down at his plate consisting of fresh cut various fruits, bread, one slice of breakfast meat, and a quail egg. He didn’t know what made him do it, but a piece of mango was perfectly placed in the dip of his spoon. Looking at Rowen, he held the spoon with one hand and used the other to bend the top back. “Bad joke.” He let the mango fly in Rowen’s direction, but the other never dodged the piece of fruit even though he had enough time to do it. Or maybe he was still too tired. Whatever the reason, Rowen laughed gleefully and flicked a grape at Sage.

“FOOD FIGHT!” Kento shouted, declaring war.

And before they knew it, small food particles were flying in all directions across the table. Although he was covered in bits of food, Sage found himself actually laughing. Not roaring laughter like the others, but it was still laughter nonetheless. This went against all his grace and courtesy, which he always upheld with the greatest of discipline. And he was finding that it was rather, well, a relief to let loose and have a little fun. It was still getting to be too much and someone would have to put an end to it. And that someone would be him.

“Alright, everyone stop! Stop! This isn’t the proper way to have a council breakfast!”

“But you had fun though.” Rowen pointed out with a grin.

Sage cleared his throat. “Perhaps this type of fun is something we should avoid in the near future.” It was difficult to take someone seriously who had watermelon seeds in his blonde hair and covered in grits. “I’m trying to prove a point to my uncle and all his cronies.”

“Sage is right.” Ryo seconded him, using a napkin to wipe some sort of syrup off his cheek. “We got a little carried away there.”

Cye stood up from his chair, brushing some crumbs off of his lap. “I don’t know about you boys but I need a bath. I’m covered in so much…ick.”

“Oh! Good idea, Cye!” Rowen finished the rest of Kento’s goat milk, ignoring the ‘hey!’ that came with it. “I’ll come too.”

“Maybe we should all go.” Sage offered. “We can discuss everything else there.” As much as he wanted to get clean, he was more excited about seeing Rowen naked.

///

The only one of them who had any shred of decency and shame was Cye, who chose to keep one of the towels tied tightly around his waist. Kento and Ryo were having a splash fight in the center of the large pool and Sage himself was resting against the wall, enjoying the cool water around his midsection. He wouldn’t let anyone into the hot tub until they had fully washed off here. Rowen had complained about that, and to Sage’s disappointment the man was still wearing a towel around his waist. He thought Rowen wasn’t going to remove the towel at all, but when Sage saw those agile fingers untying the knot his breath caught in his throat. Rowen wasn’t looking in his direction so Sage took the opportunity to stare at the now naked body of his young archer and advisor. Rowen had an athletic body, lithe and long, with light skin like Sage’s own and fine muscle tone. Sage could tell, just from his body structure, that Rowen was indeed swift. If he was as good an archer as he claimed to be, then with that particular skill comes great balance and upper body strength. Just then, Sage tried to imagine how Rowen’s body would look arched like a bow in pleasure. It was too soon to be thinking of things like that. To get Rowen into his bed it would take very careful planning. He would have to approach Rowen as if he were a wild horse; calm and gentle, or else it will run away. Or possibly attack, with ‘attack’ being the most likely. When Rowen finally entered the bathing pool the archer was making his way over to him.

“Hey there. Sorry about the food fight before.” Rowen sat beside him. “Sometimes I can get a bit carried away with things.”

“Well, it was certainly more livelier than what I am used to.” The blonde responded.

“You even joined in! That surprised me, I have to say. Didn’t think ‘fun’ was in your vocabulary.”

Sage appeared miffed at the comment, but answered in an even tone. “My type of ‘fun’ is not quite the same as yours. Perhaps it was my pride leading me to engage in that ridiculous game of food throwing. I wasn’t about to let you guys win.”

Rowen let his body slip further into the water. “Sure, you keep telling yourself that.” He dunked himself under the water to wash off any other bit of food particles he had. “There! Now, onto the hot tub.”

“Shouldn’t you wash more before-“ Sage’s words went unnoticed, or possibly ignored, when Rowen lifted himself from the pool and walked to the other. “Nice.” Sage said with sarcasm. ‘I’m the lord here. I should just force him back here and to do as I say.’ He watched Rowen enter the hot water. ‘But I don’t want to be like my uncle…and Rowen IS a wild little thing.’ It was his turn to slip down into the water and sigh. ‘I’ll let it go.’

“Sage?” It was Ryo coming over to take Rowen’s spot. “Sorry, were you resting?”

“No Ryo, it’s quite alright.” He smiled at his friend. “So how are you liking the new arrangements so far?”

Blue eyes were alive with glee. “It’s awesome! I got to eat a lot of good food and I get to bathe in this place! Thanks for asking me to be a part of this, Sage. I really do appreciate it.”

“You’re welcome, Ryo.” Cye’s sudden yelp from across the bathing pool caught their attention. “What is going on?” Kento had snatched away Cye’s towel and was taunting the poor boy with it. Cye was trying to stay low in the water, his face red with embarrassment while trying to grab the towel. ‘What have I started?’ Sage asked himself.

“Hey, look at that!” Rowen laughed from the tub. “Baby Beluga verses Little Koi! The epic battle!”

“Kento, give it back!”

“Well, then you’d best come up and get it!” Kento held it just out high enough out of Cye’s reach so the man would be forced to stand up from the safety of the water.

Ryo chuckled from his spot beside Sage and turned to see the reaction of his friend, which was absent of all amusement. “Come on, Sage. Lighten up a bit. You were having fun at breakfast this morning.”

“That was…just my pride wanting to win.” Sage knew Ryo could tell that he was lying, but Ryo wouldn’t point it out. He didn’t have too for his expression said it all.

“But isn’t this nice, though?” Ryo looked at Kento and Cye playing in the water and listened briefly to Rowen’s obnoxious teasing. “It feels like we’ve been friends forever; the five of us, I mean. We’re all acting like we already know each other. Maybe it really is that ‘bond’ that Cye always talks about? Right?” He looked to Sage.

“Maybe.” There was some truth in Ryo’s words, and he had to agree that the five of them together like this felt normal…even with the annoying distractions. Still, his primary focus was Rowen.

///

‘He’s still looking at me.’ Rowen said to himself while watching the water match between Kento and Cye. ‘I can feel him looking at me.’

Rowen needed to move away from Sage and come into this pool before he was unable to hide his blush. With the hot water all around him he could blame the flush on the heat, and not on his primitive urges. The urges had come after he left the room to retreat back to his own. Sage shared many of his interests, and the two of them seemed to connect on a cognitive level. Even though Sage had some quirky ways about him, Rowen couldn’t deny the feeling of attraction for the blonde. While he was trying to forget about his growing lust last night he focused his mind on reading, which surprisingly did nothing to help as it usually did. It had only made things worse. The chapter he had stumbled upon in the science book had to deal with the mating cycles of animals. The smart thing to have done was try to ignore the irony and pick up another book. Instead, he chose to give in to his feelings and continue reading on. Bad idea. He ended up personifying Sage as a stag, a proud and noble beast with grace, strength, and agility. While Kento usually said that about him, Rowen personified himself as a bird of prey, particularly a falcon. Falcons were quick to attack; they were agile and proud as well, soaring through the sky with the ability to see the world. Rowen smiled at the dream of being able to fly and see the world below. Last night he even imagined himself as a falcon flying above Sage, who was the stag. The next image that followed was the one to set his heart alight; one of them returning to their human forms and strolling through the woods…only to join up with his first wet dream of Sage after they had just met. Such a simple memory was enough to get his heart pounding. Now he was going to be working even closer with Sage on a much more intimate level, for now he was the personal advisor. Would he be able to work so closely with Sage now that he knew of his true attraction to the blonde? Should he just give in to the primitive urges and get it out of his system? No, he couldn’t do that. Something so rash as sex for lust would never end well, and it may even ruin the relationship they are slowly starting to build. He could see Kento being furious by his quick judgment to sleep with Sage when he had always dismissed any such attempts brought on by his best friend.

It seemed that if he were to have a sexual relationship with Sage in any way it would not only affect them but the other three as well. Cye had made it quite clear that he only slept with Sage earlier in their relationship, but it was only for comfort purposes. Still, there was no way of telling if Cye would be a little jealous of him stealing away Sage’s attention. Kento would be jealous and angry, but he would never ruin their friendship over it. Kento would be pissed for a while but then would come to accept it. Ryo had a relationship with Cye, but Rowen didn’t know on what grounds it was based on. As far as he knew, Sage and Ryo never had any sort of sexual relationship together, but he would still ask just out of mutual curiosity. Ryo was too virtuosos to engage in meaningless sex, although you never really know what goes through a person’s mind. At this time, such an attempt to ease his lust would surely break up, or at least damage, the friendship bond they were currently forming. What was he to do?

And then, his eyes met Sage’s single one and now it wasn’t just the water that was hot, but himself as well. He pressed his thighs tightly together in an attempt to ease the growing ache between his legs. And to make matters worse, someone had entered the tub behind him and he knew immediately who it was. Cye had retrieved his towel, Ryo was rinsing his hair, and Sage was currently gazing at him. That left only one. He slumped his upper body over the tub and groaned. ‘Just my luck!’

End Chapter 5 TBC
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Wild Child	By : FlayraDowitcher Category: +M to R > Ronin Warriors Views: 1521 -:- Recommendations : 0 -:- Currently Reading : 1
Disclaimer: I do not own RW/YST. I'm making no money off this fic.

Wild Child