While the ice continued to melt beneath his hands, Rhydal could feel himself gaining better control over his powers. He spoke comforting words to the boy as the process went on, making sure to lessen his fear. But from time to time, he found himself glancing at Yuuta, seeking reassurance despite his stable condition.
When it finally melted, Rhydal sighed in relief, a small smile of celebration tugging at his lips. He caught Flurris as he fell into his arms, holding him up. Though he was taken aback by how tightly the child was clinging to him, it was telling of his fear and stress. Rhydal stood up with the boy in his arms, carrying him to a drier spot. But his head began to spin, his back colliding against the cave wall. Sudden use of his magic had taken a toll on his body. Rhydal sunk down to the ground, slowly so he doesn’t lose balance. With his hands full he couldn’t communicate with Yuuta, so he used his head to gesture to a spot next to himself.
The three of them decided to sleep nestled together for warmth. The cave was silent aside from their breathing, giving Rhydal a chance to reflect. If it weren’t for Yuuta’s help, he would’ve failed, he was sure. But as much as he was blaming himself for surrendering to his stress in the worst possible time, he was also grateful. For once, he didn’t have to carry the burden alone. He could relax, at least for a moment, knowing that Yuuta would handle things if they went wrong. And now as he sat in silence, his mind was no longer racing with worries. Instead he felt a strange sense of serenity, knowing that he had someone he could lean on.
Before he knew it, he fell soundly asleep.
• ☽ ⋅ ──────── ⋅ ☾ • ☽ ⋅ ──────── ⋅ ☾ •
Rhydal’s eyes fluttered open, greeted by the sun’s rays peeking from the cave’s entry. Yuuta greeted him, and he gave him a small smile. [Good morning,] he signed back, his movements drowsy.
But as Yuuta continued to speak, Rhydal found himself struggling to understand what exactly he was saying. It could’ve been that he hadn’t woken up yet, but did he hear a thank you? And for keeping him warm… And holding his hand? His brows furrowed in confusion. He was acting as if he’d never felt warmth before. Rhydal could only hope he was assuming wrong, but he began to feel concern for his partner. And Yuuta seemed pretty young, too. Though he couldn’t tell his exact age, he’d estimate him to be in his late teens at least. Then there was the question of why someone so young was enlisted in the organization, but Rhydal almost didn’t want to know.
Rhydal’s expression changed to a weak smile, attempting to show understanding. [You’re welcome…] he paused, unsure how to continue. Since the danger was over, he could let his guard down and speak in a more casual manner. [I’m glad I was able to help somewhat. If you really want, I could hold your hand on the way back?..] he trailed off hesitantly, not even sure what he’s saying anymore. [I mean, you said… I… Thank you for the compliment on my fire… I’ll be sure to let it know…] he stopped, facepalming. It was then he realized he didn’t know how to speak outside of formal settings.
He sighed sharply, before continuing with a more serious expression. [I apologize. If anyone should be grateful it would be me,] he signed decisively, though his red cheeks betrayed his embarrassment. [Without your help, I don’t think I would have gotten my magic under control. I hadn’t planned for the possibility of my powers coming into use and I take full responsibility for my mistake. So thank you, Friend, I owe you so much.]
As the topic shifted to planning their next move, Rhydal felt his head clear up. [I agree. I had those same thoughts, I want to bring this child to his family as soon as possible.] Rhydal collected the explosives he’d gotten rid of, packing them in his bag. He then pulled his goggles over his eyes, shielding them from potential snowfall. Kneeling next to Flurris, he offered to dress him in more layers of clothes. Despite being an ice mage accustomed to the weather, Rhydal didn’t want to risk anything.
He looked up at Yuuta, hearing his suggestion, then nodded in agreement. [I’m not letting him walk through the snow under any circumstances. I’ll carry him all the way, without a problem. You take a chance to rest,] he offered. It was the least he could do to repay him for last night.