The First Hibernation
Sir Dragato / Gravel
Sir Dragato / Gravel
“How about this one?” Dragato holds a large piece of blue fabric decorated in yellow stars to show his Guardian. “Or maybe this?” He holds out another piece that has a yellow checkered pattern instead.
“Sir Dragato-“
“Oh, what about this one?” He holds up a beige one with little triangles on it.
“Sir Dr-“
“Or what about-“
“Sir Dragato.” Nova places a gentle tail on his back. “All are lovely options. I’m sure Young Gravel will be delighted with any pattern you decide to go with.” He reassures. “Though, you seem awfully stressed for a task that is relatively simple. Is something troubling you, my master?”
“I’m fine, Nova, really. It’s just…” The warrior gives a small sigh and begins to shift through several more stacks of fabric. “It’s our first time celebrating Squidmas together since the adoption.”
“And you are anxious about this because….?”
“Who said anything about being anxious? I’m not anxious!” He claims, but clearly his Guardian isn’t buying it. His shoulders sag, and he walks to one of the available benches to take a seat. Nova follows behind and perches himself on the chair across from him.
“I don’t know why I’m anxious. I guess I’m afraid I’ll mess something up.” His small smile faded as he focused on the floor. “Y’know…when I first mentioned Squidmas to him, he told me he’s never celebrated a holiday before. Not even his own birthday.”
“Considering how his father almost killed him, I don’t find it too hard to believe.”
“I want this celebration to be more than just food and gifts. I want him to know he’ll always have a place of belonging as my son. I want him to know I will always be there for him no matter what. I just…want him to know how much he means to me.”
“Sir Dragato, I know with absolute certainty Young Gravel looks up to you as his new father. The boy practically idolizes you. Please do not worry. Whatever you have planned; be it big, or small- he will love it no matter what.”
“Thanks, Nova.” He gives the bird a small smile. “I’m trying to learn to make his favorite dishes, but apparently North Novan produce is hard to come by.” He let out a small laugh.
“How about some of his favorite West Novan dishes instead. I know Young Gravel is quite fond of those curry pastries from Sir Falspar’s bakery. Leave the food preparation to me while you finish picking out the fabric. “
Dragato gives a nod, and the pair part ways. Dragato decided to pick several dozen patterns since he thought it’ll be nice if Gravel has a small wardrobe stocked with them. He loves wearing his scarf so much, he can’t wait to see the look on his face when he sees a whole batch tailored just for him. Just the though of his smiling face warms his heart. With his shopping done, and Nova handling the food preparation, he’s all set!
This week will be the end of the Fall Season. Snow is soon to be on its way, and Dragato couldn't wait for Gravel to see it. North Nova, being a blazing barren desert, never snows. So this will not only be Gravel’s first celebration, but his very first time seeing snow! What should he do? Maybe buy a sled? Or teach him how to make a snow fort? Or what about-
“Uncle Dragato!!!” A small voice calls out to him in a rushed tone.
Dragato spots Ramset, Gravel’s best friend, in the distance with a worried look on his face. They're always hanging out and playing together, and today is no different. However, Dragato quickly notices Gravel isn't with him. The toddler dashes to the warrior and eagerly tugs on his wing to follow him.
“Come quick! Something’s wrong with Gravel!”
“W-what?!” Dragato could’ve sworn he felt his whole body go numb for a moment. “What’s wrong? Did he get hurt playing?”
“No, it’s even worse! He’s not playing at all! When he arrived, he curled up in the dirt and fell asleep.”
“Huh, it’s not like Gravel to sleep in the middle of the afternoon.” Dragato’s frantic demeanor simmers down since he though it was something more serious. The boy is just tired, nothing major. “I’ll take him to his bed to rest. He probably stayed up late, is all.”
“B-but!!” Ramset waved his arms to get his attention once more. “I don’t think it’s that! I know Gravel better than anyone, he’s my best friend!”
‘And he’s my son….’ Dragato thought to himself and continue to watch Ramset go off in a tangent.
“No matter how hard I try shaking him, he’s not waking up. And for some reason, he surrounded himself with a bunch of those ruby stones he's able to make.”
Okay, so maybe it could be something serious. Gravel would never use his ability like this. For him to summon it for something as simple as sleeping, maybe there could be something wrong with him after all.
“Please, take me to him.” His voice shook as his mind started to think of the worse possible scenario. Is he sick? Hurt? Dying?!!! Something is clearly wrong, and he’s going to find out what.
Following Ramset to their usual play area, the old warrior spots his son in the thickets of the forest grass. Dirt has been uprooted from below, and several ruby pillars surround him. Upon further inspection, several ruby spikes adorn the back of his spine and tail as well.
“See?! I told you!” Ramset toddles to his friend and lightly shakes him. “Gravel, get up! Please, get up!” He starts to cry when he doesn’t get a response.
“Shhh, settle down, Ramset. It’s going to be okay.” He calmly places a comforting hand on the child’s back. Dragato proceeds to gently wrap Gravel with one of the large pieces of fabric he purchased earlier that that day. With Gravel safely in his grasp, he takes a seat under one of the trees to quietly observed him.
“No injuries, and it doesn’t look like he’s in any pain.” He states, and begins to lightly nudge him. “Gravel? Gravel, could you please wake up?”
The child doesn’t respond back, and only burrows deeper within the clothing.
“Huh, that’s odd.” He nudges him a few more times, but he doesn’t get a response back. Gravel usually isn’t a heavy sleeper, so what could cause him behave in such a way?
“What do you think’s wrong with him?” Ramset asks, still worried about his friend. “Can’t you take him to the doctor or something?”
“Ah, good idea, Ramset.” Dragato nods. “I’ll take him to get a small checkup. Just to make sure it’s nothing major.” He stands back up to prepare to leave. “Will you be okay heading back to your house? Would you like me to take you there?”
Ramset shakes his head and practically pushes the elder to the path of the hospital. “No, I’ll be fine. Take Gravel first, it’s more important!” He says. “When you’re done, can you tell me if he’s okay?” He looks up with worried eyes.
“Of course.” He gives him a small pat on the head. “Thank you for looking out for him.”
“That’s what bestest friends are for~!” He gives him a cheeky smile. He then takes a step back as he watches Dragato extends his wings, and takes off to the direction of the hospital.
--
When Dragato enters the children’s ward, he quickly makes his way to the front and signs Gravel in. He’s only been to the ward a few times, and that’s only because of the North Novan incident. Other than that, he’s never had to visit for emergency reasons. Gravel is a carful child. He’s not reckless, and avoids doing things that may hurt him.
Once handing the nurse the clipboard with their information, he quietly take a seat near one of the closest chairs. He looks down at the sleeping child in his arms and tightly holds him close to his chest. He hopes it’s something minor like a cold. Maybe he’s come down with something since the weather has been a chillier lately…..
“Is Gravel okay?”
From the opposite of the room, Meta Knight places the book he was reading under his pauldron, and heads towards the pair. He looks at the child curled up in his arms, and then at Dragato.
“I…I don’t know. To be honest, he seems fine. But…he’s not waking up. I just want to make sure it’s something minor."
“Is he in any pain?” Meta looks at the child again. “It honestly just looks like he’s sleeping, Dragato. Maybe he stayed up past his bedtime. Nova knows having Bate fall asleep at a decent hour is near impossible.”
Dragato perks at the mention of his son. For a split second, he completely forgot where they were at. “Is...Bate okay?” I didn’t expect to see you here.”
“Bate’s fine.” He gives a small wave of his hand, and takes a seat across from him. “He does therapy for his wings once a week. It’s going to take at least a year for him to regain all the muscle he’s lost. Well, you’ve seen them. They’re much bonier and thinner compared to ours as kids. He doesn’t particularly mind the visits. He gets ice cream out of it, so it’s a win in his book.”
“Don’t therapy sessions usually last long? Wouldn’t going home, or shopping be more practical than waiting here for several hours?” He suggests.
“I’m sure it would be.” The warrior agrees as he settles back in the chair. He pulls out his book once more, and continues where he left off. “I tried it once last month. Well, something akin to it. His therapy lasted much longer that day, and I had to leave to pick up one of his prescriptions before the pharmacy closed. I had to be no more than 15 minutes late, but that’s all it took for Bate to be in complete tears once I returned. He thought I forgot about him. It nearly took the whole night to calm him down.”
Meta sighs, and focuses back on the page he is reading. “I know he puts on a brave face around others, but deep down he’s still scared and unsure with all that’s happened to him. He gets clingy at times, so I’ll stay for as long as needed until he heals.”
“Aah, I see. That’s understandable.” Dragato nods.
“Is Gravel the same? I know he’s had a rough past with his biological family. The things he’s been through can’t be healthy for a child his age.”
“Y-yeah. He has a lot of nightmares. I do my best to comfort him. I guess it’s just something that’ll heal with time and patience.” He clutches the child closer to him. “But I’ll be there for him for as long as he needs me.”
Meta give him a nod of agreement. “He’s very lucky to have you.”
Dragato slightly smiles and thanks him. The pair quietly wait in the lobby before one of the doors fling open. Bate happily toddles out and glances around the room before spotting Meta. A smile forms on his face, and he runs to hug the elder.
“Dr. Mends says I’m getting much stronger. Soon I’ll be able to fly North for the winter~!!” He beams.
Dragato shot both of them a skeptical glance.
“He’s….been reading my nature books.” Meta said. He places the book he was reading back under his pauldrons before picking up the rambunctious child.
“You’re not a bird, Bate. And there will be no migrating in your future anytime soon.”
“Awww….” He huffed. The small child perked when he spots his Uncle Dragato. He sees Gravel in his arms, and let out a worried gasp. “I-is Gravel okay?”
He wiggled out of Meta’s arms and jumped to one of the chairs next to them. He peered over and saw the resting figure. “He doesn’t look sick.”
“I’m sure it’s nothing too serious.. “He reassures him, and maybe for himself as well. “Ramset told me he’s been sleeping the entire time. He could be catching a cold, but I’d like a second option from mends.
“Sleeping?” He tilted his head. “Ooooh, maybe he’s hibernating! I read about it last night! It’s like sleeping, but it’s for the entire winter! Maybe that’s why he’s not waking up!”
“That’s an interesting thought, but Gravel doesn’t hibernate.” He lightly patted his head.
“Aw, oh, well…” He jumps back to Meta and perches himself on his head.
“We’ll once he wakes up, tell him I hope fells better~”
“I sure will, Bate.” He nods as a smile forms on his face.
“If you need anything, just let us know.” Meta says, and begins to leave the hospital. “Talk to you soon.”
“Thanks, Meta.” He speaks, and focuses back on his son.
Several seconds pass and Mends enters the lobby. Using his Metal claws, he motions the elder to follow him. “Dragato, please come with me.”
Standing up, the warrior makes his way to the back room. “Don’t worry, Gravel. We’ll get you fixed up.”
Dragato stays quiet for the most part. After placing Gravel on the examination table, he stays seated on one of the chairs provided, while the doctor runs a series of tests on him. He’d answer an occasional question when asked, but for the most part, Dragato does his best to stay out of his way.
After almost half an hour of various tests, Mends’ calls Dragato over so they can discuss the prognosis.
“Well, Sir Dragato, there seems to be nothing wrong with little Gravel at all! Quite the opposite, really. With the cold season approaching fast, and your son being a North Novan native, it’s not uncommon for them to start hibernating until spring.”
“W-wait….excuse me?” Dragato had to make sure he was hearing him right. So Bate….is actually correct?!! His son….his son is….
“So, you’re telling me my son will go into hibernation for the entire the winter? W-why? How? S-should I do something? When will he wake up? Where should he sleep? What will he eat? What about-“
“Calm down, Sir Dragato. Please, there’s nothing to be worried about. While I may not be an expert on Zoos, I will provide you with everything you need to know to prepare for his hibernation.”
"B-but what about his back? Why is he suddenly growing spikes? Surly this can't be the cause of hibernation."
"Surly it can, Sir Dragato." He gently prodded one of the ruby spikes. "Most likely it's a defense mechanism so he can protect himself in his hibernative state. He's still a toddler, so I doubt these little nubs would have any affect on predators. It's a good thing you'll be watching over him, he wouldn't last a day against the elements."
This is all too much. Dragato still couldn’t believe the news he received. How could something like this even happen? Is there something he can do to prevent it? What about their winter celebration? What about all the stuff he had planned for them.
“I-isn’t there something we can do? Can’t we stop it?”
“Telling a creature not to hibernate is like telling a bird not to migrate for the winter. Sir Dragato, please. You need to understand this is out of Gravel’s control. He will be fine once spring rolls in. In a controlled setting, he’ll be back to normal in a few days once he wakes.”
“B-but…”
“Head home and place him back in bed.” He speaks. “I’ll compile an agenda for you to follow. Come by in around 4 hours. And be sure not to wake him.”
Dragato wordlessly picks up the child and leave the ward. His mind is in a complete fog the entire time he’s walking home. He won’t spend time with his son during the winter, ever. He’ll be gone for at least a good 2 or 3 months. Just the thought of not having his son around, happily playing and laughing with everyone couldn’t help but put a damper in his mood.
“I’m sorry, Gravel…” He looks down at the toddler resting in his arms. “I know you were looking forward to celebrating with your friends.
Gravel doesn’t respond.
“Looks like I'll have to get used to talking to myself for the next few months….”
He decides not to speak for the rest of the way home.
“Sir Dragato-“
“Oh, what about this one?” He holds up a beige one with little triangles on it.
“Sir Dr-“
“Or what about-“
“Sir Dragato.” Nova places a gentle tail on his back. “All are lovely options. I’m sure Young Gravel will be delighted with any pattern you decide to go with.” He reassures. “Though, you seem awfully stressed for a task that is relatively simple. Is something troubling you, my master?”
“I’m fine, Nova, really. It’s just…” The warrior gives a small sigh and begins to shift through several more stacks of fabric. “It’s our first time celebrating Squidmas together since the adoption.”
“And you are anxious about this because….?”
“Who said anything about being anxious? I’m not anxious!” He claims, but clearly his Guardian isn’t buying it. His shoulders sag, and he walks to one of the available benches to take a seat. Nova follows behind and perches himself on the chair across from him.
“I don’t know why I’m anxious. I guess I’m afraid I’ll mess something up.” His small smile faded as he focused on the floor. “Y’know…when I first mentioned Squidmas to him, he told me he’s never celebrated a holiday before. Not even his own birthday.”
“Considering how his father almost killed him, I don’t find it too hard to believe.”
“I want this celebration to be more than just food and gifts. I want him to know he’ll always have a place of belonging as my son. I want him to know I will always be there for him no matter what. I just…want him to know how much he means to me.”
“Sir Dragato, I know with absolute certainty Young Gravel looks up to you as his new father. The boy practically idolizes you. Please do not worry. Whatever you have planned; be it big, or small- he will love it no matter what.”
“Thanks, Nova.” He gives the bird a small smile. “I’m trying to learn to make his favorite dishes, but apparently North Novan produce is hard to come by.” He let out a small laugh.
“How about some of his favorite West Novan dishes instead. I know Young Gravel is quite fond of those curry pastries from Sir Falspar’s bakery. Leave the food preparation to me while you finish picking out the fabric. “
Dragato gives a nod, and the pair part ways. Dragato decided to pick several dozen patterns since he thought it’ll be nice if Gravel has a small wardrobe stocked with them. He loves wearing his scarf so much, he can’t wait to see the look on his face when he sees a whole batch tailored just for him. Just the though of his smiling face warms his heart. With his shopping done, and Nova handling the food preparation, he’s all set!
This week will be the end of the Fall Season. Snow is soon to be on its way, and Dragato couldn't wait for Gravel to see it. North Nova, being a blazing barren desert, never snows. So this will not only be Gravel’s first celebration, but his very first time seeing snow! What should he do? Maybe buy a sled? Or teach him how to make a snow fort? Or what about-
“Uncle Dragato!!!” A small voice calls out to him in a rushed tone.
Dragato spots Ramset, Gravel’s best friend, in the distance with a worried look on his face. They're always hanging out and playing together, and today is no different. However, Dragato quickly notices Gravel isn't with him. The toddler dashes to the warrior and eagerly tugs on his wing to follow him.
“Come quick! Something’s wrong with Gravel!”
“W-what?!” Dragato could’ve sworn he felt his whole body go numb for a moment. “What’s wrong? Did he get hurt playing?”
“No, it’s even worse! He’s not playing at all! When he arrived, he curled up in the dirt and fell asleep.”
“Huh, it’s not like Gravel to sleep in the middle of the afternoon.” Dragato’s frantic demeanor simmers down since he though it was something more serious. The boy is just tired, nothing major. “I’ll take him to his bed to rest. He probably stayed up late, is all.”
“B-but!!” Ramset waved his arms to get his attention once more. “I don’t think it’s that! I know Gravel better than anyone, he’s my best friend!”
‘And he’s my son….’ Dragato thought to himself and continue to watch Ramset go off in a tangent.
“No matter how hard I try shaking him, he’s not waking up. And for some reason, he surrounded himself with a bunch of those ruby stones he's able to make.”
Okay, so maybe it could be something serious. Gravel would never use his ability like this. For him to summon it for something as simple as sleeping, maybe there could be something wrong with him after all.
“Please, take me to him.” His voice shook as his mind started to think of the worse possible scenario. Is he sick? Hurt? Dying?!!! Something is clearly wrong, and he’s going to find out what.
Following Ramset to their usual play area, the old warrior spots his son in the thickets of the forest grass. Dirt has been uprooted from below, and several ruby pillars surround him. Upon further inspection, several ruby spikes adorn the back of his spine and tail as well.
“See?! I told you!” Ramset toddles to his friend and lightly shakes him. “Gravel, get up! Please, get up!” He starts to cry when he doesn’t get a response.
“Shhh, settle down, Ramset. It’s going to be okay.” He calmly places a comforting hand on the child’s back. Dragato proceeds to gently wrap Gravel with one of the large pieces of fabric he purchased earlier that that day. With Gravel safely in his grasp, he takes a seat under one of the trees to quietly observed him.
“No injuries, and it doesn’t look like he’s in any pain.” He states, and begins to lightly nudge him. “Gravel? Gravel, could you please wake up?”
The child doesn’t respond back, and only burrows deeper within the clothing.
“Huh, that’s odd.” He nudges him a few more times, but he doesn’t get a response back. Gravel usually isn’t a heavy sleeper, so what could cause him behave in such a way?
“What do you think’s wrong with him?” Ramset asks, still worried about his friend. “Can’t you take him to the doctor or something?”
“Ah, good idea, Ramset.” Dragato nods. “I’ll take him to get a small checkup. Just to make sure it’s nothing major.” He stands back up to prepare to leave. “Will you be okay heading back to your house? Would you like me to take you there?”
Ramset shakes his head and practically pushes the elder to the path of the hospital. “No, I’ll be fine. Take Gravel first, it’s more important!” He says. “When you’re done, can you tell me if he’s okay?” He looks up with worried eyes.
“Of course.” He gives him a small pat on the head. “Thank you for looking out for him.”
“That’s what bestest friends are for~!” He gives him a cheeky smile. He then takes a step back as he watches Dragato extends his wings, and takes off to the direction of the hospital.
--
When Dragato enters the children’s ward, he quickly makes his way to the front and signs Gravel in. He’s only been to the ward a few times, and that’s only because of the North Novan incident. Other than that, he’s never had to visit for emergency reasons. Gravel is a carful child. He’s not reckless, and avoids doing things that may hurt him.
Once handing the nurse the clipboard with their information, he quietly take a seat near one of the closest chairs. He looks down at the sleeping child in his arms and tightly holds him close to his chest. He hopes it’s something minor like a cold. Maybe he’s come down with something since the weather has been a chillier lately…..
“Is Gravel okay?”
From the opposite of the room, Meta Knight places the book he was reading under his pauldron, and heads towards the pair. He looks at the child curled up in his arms, and then at Dragato.
“I…I don’t know. To be honest, he seems fine. But…he’s not waking up. I just want to make sure it’s something minor."
“Is he in any pain?” Meta looks at the child again. “It honestly just looks like he’s sleeping, Dragato. Maybe he stayed up past his bedtime. Nova knows having Bate fall asleep at a decent hour is near impossible.”
Dragato perks at the mention of his son. For a split second, he completely forgot where they were at. “Is...Bate okay?” I didn’t expect to see you here.”
“Bate’s fine.” He gives a small wave of his hand, and takes a seat across from him. “He does therapy for his wings once a week. It’s going to take at least a year for him to regain all the muscle he’s lost. Well, you’ve seen them. They’re much bonier and thinner compared to ours as kids. He doesn’t particularly mind the visits. He gets ice cream out of it, so it’s a win in his book.”
“Don’t therapy sessions usually last long? Wouldn’t going home, or shopping be more practical than waiting here for several hours?” He suggests.
“I’m sure it would be.” The warrior agrees as he settles back in the chair. He pulls out his book once more, and continues where he left off. “I tried it once last month. Well, something akin to it. His therapy lasted much longer that day, and I had to leave to pick up one of his prescriptions before the pharmacy closed. I had to be no more than 15 minutes late, but that’s all it took for Bate to be in complete tears once I returned. He thought I forgot about him. It nearly took the whole night to calm him down.”
Meta sighs, and focuses back on the page he is reading. “I know he puts on a brave face around others, but deep down he’s still scared and unsure with all that’s happened to him. He gets clingy at times, so I’ll stay for as long as needed until he heals.”
“Aah, I see. That’s understandable.” Dragato nods.
“Is Gravel the same? I know he’s had a rough past with his biological family. The things he’s been through can’t be healthy for a child his age.”
“Y-yeah. He has a lot of nightmares. I do my best to comfort him. I guess it’s just something that’ll heal with time and patience.” He clutches the child closer to him. “But I’ll be there for him for as long as he needs me.”
Meta give him a nod of agreement. “He’s very lucky to have you.”
Dragato slightly smiles and thanks him. The pair quietly wait in the lobby before one of the doors fling open. Bate happily toddles out and glances around the room before spotting Meta. A smile forms on his face, and he runs to hug the elder.
“Dr. Mends says I’m getting much stronger. Soon I’ll be able to fly North for the winter~!!” He beams.
Dragato shot both of them a skeptical glance.
“He’s….been reading my nature books.” Meta said. He places the book he was reading back under his pauldrons before picking up the rambunctious child.
“You’re not a bird, Bate. And there will be no migrating in your future anytime soon.”
“Awww….” He huffed. The small child perked when he spots his Uncle Dragato. He sees Gravel in his arms, and let out a worried gasp. “I-is Gravel okay?”
He wiggled out of Meta’s arms and jumped to one of the chairs next to them. He peered over and saw the resting figure. “He doesn’t look sick.”
“I’m sure it’s nothing too serious.. “He reassures him, and maybe for himself as well. “Ramset told me he’s been sleeping the entire time. He could be catching a cold, but I’d like a second option from mends.
“Sleeping?” He tilted his head. “Ooooh, maybe he’s hibernating! I read about it last night! It’s like sleeping, but it’s for the entire winter! Maybe that’s why he’s not waking up!”
“That’s an interesting thought, but Gravel doesn’t hibernate.” He lightly patted his head.
“Aw, oh, well…” He jumps back to Meta and perches himself on his head.
“We’ll once he wakes up, tell him I hope fells better~”
“I sure will, Bate.” He nods as a smile forms on his face.
“If you need anything, just let us know.” Meta says, and begins to leave the hospital. “Talk to you soon.”
“Thanks, Meta.” He speaks, and focuses back on his son.
Several seconds pass and Mends enters the lobby. Using his Metal claws, he motions the elder to follow him. “Dragato, please come with me.”
Standing up, the warrior makes his way to the back room. “Don’t worry, Gravel. We’ll get you fixed up.”
Dragato stays quiet for the most part. After placing Gravel on the examination table, he stays seated on one of the chairs provided, while the doctor runs a series of tests on him. He’d answer an occasional question when asked, but for the most part, Dragato does his best to stay out of his way.
After almost half an hour of various tests, Mends’ calls Dragato over so they can discuss the prognosis.
“Well, Sir Dragato, there seems to be nothing wrong with little Gravel at all! Quite the opposite, really. With the cold season approaching fast, and your son being a North Novan native, it’s not uncommon for them to start hibernating until spring.”
“W-wait….excuse me?” Dragato had to make sure he was hearing him right. So Bate….is actually correct?!! His son….his son is….
“So, you’re telling me my son will go into hibernation for the entire the winter? W-why? How? S-should I do something? When will he wake up? Where should he sleep? What will he eat? What about-“
“Calm down, Sir Dragato. Please, there’s nothing to be worried about. While I may not be an expert on Zoos, I will provide you with everything you need to know to prepare for his hibernation.”
"B-but what about his back? Why is he suddenly growing spikes? Surly this can't be the cause of hibernation."
"Surly it can, Sir Dragato." He gently prodded one of the ruby spikes. "Most likely it's a defense mechanism so he can protect himself in his hibernative state. He's still a toddler, so I doubt these little nubs would have any affect on predators. It's a good thing you'll be watching over him, he wouldn't last a day against the elements."
This is all too much. Dragato still couldn’t believe the news he received. How could something like this even happen? Is there something he can do to prevent it? What about their winter celebration? What about all the stuff he had planned for them.
“I-isn’t there something we can do? Can’t we stop it?”
“Telling a creature not to hibernate is like telling a bird not to migrate for the winter. Sir Dragato, please. You need to understand this is out of Gravel’s control. He will be fine once spring rolls in. In a controlled setting, he’ll be back to normal in a few days once he wakes.”
“B-but…”
“Head home and place him back in bed.” He speaks. “I’ll compile an agenda for you to follow. Come by in around 4 hours. And be sure not to wake him.”
Dragato wordlessly picks up the child and leave the ward. His mind is in a complete fog the entire time he’s walking home. He won’t spend time with his son during the winter, ever. He’ll be gone for at least a good 2 or 3 months. Just the thought of not having his son around, happily playing and laughing with everyone couldn’t help but put a damper in his mood.
“I’m sorry, Gravel…” He looks down at the toddler resting in his arms. “I know you were looking forward to celebrating with your friends.
Gravel doesn’t respond.
“Looks like I'll have to get used to talking to myself for the next few months….”
He decides not to speak for the rest of the way home.
-The End-
Artist Comment:
June 27, 2022
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DRAGATOOOOO!!! ;A; He's heartbroken he won't be able to spend the cold season with this son~
Just a lil' FYI, this is based off of the new AU I created.
June 27, 2022
-----------------
DRAGATOOOOO!!! ;A; He's heartbroken he won't be able to spend the cold season with this son~
Just a lil' FYI, this is based off of the new AU I created.
This is NOT part of the main Gumball Warrior series. ( I mean, obviously. XDDD ) This AU has its own name, which is called "Star Misfits." (Just so it doesn't get confusing when I compare Canon, and AU characters. )
So, some small info I forgot to mention. Gravel eats actual food~!! GW Gravel eats stones and Gems, but since SM Gravel is adopted at an early age, his diet consists of healthy, nutritional food~! His favorite treat is curry buns~!! Falspar makes them in his bakery, so needless to say Fally loves to give his nephew a bunch of them to munch on~ x)
Meta and Bate make a small appearance in this story as well. I mentioned in the AU summary that Bate's wings are very weak and frail. He's lost a lot of muscle, so he needs physical therapy to help build up his wings. Meta waits the entire time, and it just so happens Dragato pays a visit to the ward while he was waiting.
Also, Rammy is bestest friend anyone could have~ He's not gonna like the news when he visits Dragato in the next few hours. u u
OH! I completely forgot! XDD Dragato's new look! How did I forget to mention that. Yeah, he looks a bit different. I hope you like it~!! ^o^
So, some small info I forgot to mention. Gravel eats actual food~!! GW Gravel eats stones and Gems, but since SM Gravel is adopted at an early age, his diet consists of healthy, nutritional food~! His favorite treat is curry buns~!! Falspar makes them in his bakery, so needless to say Fally loves to give his nephew a bunch of them to munch on~ x)
Meta and Bate make a small appearance in this story as well. I mentioned in the AU summary that Bate's wings are very weak and frail. He's lost a lot of muscle, so he needs physical therapy to help build up his wings. Meta waits the entire time, and it just so happens Dragato pays a visit to the ward while he was waiting.
Also, Rammy is bestest friend anyone could have~ He's not gonna like the news when he visits Dragato in the next few hours. u u
OH! I completely forgot! XDD Dragato's new look! How did I forget to mention that. Yeah, he looks a bit different. I hope you like it~!! ^o^
Species © Nintendo/ HAL Laboratory
Interpreted characters created from said species © Rhylem
Interpreted characters created from said species © Rhylem
