As The Plum Blossoms Bloom
(Part 1)
Bate / Meta
Accelerated Silicosis- Symptoms may include chest pain, fatigue, trouble breathing and coughing up blood as the disease progresses. Damage suffered by the lungs leaves the patient susceptible to lung infections.
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-The Past: Year-????-
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-The Past: Year-????-
Meta eagerly waited in the living room, his feet slightly bobbing up and down on the large couch he was resting on. Gordon, who was waiting with him, saw the concerned looked on the little Warriors face and summoned one of his hands to pat his head.
“Meta, everything’s going to be fine,” He gave a small, but supportive smile, “You shouldn’t worry over him. I believe it’s the teachers job to fret over the student, not the other way around.”
The little Puff, however, didn’t listen to his words. He fiercely shook his head and casted his worried eyes on the Gordo. “But what’s taking so long?!! How come Dr. Mends isn’t out yet?”
“5 minutes is hardly a long time,” He let out a small chuckle, “Why don’t you go out and play with the others. I’m sure Bate would prefer it as he never liked when you lot concern over him.
Meta was hesitant but nodded and agreed. Before he walked out the door, Meta looked back and Gordon, still slightly worried. “Y-you'll stay here and tell me when he’s done, right?"
“Of course,” His eyes soften from the little Puffs concern over his ill teacher. “Right when he gets out I’ll call you.”
=================
“Meta….?” Nonsurat waved his hand over his eyes when he didn’t reply. “Ummm….”
The teal Puff looked over at the tan colored Squishy when Meta still didn’t respond. “Marlo, he’s not doing anything. Do you think something’s troubling him?”
“Huh, maybe?” She questioned, and walked over to the navy Puff. “Here, why don’t you let me try.”
Marlo stood behind one of his wings and looked up at Nonsurat. She gave a reassuring smile before grabbing the warriors wing and pinching them. Meta gave a loud yelp and glared at the pair.
“H-hey! Quit it!” He shook his wing away from her grip.
“Sorry, Meta, but….” Marlo slightly nudged Nonsurat to him, “Nonsurat’s been trying to talk to you this whole time but you haven’t been paying attention. Why did you ask to play with us if you were just going to sit around?”
Meta focused on the floor again and let out a worried sigh. “I…I’m sorry. Teacher Gordon said I should go out since he didn’t want me waiting for Teacher. He wasn't feeling well this morning...”
"Is he okay?" Nonsurat asked with a hint of concern, "How's he doing now, is he feeling any better?
Meta shook his head. “N-no. I’m starting to get worried.”
Marlo frowned a bit and put a concerned hand on his shoulder. “I’m sure he’ll be better any day now. It takes time to recover from colds, y'know?"
"I...think it's a bit more complicated for Teacher Bate," Nonsurat cut in, seeing as he lives with him, and was slightly lectured about his ailments by his mentor, "Last time Teacher Bate got sick, it took him almost half a month to finally recover."
"O-oh....Well, I'm sure he'll feel better again if he stays in bed and rests just like last time." Marlo reassured,
“I guess, but....” He looked at the pair. “He was supposed to take me to another part of West Nova for my birthday next week."
Nonsurat's attention was suddenly caught when he said that. He did faintly recall Meta saying a few months back that Bate was going to take him to see a bunch of plum blossoms bloom far away in another part of West Nova.
"It begins in five days," Meta explained, "If he’s still not well, then we'll have to wait another year before I get to see them again.”
The pair exchanged a worried glance and tried to think of an idea to mend Meta's situation. “Well…Teacher Gordon and Teacher Ramset could take you instead, right?” Nonsurat suggested. “You’ll still be able to see them, so don’t worry."
“But that’s the thing!” He lifted his arms up in alarm. “They don’t know where it’s at! Teacher’s the only one who knows. He told me it’s a three day hike to the area, and if he’s not okay in two days time, then we’ll miss it!"
Meta gave a huff and flopped back on the grass below. “H…He told me it’s one of his favorite places to go out of the year. He wanted to share it with me, and now we can’t….”
Marlo and Nonsurat both sat down to comfort him. “I’m sure he’ll be equally disappointed he can't take you.” Marlo said,
"Yeah, I bet he taking this just as hard," Nonsurat added, "You know how frustrated he tends to get whenever he falls under the weather."
Meta was about to speak, but the sound of Gordon’s voice immediately caught his attention. “Oh! Dr. Mends is finally done!!"
He looked back at the two and bid a quick farewell. The pair understood and gave their regards to eager warrior. Meta quickly flew back to his home and dashed inside where he saw Mends sitting next to Gordon. Once Mends spotted Meta, he pointed to the chair across from him, knowing he’d have to explain how his 'precious' teacher was doing.
Meta took a seat and eagerly waited for him to speak. Was he going to be okay in time? Was he still going to see the blossoms? Oh, everything was getting too suspenseful, why wasn't he talking?!!!
“Meta,”
His mind quit racing as his attention focused back on Mends. With hope in his voice, he finally spoke, “Yes? H-how is he?”
Mends gave a low hum and thought to himself for a bit. He stroked his mustache with one of his claws and looked back up at the warrior. “Bate’s fine.” He simply stated.
“Fine? That’s it?” Meta wasn’t convinced by his statement, “B-but…”
Mends held up one of his claws to silence him. “I’ve talked to Gordon with the fine details regarding it, but please rest assure that your teacher will make a full recovery in a few days.”
“A few days?” He nervously repeated, “H-how many days?”
“Well, if he rests and takes his medication, I believe he’ll spring back to normal in 14 or so days.”
“14 DAYS?!!!” Meta shouted. Both adults gave an odd stare at the Puffballs sudden outburst.
“Meta, 14 days isn’t that long,” Gordon tried to ease the statement. “It may be even less, so don’t worry.”
“Less like…two days?”
Mends gave a snarky huff from his delusional expectation. “Next to impossible, boy. Two days is much too soon for him. I can say ten, but even that's pushing it.”
“Is…there something troubling you, Meta?” Gordon asked, “You seem quite eager to have him up ’n about.”
Meta didn’t bother answering them since they didn’t know, so instead he quietly left the living room. The two exchanged glances after Meta left, quite confused by his somber behavior.
=================
“T-Teacher…?” Meta softly knocked on his door before letting himself him. He saw his teacher resting, and although he knew never to wake him when he’s ill, something like this was way too important. The little Puff crawled on to his bed and shook him.
“Teacherrrrr….” The little Puff whined, “Get uppppp! This is importaaaaant!”
When Bate didn’t respond Meta gave an irritated groan and shook him harder. “Teacherrrr!!!”
“Meta, what in sweet Nova are you doing?!!” Gordon called out when he saw Meta on top of Bate, “I told you not to disturb him when he’s resting. If you want him to get better, I suggest you listen.”
“B-but it doesn’t matterrrr!” Tears started to form in the little Puff’s eyes. “If he’s not going to get better in two days, then who cares!"
“Bite your tongue,” Gordon scolded, and picked him up so he couldn't disturb the elder anymore, “I don’t know what Bate promised you, but whining and throwing a tantrum isn’t going to help."
Meta tried to fight his grip to get back to his teacher. He refused to listen, and didn’t care if he was going to get in trouble. “Teacherrrr!!!!” He shouted again. “Wake up!!!”
Gordon was about to scold Meta again, but noticed Bate was starting to stir.
‘Oh…darn it,’ The Gordo thought to himself.
Meta squeaked in happiness when the elder woke. He broke free of Gordon’s grip and ran to Bate to give him a hug. “T-teacher….”
“Gumball…” His voice was low and quite raspy. He cleared his throat a bit in hopes he’d sound a bit better than before. “What’s wrong? Why are you crying?”
Gordon decided to interfere, “He threw a tantrum after Mends told him how long it’ll take for you to get better.”
“Only because you promised we’d see the trees!!!” Meta cut in, “We have to leave in two days, Teacher! And…and….I…really want to see them….”
“Trees?” Gordon questioned,
“O-oh…” Bate softly mumbled, “He’s talking about the place I travel to so I can watch the plum blossoms bloom."
“Are you talking about the same place you and Ellie found?” He asked, “The same, dangerous place where you have to travel by foot and it takes you twice as long to get there?"
“The exact one…” He said, giving out a disappointed sigh. “I just didn’t plan on falling ill...."
"But we're still planning to go, right Teacher?" Meta butted in before Gordon could say anything, "Y-you promise you'd take me for my birthday...."
"I know...." Bate said, sensing Meta getting anxious about it, "Gordon, how many days did Mends say it'll take?"
“2 weeks, Bate,” Gordon answered, and started to go into a lecture before he decides to do anything reckless, “Mend’s said, and I quote- “Not to do anything stupid” until you get better.”
“It's....just a minor infection. I should be okay if I just-”
Gordon held up his hand to hush him, "Absolutely, positively not. I wouldn’t have had to make a house call if it wasn't minor. You know how serious this is, and leaving when you’re not up to par sounds pretty darn stupid to me."
“It’ll be fine-"
“And what if it’s not? Meta isn’t strong enough to carry you back if something happens.” Gordon started to raise his voice from his stubbornness. "You could die, Bate, and as you’re friend I’m not willing to take that risk over a bunch of trees!”
Bate was about to object, but started to hesitate and eventually looked away. He knew Gordon was right. He wasn’t able enough to travel that far without some type of incident occurring someway in-between, but was too hardheaded to admit it in front of Meta.
“Well…we’ll see, okay?” He quietly spoke, “Let me rest and I’ll tell you how I feel later in the day.”
“But Teacher!”
“Meta,” The elder tried to calm the heartbroken Puff, “Go with Gordon for now. I’ll be up in a few hours to let you know, alright?”
“….A-alright,” Meta whispered and followed Gordon out of his room.
=================
“Bate, how are you feeling?”
Gordon entered the room late in the hour to check in on his ill friend. Meta fell asleep a few hours back, so he knew it would be safe to talk to Bate without Meta bursting in. Bate, who woke up not to long ago slightly winced in pain when he placed a hand over his chest.
“It…could be better.” He stated without bothering to sugar coat it, “I…well…it’s just a bit sore from all the coughing."
The Gordo gave him a concerned look and went towards his bed. “Why didn’t you tell me you weren’t feeling well sooner? Haven’t we had this discussion before?”
“I didn’t know, okay?” Bate crossed his arms; not too happy with Gordon’s assumption, “I get colds all the time, how was I supposed to distinguish that from a lung infection? They all have the same, crappy feeling!”
“Okay, okay,” Gordon tried to calm him when he started coughing again from shouting, “I was just worried, alright? Mends wasn’t too happy about it as well, believe me. He said some things, and be lucky you were passed out when it happened.”
“I can imagine. Something along the lines of me being an idiot who doesn’t take care of himself.” He mumbled.
“More or less, yeah,” He decided to end it, not wanting to go into full detail about his rant. Instead, he brought up another important discussion that they had earlier that day. “Anyways….are you really going to go take Meta to see those trees bloom?"
Bate fell silent, and Gordon could sense how conflicted he was. He knew Bate never liked to let any of his students down when it came to promises. Ever since Meta, Arthur and Nonsurat’s been living with them, he couldn’t think of a time where he broke one. It was something Bate never wanted to do and Gordon, in a way, could understand why he’s become so worked up about breaking it.
“I could talk to him, if you want,” He spoke up to ease the troubled warrior. “He’ll understand, I’m sure.”
“Gumball's been talking about it nonstop ever since I brought it to his attention.” He explained, "He's been hyped up for this trip for so long, he's going to be absolutely devastated when I tell him we're unable to go. He's been planning everything for all these months, and now....."
“It can’t be helped, Bate. He doesn’t know how bad things can get when you’re like this. I mean, he’s only been living here for what, a year? And besides, if I remember correctly, the path you take to get to those plum trees are quite dangerous. What if you travel there and get hurt or pass out? What if you break your wing or a leg and can’t get back? Or what if there’s a rock slide, or a flash flood, or you disturb ancient burial grounds or-“
Bate held up his hand to hush him. “Okay, I get it! Enough with the scenarios, alright?”
“O-oh, sorry…"
Bate gave a defeated sigh, not really wanting to talk about this subject any longer. “I’ll talk to him tomorrow, just stop talking about it for tonight. He’s not the only one who’s disappointed about it….”
“It’s unfortunate you’re unable to go, but…” Gordon looked out the window and spotted the lone plum tree Ellie and Bate planted many years ago, “You still can look forward to one tree blooming this year, if that helps.”
Bate looked out the window as well, a small smile forming on his face. “It blooms much later than the rest, but yes, I’m quite content…especially if it’s just that one."
“Then I’m content if you are.” Gordon said, slightly relived that Bate was going to stay. He let out a small yawn and decided to turn in for tonight. “Alright, Bate, I’m gonna head out. You’ll be okay?"
“I’ll be fine, just…..” Bate paused, which piqued Gordon’s attention.
“Huh? Is something wrong?"
“Not really, but....” Bate gave him an odd glance from the statement he made earlier, “…Ancient burial grounds?”
“Whaaat?” He gave him a playful nudge, “It could happen, don’t you think?”
Bate let out a small chuckle and playfully slapped his long time comrade with his wing “Shut up."
=================
Teacherrrrrr!!” Meta called, slightly bouncing on the elder's back. “Teacher, Teacher, Teacher, Teacher!!”
“Meta…” Bate let out a tired groan and tried to get him off his back, “Get off me….”
“Awww, but it’s time to get up!!!” He slid off the elder's back and pushed his side, “C’mon! It’s already late!!”
Bate looked over at his clock and noticed it was still early. “It’s 6 in the morning, Gumball….”
“Exactly!” Meta held out a small list of what they still needed to do for their trip, "We still need to pack our bags, and go shopping for our lunches, and -Oh!! Buy film for the camera! We have so much to do before tomorrow!
“Tomorrow…?” Bate thought back and could faintly remember his conversation with Gordon about canceling their trip. Fear and uncertainty slowly started to set in as he was still quite worried how Meta was going to take the news.
Bate forced himself up from his bed and faced the little Warrior who was happily scanning the small book of notes to see if he forgot anything. “G-Gumball….”
“Yes!” He beamed, setting down his notepad and started bouncing on the elder’s bed in excitement for their upcoming travel.
He saw the eager, anticipated look in his students’ eyes and slightly turned away to avoid further guilt. With a torn heart, he began to softly mumble what he had planned to say.
“I know how much you were looking forward to going, but….we’ll have to hold it off this year. I’m sorry, we can’t go.”
He slightly glanced up and saw Meta’s happy, blissful smile started to fade away. The tiny Puff looked at Bate with disappointment in his eyes, crushed what he had just heard.
“But Teacher….” He tried his best not to cry, hoping it was just a cruel prank. “You promised. You said you’d take me….w-what about my birthday?"
“I know, but we still can watch the one in Kalmari bloom,” He said, trying to diffuse the situation before it got even worse, “I planted it myself, and it’s just as magnificent to see it bloom as the others.”
“T-that’s only one, thooooough!!!” Tears now started to form in his eyes when he realized he really wasn’t going. He wanted to see hundreds of them bloom, not one. He promised, he said they’d be able to go! Now disappointed from the news he just received, Meta quietly got off the bed and headed towards the door. He didn’t feel like talking with his teacher anymore today.
Bate watched as his student left, and with one last attempt to mend his broken promise, the elder hastily called out.
“Gumball.....I’m really sorry. I didn’t expect this to happen, please understand I would never have cancelled unless it was dire to my health.”
The rather large creaking sound of Meta pushing the door echoed through the silent room. The little Puffball stood there for quite some time, and with anger and disappointment, he looked at his teacher one last time before walking out,
“Sometimes….” He softly spoke, “Sometimes I wish I didn’t have a teacher who was always so sick….”
And with that, Meta shut the door and left his teacher.
=================
The creek and click of the door closing long left his room, but Bate continued to stare back in utter disbelief. He couldn’t believe it, did Meta really just say that to him? All because they were unable to go?
“Or…was it because I broke my promise…?” He softly whispered,
Eventually his sore body gave way and his head made contact with his pillow once more. He didn’t know if it was the exhaustion of being sick or the strain of telling his student they couldn’t go, but either way the world around him seemed to stop. A tired sigh escaped his mouth and Bate closed his eyes. The ill Puff grabbed his covers and slowly wrapped it around his body. He didn’t bother leaving his room for the rest of the day.
He figured it was for the best.
=================
“Meta really said that?”
Gordon was quite shocked to hear what he had just learned from Bate the following afternoon. Never in a million years would he imagine Meta saying something like that to him. He could sense how hurt Bate’s become over it, and it was starting to even trouble him when the elder refused to leave his room up until this point.
“Why don’t we talk to him once he gets home?" He said, “Y’know, Mends was pretty vague when he was talking to him. I’m sure if we give him a better explanation, he'd understand.
Bate wasn’t convinced. “Gordon, he won't care about the details regarding it. If Meta knows I'm unable to go, no amount of explaining will make it better. Reasoning and understanding is basically out the window at this point."
“It…couldn’t hurt to try.”
“Hmm…” He sighed and leaned himself against the table to rest.
“Here, drink,” Gordon slid a small cup of tea next to him, hoping that’ll take his mind off of this whole situation. Bate softly thanked him, and Gordon watched as he took a very small sip before pushing it back to him. “I….guess I'm not really in the mood for tea…”
“But it’s your favorite.” He pushed it back.
“I know…” He lowered his wings and turned away from him. “Maybe later,"
“Bate…” He started, but soon focused his attention when the front door swung open. Three Puffballs ran in, and Gordon saw how anxious Bate started to become.
“Teacher Bate!” Arthur smiled when he noticed his mentor was up, and ran to him. “You’re out of bed.”
“Just for a few minutes.” He weakly smiled, “Gordon made me some tea."
Nonsurat soon went over to Arthur and greeted the elder as well since he hasn’t seen him out in about for a while, “Dragato and Falspar said they hope you feel better, ah…as do I.”
Bate gave an appreciative nod and looked up to see Meta still near the door. They locked eyes for a moment before Meta began walking to his room without saying a word.
“Meta.” Gordon snapped from his sour behavior,
The little Puff froze. He slowly backed up to face them, his features still showed a hint of anger. Gordon didn’t bother arguing with him and just pointed to the table.
“Eat your lunch with the others, and then you can go to your room.” He said
Meta hesitated as it was never a good idea to get Gordon mad. He eventually gave a small nod and joined everyone to eat. Once everyone was seated and all plates were served, Gordon and Bate watched from across as they quietly ate their meal.
“So, how was class?” Gordon asked. Since he was watching over Bate, much to the elder’s protest, Ramset offered to train the three until he got better.
“It was okay.” Arthur shrugged, taking another bite of his sandwich, “We just spend today dodging knives and throwing bombs…”
“It’s always fun training with Dragato and Falspar…” Nonsurat smiled, “But…I’d rather train with you, Teacher Gordon.” He quietly added.
Gordon gave a chuckle and patted his head. “In a few days.”
The Gordo faced Meta and noticed how distracted he was. He wasn’t focusing on his food, nor acknowledging the conversation everyone was in. Bate noticed as well and cleared his throat to get the threes' attention.
“I think going out to get some fresh air will do me some good.” He stated, “How....about I take you to get some ice cream after you finish your lunch?”
Gordon looked at him in concern. Mends gave strict instructions for him not to leave the home until his infection cleared. He wanted to protest, but figured taking a small stroll under his supervision so the three could see how much he’s willing to do even when he’s under the weather would be okay.
‘Always putting their needs before your own,’ Gordon happily thought to himself as he focused back on the three.
“Ice Cream?!!! Really?!!” They beamed in excitement, that is, except for Meta. He just continued to focus on his plate, fiddling with his food without saying a word. Bate reached over and tapped the table to get his attention,
“And…maybe we can go to the candy store to refill a certain someones candy jar as an early birthday gift, hm?” He said, hoping that’ll catch his attention.
It did…but just not in the way he hoped it would. Meta’s wing twitched in anger from the mention of his birthday. Going to the candy store was NOT going to justify what he promised all those months ago. Candy isn't the same as going to see hundreds of trees bloom in an unexplored land, and Meta snapped at the elder's attempt to mend what he had broke.
“You’re not going to get sick from walking over there, are you?” He mumbled.
Meta’s harsh words left the room completely silent.
Arthur and Nonsurat let out a small gasp, and Bate’s eyes widened in shock from his brutal reply. Gordon spared no time letting that sink in and summoned all of his hands before forcefully slamming them on the table. There was no way he was ever going to let someone treat Bate like that- student or not.
“META!” He shouted, but stopped when Bate lifted one of his wings to hush him.
Gordon watched at the elder pushed himself away from the table and stood up to head to his room.
“Hm….alright, then,” Bate's voice showed no trace of hurt nor anger. Gordon looked at him with much confusion. He never sensed this type of numbing reaction from Bate before. It….was strange, and everyone in the room could sense it. Everything was quiet up until Bate reached the entrance of the hallway.
“I….didn’t ask to be this way. I didn’t ask to get sick or bed bound during certain events or celebrations that causes me to break important promises. I never asked to constantly be tired, or unable to keep up with everyone else while I’m falling behind."
The four kept silent as Bate went on, his voice starting to finally show the weariness and pain that's been building up for so long. Meta took notice and finally looked up.
“This is something I had to deal with every single day at a very young age. It’s an enormous endeavor I’ve been struggling with, and I’ve come to terms a long time ago that getting sick and ill from time to time is part of my life now. I’m sorry I’m not the teacher or mentor you expect me to be, but I try my absolute hardest when I’m able. I..…hate this just as much as everyone else, even more since I’m the one dealing with it on a daily basis. I hope one day you’ll be able to understand that I can’t help it when my ailments get the better of me from time to time...."
With a heavy sigh, Bate slowly made his way back to his room. Leaving the four to absorb his words. Gordon closed his eyes and didn’t fight back when tears started trickling down his face. As long as he could remember, Bate would never let on how tired and sick he was of carrying the burden and turmoil of his failing body. He was always so strong, and brushed it off so he wouldn’t worry anyone. Even when it came to Ellie, Bate refused to let his illness get in the way of being a protective, loving husband. Over the years, Gordon never saw Bate once complain….
But now…..
Gordon didn’t bother looking back at the three, and headed to his room without saying a word. He had too much on his mind to think about right now.
Arthur and Nonsurat looked at Meta who was just as heartbroken as well when he realized how hurtful his words really were.
“Well, I hope you’re happy.” Arthur finally spoke, "Teacher Bate goes and tries his hardest to make us happy even though he’s sick, but apparently that wasn’t good enough for you, was it?”
“B-but...I…....” Meta fumbled with his words, still shaken from the event. "I-I was just mad. We've been planning this for months, and....and......" Meta lowered his head in shame.
"I didn’t mean what I said....."
“Then why did you say it in the first place!” He snapped back at his comrade. “You already know how embarrassed he gets when he starts coughing, or can’t keep up with us, and now you go and say that to him?!"
Nonsurat avoided Meta’s eyes but softly spoke to him. “Do…you see me as a burden just because I can’t fly and do everything you can do?"
"W-what? N-no! Never!" Meta shouted, tears starting to form when he said that. "I would never think of you that way!"
"S-so then maybe before you get angry and say something hurtful, walk a mile in their shoes and see how it feels. Teacher Bate can't help it when he gets sick, and he shouldn't feel like it's his fault because he had to cancel something to recover.....even if it was an important promise.”
Arthur stomped forward after Nonsurat spoke and furiously locked eyes with Meta for personally hurting his mentor. Although Meta may spend more time with Bate, Arthur believes he has just a powerful bond with his Teacher as well. No one was going to insult his mentor without his say in it.
"I've had to train with Teacher Gordon and Teacher Ramset numerous times because Teacher Bate wasn't feeling well and had to cancel. It didn't matter if it was something extremely minor or severe, I never argued because I know it wasn't his intention to fall ill in the first place." He stuck out his wing and jabbed Meta's shoulder with it. "I suggest you start doing the same instead of complaining like you always do when something doesn't go your way."
With that, Arthur and Nonsurat went to their room and left Meta to sulk and think about what they've said,
=================
Gordon shyly knocked on the elder’s door a few hours after the outburst in hopes he could talk to him. Gordon figured he wasn’t going to respond, and he was right. He gave a sigh and called out as the door was locked.
“Bate, please come out.”
Again, nothing.
“I…made your favorite tea.” He said, knowing that’ll lure him.
Gordon could faintly hear footsteps from the other side, and he patiently waited until the door finally clicked. Bate slightly opened the door, and with a soft, cracked voice, declined his offer.
“I-I’m really not feeling well right now,” He said, “Can we talk later?”
“Well…can I come in?”
He heard Bate sigh from the other side, and eventually the old warrior moved away from the door to let him through. Gordon made his way in, and helped Bate back to his bed.
“Any improvement?"
Bate just shrugged, and Gordon placed one of his hands on his forehead. He looked up in concern when Bate felt warmer than usual.
“Mends said if your infection advances, you’re going to get a fever. Have you been taking the medication he prescribed?"
“It’s not like I have a choice.” He said with a hint of distaste, which Gordon quickly sensed.
“Bate…..I know what Meta said was uncalled for, but please don’t let what he said get to you.” Gordon finally spoke, “ His emotions got the better of him, and he wasn't in the right mind when he said that. I’ll talk to him afterwards, but….I don’t want you to get stressed and worked up over this."
Gordon waited for Bate to respond, but after five, then ten, and even fifteen minutes of complete silence, he realized he probably wasn’t going to talk. Thinking back, he didn’t bother to consider his friends stubbornness. He doesn’t open up as easily, and figured getting him to talk about it was slim to none. He was going to head out to let him rest, but stopped and looked back in surprise when he heard Bate’s voice.
“I remember the exact moment my life changed.” His voice was but a quiet whisper. Gordon didn’t speak, but listened intensely to what he had to say.
“I was 2,500 years old, Gordon.” He closed his eyes and thought back to the day, “I remember you and Ellie taking me to the hospital.”
Old, faint memories started to return to the Gordo. He gave a nod when he remember what he said, and added more pieces as his recollection grew, “I remember Ellie running into the bar to get me because you were coughing up a lot of blood."
“Once I was treated, they said it was caused from when I was still living in East Nova.” Bate spoke after Gordon,
Gordon softly hummed to himself, remembering what the doctor said, “The symptoms don’t normally make itself known until 1,000 years or so after exposure.”
Bate lowered his wings when Gordon said that, “I mean….it didn’t really faze me back then. It’s not like I’m a stranger to taking medication for my breathing, but…..”
The elder sighed and curled himself with his wings, “As the years went by, I found myself unable to do the things I was once able to do. I couldn’t run for very long, or I was unable to help Ellie with a majority of the house work, or……"
Bate paused for a bit, the last one was much too painful than the rest. He took a shaky breath and hid himself from Gordon when he started to cry.
“….I couldn’t even dance with her like before without the need to rest and catch my breath.”
A small shiver ran through Gordon. This was the first time he ever heard Bate discuss how he felt about all of this. He summoned his hand and carefully placed it on his back.
“I realized how much my life changed because of it. I became less active and constantly wanting to rest instead. It’s been so long….I almost forgot how i was like before all this happened.”
Bate eventually uncurled his wings and faced his friend with much uncertainty, “I just figured that’s how my life’s going to be like from now on. I didn’t like it, but I had to accept it. I know I’m unable to do a lot of things you and Ramset can do. I understand I’m required to rest more often than usual, but…..I just didn’t think anyone would think less of me because of it.”
“Bate, no one’s thinking less of you.”
The elder shook his head. He knew what Meta said had a ring of truth to it. He always complains that he sleeps to much, or constantly badgers him when he can’t play. This time, however, Meta’s boiling point was way past its usual level.
“After all this time, after all I went through- I was still content. I can deal with the countless colds, and all the medicine, and the therapy sessions, and even associating with Mends. None of that bothered me...but......
"Being told by your student that he wished he didn’t have a teacher who was always sick….."
"That was something I wasn’t prepared for."
“Meta, everything’s going to be fine,” He gave a small, but supportive smile, “You shouldn’t worry over him. I believe it’s the teachers job to fret over the student, not the other way around.”
The little Puff, however, didn’t listen to his words. He fiercely shook his head and casted his worried eyes on the Gordo. “But what’s taking so long?!! How come Dr. Mends isn’t out yet?”
“5 minutes is hardly a long time,” He let out a small chuckle, “Why don’t you go out and play with the others. I’m sure Bate would prefer it as he never liked when you lot concern over him.
Meta was hesitant but nodded and agreed. Before he walked out the door, Meta looked back and Gordon, still slightly worried. “Y-you'll stay here and tell me when he’s done, right?"
“Of course,” His eyes soften from the little Puffs concern over his ill teacher. “Right when he gets out I’ll call you.”
=================
“Meta….?” Nonsurat waved his hand over his eyes when he didn’t reply. “Ummm….”
The teal Puff looked over at the tan colored Squishy when Meta still didn’t respond. “Marlo, he’s not doing anything. Do you think something’s troubling him?”
“Huh, maybe?” She questioned, and walked over to the navy Puff. “Here, why don’t you let me try.”
Marlo stood behind one of his wings and looked up at Nonsurat. She gave a reassuring smile before grabbing the warriors wing and pinching them. Meta gave a loud yelp and glared at the pair.
“H-hey! Quit it!” He shook his wing away from her grip.
“Sorry, Meta, but….” Marlo slightly nudged Nonsurat to him, “Nonsurat’s been trying to talk to you this whole time but you haven’t been paying attention. Why did you ask to play with us if you were just going to sit around?”
Meta focused on the floor again and let out a worried sigh. “I…I’m sorry. Teacher Gordon said I should go out since he didn’t want me waiting for Teacher. He wasn't feeling well this morning...”
"Is he okay?" Nonsurat asked with a hint of concern, "How's he doing now, is he feeling any better?
Meta shook his head. “N-no. I’m starting to get worried.”
Marlo frowned a bit and put a concerned hand on his shoulder. “I’m sure he’ll be better any day now. It takes time to recover from colds, y'know?"
"I...think it's a bit more complicated for Teacher Bate," Nonsurat cut in, seeing as he lives with him, and was slightly lectured about his ailments by his mentor, "Last time Teacher Bate got sick, it took him almost half a month to finally recover."
"O-oh....Well, I'm sure he'll feel better again if he stays in bed and rests just like last time." Marlo reassured,
“I guess, but....” He looked at the pair. “He was supposed to take me to another part of West Nova for my birthday next week."
Nonsurat's attention was suddenly caught when he said that. He did faintly recall Meta saying a few months back that Bate was going to take him to see a bunch of plum blossoms bloom far away in another part of West Nova.
"It begins in five days," Meta explained, "If he’s still not well, then we'll have to wait another year before I get to see them again.”
The pair exchanged a worried glance and tried to think of an idea to mend Meta's situation. “Well…Teacher Gordon and Teacher Ramset could take you instead, right?” Nonsurat suggested. “You’ll still be able to see them, so don’t worry."
“But that’s the thing!” He lifted his arms up in alarm. “They don’t know where it’s at! Teacher’s the only one who knows. He told me it’s a three day hike to the area, and if he’s not okay in two days time, then we’ll miss it!"
Meta gave a huff and flopped back on the grass below. “H…He told me it’s one of his favorite places to go out of the year. He wanted to share it with me, and now we can’t….”
Marlo and Nonsurat both sat down to comfort him. “I’m sure he’ll be equally disappointed he can't take you.” Marlo said,
"Yeah, I bet he taking this just as hard," Nonsurat added, "You know how frustrated he tends to get whenever he falls under the weather."
Meta was about to speak, but the sound of Gordon’s voice immediately caught his attention. “Oh! Dr. Mends is finally done!!"
He looked back at the two and bid a quick farewell. The pair understood and gave their regards to eager warrior. Meta quickly flew back to his home and dashed inside where he saw Mends sitting next to Gordon. Once Mends spotted Meta, he pointed to the chair across from him, knowing he’d have to explain how his 'precious' teacher was doing.
Meta took a seat and eagerly waited for him to speak. Was he going to be okay in time? Was he still going to see the blossoms? Oh, everything was getting too suspenseful, why wasn't he talking?!!!
“Meta,”
His mind quit racing as his attention focused back on Mends. With hope in his voice, he finally spoke, “Yes? H-how is he?”
Mends gave a low hum and thought to himself for a bit. He stroked his mustache with one of his claws and looked back up at the warrior. “Bate’s fine.” He simply stated.
“Fine? That’s it?” Meta wasn’t convinced by his statement, “B-but…”
Mends held up one of his claws to silence him. “I’ve talked to Gordon with the fine details regarding it, but please rest assure that your teacher will make a full recovery in a few days.”
“A few days?” He nervously repeated, “H-how many days?”
“Well, if he rests and takes his medication, I believe he’ll spring back to normal in 14 or so days.”
“14 DAYS?!!!” Meta shouted. Both adults gave an odd stare at the Puffballs sudden outburst.
“Meta, 14 days isn’t that long,” Gordon tried to ease the statement. “It may be even less, so don’t worry.”
“Less like…two days?”
Mends gave a snarky huff from his delusional expectation. “Next to impossible, boy. Two days is much too soon for him. I can say ten, but even that's pushing it.”
“Is…there something troubling you, Meta?” Gordon asked, “You seem quite eager to have him up ’n about.”
Meta didn’t bother answering them since they didn’t know, so instead he quietly left the living room. The two exchanged glances after Meta left, quite confused by his somber behavior.
=================
“T-Teacher…?” Meta softly knocked on his door before letting himself him. He saw his teacher resting, and although he knew never to wake him when he’s ill, something like this was way too important. The little Puff crawled on to his bed and shook him.
“Teacherrrrr….” The little Puff whined, “Get uppppp! This is importaaaaant!”
When Bate didn’t respond Meta gave an irritated groan and shook him harder. “Teacherrrr!!!”
“Meta, what in sweet Nova are you doing?!!” Gordon called out when he saw Meta on top of Bate, “I told you not to disturb him when he’s resting. If you want him to get better, I suggest you listen.”
“B-but it doesn’t matterrrr!” Tears started to form in the little Puff’s eyes. “If he’s not going to get better in two days, then who cares!"
“Bite your tongue,” Gordon scolded, and picked him up so he couldn't disturb the elder anymore, “I don’t know what Bate promised you, but whining and throwing a tantrum isn’t going to help."
Meta tried to fight his grip to get back to his teacher. He refused to listen, and didn’t care if he was going to get in trouble. “Teacherrrr!!!!” He shouted again. “Wake up!!!”
Gordon was about to scold Meta again, but noticed Bate was starting to stir.
‘Oh…darn it,’ The Gordo thought to himself.
Meta squeaked in happiness when the elder woke. He broke free of Gordon’s grip and ran to Bate to give him a hug. “T-teacher….”
“Gumball…” His voice was low and quite raspy. He cleared his throat a bit in hopes he’d sound a bit better than before. “What’s wrong? Why are you crying?”
Gordon decided to interfere, “He threw a tantrum after Mends told him how long it’ll take for you to get better.”
“Only because you promised we’d see the trees!!!” Meta cut in, “We have to leave in two days, Teacher! And…and….I…really want to see them….”
“Trees?” Gordon questioned,
“O-oh…” Bate softly mumbled, “He’s talking about the place I travel to so I can watch the plum blossoms bloom."
“Are you talking about the same place you and Ellie found?” He asked, “The same, dangerous place where you have to travel by foot and it takes you twice as long to get there?"
“The exact one…” He said, giving out a disappointed sigh. “I just didn’t plan on falling ill...."
"But we're still planning to go, right Teacher?" Meta butted in before Gordon could say anything, "Y-you promise you'd take me for my birthday...."
"I know...." Bate said, sensing Meta getting anxious about it, "Gordon, how many days did Mends say it'll take?"
“2 weeks, Bate,” Gordon answered, and started to go into a lecture before he decides to do anything reckless, “Mend’s said, and I quote- “Not to do anything stupid” until you get better.”
“It's....just a minor infection. I should be okay if I just-”
Gordon held up his hand to hush him, "Absolutely, positively not. I wouldn’t have had to make a house call if it wasn't minor. You know how serious this is, and leaving when you’re not up to par sounds pretty darn stupid to me."
“It’ll be fine-"
“And what if it’s not? Meta isn’t strong enough to carry you back if something happens.” Gordon started to raise his voice from his stubbornness. "You could die, Bate, and as you’re friend I’m not willing to take that risk over a bunch of trees!”
Bate was about to object, but started to hesitate and eventually looked away. He knew Gordon was right. He wasn’t able enough to travel that far without some type of incident occurring someway in-between, but was too hardheaded to admit it in front of Meta.
“Well…we’ll see, okay?” He quietly spoke, “Let me rest and I’ll tell you how I feel later in the day.”
“But Teacher!”
“Meta,” The elder tried to calm the heartbroken Puff, “Go with Gordon for now. I’ll be up in a few hours to let you know, alright?”
“….A-alright,” Meta whispered and followed Gordon out of his room.
=================
“Bate, how are you feeling?”
Gordon entered the room late in the hour to check in on his ill friend. Meta fell asleep a few hours back, so he knew it would be safe to talk to Bate without Meta bursting in. Bate, who woke up not to long ago slightly winced in pain when he placed a hand over his chest.
“It…could be better.” He stated without bothering to sugar coat it, “I…well…it’s just a bit sore from all the coughing."
The Gordo gave him a concerned look and went towards his bed. “Why didn’t you tell me you weren’t feeling well sooner? Haven’t we had this discussion before?”
“I didn’t know, okay?” Bate crossed his arms; not too happy with Gordon’s assumption, “I get colds all the time, how was I supposed to distinguish that from a lung infection? They all have the same, crappy feeling!”
“Okay, okay,” Gordon tried to calm him when he started coughing again from shouting, “I was just worried, alright? Mends wasn’t too happy about it as well, believe me. He said some things, and be lucky you were passed out when it happened.”
“I can imagine. Something along the lines of me being an idiot who doesn’t take care of himself.” He mumbled.
“More or less, yeah,” He decided to end it, not wanting to go into full detail about his rant. Instead, he brought up another important discussion that they had earlier that day. “Anyways….are you really going to go take Meta to see those trees bloom?"
Bate fell silent, and Gordon could sense how conflicted he was. He knew Bate never liked to let any of his students down when it came to promises. Ever since Meta, Arthur and Nonsurat’s been living with them, he couldn’t think of a time where he broke one. It was something Bate never wanted to do and Gordon, in a way, could understand why he’s become so worked up about breaking it.
“I could talk to him, if you want,” He spoke up to ease the troubled warrior. “He’ll understand, I’m sure.”
“Gumball's been talking about it nonstop ever since I brought it to his attention.” He explained, "He's been hyped up for this trip for so long, he's going to be absolutely devastated when I tell him we're unable to go. He's been planning everything for all these months, and now....."
“It can’t be helped, Bate. He doesn’t know how bad things can get when you’re like this. I mean, he’s only been living here for what, a year? And besides, if I remember correctly, the path you take to get to those plum trees are quite dangerous. What if you travel there and get hurt or pass out? What if you break your wing or a leg and can’t get back? Or what if there’s a rock slide, or a flash flood, or you disturb ancient burial grounds or-“
Bate held up his hand to hush him. “Okay, I get it! Enough with the scenarios, alright?”
“O-oh, sorry…"
Bate gave a defeated sigh, not really wanting to talk about this subject any longer. “I’ll talk to him tomorrow, just stop talking about it for tonight. He’s not the only one who’s disappointed about it….”
“It’s unfortunate you’re unable to go, but…” Gordon looked out the window and spotted the lone plum tree Ellie and Bate planted many years ago, “You still can look forward to one tree blooming this year, if that helps.”
Bate looked out the window as well, a small smile forming on his face. “It blooms much later than the rest, but yes, I’m quite content…especially if it’s just that one."
“Then I’m content if you are.” Gordon said, slightly relived that Bate was going to stay. He let out a small yawn and decided to turn in for tonight. “Alright, Bate, I’m gonna head out. You’ll be okay?"
“I’ll be fine, just…..” Bate paused, which piqued Gordon’s attention.
“Huh? Is something wrong?"
“Not really, but....” Bate gave him an odd glance from the statement he made earlier, “…Ancient burial grounds?”
“Whaaat?” He gave him a playful nudge, “It could happen, don’t you think?”
Bate let out a small chuckle and playfully slapped his long time comrade with his wing “Shut up."
=================
Teacherrrrrr!!” Meta called, slightly bouncing on the elder's back. “Teacher, Teacher, Teacher, Teacher!!”
“Meta…” Bate let out a tired groan and tried to get him off his back, “Get off me….”
“Awww, but it’s time to get up!!!” He slid off the elder's back and pushed his side, “C’mon! It’s already late!!”
Bate looked over at his clock and noticed it was still early. “It’s 6 in the morning, Gumball….”
“Exactly!” Meta held out a small list of what they still needed to do for their trip, "We still need to pack our bags, and go shopping for our lunches, and -Oh!! Buy film for the camera! We have so much to do before tomorrow!
“Tomorrow…?” Bate thought back and could faintly remember his conversation with Gordon about canceling their trip. Fear and uncertainty slowly started to set in as he was still quite worried how Meta was going to take the news.
Bate forced himself up from his bed and faced the little Warrior who was happily scanning the small book of notes to see if he forgot anything. “G-Gumball….”
“Yes!” He beamed, setting down his notepad and started bouncing on the elder’s bed in excitement for their upcoming travel.
He saw the eager, anticipated look in his students’ eyes and slightly turned away to avoid further guilt. With a torn heart, he began to softly mumble what he had planned to say.
“I know how much you were looking forward to going, but….we’ll have to hold it off this year. I’m sorry, we can’t go.”
He slightly glanced up and saw Meta’s happy, blissful smile started to fade away. The tiny Puff looked at Bate with disappointment in his eyes, crushed what he had just heard.
“But Teacher….” He tried his best not to cry, hoping it was just a cruel prank. “You promised. You said you’d take me….w-what about my birthday?"
“I know, but we still can watch the one in Kalmari bloom,” He said, trying to diffuse the situation before it got even worse, “I planted it myself, and it’s just as magnificent to see it bloom as the others.”
“T-that’s only one, thooooough!!!” Tears now started to form in his eyes when he realized he really wasn’t going. He wanted to see hundreds of them bloom, not one. He promised, he said they’d be able to go! Now disappointed from the news he just received, Meta quietly got off the bed and headed towards the door. He didn’t feel like talking with his teacher anymore today.
Bate watched as his student left, and with one last attempt to mend his broken promise, the elder hastily called out.
“Gumball.....I’m really sorry. I didn’t expect this to happen, please understand I would never have cancelled unless it was dire to my health.”
The rather large creaking sound of Meta pushing the door echoed through the silent room. The little Puffball stood there for quite some time, and with anger and disappointment, he looked at his teacher one last time before walking out,
“Sometimes….” He softly spoke, “Sometimes I wish I didn’t have a teacher who was always so sick….”
And with that, Meta shut the door and left his teacher.
=================
The creek and click of the door closing long left his room, but Bate continued to stare back in utter disbelief. He couldn’t believe it, did Meta really just say that to him? All because they were unable to go?
“Or…was it because I broke my promise…?” He softly whispered,
Eventually his sore body gave way and his head made contact with his pillow once more. He didn’t know if it was the exhaustion of being sick or the strain of telling his student they couldn’t go, but either way the world around him seemed to stop. A tired sigh escaped his mouth and Bate closed his eyes. The ill Puff grabbed his covers and slowly wrapped it around his body. He didn’t bother leaving his room for the rest of the day.
He figured it was for the best.
=================
“Meta really said that?”
Gordon was quite shocked to hear what he had just learned from Bate the following afternoon. Never in a million years would he imagine Meta saying something like that to him. He could sense how hurt Bate’s become over it, and it was starting to even trouble him when the elder refused to leave his room up until this point.
“Why don’t we talk to him once he gets home?" He said, “Y’know, Mends was pretty vague when he was talking to him. I’m sure if we give him a better explanation, he'd understand.
Bate wasn’t convinced. “Gordon, he won't care about the details regarding it. If Meta knows I'm unable to go, no amount of explaining will make it better. Reasoning and understanding is basically out the window at this point."
“It…couldn’t hurt to try.”
“Hmm…” He sighed and leaned himself against the table to rest.
“Here, drink,” Gordon slid a small cup of tea next to him, hoping that’ll take his mind off of this whole situation. Bate softly thanked him, and Gordon watched as he took a very small sip before pushing it back to him. “I….guess I'm not really in the mood for tea…”
“But it’s your favorite.” He pushed it back.
“I know…” He lowered his wings and turned away from him. “Maybe later,"
“Bate…” He started, but soon focused his attention when the front door swung open. Three Puffballs ran in, and Gordon saw how anxious Bate started to become.
“Teacher Bate!” Arthur smiled when he noticed his mentor was up, and ran to him. “You’re out of bed.”
“Just for a few minutes.” He weakly smiled, “Gordon made me some tea."
Nonsurat soon went over to Arthur and greeted the elder as well since he hasn’t seen him out in about for a while, “Dragato and Falspar said they hope you feel better, ah…as do I.”
Bate gave an appreciative nod and looked up to see Meta still near the door. They locked eyes for a moment before Meta began walking to his room without saying a word.
“Meta.” Gordon snapped from his sour behavior,
The little Puff froze. He slowly backed up to face them, his features still showed a hint of anger. Gordon didn’t bother arguing with him and just pointed to the table.
“Eat your lunch with the others, and then you can go to your room.” He said
Meta hesitated as it was never a good idea to get Gordon mad. He eventually gave a small nod and joined everyone to eat. Once everyone was seated and all plates were served, Gordon and Bate watched from across as they quietly ate their meal.
“So, how was class?” Gordon asked. Since he was watching over Bate, much to the elder’s protest, Ramset offered to train the three until he got better.
“It was okay.” Arthur shrugged, taking another bite of his sandwich, “We just spend today dodging knives and throwing bombs…”
“It’s always fun training with Dragato and Falspar…” Nonsurat smiled, “But…I’d rather train with you, Teacher Gordon.” He quietly added.
Gordon gave a chuckle and patted his head. “In a few days.”
The Gordo faced Meta and noticed how distracted he was. He wasn’t focusing on his food, nor acknowledging the conversation everyone was in. Bate noticed as well and cleared his throat to get the threes' attention.
“I think going out to get some fresh air will do me some good.” He stated, “How....about I take you to get some ice cream after you finish your lunch?”
Gordon looked at him in concern. Mends gave strict instructions for him not to leave the home until his infection cleared. He wanted to protest, but figured taking a small stroll under his supervision so the three could see how much he’s willing to do even when he’s under the weather would be okay.
‘Always putting their needs before your own,’ Gordon happily thought to himself as he focused back on the three.
“Ice Cream?!!! Really?!!” They beamed in excitement, that is, except for Meta. He just continued to focus on his plate, fiddling with his food without saying a word. Bate reached over and tapped the table to get his attention,
“And…maybe we can go to the candy store to refill a certain someones candy jar as an early birthday gift, hm?” He said, hoping that’ll catch his attention.
It did…but just not in the way he hoped it would. Meta’s wing twitched in anger from the mention of his birthday. Going to the candy store was NOT going to justify what he promised all those months ago. Candy isn't the same as going to see hundreds of trees bloom in an unexplored land, and Meta snapped at the elder's attempt to mend what he had broke.
“You’re not going to get sick from walking over there, are you?” He mumbled.
Meta’s harsh words left the room completely silent.
Arthur and Nonsurat let out a small gasp, and Bate’s eyes widened in shock from his brutal reply. Gordon spared no time letting that sink in and summoned all of his hands before forcefully slamming them on the table. There was no way he was ever going to let someone treat Bate like that- student or not.
“META!” He shouted, but stopped when Bate lifted one of his wings to hush him.
Gordon watched at the elder pushed himself away from the table and stood up to head to his room.
“Hm….alright, then,” Bate's voice showed no trace of hurt nor anger. Gordon looked at him with much confusion. He never sensed this type of numbing reaction from Bate before. It….was strange, and everyone in the room could sense it. Everything was quiet up until Bate reached the entrance of the hallway.
“I….didn’t ask to be this way. I didn’t ask to get sick or bed bound during certain events or celebrations that causes me to break important promises. I never asked to constantly be tired, or unable to keep up with everyone else while I’m falling behind."
The four kept silent as Bate went on, his voice starting to finally show the weariness and pain that's been building up for so long. Meta took notice and finally looked up.
“This is something I had to deal with every single day at a very young age. It’s an enormous endeavor I’ve been struggling with, and I’ve come to terms a long time ago that getting sick and ill from time to time is part of my life now. I’m sorry I’m not the teacher or mentor you expect me to be, but I try my absolute hardest when I’m able. I..…hate this just as much as everyone else, even more since I’m the one dealing with it on a daily basis. I hope one day you’ll be able to understand that I can’t help it when my ailments get the better of me from time to time...."
With a heavy sigh, Bate slowly made his way back to his room. Leaving the four to absorb his words. Gordon closed his eyes and didn’t fight back when tears started trickling down his face. As long as he could remember, Bate would never let on how tired and sick he was of carrying the burden and turmoil of his failing body. He was always so strong, and brushed it off so he wouldn’t worry anyone. Even when it came to Ellie, Bate refused to let his illness get in the way of being a protective, loving husband. Over the years, Gordon never saw Bate once complain….
But now…..
Gordon didn’t bother looking back at the three, and headed to his room without saying a word. He had too much on his mind to think about right now.
Arthur and Nonsurat looked at Meta who was just as heartbroken as well when he realized how hurtful his words really were.
“Well, I hope you’re happy.” Arthur finally spoke, "Teacher Bate goes and tries his hardest to make us happy even though he’s sick, but apparently that wasn’t good enough for you, was it?”
“B-but...I…....” Meta fumbled with his words, still shaken from the event. "I-I was just mad. We've been planning this for months, and....and......" Meta lowered his head in shame.
"I didn’t mean what I said....."
“Then why did you say it in the first place!” He snapped back at his comrade. “You already know how embarrassed he gets when he starts coughing, or can’t keep up with us, and now you go and say that to him?!"
Nonsurat avoided Meta’s eyes but softly spoke to him. “Do…you see me as a burden just because I can’t fly and do everything you can do?"
"W-what? N-no! Never!" Meta shouted, tears starting to form when he said that. "I would never think of you that way!"
"S-so then maybe before you get angry and say something hurtful, walk a mile in their shoes and see how it feels. Teacher Bate can't help it when he gets sick, and he shouldn't feel like it's his fault because he had to cancel something to recover.....even if it was an important promise.”
Arthur stomped forward after Nonsurat spoke and furiously locked eyes with Meta for personally hurting his mentor. Although Meta may spend more time with Bate, Arthur believes he has just a powerful bond with his Teacher as well. No one was going to insult his mentor without his say in it.
"I've had to train with Teacher Gordon and Teacher Ramset numerous times because Teacher Bate wasn't feeling well and had to cancel. It didn't matter if it was something extremely minor or severe, I never argued because I know it wasn't his intention to fall ill in the first place." He stuck out his wing and jabbed Meta's shoulder with it. "I suggest you start doing the same instead of complaining like you always do when something doesn't go your way."
With that, Arthur and Nonsurat went to their room and left Meta to sulk and think about what they've said,
=================
Gordon shyly knocked on the elder’s door a few hours after the outburst in hopes he could talk to him. Gordon figured he wasn’t going to respond, and he was right. He gave a sigh and called out as the door was locked.
“Bate, please come out.”
Again, nothing.
“I…made your favorite tea.” He said, knowing that’ll lure him.
Gordon could faintly hear footsteps from the other side, and he patiently waited until the door finally clicked. Bate slightly opened the door, and with a soft, cracked voice, declined his offer.
“I-I’m really not feeling well right now,” He said, “Can we talk later?”
“Well…can I come in?”
He heard Bate sigh from the other side, and eventually the old warrior moved away from the door to let him through. Gordon made his way in, and helped Bate back to his bed.
“Any improvement?"
Bate just shrugged, and Gordon placed one of his hands on his forehead. He looked up in concern when Bate felt warmer than usual.
“Mends said if your infection advances, you’re going to get a fever. Have you been taking the medication he prescribed?"
“It’s not like I have a choice.” He said with a hint of distaste, which Gordon quickly sensed.
“Bate…..I know what Meta said was uncalled for, but please don’t let what he said get to you.” Gordon finally spoke, “ His emotions got the better of him, and he wasn't in the right mind when he said that. I’ll talk to him afterwards, but….I don’t want you to get stressed and worked up over this."
Gordon waited for Bate to respond, but after five, then ten, and even fifteen minutes of complete silence, he realized he probably wasn’t going to talk. Thinking back, he didn’t bother to consider his friends stubbornness. He doesn’t open up as easily, and figured getting him to talk about it was slim to none. He was going to head out to let him rest, but stopped and looked back in surprise when he heard Bate’s voice.
“I remember the exact moment my life changed.” His voice was but a quiet whisper. Gordon didn’t speak, but listened intensely to what he had to say.
“I was 2,500 years old, Gordon.” He closed his eyes and thought back to the day, “I remember you and Ellie taking me to the hospital.”
Old, faint memories started to return to the Gordo. He gave a nod when he remember what he said, and added more pieces as his recollection grew, “I remember Ellie running into the bar to get me because you were coughing up a lot of blood."
“Once I was treated, they said it was caused from when I was still living in East Nova.” Bate spoke after Gordon,
Gordon softly hummed to himself, remembering what the doctor said, “The symptoms don’t normally make itself known until 1,000 years or so after exposure.”
Bate lowered his wings when Gordon said that, “I mean….it didn’t really faze me back then. It’s not like I’m a stranger to taking medication for my breathing, but…..”
The elder sighed and curled himself with his wings, “As the years went by, I found myself unable to do the things I was once able to do. I couldn’t run for very long, or I was unable to help Ellie with a majority of the house work, or……"
Bate paused for a bit, the last one was much too painful than the rest. He took a shaky breath and hid himself from Gordon when he started to cry.
“….I couldn’t even dance with her like before without the need to rest and catch my breath.”
A small shiver ran through Gordon. This was the first time he ever heard Bate discuss how he felt about all of this. He summoned his hand and carefully placed it on his back.
“I realized how much my life changed because of it. I became less active and constantly wanting to rest instead. It’s been so long….I almost forgot how i was like before all this happened.”
Bate eventually uncurled his wings and faced his friend with much uncertainty, “I just figured that’s how my life’s going to be like from now on. I didn’t like it, but I had to accept it. I know I’m unable to do a lot of things you and Ramset can do. I understand I’m required to rest more often than usual, but…..I just didn’t think anyone would think less of me because of it.”
“Bate, no one’s thinking less of you.”
The elder shook his head. He knew what Meta said had a ring of truth to it. He always complains that he sleeps to much, or constantly badgers him when he can’t play. This time, however, Meta’s boiling point was way past its usual level.
“After all this time, after all I went through- I was still content. I can deal with the countless colds, and all the medicine, and the therapy sessions, and even associating with Mends. None of that bothered me...but......
"Being told by your student that he wished he didn’t have a teacher who was always sick….."
"That was something I wasn’t prepared for."
Artist Comment:
October 7, 2016
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October 7, 2016
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Species © Nintendo/ HAL Laboratory
Interpreted characters created from said species © Rhylem
Interpreted characters created from said species © Rhylem
