Chapter 22: Taking Care

Chapter 22: Taking Care

Sevi's expression turned to one of disbelief. "Why? Why would humans hate beastmen?"

Noemi was shocked that Sevi didn't know about the prejudice.

"That's surprising, considering you're the young heir of Duke Bladesworth."

Sevi awkwardly replied, "I guess I've been sheltered from a lot of this."

Noemi sighed, "Some humans see us as something less than human. It's not uncommon for beastmen, especially half-beastmen, to face discrimination." 

While talking, Noemi retrieved her proper medication from the drawer and took a dose, her movements steady but tense.

Sevi watched her, his expression a mix of concern and determination. "I had no idea it was this severe. I'm really sorry that you have to deal with this."

Noemi swallowed the medicine and looked up at him, her expression a bit more relaxed.

"That might be why someone switched my medicine. It's not usual for a half-beastman to enroll in this prestigious academy, so there might be some people who resent my presence here."

Sevi frowned, his concern deepening.

"That's a disturbing thought. It's unjust that you should have to face this kind of hostility. But I won't let this go unchecked."

Noemi's gaze was thoughtful, though still tinged with weariness. "I just hope this doesn't escalate."

Sevi's determination was clear. "I want to ensure you're safe and that this doesn't happen again."

Noemi looked at Sevi, her expression unreadable. "I appreciate your willingness to help, but... why are you going out of your way to ensure my safety? I'm a half beastman."

Sevi met Noemi's gaze with unwavering sincerity. "It's not just about being a half-beastman. It's about doing what's right. Everyone deserves to feel safe and respected, regardless of who they are."

Noemi looked a bit surprised and touched by his response. 

"But doesn't this put you at risk too?"

"Honestly, I don't really care about that." Sevi said as he shook his head with a small, resolute smile.

'I mean, no way would they touch the son of a duke.'

She nodded, a soft smile on her face. "I see. Well, I appreciate your willingness to help."

Sevi returned her smile warmly. "It's the least I can do."

A thoughtful expression crossed Noemi's face as she looked at him. "You know, once I've recovered from this, we can train together." 

"Really?" Sevi exclaimed as his face brightened at Noemi's words.

"See, I guess all my persistence finally paid off." He continued.

Noemi chuckled softly, shaking her head. " But just so you know, I don't like feeling like I owe anyone anything."

Sevi's expression grew earnest as he leaned slightly forward. "Sure but while you're recovering, I'll nurse you back to health."

"You really don't have to do that. I can manage." Noemi said, slightly touched by his concern.

 "I insist."

He gently helped Noemi settle back into bed, adjusting the covers to make sure she was comfortable. As he noticed her flushed face, a hint of worry crossed his features.

"I guess your fever got bad again," Sevi said as he got up. 

He went and grabbed a small washbasin in the corner of the room, wetting a towel with cool water. He wrung it out, making sure it wasn't too cold, and then carefully brought it back to Noemi's bedside.

"Here," Sevi said softly as he gently placed the damp towel on Noemi's forehead. "This should help with the fever. Just relax and try to get some rest."

Noemi closed her eyes, feeling the cool relief of the towel against her warm skin. She appreciated Sevi's thoughtful gesture, even if she was still a bit hesitant about accepting so much help. 

"Thank you, Sevi."

Sevi offered a reassuring smile. "It's nothing. Besides, this is what friends are for, right?"

"Friends?" Noemi's eyes fluttered open slightly, and she looked at him with a mix of surprise and contemplation. 

"Why? Aren't we?" Sevi said as he smiled.

Noemi's gaze was thoughtful as she considered his question. 

For a moment, she seemed lost in her thoughts, then she slowly turned her face away and buried herself deeper into the blanket, avoiding his gaze.

Sevi noticed Noemi's avoidance and chuckled softly, trying to lighten the mood.

"Oh, come on now," he said with a teasing tone. 

"Hiding under the blanket isn't going to make you any less of a friend."

Noemi's voice came out muffled from beneath the blanket. 

"I'm not hiding. I'm just... thinking."

Sevi smirked playfully. "Sure, thinking. Well, if you're thinking about whether or not we're friends, then I guess I'll have to work extra hard to convince you."

Noemi peeked out from the edge of the blanket, a faint smile tugging at her lips despite her flushed face. "You're really persistent, aren't you?"

Sevi grinned. "Guilty as charged."

Noemi let out a small, amused sigh. "Alright, alright. Maybe... maybe we are friends. But don't get used to it."

Sevi's smile widened. "I'll take that as a win."

"Rest up, Noemi. I'll be right here."

With that, Sevi settled back into his chair, keeping a watchful but light-hearted eye on Noemi as she tried to get some much needed rest. 

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