Part 691: Henry (Father) A

Father, how's the shoulder?

Fine, thanks. It wasn't much of a wound to begin with, fortunately.

Good. I don't know what I'd do if... if you got killed again.

Ah, I get it now... I die protecting you in the future, is that it?

...It was just a normal Risen, but somehow I didn't see it coming. You had no business dying when I was the one too stupid to watch his own back!

At least it sounds like I died with no regrets.

So yes, that's why when I say you took a hit for me, I... I lost control. All those feelings of guilt and shame returned. I just couldn't stand it.

Aw, I'm sorry to have dredged up those painful memories, Owain. But more than that, I'm sorry I left you by yourself in the future...

Father, no! You never left me! I never felt alone - not once! You and Mother were always with me because you were WITHIN me! I'm the scion of a heroine who gave me life and a hero who gave his life to save mine.

Wait. So all this talk about having the blood of heroes in you... You were talking about your mother and me? Owain, that's so- ...Wait a second. Why does OUR blood rage and boil at the drop of a hat? Lissa and I really don't seem the type to have such unruly fluids...

Well, yes, the part about my blood raging may have been for... dramatic effect.

...Er, what?

But the point is that I'm more proud of my bloodline than anything in the world. When I remember I'm your son, I feel unstoppable. Like I could do anything! And I didn't come all this way to have you die on me again! Do you understand? From now on, we fight injustice together!

Ha! Thanks, Owain. But you're more than just my legacy. You've done plenty in your own right. Your mother and I are so proud of everything you've become...

Aw, thanks! But... Hnngh... This sensation... B-blood... boiling once again... The fiery pride in your bosom sparked the tinder of my soul and set me ablaze!

Heh. Well, it's good to hear you're back to your old self, at least... Now let's talk some more about this blood of yours...