In the novel, Cale and his fiancé only share a professional relationship. But with Kim Rok Soo transmigrated into his body, he questions how that even happened. Aren't you a bit too handsome to be treated as a co-worker?
Cale Henituse/Kim Rok Soo x Fiancé Male Reader.
Takes place in the beginning because I haven't read that far.
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"It's been a while since you've seen your fiancé. I know you both don't like each other, but you should meet at least once a year."
His father’s words still ring in Kim Rok Soo’s mind as he watches the carved stone scenery give way to forest trees, the carriage rumbling across a high stone bridge. The sound of the river below blends with the rustle of weeds and the splash of fish pushing through the current. Elbow resting on the window frame, chin propped in hand, his other hand idly strokes Hong and On’s fur. He’s a bit worried. Since Cale was only a minor antagonist in the beginning, there hadn’t been much written about his personal relationships, especially not this one. Only one throwaway line existed for him to go on.
"Cale Henituse and his fiancé only shared a professional relationship."
He suspects that Cale’s, now his, fiancé knew about his trashy behaviour and drinking problem, and kept their distance to preserve their reputation. If not for the Henituse family’s wealth, the engagement probably wouldn’t even exist. Still, it complicates things for Kim Rok Soo’s goal of living a lazy and mediocre life. He doesn’t know what kind of person you are, whether you resent being engaged to a lout, or if you’ll have any significance later. He doesn’t even know what you look like.
“Why do you look so nervous? Are we meeting someone scary?” Hong asks, batting a paw against Cale’s stomach to get his attention. On looks up silently, her curious eyes mirroring her brother’s. He doesn't blame the two siblings for their concern; this will be the first time he meets someone he has no plan for.
"Perhaps, although they can't afford to hurt us," Cale huffs, quietly amused at his own pun, though the notch in his brow doesn’t fade. He scratches under Hong’s chin, pleased by the happy purrs that fill the carriage. His other hand moves to On, brushing between her soft ears. “That’s why I’m expecting you both to dial up your charms and get to work.”
“Yes, sir!” they chirp in unison, tails swishing as they nudge his hand for more pets. A small smile tugs at Cale’s lips as he indulges them. He hadn’t been fond of cats in his previous life, but these two have managed to creep into his heart. He’s confident they’ll succeed, if the extravagant seat Hans had set up for them is anything to go by. If his fiancé can’t treat animals well, it’ll be easier to have a valid reason and keep a safe distance.
He’ll just have to do what he does best: play it by ear and ask for a drink.
---
“I didn’t know you were fond of pets, or that your father allowed them in the estate.”
“I suppose they got lucky…” Cale can feel wrinkles forming from how often he’s furrowed his brows. His poor, good-looking face will end up ruined at this rate. Meanwhile, Hong and On are in heaven, snuggling at your legs. He’d told them to act cute, but judging by their enthusiasm, they’re not pretending anymore. The treats and affection you’ve given them have completely bought their loyalty.
“Hmm. If you say so. They are quite cute," your quiet laugh brushes against his eardrums, and Cale really needs that drink. He squeezes his eyes shut, rubbing his eyelids until colour bursts behind them. He’s misread this situation completely, and to be fair, he doubts anyone could’ve prepared for this.
You’re a man. Not the woman he assumed you were. That one’s on him, really. When reading the novel, he’d thought the author had simply mistyped and used the wrong character. It was a single sentence about a forgotten character, so he had brushed it off.
Regardless, whether you were meant to be male or female doesn’t matter, because-
You’re far too handsome.
When Kim Rok Soo first woke up in this world, he thought he’d lucked out. Cale was rich, attractive, and elegant enough to wear anything, and everyone around him seemed to have been sculpted by the same unfairly generous author: Choi Han with his sharp angles and heart of gold, Rosalyn with her vibrant hair and ambitious eyes, even the servants looked like they belonged in portraits. But when his carriage rolled to a stop before your estate and you opened the door yourself, sunlight catching on the stray strands of hair that had escaped their tie, he realized instantly that you were on an entirely different level. The faint scent of cedar and ink lingered in the air as your hand met his, steady and warm, and for a beat, Kim Rok Soo forgot to breathe. Even Hong and On had to nudge his leg to stop him from gawking. He coughed into his hand, masking his lapse with Cale’s usual nonchalance, but the thought still hit him with an almost comedic clarity: How had someone with that face ended up treated like a background character? How had you and Cale only shared a professional relationship?
“I need a drink…” he mutters, too low to be polite but loud enough for you to hear. Ah. That answers one question already, your fiancé’s drinking habit must’ve been rough for you.
“My apologies. I got carried away," the soft smile you’d worn fades into a firmer line as you give Hong and On one last affectionate scratch. Their whines follow you as you say, “I’ll fetch something from our cellar.”
Two things stand out to Cale immediately.
One: you’d called Count Deruth his father, not your father-in-law, despite your engagement being publicly acknowledged. That single phrasing already told him more about your situation than a dozen letters could have. It meant you were being careful, maybe even trying to keep the Henituse name separate from your own, to preserve some independence or dignity. That alone set you apart from everyone else he’d encountered—people who fell in line or played their roles without a thought.
Two: despite your status, you were the one who’d opened his carriage door and helped him down, hand steady and polite, the faintest trace of callouses brushing against his palm. Now, you’re the one offering to fetch his drink, a task he’d normally assign to Ron or Hans.
The picture is painfully clear. You’re well-mannered, intelligent, probably too kind for your own good, and, unfortunately, broke.
He leans back against the chair, crossing one leg over the other. The cushion dips under his weight, a faint creak of the frame cutting through the quiet room. The house isn’t neglected, but it feels tired. The polished floorboards have dulled in certain patches; the curtains look older than they should.
It fits the narrative.
Cale drums his fingers against the armrest, eyes half-lidded. In a world with dragons and ancient relics, being short on funds must be worse than being cursed. He can almost hear Ron’s dry chuckle or Choi Han’s gentle disapproval in his mind. But Cale doesn’t pity you. He just finds it… interesting. The way you carry yourself, all poise and composure, as if you haven’t noticed the cracks showing. You play the part of a noble well.
“Cale Henituse and his fiancé only shared a professional relationship.”
He can see why now. There’s nothing to gain from sentimentality when survival depends on pretending not to sink.
“You’re running out of funds, aren’t you?” Cale says suddenly. Your steps halt at the doorway. There’s a pause, a single sharp intake of breath, before the hinges groan and the door eases shut. The faintest shift of your weight, the soft click of your boots against the floor.
“Yes,” you say quietly. “You are correct. Will that be a problem for you, regarding our engagement?”
The honesty is disarming. No hesitation, no excuses, no attempt to hide it behind pride. Just a simple agreement. Cale exhales slowly, thoughtfully, and lets his gaze drift just slightly downward, trying to disguise the curiosity sparking behind his usual calm demeanor. Honest, agreeable, and, frustratingly, too handsome for your own good. You would have been the fan-favorite side character who dies halfway through to give the protagonist emotional depth.
He sits up a little straighter. The leather glove around his hand creaks as he folds his fingers together.
“Of course not,” he replies without missing a beat, “I’m loaded. I don’t need your money.”
That earns the faintest twitch of your lips. Not quite a smile or pity, but it's charming all the same. Cale shifts slightly in his seat, willing down the heat travelling up his pale neck to his cheeks. He's tempted to fake another cough, but he's already done that before. He knows you were nice enough to not point it out. You've been watching him as carefully as he has you.
He gestures toward the seat across from him, “Sit. I want to learn more about my fiancé.”
You move without hesitation, crossing the space deliberately, and settle into the chair opposite him. You adjust slightly once, ensuring your posture is straight but comfortable. Cale notes the subtle movements, the small indications of confidence in the way you arrange yourself. He shifts his weight again, resting his elbows lightly on the armrests, and studies you more closely. The distance between you is polite, exactly the kind that would suit a “professional relationship.”. He wonders, briefly, if that’s why Cale Henituse, the original one, never bothered to get closer. Maybe he’d thought you were too unremarkable, too ordinary in a story filled with heroes and villains. Or maybe he just never looked close enough.
Kim Rok Soo, however, has always been the kind to notice the background details. The light catches along your hollow cheekbones, outlining the slope of your bony jaw, the faint shadow of fatigue beneath your eyes. You look like someone who’s been holding a crumbling house together with spit and blood.
“You don’t need to act so formal,” he says after a moment, “It’s exhausting to watch.”
Your brows rise slightly, “Then how would you prefer I act, Lord Cale?”
“Like someone who doesn’t care whether I approve of them or not.”
A pause. Then, to his mild surprise, you actually relax a little, leaning back in your chair. There’s something almost amused in your eyes now.
“As you wish,” you murmur.
The silence that follows is oddly comfortable. Hong’s purr rumbles softly in the background, and On yawns, curling into a ball near the chair legs. Cale’s gaze drifts to the faint gold ring on his own hand, a symbol of an engagement that had never meant anything. Until now, perhaps.
“We’ll get along fine,” he says at last, mostly to himself. “Just don’t cause me any trouble.”
You hum in acknowledgment, “I’ll do my best, Lord Cale.”
He watches the slight tilt of your head as you speak, the even cadence of your words, the calm certainty behind them. There’s no hidden agenda, no attempt to manipulate, no sign that you intend to interfere with his plans. You are competent, careful, and measured. He realizes that because you’ve been able to remain unnoticed until now, despite your capabilities and presence, you likely won’t bring trouble to him. You understand boundaries and have learned to navigate situations without attracting conflict. That in itself is a relief, and a rare one at that.
He hums back, low and unimpressed, but the faintest smirk tugs at his mouth as he leans back in his seat.
Professional relationship, he thinks. Yeah, right.
a/n: I tried so hard to try and think of a premise to make this a oneshot, but I can't think of any that would be finished in less than 3k words TT. Also, I think I made this so suggestive, and I wasn't even going for that. The amount of innuendos here are... yeah...
tags: yandere cale if you squint, i accidentally made it sensual oops, cale is a lil sadist even if he doesn't know it
Pls don't repost my work anywhere without my permission
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anon said: Hii can you do vampire Cale with reader that has blood thats really rare kind of like Sanemi from Demon Slayer where demons go crazy for his blood ANYWAYS LOVE YOUR WORKK
You appeared in his life just right when Cale thinks that he was getting used to living his life as a vampire.
He thought he had his impulses controlled, his alternatives secured. However, everything shattered the moment he got a whiff of your scent.
Normally, he would be disgusted at the thought of sinking his teeth into a living, breathing being unless he was super hungry. It's because, before transmigrating, he was just a normal human, so the thought of drinking someone's blood directly feels off.
But you?
You smell so delicious. He needs to have a taste. Sure, he still doesn't bode well with the idea of sucking your blood, but he needs to have a taste.
And by some miracle, he somehow managed to not only make you join him, but also allow him to give your blood.
Man is in paradise every time he gets a taste.
Later, he finds out from Hans that he acts like that towards you because you were born with a special type of blood that tastes sweeter than normal blood.
Despite that, who is Cale if not a man of absolute control?
His intake of your blood is so carefully controlled. He doesn't want you to pass out. He takes such good care of you so that you won't think of backing out (not that he'd allow you).
The only time he loses control is during the time he would overwork his ancient powers and feel super starved afterwards.
During those times, they try to let Cale eat his normal supply.
Because if not? Prepare to lie down unconscious with him for the next few days.
Cale has to admit that at first, he just wanted you because of your unique blood. He treated you well, yes, but you were nothing but a mere sweet treat.
However, spending time with you changed that quickly.
Not only did he discover your talents, but he also found out that the two of you get along so well.
Cale went from not even entertaining the thought of biting someone to constantly wanting to bite your nape or wrist to leave his mark on you.
Because what if someone else sees how delightful you are and tries to take you for themselves?
He simply has to show everyone that you're his.
Sometimes he would even bite just for the sake of leaving his mark.
This is probably something he'd take to his grave, but Cale absolutely loves the way you look whenever he feeds directly from you.
The way you writhe... your eyes squeezing shut... the way you pant as you feel your blood being drained from your veins... your eyes tearing up and those tears eventually rolling down your cheeks...
It's why he loves biting your wrist.
Sometimes, the two of you would just be lounging around, you'd be sitting on his lap as he does whatever, and then he'd suddenly bite you.
May or may not be because he loves the way you bury your face in his chest when you're in this position.
Of course, his favourite is still the classic nape bite.
It's because your scent is the strongest there.
He also likes how he can smell the process of his scent mixing with yours as he bites into you.
Also, this position allows him to hold your hand while he feeds.
He LOVES the way you squeeze his hands, especially when it starts to feel too much.
But of course, those things are only for him. Cale refuses to disclose to anyone else. That side of you and his enjoyment are for him and only him.
Cale would strike anyone who finds out with fire of destruction ^^
-> Kim Dokja & Cale Henituse with a reincarnated! reader
saintspeaks;“I SLITHERED HERE FROM EDEN JUST TO SIT OUTSIDE YOUR DOOR”-Hozier. JAIDJSKADJ I LOVE THIS SONF OMFG. Also, the ‘you’ in the Kim Dokja x reader only read twsa, but the ‘you’ in the Cale x reader read tcf.
Kim Dokja
A reader of TWSA is all you were — well, one of the two committed readers. You werent supposed to read it, in fact, you stumbled apon it on a sad friday night. But when you met Kim Dokja, the lone reader, you realized why you were never supposed to touch that story.
You’d only survived this far because you binge-read the chapters, and had your handy phone with a save file of the story!
You were living quite comfortably in the apocalypse, traveling alone because you couldnt commit to a group. You knew that the moment that danger came towards you and the group you’d abandon them, so traveling alone was the best option.
Until you were traveling in the underground subway and came across Yoo Junghyuk— the main character himself.
The only thing that happened between you two was a harsh glare met with ice-cold eyes in response.
The only thing that you were thinking was, ‘you dont scare me, bitch.’
And he just stormed off.
You hadnt thought much of the encounter—in fact, you never wanted to meet him again. But, of course, fate just had to have you two cross paths again. But, this time he had a companion with him.
And lord, was he the most handsome man you’d ever seen— even though you could barely make out his facial features.
But he’d never been in the novel. An he seemed just as surprised by your appearance too — because you didn’t have a sponsor, and you’re too strong and seem too knowledgeable for an average person.
The idea of you being the other reader lingers in his mind— but he quickly dismissed the thought as he kept walking past you, following Yoo Junghyuk.
Cale Henituse
You were a normal girl who reincarnated into a noble Lady from a small kingdom in the Western Continent. Since you reincarnated into such a small kingdom, you had no reason to change the story unless it came charging at you.
…and it did.
You visited Lady Amiru in the Ubarr territory.(bad idea number 1)
The moment you started talking to her about using a boat to sail at night, a wolf-looking guy came charging at you, screaming about smelling ‘strong’. You’d never done any training or fighting, and only acted like how a normal noble lady should in these kinds of stories. But, you realized he wasnt looking at you, but behind you. And guess who was behind you?
Cale Henituse—who was hiding behind a rock????
You’d recently been reincarnated so you didnt know much, but what you did know was that some things had changed. One of those things? Cale Himself.
You avoided the Henituse house like the plague— if you got too close to Cale, you’d get tangled up in the story, and you couldnt have that. Excusing yourself the moment you saw the fiery red hair, you ran off of the sandy beach to the room lady Amiru let you use during your stay.
Cale was extremely confused—who the hell were you? why were you here? did you know about the ancient powers? Why did you need a boat?
He let out a deep sigh, wondering why he just keeps walking into trouble—he could just feel you being another wall between him and his slacker life.
— summary » The God of Death gave Cale a goodluck charm. In the form of a ring.
— note » i just made this on a whim tbh TT. Also, its a world where cjs and lsh are alive and in the tcf world okay-
“He-He said he has a gift for you, Young Master.”
Gift? Cale furrowed his eye brows, eyes glinting in suspicion at the small pouch in Cage’s hand.
“Hoohh? The God of Death has a gift for our dongsaeng?” Choi Jung Soo wrapped his arm around Cale’s shoulder, a Cheshire grin sitting on his lips as he sent a playful look towards Cale.
Cale frowned, yet took the pouch from Cage. He shook it a bit, wondering what’s inside before opening it. Opening his palm, he let whatever was inside to drop onto his hand.
It was a ring.
A ring Cale knew from his heart.
A ring that Cale— Kim Rok Soo swore an oath to someone with.
He could hear Jung Soo inhale sharply as he himself felt his form go rigid. He could hear Choi Han muttering his name as Lee Soo Hyuk put a hand on his shoulder, hand trembling.
All four of them knew that ring.
Choi Han has seen it through Jung Soo’s memories, and Choi Jung Soo and Lee Soo Hyuk were there themselves when that ring was given to both people.
Cale— Kim Rok Soo wore that ring.
Hell, he was wedded with that ring.
“A goodluck charm, he said.” Cage muttered, cautiously looking at Cale. Her eyes wandering to the three other people by his side.
Cale’s close friends and family knew of his life as Kim Rok Soo. Said man confessed everything a few days after the battle with the white star ended, a few weeks before another matter started with the hunters.
Maybe not everything though.
Seeing as though the others did not know the meaning of the ring that is in Cale’s palm right now.
Choi Han gulped, fidgeting in his position behind Cale as he muttered, “Cale-nim..”
“Human! What is that? It’s a beautiful ring!” Raon flew around Cale’s shoulder, excitedly flapping his wings as he surveyed the ring.
“It is, isn’t it?” There was a small soft smile painting the commander’s features, and the others know that there was something fragile—just something as he said those words.
Was Cale aware of the expression, the look—the emotions in his eyes as he said that?
And as the others mulled it over, Cale went deep in his records.
“Let’s get married.” She declared after waking up from a week long coma after surviving an attack and healing from major injuries that almost took her own life, Kim Rok Soo wondered how and why did he fell in love with this crazy-but-lovable-woman.
Sighing, Kim Rok Soo nonchalantly replied, “Sure.”
She beamed, eyes lighting up, “Really-“
Before he cuts her off, “After you recover.” Rok Soo gently caressed her cheek, fingers twirling her hair and tucking it behind her ear as he sat beside her bed.
She pouted, “But Darling-“
“No.”
“But-“
“No.”
“You didn’t even-“
“No.”
“Darling—!” Her laughs filled the room, lighting up the atmosphere that was previously somber and depressing (Rok Soo remembers waiting everyday—every second for a sign that she would wake up) but the again, she always had that effect.
There was silence, as Rok Soo gently held her hand and as she stared off at the wall, it was comforting. That was how they always were, sometimes, words weren’t needed to express what they wanted.
Actions were more than enough.
“I love you.”
Well maybe, sometimes it wasn’t enough.
She blinks, mouth agape and eyes widened as she looked at her lover in shock, “I- Rok Soo?!”
Kim Rok Soo blinks before nonchalantly saying as if he didn’t just make her mind go on a rollercoaster with his sudden confession, “I said, I love you.”
She still stared at him dumbfounded, looking at him like he grew five heads so suddenly.
He frowned, “Why aren’t you saying it back?”
That seemed to bring her back as she stuttered, “I-I love you too..” red slowly dusted her cheeks down to her neck as she ducked her head in shyness.
Kim Rok Soo blinks at her sudden shyness, not really used to seeing her shy and flustered as its her who’s usually the one who makes it so that he’s the one who’s flustered instead.
He chuckled, after all. Its not everyday you see your usually playful and composed lover be shy and flustered.
Leaning towards her, he gently caressed her face before tilting it up and placed a gentle and loving peck to her lips.
“Kim Rok Soo!”
“You’re as red as a gochujang.”
“That-that’s because you s-suddenly did that!”
He shrugged in reply, “Gochujang.”
And as Cale pulled himself back from his records, he didn’t hesitate to put his ring back to where it belongs, noting how it still fits him perfectly around his ring finger, how it’s still snug and just- just secure.
“It’s my wedding ring.” He stated, tearing his eyes away from his ring as he looked at the others, each and every one of them—except for the three, Choi Han, Choi Jung Soo, and Lee Soo Hyuk—who knew of the truth—had varying emotions displayed on their faces.
Perhaps they didn’t expect that he’d be married back in his life as Kim Rok Soo.
“..when?” Rosalyn asked, eyes darting to Cale’s face and to his ring sitting at his finger.
“When I was 22. We were childhood friends, we grew up from the same orphanage.”
“I see..”
It was a bit shocking, of course. They didn’t expect that he’d be married, considering the state of their world and all the monsters.
“Well,” Cale started, “We can talk about this more later if you guys want. For now, let’s talk about the plan for tonight.” He moved to the center table where there was a map and proceeded to talk.
And as they talked about the plan, his family didn’t miss the fact that the Young Master caressed his ring every so often.
A ring of yours.
A bloodied ring sat on the ground.
Kim Rok Soo stared at it blankly, making no move to pick it up. He missed the looks that Choi Jung Soo as well as Lee Soo Hyuk sent towards him, he missed the sad glances and the looks of pity that their team members were sending, he ignored the voice that was telling him that it was time to go, he ignored the hand shaking his shoulder, he ignored it.
He ignored everything.
Everything except the bloody ring on the ground.
And distinctly he heard someone yell, “We can’t find the body! Team leader-nim, we need more backup!”
No body..
They couldn’t find the body…
Kim Rok Soo felt himself go empty. He felt himself—every ounce of his being just shutting down, everything was just a blur.
come here (i’m your paradise) - Alberu x Reader x Cale - Chapter 3
pic source
Summary:
Alberu had done nothing but be a loving and supporting partner for her since the day they began courting. He was the epitome of a perfect significant other who never failed to be a gentleman and a lover in their relationship.
Looks, personality, wealth, affection, he had them all.
So how could she turn away from such a man so easily?
How could her heart betray her like this?
or;
(Y/n), the Empress of Roan Empire, had fallen for the sworn brother of her own husband. Cale wasn’t making it easy for her as she struggled against this newly found attraction, while Alberu seemed to be hiding something as well. Will this end well?
[Sequel to Dreamlike Reality, can be read as standalone]
Character(s): Alberu Crossman, Cale Henituse
Word Count: 3.5k+
Warning: emotional infidelity, slightly provocative language
Note: So. It’s been more than 3 months. And I have a good reason for it, which you can read right here where an anon asked me about it. In short, during the last 4 months I received bad news after bad news that somehow never stopped, so I got way too depressed to find the will to write something.
This chapter is actually a split. I was going to combine both this and the next chapter, but it was getting too long and it’s also been a long time since the story was updated, so here it is.
I can’t promise when I’ll update the next chapter considering, well, more bad news are still hitting me as I’m writing this note right now. But hey! It’s supposed to be my late best friend’s birthday today (January 3rd) so let’s just say today’s chapter is dedicated to him ;) still missing you every single day of my life, dude!
Oh right, if you found a pun in the story right where it was getting angsty then pls note that it was unintentional. I did laugh at it while writing when I realized tho.
Don’t forget to leave comments if you want to read more, your comments really fuel my motivation! <3
Title Inspo: BTS - Pied Piper
Prologue | Chapter 1 | Chapter 2 | Masterlist
———————————————–
The day Cale visited her for the first time was weeks ago by now. And ever since then, Cale would regularly come by to her office every few days. He never stayed for long, an hour would be the longest time.
During these visits, he never brought up any risky topic ever again. They would have tea together and talk about many things, starting from Empire matters like the recent treaty with another Kingdom to personal matters like how Cale’s children were begging him to travel with them.
“Why don’t you humor them? Raon can teleport and save a lot of time and effort anyway, right?”
She couldn’t stop a giggle as she took in his appalled expression.
“Your Majesty,” Cale put down his teacup, eyes wide tinged with fear, “once we go on one trip, the children will want more. We’ll end up going around the world! And when that’s not enough, they’ll ask to use the divine item and go to different worlds! What about my farm?! My slacker life?!”
(Y/n) nearly snorted when Cale’s expression turned horrified at the thought of losing his dearly beloved slacker life.
How adorable.
(Y/n) enjoyed these talks. She found herself beginning to open up to the red-haired noble and he did the same to her. She learned more about the normally stoic and level-headed ex-Commander, as he too learned more about her.
When the days began to blur together, she found herself looking forward to his visits.
She found herself feeling the same warmth and tranquility she always felt when she was with Alberu.
And that scared her more than anything else.
“Love, are you okay?”
(Y/n) gave the man in front of her a small smile.
“Of course.”
Alberu frowned. (Y/n) had been very quiet for the past few days. He also noticed how she tried to avoid his eyes most of the time. He had an inkling as to why that might be, but it was still concerning to see her starting to lose appetite.
With a wave of his hand, the servants waiting on them in the greenhouse they were having their meal in left them.
The Emperor gently took his wife’s hand on his own, his thumb rubbing her knuckles absentmindedly.
He noted how (y/n) never lifted her head up to look him in the eyes.
“(Y/n).”
It did the trick as her head immediately snapped up to look at him.
Alberu rarely called (y/n) by her name. He always used pet names, most of the time ‘love’. It was a habit he’d had since their courting days; when Alberu was but a youth craving for love in the midst of his lonely days in the Palace. While he still occasionally called out her name, as he did love her name as much as he loved her, the amount of times had dropped low since the day they married a little less than a year ago.
And thus to hear Alberu calling her name in a serious tone like this ought to surprise her enough to make her abandon her attempt at avoidance.
Alberu’s eyes softened when he took in the sight of her surprise (and was that worry?).
“(Y/n), love,” he pressed a kiss to her knuckles, once again trying to pretend not to notice her flinching, “something is bothering you, isn’t it? Won’t you tell me? I’d like to help you.”
(Y/n)’s throat tightened as she tried to futilely swallow back the heaviness that seemed to choke her, the dryness in her mouth preventing the action.
Alberu was… sweet.
He’d done nothing but be a loving and supporting partner for her since the day they began courting.
He was the epitome of a perfect significant other; a spouse who never failed to be a gentleman and a lover.
Looks, personality, wealth, affection, he had them all.
So how could she turn away from such a man so easily?
How could her heart betray her like this?
But I still love Alberu, her traitorous heart whispered.
It’s not like my love for him diminished…
‘That’s not the point!’ Her rational mind screamed back.
‘You still betrayed him! His love! His TRUST!’
(Y/n) took in Alberu’s gaze, filled with love and worry.
That’s right, I betrayed him.
And he doesn’t deserve this.
I have to tell him.
It’s the least I can do…
“Alberu,” she called out softly.
“Yes, my love?” He answered, lips still brushing against her knuckles.
(Y/n) took a deep breath, ignoring the prickling on the corner of her eyes and focusing on stopping her voice from wavering.
“I love you.”
Alberu smiled gently.
“I-”
“But I have betrayed you.”
Alberu’s words were cut off as he blinked in surprise.
(Y/n) still couldn’t bring himself to look Alberu in his eyes.
“I betrayed your trust,” she managed to choke out, “I tainted our sacred promise and let you down. I’m unfaithful, a disgrace to your name.”
The forlorn Empress closed her eyes and bowed her head. No words escaped her mouth after the broken confession. What else could she do now but expect the worst?
Alberu was known far and wide as a ruler with seemingly unlimited patience, but people also know not to test that theory. Nobody wronged the quarter Dark Elf and got away with it scot free. (Y/n) knew that better than anyone.
Her dear husband may seem patient, but he wasn’t exactly forgiving. Alberu had a nearly perfect control over his emotions; even those who committed wrongdoings against him to his face wouldn’t expect him planning their downfall right before their eyes.
Alberu Crossman was not, in any way, a man to cross.
And (y/n) had just done the exact thing.
Fear gripped her heart like a vice.
She knew Alberu wouldn’t hurt her. Be it physically or socially. Alberu might be ruthless to his enemies, but she’d been with him for years. His love (if there would still be any left after this…) wouldn’t guide him to inflict harm on her. He would be angry, perhaps, but he wouldn’t lay a hand on her. She was sure of it.
But to see and receive his disappointment?
It would be the greatest pain and punishment.
And I deserve it, she told herself.
(Y/n) flinched when she heard Alberu’s chair creaking and felt him moving away.
This is it. This is the end.
Her effort to keep her tears in, so as to not appear as though she was begging for sympathy, was starting to fail.
He’ll ask who occupies my heart when it’s supposed to only be him.
He’ll find out about young master Cale and it will ruin their relationship.
This will ruin everything.
(Y/n) bit her lower lip to hold back a sob.
I’m ruining everything.
The moment a tear escaped and slid down her cheek, she felt a pair of familiar arms engulfed her in a warm embrace.
Her eyes snapped open.
“Please don’t cry, love,” Alberu murmured, pressing a kiss to the crown of her head. One of his hands was gently pressing her head to his shoulder, while his other arm held her close.
His soft words broke the dam she worked so hard on building.
(Y/n) cried.
——————————
Alberu gently brushed his thumb on (y/n)’s tear stricken cheek.
When (y/n) started breaking down, Alberu teleported both of them to the privacy of their bedroom, away from any prying eyes or ears. He knew that his dear wife would feel better this way.
He held onto her as she cried her heart out, her mouth spewing out apologies after apologies, blaming herself and begging for his forgiveness. He replied to each of them softly, telling her that there was nothing to forgive, asking her to not put any blame on herself. It was a futile attempt as the tears kept streaming down her face.
When her body trembled with each sob, Alberu would tighten his arms around her, as if reminding her that he was there for her and he wasn’t going anywhere.
Her cry truly broke his heart.
As her cry began to subside, Alberu guided her to sit on the edge of their bed.
(Y/n)’s eyes were red and she still trembled slightly, but the tears no longer rolled down her cheeks.
Alberu reached for the jug of water that was always available beside their bed and poured a cup, giving it to the worn-out young Empress and urging her to take a sip.
After ensuring that she was indeed drinking the water, Alberu rubbed his face tiredly.
“(Y/n), love…” Alberu started with a sigh. He noticed how (y/n) cowered at his sigh and quickly spoke, “I’m not angry. I promise.”
(Y/n) didn’t react, but he could see her grip on the cup tightening. He reached for the cup and gently took it away, placing it on the nightstand.
Alberu knelt down in front of her and took her hands in his, pressing a kiss to her knuckles the way he did in the greenhouse.
“It’s not your fault,” he said once again.
He could see (y/n) starting to waver again.
“...how is it not my fault?” She finally spoke, her voice hoarse.
“I broke my vow. I cheated on you.”
Alberu shook his head.
“You didn’t cheat on me, (y/n).”
(Y/n)’s eyes snapped up quickly, “And how do you know that?”
The Emperor reached a hand to brush a strand of hair away from her face.
“It’s Cale, isn’t it?”
This time, he didn’t pretend not to notice her flinching.
“Y-You knew…?”
Alberu sighed once again.
“It’s my fault, actually,” Alberu mumbled.
“Wha- No! How is it your fault?!” (Y/n) asked incredulously. “Alberu, you’re the best husband anyone could ever ask for! It’s my fault that my heart easily swayed away!”
“First of all,” Alberu quickly cut her off when she was going to speak up again, “even if there was any infidelity, it was never only one party’s fault, okay? It, ah, how did Cale phrase it? It takes two to dangle? No, to tango?”
“But-”
“And second,” Alberu cut her off again, “this is actually both mine and Cale’s fault. And not in the way that you’re thinking about.”
(Y/n) blinked once.
“What do you mean?”
Alberu raised from his position and sat beside (y/n), shoulders touching.
“How do I explain this…”
——————————
A few months before the annual celebration…
Alberu didn’t even lift his head when he felt the telltale of familiar mana manifesting in his office.
“What is it this time?” He asked with a deadpan, still focusing on his work.
The Southern region still suffers from the last drought… Southeast more so than Southwest. Is Marquis Ailan’s faction acting up again?
He scoffed at the thought. Really, even after his ascension to the throne some nobles still wriggled like worms in his path. When would they learn to give up?
With a click of his tongue, Alberu wrote down a few notes to talk about the Southern region at an upcoming nobles meeting. Now that Antonio Gyerre was the Duke who supported Cale and, by extension, Alberu, making sure the Southern region was properly taken care of was easier than before.
Once he finished writing the points he was going to attack discuss with the nobles, he finally realized something was off.
It was quiet.
Alberu lifted his head.
As he thought, the one responsible for the mana was his dongsaeng. Well, it was actually Eruhaben, but definitely at Cale’s request. Which was also weird, because normally it would be Raon who teleported Cale. The young Dragon took pride in taking care of his weak human, after all.
Usually, whenever Cale visited him, he would sit down and munch on Alberu’s cookies immediately. Most of the time he’d also shower Alberu with useless compliments and act so rudely that older generations would have a heart attack if they were to witness it.
At least one of his kids would also tag along, most often Raon who was responsible for teleporting him. The kids were always loud and full of chatter. Not that Alberu mind, he enjoyed watching the children being children, supplying them with endless amounts of desserts in meantime.
So for the room to be this quiet when his dearly beloved sworn brother was there, well… Something must be wrong.
Cale stood in the middle of the room silently, eyes downcast and very noticeably alone. None of his children or his allies were with him. Alberu could see the faint glimmer of golden dust about to dissipate, proving that the Ancient Dragon was indeed the one who sent Cale there.
Alberu quickly put down his pen.
“Cale? Are you okay?” Alberu asked, worry evident in his voice.
“...hyung.”
Cale’s weak voice alarmed Alberu.
He’d never heard Cale this defeated before.
Something must be very, very wrong.
Alberu immediately rose from his seat and briskly walked towards his sworn brother. The moment he laid a hand upon the red haired young noble’s shoulder, Alberu could feel him tensing up.
“Cale, what’s wrong? Did something happen?”
Cale opened his mouth, as if to say something, but a moment passed with nothing said and he shut his mouth again.
Frowning, Alberu gently led Cale to sit on the sofa. Once he was seated, Alberu went to the cupboard on one side of the room. Just like in his bedroom, there were simple magic cooking devices underneath it. With practiced moves, Alberu brewed a tea he always drank whenever he felt stressed.
Alberu couldn’t see it because his back was towards Cale, but Cale was looking at him. A million thoughts seemed to run in his mind as he tried to decide how to tell his hyung the conflict waging war in him.
Not long afterwards, Alberu set down a cup filled with freshly brewed tea in front of Cale.
Cale reached for the tea and took in the sweet fragrance of lavender.
“Are you okay?” Alberu quietly asked as he sat in front of the ex-Commander.
“...yeah.”
“You’re not hurt or dying, are you?” He asked again, just to be sure. His sworn brother was known for his lack of self preservation after all.
“What? No.”
The young Emperor let out a small, relieved sigh before getting alert again.
“Wait, is someone else hurt or dying?” He hurriedly asked.
Because while Cale showed little care towards himself, his love towards his friends and family was even greater. If Cale was this distraught… could it be-?!
“No, hyung-nim, no one is hurt or dying.”
“Oh, thank goodness,” Alberu leaned back towards the sofa, adopting a relaxed stance. Being in Cale’s presence was truly one of those rare occasions where he could let his guard down.
Silence engulfed the room for a moment, and it wasn’t for a lack of trying to fill said silence. Cale’s lips repeatedly parted, words already on the tip of his tongue, before he decided against uttering what ailed him again and again.
It was Alberu who finally broke the silence, a few moments after observing the younger man in front of him struggling.
Let’s just talk about something else, he thought.
He’ll tell me when he’s ready. I shouldn’t force him. Time to distract him, then.
“So,” Alberu started, taking a sip of his own tea, “what have you been up to? I haven’t seen you in, what, a month? More?”
His own plan backfired as he noticed Cale visibly flinched at his question.
Alberu put down his teacup with a light clink.
Something happened this past month. May have something to do with me. There was no report of out-of-the-norm activities around Forest of Darkness or Henituse territory, and I was the only person in Cale’s circle not to meet him this past month. The one who lives in Roan, at least.
He frowned.
Mm, didn’t I call for him a few weeks ago? And he said he had something to do? Did something happen then?
One of his fingers traced the lip of his cup absentmindedly.
But Cale isn’t someone who kept important things from me. Not when it concerns me, at least. I can trust him on that.
Come to think of it, I called for him three times this month. He always refused, a lot of excuses. Believable ones, but isn’t it a bit suspicious? Is it something serious?
…Or was he just avoiding me? But why?
“Cale.”
“...yes?”
“Were you avoiding me?”
Flinch.
Alberu pursed his lips. Right on the head, huh?
Now, normally, Alberu would straight on go to teasing mode. He’d plaster on the fakest smile he could muster and let an abundance of the slickest, most extravagant praises roll off his glib tongue, unnerving the young master to the point of confession.
But Cale was not just unnerved. He was scared.
That flinch was very alarmingly visible.
And as annoying as his dongsaeng was, Alberu still loved that little gremlin. He cared for this sacrificial transmigrator more than he would admit.
“It’s okay if you are,” he finally said with a sigh.
Cale’s eyes immediately went towards Alberu.
“...What?”
Alberu scoffed.
“Cale, you’re one of the only people I trust with my whole life. I trust you and your decisions. I just wish to know the reason behind it. Did I do something wrong?”
When Cale still didn’t dare voice his reason, Alberu spoke again, “And I also know that if you really don’t want to tell me, then you won’t be here. But here we are. Eruhaben-nim pushed you, didn’t he? That’s why he was the one who teleported you, not Raon.”
This was definitely one of those times Cale cursed the perceptiveness of his sworn brother.
“Take your time, though. If Eruhaben-nim sent you here alone, then I assume we have a lot of time.”
Alberu pushed a jar of cookies closer to Cale.
“I just restocked your favorite, by the way. There’s more tea in the teapot, help yourself. I’ll finish up today’s paperwork and we’ll talk when you feel like it.”
Alberu stood up and stretched a bit.
“Will you stay over for dinner? I’m sure (y/n) will be happy to have-”
“No!”
“-you?”
Cale quickly looked away, as if he didn’t mean to shout and cut off Alberu’s words. Too late though, the damage was done.
“Wait…” Alberu pulled a face, “Is your problem with (y/n) and not me?”
Cale winced.
“No? I don’t have a… problem with anyone…” Cale answered very convincingly.
Alberu deadpanned.
“You know, for someone who is incredibly good at acting, you suck at lying.”
“No I’m not.”
“Mhm. Whatever helps you sleep at night, dongsaeng.”
When Cale only pouted (and that was honestly adorable, Alberu had to admit that), Alberu plopped back down to the sofa. His adorable dongsaeng was finally feeling like talking, how could he miss this chance?
“So,” he started, leaning forward slightly, “enlighten me, dear dongsaeng, of what my wife could’ve done to make you avoid me or, well, her.”
Alberu nearly cursed himself when Cale once again flinched and turned away.
I said something wrong again?! Oh dragons almighty (y/n) love what did you do to this guy?
Should I just call her here? Maybe Cale wants to talk to her without me here?
Before he could ask if he should call (y/n), Cale’s voice interrupted him.
“Whatever you’re thinking about right now, stop it. I-I’ll talk. To you. Just you.”
Alberu leaned back, fingers interlacing on his laps, and watched Cale take a deep breath.
“Hyung.”
“Yes, dongsaeng?”
“I… I like-” He slightly choked on the beginning of the name, “I like… I like-!”
“Hey, Cale, calm down, it’s okay,” Alberu hurriedly said as he witnessed Cale struggling with his words.
The poor young master’s face was flushed, either with embarrassment or frustration. Had Alberu not known better, he would’ve thought that Cale caught a fever. What did the ex-Commander like for him to struggle so much in admitting?
Alberu paused.
Wait a second…
If he only wants to tell me about it… Then…
Alberu sucked in a surprised breath, his face starting to flush as well.
Oh shit. That explains why he doesn’t want (y/n) here.
“Cale…” He started, voice a bit strained, “I… I’m flattered, really, and anyone who receives your affection is truly one of the luckiest people in the world, no matter who or what they identify as. You deserve everything after all you’ve done.”
Unsure what to say next, Alberu averted his eyes, missing the bewildered look Cale gave him.
“It’s just… I… I’m married, Cale.”
Once again, the room was filled with silence.
Alberu, with his skin flushed nearly as red as Cale’s hair, couldn’t look at Cale.
While Cale himself was staring at Alberu incredulously.
Both lost in either embarrassment or confusion, neither realized how Alberu didn’t reject Cale’s supposed feelings for him.
Okay,,,,,i have a req! how would eruhaben, cale, and bud ilis deal with a soft hearted and weak s/o?
❝Weak and Soft S/O❞
✎...Summary: TCF/LCF characters with a soft and weak S/O
✎...Characters: Eruhaben, Cale, Bud (separately) x gender neutral reader
✎...Note: GOSH THIS IS THE FIRST TIME I HAVE WRITTEN FOR TCF IM SO S*@,@,#(
✎...Warnings/Info: none !
#Eruhaben
•If we're talking about the arrogant and self-centered Eruhaben back when he was young, he would've ignored you. He didn't hold any animosity towards people who are weak but you simply wouldn't have captured his attention. If you were a troublesome human then he would've grumbled while dealing with you but he would've only seen you as small fry, you weren't a threat therefore he had no reason to use his strength.
•It would take a lot of luck, coincidences, and headaches for the younger Eruhaben to warm up to you.
•OKAY but first of all, give him a break. Eruhaben is still young in dragon years but he feels himself age at least one hundred years each time he sees you try to defend him from the other dragons who ridicule him for his attribute, he understands that you're kind-hearted but you're also weak, if he hadn't gotten there in time--
•Ironically, he wouldn't get angry at you (he's secretly touched), he'd get angry at the ignorant dragon who tried to attack you. He nags them and maybe.. maayyybbbeee let off some steam. (Translation: he beats them up)
•If we're talking about the more mellow and wise Eruhaben in his late years, he sees you as someone he must protect. He sees that you're weak and he isn't afraid of saying that, though he doesn't say it in a bad connotation, says it more as a fact. It's similar to how he calls Cale an unlucky bastard (affectionate)
•He most probably thinks you're the most normal thing he's seen ever since he's been dragged around with Cale's group, it's actually a bit refreshing.
•Is gentle with you. It's more of a subconscious gesture of his, he doesn't exactly know when he started treating you like that, it just… happened.
•Wonders how you can be so.. soft? If you were someone who was a part of Cale's group (because you really would have no other reason to be able to meet Eruhaben in the first place if you weren't in Cale's group), then you would've seen the terrible things others have done first hand. It's impressive that you can stay kind despite the not-so-favorable circumstances.
#Cale Henituse
•Cale is skilled at picking a person's strength and weakness and using those attributes to make them improve themselves. You're no exception, Cale doesn't think you need to change yourself but a little self-improvement never hurt anyone, did it?
•It doesn't really change his perception of you. He himself is quite weak though soft-hearted is… debatable. (That's in his opinion anyways, he's definitely soft-hearted but he has a higher chance of chugging a liter of sour lemon juice before he'd admit that)
•He tries to keep you out of dangerous situations, a lackluster attempt really. You follow him to prevent him from getting out of trouble and get injured less but you could get injured in the process and he doesn't exactly know how to tell you that the reason why you shouldn't worry too much is because he has a self-healing ancient power. (Though your attempts at making him behave himself and get injured less because after a while he understood, he gets injured = you get injured as well)
•You might as well become a nurse because you're always the one tending to his wounds and doting on him. Ron jokingly mentions that someone's stolen his job when he sees you hand Cale some lemon tea (You saw him drink it often so you assumed it was his favorite but you don't realize the sheer amount of terror and despair he felt when you gave it to him)
•Extra: The kids and Choi Han use you as leverage whenever he's overdoing it. Again.
•"Cale-nim, [Y/N] has been irritated because of your injuries recently. They might get upset to see you in such a terrible condition."
•"They'll be really angry! They might even cry nya~"
•"Weak human! Don't make [Y/N] cry!"
#Bud Illis
•Probably clings to you a bit. We've seen how the others treat him, he knows they don't mean anything from their actions but it can get annoying.
•Goes to you to relax. He finds comfort in.your soft personality and regularly invites you to go drinking with him. Even though it ends up with him stumbling out whatever bar you guys were at with him clinging to you. (He's probably not even drunk)
•Rants to you. Okay it sounds a little annoying at first, but, Bud isn't the type to blabber his mouth about his issues. It shows he trusts you to confide in you and he never really knows if you'll betray him but if the comforting words falling from your lips is a good sign then he'll take it.
•Gives you a position that will keep you near him but also keep you out of danger. Think… a secretary! You're the secretary of Cale's secretary! He only gives you small tasks and errands though, it can be a bit irritating but it isn't hard smacking some sense into him, literally and figuratively
•Glenn thanks the gods Bud had someone like you to help him take care of him or else he would've lost his mind (if he hasn't already)
a/n: holy word vomit! this is 37 pages and 10,387 words, and you know the funniest part? I had so much more I wanna write, but I had to cut it down. So yeah, I totally went off course. What can I say, the soulmate system I made for this was fun to work it (even if I did change it like 3x), I might use this soulmate system for another fic because I literally have the entire system figured out but idk yet.
tags: gender neutral reader, book 1 spoilers, loosely follows the novel plot, soulmate au, isekai, self-esteem issues if you squint, blood and injuries, possessive White Star if you squint, low-key dense Cale, Sealed God is a warning of itself. Author tried to sound smart sometimes because the character is smart but really has no clue what they're writing, didn't even try beta reading this monster
Pls don't repost my work anywhere without my permission
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@eggb67 said: Hear me out. Reader from our world is KRS's soulmate but because of them literally being from two different worlds,. Reader has accepted that they had no soulmate in a world that having a soulmate was common. Yet, yet it becomes this cruel twist of fate because they find their soulmate at an extremely bad time, I'm talking the war is starting to gear up and reader had a metaphorical leash around their neck because they had made a horrible deal with an other worldly creature to get back to our dimension…so cue extreme angst because Cale has fight someone that is familiar but he doesn't know why they are familiar.
An anomaly
An unheard case
A weird phenomenon
That was how you were called all throughout your life. Of course, no one said it to your face, but you weren’t deaf; you could hear the whispers they say behind your back.
But how are you weird exactly?
Well, for one, it’s because you don’t have your sense of taste. Every time you eat food, you can’t taste anything.
…All of it actually tastes like sand, but that’s something you haven’t, and will never, disclose to anyone. The entire world had already dubbed you a freak; there’s no need to add fuel to the fire.
However, that isn’t the main reason why the world knows you.
It’s more so because you are the only recorded person who doesn’t have a soulmate in a world where everyone is born with a destined other half.
Apparently, from what you heard from others, you and your soulmate are supposed to share taste buds until you get together. A mark is also supposed to appear on your wrist after you turn five.
Everyone should have suspected something when you were complaining about the taste of everything as a toddler.
Long story short, you didn’t get that mark when you turned five.
It was unprecedented.
Throughout human history, no one has ever been without a soulmate.
Sure, there were stories of people who rejected their soulmate. Those who have come to love other people who weren’t their soulmates. There were cases of people who never got to meet their soulmates. Cases where someone’s soulmate died too early.
But someone not even having a mark?
It was just unheard of.
Many specialists and researchers have tried to study you and what could have gone wrong, but none of them have found an answer.
A unique case
Or as normal people would phrase it…
A freak
That was how you lived your life. No matter where you go, you will get stares. People would always whisper behind your back.
“It’s them, right? The one without a soulmate?”
“Just how bad were they in their previous life that they don’t have a soulmate?”
“I heard they’re actually the devil’s child, that’s why god didn’t give them a soulmate.”
“To be honest, I’m jealous… My girlfriend and I wouldn’t have to go through so many hardships to break our soulmate bond with other people if we were like them.”
“Are they really human?”
Those were just some of the many whispers you would constantly hear on a daily basis. Seriously, did no one know how to whisper? If you’re gonna whisper, do it more discreetly. They could at least try to keep it down so you can peacefully commute to the research institution you were trying to go to.
“Thank you for agreeing to do these tests for us.”
The assistant researcher smiled at you while holding a clipboard. You just smiled back, used to the entire process already. A group of researchers had called you a while back, requesting your assistance for the new study they were conducting.
“We might actually get to the bottom of it this time. The last study made significant breakthroughs!”
An enthusiastic researcher excitedly told you, to which you just smiled and nodded along. You’ve already lost interest in it a long time ago; you've come to terms with the fact that you don’t have a soulmate.
It was just easy money, hence why you still partake in these studies.
Hours passed in a blur. You moved on autopilot as researchers run here and there to conduct the experiments needed for their study. After some long, excruciating hours, they finally let you go with the promise of sending the compensation to your account in a few days' time.
While walking to the bus station, you were already thinking of how you would spend that money as soon as it arrived. You were already listing merchandise, food, outfits, and so on that you could buy with the money, when suddenly…
Whoosh!
A strong gust of wind gathered around you. When you looked down, you could see a black hole beneath your feet, and you were falling.
You lost consciousness before you could even try to scream.
* * *
When you woke up, you were inside a luxurious room, lying down on. It looks like those royalty rooms in those historical settings you would see on television. You even swore that everything was shining.
Perhaps you would’ve appreciated the interior more if it weren’t for the chilling gaze you could feel watching your every move.
“Who’s there? Where are you?”
You tried to push down the feeling of fear as you looked around, trying to find the source of that cold stare.
[You’re sharp]
A voice whispered in your head. You would’ve thought you were schizophrenic if you hadn’t just fallen down a black hole and been transported to medieval times a while ago.
“What do you want? Why am I here?”
You were still circling the room, trying to find out if whatever this was is hiding somewhere.
[Give it up, child, I am not anywhere, but I see everything.]
Spinning around in circles for apparently nothing was getting tiring anyway, so sure, you’ll give up.
[I heard soulmates tend to be similar. If that’s true, then you would have a lot of uses. Even if you don’t live up to expectations, your presence would be enough to throw him off.]
…what?
Sorry, what?
“But I don’t have a soulmate? I don’t even have a soulmate mark?”
What was this thing trying to say?
As if on cue, you felt a little warmth on your chest, where your heart would be. It’s not hot enough to be uncomfortable, just enough not to brush it off. Then a gush of wind briefly gathered around your ankles before disappearing as fast as it appeared.
[Hmm, you might want to check that and rethink your words.]
Since this creature just confirmed he can see everything, there’s no way you’re checking your chest. So you opted to check your ankle. A silver whirlpool tattoo that wasn’t there before is now visible on your ankle. Confusion and shock spread through your entire body.
You have a soulmate?
Sure, it’s not a mark on the wrist, but there’s no other reason for you to receive this mark…
Your hopes got up for a little while before logic came back to you and ruined your fantasies.
“How do I even know this isn’t something done by you? For all I know, you did something weird, that’s why I now have a mark. Plus, it’s not even on the wrist.”
[Believe me or not, you have no choice. I’m the only one you can rely on to get back to your world anyway.]
The otherworldly being chuckled, which sent chills down your spine. Still, you’re not just going to allow whatever this creature is to scare you into obeying him.
Sure, you feel scared out of your wits with everything that had happened in the past hour, but there’s no way you’re going to show it.
“And what makes you think I’ll cooperate with you? I can just walk away from here right now.”
You can’t, both of us know that you can’t. Still, you have to keep up this farce.
[I haven’t been talking to you for long, but you’re definitely like him. Never knowing when to back down. Oh well, do know that this entire kingdom belongs to my child. There is no way for you to get out of here.]
Well, there goes the hypothetical escape plans you were brewing in your mind.
[Let’s end our conversation here. I’m sure you’ll warm up to us more after some good hospitality from that child.]
* * *
Later on, you’ll find out that the creature talking to you was apparently a god, and that the child he was talking about was this creepy guy named White Star who rules this place called Endable Kingdom. You also managed to check your chest and found another tattoo: a silver shield with a heart in the middle and a rose gold thunderbolt across it.
Now, back to the White Star guy.
He didn’t act creepy, per se. On the contrary, he was very hospitable and gentlemanly towards you. White Star made sure that you would not only have everything you could possibly need, but also whatever luxury you might desire. You tried to refuse several times, but every single one of his servants still treats you like royalty.
Still, despite how he was acting, he was still creepy in your books.
It's those eyes of his.
They look so cold and lifeless.
Everything he does feels insincere, for none of them reach his eyes.
Each and every smile he sends your way looks cold, for none of them reach the window to his soul. Sometimes you lie awake and wonder if he even has one.
It’s unnerving to the point of haunting you in your sleep.
“I guess there’s a reason why he wears that ugly mask…”
“Did you say something, young master?”
“Uh, no, I was just thinking some things over.”
You mumble to yourself as one of the servants washes your hair. You are currently sitting in the bathtub as part of your new nightly routine. Several servants run around here and there attending to you. At first, you tried to adamantly refuse, not only because you can’t trust anyone, but also because it was just uncomfortable.
Yeah, safe to say you gave in after a few days.
What can you say? It feels very good to be pampered. Sure, sometimes to go overboard with dressing you up, but at the same time, they’re also the ones dressing you down at the end of the day, so there’s nothing much to complain about.
You’re trapped in this kingdom for the foreseeable future anyway, might as well make the best out of it.
The servants finished bathing you and wrapped you in a fluffy robe. However, they weren’t done just yet. After the bath, they always insist on doing a nightly skincare routine.
“Master’s orders.”
As they would always insist.
And again, you don’t really have a choice. Acting fierce and defiant would not get you very far; if you want to guarantee your survival, you must try to be on White Star’s good side, even if the guy creeps you out.
It’s his turf after all; you have no one you can rely on in this place. Get on someone’s bad side and be killed before you could even blink.
“Young master, you seem not to be sleeping very well, please tell this servant of yours what we could do to give you a good night’s rest.”
‘It’s you guys! Everything about this place is the reason why I can’t rest!’
You wanted to shout at the servant and run away from this place. But instead, you composed your heart and gulped down the desire to act rebellious.
“Ah, no need, I’ve always had trouble sleeping even before coming here. There’s no need to worry about it.”
What a load of lies, even if you had trouble sleeping before, it wasn’t this bad. You didn’t have the constant fear of being killed looming over your head before.
Still, smile and try to appease them like you have always done…
Smile and don’t say anything unnecessary so they leave you alone…
* * *
One month later, you got that peace and quiet you were longing for. Well, it’s not in the form that you wanted—running away from Endable Kingdom, even if it’s to live in the streets. Instead, it came in the form of an “expedition”.
White Star had announced that he and an elite few would go on an expedition to better the kingdom, leaving you with a few less surveillance but still no chance of escaping.
And that “expedition” he was talking about?
To better the kingdom?
Yeah right, as if!
They talk so loudly, not even bothering to hide things from you. They know that there’s nothing you can do about the information they will provide to you anyway. They made sure that you won’t even be able to set foot outside the palace grounds without guards in the guise of protection.
As much as it frustrates you, you managed to get some important intel because of it.
For one, you found out that you were right to trust your gut feeling and not trust these people.
Horrible and Heartless
Those words can’t do justice to describe just how atrocious these people are.
They take in all kinds of creatures and kill all sorts of things in order to acquire this thing they call “dead mana”. Do all sorts of horrifyingly wicked things in the name of freeing the sealed god that talked to you on your first day in this place.
Every single word that came out of their mouths made you sick to your stomach.
And that expedition they were talking about?
That was a business trip to finalise the groundwork they had been setting in order for White Star to conquer the world.
Disgusting
That was the only way you could begin to describe these horrible creatures.
Speaking of those horrible creatures…
Their leader has been treating you with affection these days.
“[Name], be careful while I’m away. If you ever need something, don’t hesitate to tell the servants. If there’s an emergency, tell one of the sorcerers to contact me straight away.”
White Star caressed your cheeks as he spoke to you in an almost… sweet voice?
He had been acting this way for a while now, and you don’t know why. Maybe it’s to try and get you to have Stockholm syndrome?
You don’t know anymore.
Not knowing how to respond, you just nodded your head before seeing them off to keep up appearances.
Since they left early in the morning, you were looking forward to a lighthearted day. While your situation still isn’t ideal and there are still threats looming over you because of the (aspiring) nobles… it still felt lighter compared to when all those high-ranking people were watching your every move.
You even finally took a stroll down the garden White Star prepared for you after your second week of staying in his palace.
However…
Your good mood was shattered in an instant during lunchtime.
“This…”
As you take a bite out of the steak, you expect the usual taste of sand to greet your tongue. However, instead of that, the savoury umami taste of the meat greeted you. You could even taste the butter used to baste the beef. Everything felt so foreign.
It tastes so good that it’s scary…
“Is something not to your liking, young master?”
“Ah, no, I just realised the appeal of eating lunch in a pavilion now. I’m glad I decided to eat out.”
Yeah, you were delighted that you decided to eat in a new setting today. If you hadn’t, you don’t know what kind of excuse you would provide. There’s no way you’re saying out loud that you can taste food now.
That would add another leash to your neck.
…
But it feels weird…
To confirm that you have a soulmate…
The mark was one thing. It could’ve been something done by the sealed god to try and get you to go along with their whims.
But your sense of taste?
No one can fake that.
You really have a soulmate.
And that puts you in danger.
* * *
“I know the young master has never really stepped out of the territory, but I am warning you once more to please be careful and avoid leaving the kingdom.”
Duke Fredo had visited you one day in order to warn you. Usually, you would brush off these kinds of messages as the usual threats to follow White Star’s order. However, this time there’s something about the duke’s gaze that made you realise he was actually warning you.
“Is… did something happen?”
You cautiously inquire as you take a sip from the teacup a maid had poured for you and your guest a minute ago.
“The world is in a current state of war. There’s no warzone in our kingdom, but the same thing couldn’t be said for other kingdoms.”
“Ah…”
Duke Fredo nodded at your answer, and silence lingered in the pavilion. None of you said it, but both of you knew the reason why there’s a war in the first place.
White Star
Even if the other kingdoms don’t know it yet, that crude guy is the root of all things.
Just the mere thought of his actions makes you sick to your stomach. He really knows no bounds and would stop at nothing to fulfil his own greed. He’d use whatever and whoever he can if it means getting one step closer towards his goals.
His goals of being a god.
“Don’t have such a sour expression, young master. I’m sure the war will end soon and our kingdom will prosper even more than it does now.”
“I hope you’re right, Duke Fredo.”
You sighed one last time, and the two of you changed the topic to something more lighthearted. It was mostly Fredo sharing stories about the vampires in his care and how everyone is doing. The conversation made you feel some normalcy in your life. Sure, you don’t trust the vampire yet, but conversations like this with him made you feel normal.
A feeling you couldn’t get even in your original world.
Quicker than expected, time passed by, and Duke Fredo had to say goodbye.
“As war gears up more and more, I might also have to go out there. I’m afraid we probably won’t be able to have our weekly tea sessions.”
“That’s a shame, but you have to do what you have to do.”
The two of you stood up, and you walked Duke Fredo towards the entrance of the palace.
“One more thing, young master…”
Duke Fredo stopped walking once you arrived at the entrance. He sounded completely serious, which made you look at him with curiosity. Just what does he have to say to have such a stern look on his face?
“If ever my son arrives here during my absence, please treat him well.”
…
What?
Since when did this guy have a son?
* * *
“[Name], dear, I’ve asked the servants to pack your belongings. Once we eat lunch, we must go somewhere.”
Huh?
Has this guy lost his head already?
White Star came barging in one day, demanding to eat lunch with you after destroying who knows what kingdom and now his saying that you’ll accompany him.
This day just keeps getting better, huh?
“Isn’t it a war zone outside the kingdom? Why would I join you in that?”
“You aren’t.”
Dismissing the tender way the masked man responded, you set aside your eating utensils to give him your full attention. This guy is planning to do something that involves you, and you must find out.
He could be planning to use you as a meat shield, for all you know.
“I didn’t dare take you to the warzone, you are much too precious for that.”
White Star explained further upon seeing the confusion etched in your face. You were sure he was referring to how the Sealed God said before that you might be a trump card… but the way he was speaking sounded like his words had a double meaning.
“You’re going to accompany me while I pursue an ancient power. If you really are similar to your soulmate, then I’m guessing you might also share some of his luck in finding those powers.”
Not that explanation was better. You still didn’t understand anything. Well, you guess that the important thing is the fact that you aren’t going to the war zone, you feel relieved just by that confirmation, since you figure you don’t have much of a choice.
“Why are you even informing me? It’s not like I can say that I don’t like it and not go?”
“You can.”
“What?”
“You can absolutely do that.”
…Did this guy eat something bad before coming back, or are you important in their eyes?
“Does my existence hold that much weight?”
“Yes, your value is something no one can ever weigh.”
Huh?
Weird
You’re definitely on the same track, but his answers seem to have a different meaning.
No bother, you’d still go as long as it’s not the war zone. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
“Got it. I’ll tell your servants to bring my stuff outside so we can go after eating.”
“They’re yours.”
“I’m sorry?”
“Those servants are yours; I gave them to you.”
“Ah…”
Okay, this guy is definitely acting weird.
You’re not sure what’s wrong with him. It’s not like it concerns you though, so you’ll just keep acting oblivious to it.
True to his words, the two of you and some entourage are off to wherever it is White Star wants to go.
‘So he just wants me to stick to him and act like his lucky charm?’
You thought to yourself as you stared at the man in front of you. It’s just the two of you inside the luxurious carriage. The thought of being alone with such a man still feels uneasy, but alas, what can you do?
“Sleep if you feel tired. This journey is going to take a while, so it’s best if you sleep.”
You nodded along but promised yourself to hold on for as long as you can. This might be your only chance of going outside; you’re going to take in as many clues as you can. Maybe you’d be fortunate enough and even find a chance to escape.
However…
White Star wasn’t kidding when he said it’s a long ride.
Good thing that the carriage was spacious and comfortable. The benefit of being under the direct care of a monarch, you concluded. If it weren’t for such privileges, the ride would’ve been more unbearable than it already is. You weren’t even sure how many hours had passed; you’re just sure that it’s been a long time.
That was why, despite your promise to yourself, you soon found yourself drifting to sleep.
“...did we stop..?”
Your groggy voice broke the silence lingering in the carriage. As you sit up to wake yourself up and assess the situation, you notice that you are now lying down on the carriage seat with a pillow and a blanket.
“We’re staying in an inn for the night. This inn also has a restaurant, so we’ll be having our dinner here.”
The only thing you could do to respond to White Star’s words was nod, still dazed from just waking up. The masked man assured you that you can take your time before the two of you head towards the inn hosting you for the night.
Seeing as White Star doesn’t seem to mind, you surely took your time waking up. Even glancing outside to try and memorise the landscape—in case you ever get the chance to break away. Speaking of, the thought of running away right here, right now, actually crossed your mind. However, it quickly dissipated once you saw how large of an entourage you had when you gazed out of the carriage window. No wonder why they didn’t use a teleportation spell and travelled the traditional way.
“Why are there so many people travelling with us? You already had people with you when you first went out, right?”
You asked the man in charge of all this. The very same man is escorting you out of the carriage and into the inn’s restaurant. Upon entering the restaurant, the food was already prepared. The dishes looked a little different from what you would be served in the castle, but the ingredients were still the things you like.
“Those were my servants. What we have now are yours, not all of them, of course, just the crucial ones you’ll need while outside.”
A flabbergasted expression couldn’t help but plaster itself on your face as White Star escorted you to your seat. Up until this moment, you had no idea just how many servants he had given you. You thought you’d have at most 5.
But no, approximately 20 people are travelling with you.
And that’s not all of them?
“These dishes are from the restaurant's menu, so they might be a little different. Tell me if something is not to your taste.”
White Star’s words snapped you out of your thinking.
Despite what he said, it was clear that whoever ordered the dishes really considered your taste buds. Sure, the taste can’t quite compare to your personal chef’s, but the flavours are still all the things you like. Every dish served was to your liking, and you had no complaints.
Dinner was fairly quiet; there were only two of you at the table, and no one bothered striking up a conversation. Usually, White Star would try to strike some small talk—trying to stay true to that hospitable host he and the sealed god had deluded themselves to be his role—but he didn’t bother this time. There seems to be a lot weighing on his mind, so you also didn’t bother, not wanting to risk the fragile peace at the dinner table.
After supper, you were escorted to your room for the night, where the servants proceeded to do your nightly routine as if you were still in Endable Kingdom.
“...Should I try sneaking out?”
You softly muttered to yourself as you opened the curtain to gaze at the window.
…
“... never mind.”
You quickly closed the curtain once you saw just how many guards were standing outside. Still, you weren’t giving up that quickly. As you walk towards your bed, you try thinking of ways you can escape the inn. Tried concocting up plans with the limited knowledge you had gathered during your time at the castle.
But alas, it was all for nought.
Maybe you’ll try to learn more about the guard’s routine tonight and try to find another chance of escaping some other time. You figured that you’ll also try to study how their abilities work.
As you conjure a long-term plan, you feel a divine presence with you in the room.
“Sealed god..? No, you feel different…”
With your guard still up, you tried to wait for another sign, or perhaps a reply from the divine being. It must be a god, as it feels slightly similar to the sealed god’s presence. However, it must be a different one as its overall presence isn’t like his.
This one felt more chilling, but in the cold of the night way not the terrifying way.
You don’t know how you can tell, but it seems to be looking upon you with mercy and not as if you’re a pawn in its game.
The god did not speak, but it confirmed its presence by embracing your shoulders. You couldn’t see it, but you could feel the cold warmth that it brings. It’s reassurance stabilising you, giving you hope that you won’t be trapped under these horrible people forever.
You didn’t know a simple embrace—a pseudo one, for the matter—could convey so much. Nevertheless, it’s a welcome gesture that finally puts your mind at ease enough for you to manage to fall asleep with a light heart.
When you woke up the next day, everyone in the inn seemed busy. At first, you figured that they were getting ready to depart, but the tense look on their faces made you think otherwise.
“Are there any change of plans?”
You ask White Star, who was busy giving out orders to everyone.
“We need to go to the Castle of Light, the cats said his there. You need to come with us because the protection here will be lowered. I’m not sure what that guy is planning.”
You don’t know who “that guy” is. You don’t even know where, let alone what, the Castle of Light is, but sure you’ll tag along.
Preparations finished fast, and soon you were on a magic circle with White Star, Becrock, and some other guys you don’t know the name of.
“Stick close to Becrock and tell us if anything feels unusual.”
White Star tells you before warning you of how a teleportation spell might feel as it’s your first time.
You braced yourself for what was about to come, tried to ease your mind and not be so nervous, for this was the first time you were directly experiencing magic.
BLEURGH!!
Cat tribe members and other Arm members rushed to your side the moment you vomited blood.
The sticky red blood on the ground looked disgusting, and you felt weak after coughing out so much.
“What happened?”
“It must be the teleportation spell.”
“When we get back, figure out a way to not make them sick every time.”
“I understand. I’ll figure it out as soon as we’re finished here.”
A bunch of people were speaking and trying to assist you. The commotion only succeeded in causing your headache to worsen.
“Can you stand?”
Finally, everyone else backs off in favour of White Star personally assisting you. The quietness aids in dwindling your headache. It doesn’t go away entirely, but it’s more bearable. You can actually stand now and try to act like you aren’t sick.
“Yeah, I can hold out.”
The setting is clearly a battlefield, acting like a damsel isn’t going to get you anywhere except for an early grave.
‘Once I get out of here, I’m smacking them behind their back.’
You mentally rolled your eyes before standing straight to look at the situation. Once you did you pat yourself on the back for your wise choices because there’s clearly a fight going on. Arm’s forces are attacking all around. Meanwhile, a majestic white castle seems to be stacking shield after shield to try and defend itself.
“Are they not going to fight back?”
You accidentally asked out loud, to which White Star hummed.
“They’re strong but outnumbered.”
“Ah, that makes sense…”
For a while, you watched the chaos happening. You watch how each layer of shield slowly breaks under Arm’s forces.
You’re unsure why, but the sight of the people inside the castle getting injured stings your heart.
‘I don’t have time to look after myself, this is no time to be thinking about others.’
“Ha, haha- are you really hurt?”
You snapped out of your daze upon hearing White Star’s taunting voice. After hearing the unexpected laugh, you tried to see what exactly he was laughing at, only to see a red-haired man bleeding profusely while on someone’s back.
‘...that looks fake.’
It’s not your circus, so definitely not your monkeys. Hence why you did not dare say your thoughts out loud. If that guy wants to fake being injured, who are you to stop him? It’s not like you’re siding with either of them—not willingly at least.
Just as you were assessing the situation, you accidentally made eye contact with the “injured” man.
…and the world just started spinning a little faster.
You might have lived your entire life without a soulmate mark and your sense of taste.
But the moment you made eye contact with him.
You know…
You just know…
That he was your soulmate.
And oh, just how much crueller can your life get?
“That Cale Henituse seems to be badly injured.”
You heard one of the members of Arm mutter in glee. Meanwhile, your heart broke at the statement.
Not because he was injured—you were well aware that it was fake—but rather because you know who that is.
That was the same man White Star and the Sealed God were trying to annihilate.
Why didn’t it click to you that, of course—of fucking course—they would summon the soulmate of the leader of the opposing side?
“Don’t get lost in thought when on the battlefield.”
A voice came from behind you, temporarily snapping you out of your turmoil. Just as you were about to turn around, a sword tried to slash you, something you fortunately managed to dodge.
“You seem to be a new face. It’s not White Star, but you’ll do until I can get to him.”
People all around you shouted with concern, but you couldn’t quite hear them, too busy fighting for your life.
“Young master!”
Beacrock tried to conjure up a spell, but was swept away because of an explosion.
“What the actual hell!?”
You couldn’t help but curse as this strong swordsman kept coming towards you, attacking relentlessly, giving you no time to try and compose yourself.
“Stop coming after me!”
Right after you shouted at the man once more, you saw a discarded sword conveniently lying on the ground. Luckily, the man seems to be a bit startled by your shouting, opening a split-second time frame to snatch the sword from the ground.
Did you know how to wield a sword? No, but you took arnis classes, and that should be close enough.
And would you look at them, just when you were picking up your sword, this annoying swordsman swings once more. This time he aimed at your chest to which you instinctively blocked.
…It’s just that you instinctively blocked it, forgetting that you were holding a sword and not a rattan wood stick.
Because of that, not only did you hold onto the handle of the sword, but you also slammed your other hand on the actual blade. Good thing that you only obtained a shallow cut.
“Oww… okay, okay, a sword is different from sticks, noted.”
“Is that arnis?”
“Huh? Yeah, you know about it?”
The two of you were still moving while talking. One style of fighting clashing with another, both not letting up, for it will cost your lives. You tried thinking that this was just a sparring match, a tournament with high stakes at risk. If you didn’t think like that, you might have lost your mind already.
“Young master, we’re coming to get you! Be careful, for Choi Han is powerful!”
One Arm member shouted towards you before this man named Choi Han could answer your question.
Both of you looked towards the shouting, who is now preoccupied with defending himself from explosions. The distraction was only for a split second; however, that was enough for your right eye trust to do Choi Han some damage. He managed to defend himself last second, but it wasn’t enough. Instead of his eye or ear, his arm took the damage.
Splat!
The moment his blood splattered on you was the moment you couldn’t pretend everything was fine anymore.
“You’re Korean—wait, why didn’t you dodge!? Hey, hey, why are you bleeding..!”
Usually, such injuries were nothing but a scratch to Choi Han. However, your frantic concern caused him to stop in his tracks. You even dropped your sword in the middle of your panic.
It wasn’t just Choi Han who stopped in his tracks; literally everyone on the battlefield stopped to look at you two. Of course, they were for different reasons: White Star and his men are concerned about you, while Cale and his group were concerned about Choi Han as well as curious about your odd demeanour.
“How do you know about that—”
“Teleport [Name]! Now!”
Choi Han’s question got drowned out by White Star taking advantage of the situation. Immediately following his command, the mage got close to you and fast casted a teleportation circle to take you away to one of Arm’s bases.
“Haaa! Hah! Huff! Huff!”
As soon as you teleported, everyone was ready to assist you like it were a national crisis. But you couldn’t focus on them, you can’t even focus on your injuries. You could only stare blankly as you recall what just happened, trauma from the new experience seeping into your memories in real time.
Meanwhile, back on the battlefield, everything continued as normal after you were gone. White Star and Cale respectively stuck to the plans they had conjured earlier.
However, throughout the battle, Cale couldn’t help but look back at you. Wondering why he can’t seem to get you out of his mind even after returning to Moguru’s castle.
* * *
‘That odd new person that bastard is lugging around… I can’t tell what’s the deal with him.’
Cale drummed his fingers on his thigh as he looked back on the event that was the battle in the Castle of Light. He was currently in Moguru’s imperial prince’s room, preparing for their next move. However, his mind seems to be stuck on White Star’s odd companion.
‘Do they perhaps wield charm magic?’
That was the only explanation he could conjure for the magnetic pull he feels towards them.
Before he could deeply think about it, the communication device started ringing, breaking Cale’s line of thought. Raon connected the call to see Cage’s face, looking a bit distraught from the other side of the orb.
“Did something happen?”
Cale asked, a bit worried after seeking the excommunicated priest’s expression.
“No, the God of Death just has a message for you. He told me that there’s one person on the enemy’s side that’s yours..?”
“Mine? Just what does he mean by that?”
Both of them were confused by the god’s words, and no one could provide an answer.
“He said he can’t go into details, but said that you’ll know what his talking about when the time comes.”
‘Could it be… No… plus even if it’s them, they aren’t my responsibility. I don’t want to take responsibility for another person.’
With that, Cage and Cale’s conversation ended, and the latter went back to preparing for the trap they set in the Whale Village.
* * *
“So you’re Naru, the one Duke Fredo was talking about?”
You asked the kid in front of you who is currently sitting in the chair Duke Fredo would usually sit in during your tea time. The duke was currently lying in bed, injured because of the war, which caused his son, Naru Von Ejellan, to come home to take care of his father.
That said child is now having tea with you in place of his father.
“Yes, young master. My father has told me many things about you.”
Fredo did not, in fact, tell Naru anything about you. He didn’t even know you were regarded so highly in Endable Kingdom.
But you don’t need to know that.
“It’s a shame that we meet under such circumstances. Please send my regards towards Duke Fredo. I would like to visit him myself, but security seems to be on edge these—”
Cough!
Cough!
You coughed into a napkin, and Naru couldn’t help but notice the blood that seeped into it.
“Are you alright, young master..!?”
“Ah… I heard you’re quite sickly, so that must’ve scared you. Don’t worry, this just happens occasionally. The healers said there’s nothing wrong, but it leaves me a bit weak after. I’m sorry, but I think I’ll have to cut our meeting short.”
You profusely apologised to Naru before sending him off after promising to tell White Star to send him more cookies tomorrow.
Right as Naru was leaving, he could see many servants fussing around you as they found out that you coughed blood. He doesn’t know why, but the sight of your pale face twinges his heart.
Your very existence raises a million questions to Naru—no, Cale’s head. That was why he sought out Duke Fredo as soon as his business was finished.
“I didn’t tell you anything about Young Master [Name]? But I did tell you that we’re tea drinking partners.”
Duke Fredo said cheekily, and Cale wants nothing more than to land just one hit on the vampire’s face. Currently, it’s just Cale, Fredo, and Raon inside the Duke’s room. As soon as Cale mentioned White Star guest’s name, Duke Fredo asked for privacy, assuring Cale that he would spill something.
And honestly? That was the only reason why Cale hadn’t asked Raon to blow the vampire into little, tiny pieces.
“But that young master… they are a bit peculiar in my opinion.”
“How so?”
“They just showed up one day as White Star’s guest. No one knows who they are or where they’re from aside from a select few. As a matter of fact, no one even saw them entering the castle gates. We only found out about their existence 3 months in after their arrival.”
That information got Cale to think. Not even the high-ranking nobles knew of their existence?
“Another factor is that they seemed too sheltered, but White Star regards them highly. From what I saw and heard, it’s to the point that the only things they know are the things White Star introduced to them. The few times they went out, they were so clueless. However, despite that, White Star seems to trust their opinion and gut feeling a lot.”
“That’s unusual.”
White Star is a tyrant who also has a perfectionist streak. He rarely listens to his own people, who are smart and have experience. But his listening to someone’s intuition?
“It is. He even went to Whale’s Village just because the young master got a feeling from looking at the map. These kinds of instances happened more than once.”
“Maybe it has something to do with their ability? ”
The vampire shook his head.
“They don’t have one. If they did, I’m sure they would’ve already tried to use it to escape from here.”
Cale was so shocked by the information that he couldn’t help but show it on his face.
“Shocking, right? It’s information I only know because I talked to them long enough. Everyone, including White Star, seems to delude themself that the young master is a VIP when, according to the [Name], they are more like a lavish prisoner.”
After that, the conversation shifted towards their future plans. Once everything was settled, Cale stood up to leave Duke Fredo’s room in order to turn in for the night.
“My son…”
Duke Fredo called out, to which Cale was so tempted to ignore and walk away. Nevertheless, he swallowed that desire and stopped in his tracks.
“Young Master [Name] seems to know information that even the highest-ranking people do not know. White Star seems to be carefree around them.”
You can use it to your advantage. [Name] would be willing to provide the information to you.
Was the silent message Duke Fredo was saying that Cale instantly understood.
“Yes, father.”
Oh, Cale is planning to milk every second of it.
Later that night, Cale was trying to fit the puzzle pieces together while lying down on his bed.
“Say, Choi Han, you said that [Name] knew you were Korean when they found out your name, right?”
“Yes, Cale-nim, they also don’t know swordsmanship but use arnis techniques.”
“They’re from Earth then, but hmm…”
Cale hummed, feeling like he was still missing something. It’s obvious they’re from Earth; the glaring signs are there, but there’s something else Cale can’t seem to put a finger on.
“They’re not from here… They have been summoned for less than a year… They don’t have any supernatural abilities…”
…
“Wait, that’s it, I think I get it.”
Cale sat up in the bed, which alerted Choi Han and Raon.
“What do you get human?”
Raon asks enthusiastically.
“They’re from Earth, but not ours.”
It was the most logical conclusion. They got that Choi Han is Korean just based on his name. They also use a martial arts technique that Cale has only seen on Earth. If they were actually from Cale and Choi Han’s Earth, then they should have an ability since that world is now post-apocalyptic. However, they don’t have one. Based on the timeline, it would be impossible for them not to live in an apocalyptic world since they have been in this world for less than a year.
‘Unless they aren’t from the Earth we know.’
Sure, there’s the hypothetical that they didn’t manifest an ability.
‘But that reaction towards violence.’
When the cataclysm happened, no one was immune to the violence. Those who couldn’t take it died the fastest. [Name], who was supposed to be from the same world as Cale—no, Kim Rok Soo—seems so foreign towards violence.
That was the last factor that solidified it for Cale.
Of course, some otherworldly factors might be at play, and they could all actually be from the same world. But for now, Cale is 90% sure about his conclusions for the night.
* * *
During Naru’s stay to nurse his father back to health, he seems to be spending more and more time with you. Which would have been fine if it weren’t for this one fact…
You absolutely knew that Naru is Cale Henituse.
At first, you thought you were losing your head so badly. Years of having to accept you don’t have a soulmate, only to suddenly gain one taking a toll on your mental health. But you remembered what a scientist once told you.
“Soulmate, once they meet and as long as the body isn’t broken, can perceive each other with all of their sense. People think it’s just the sense of taste because of the shared palette, and the sense of touch because of the mark. However, soulmates are also able to look at their soulmate’s true self. No matter what disguise they put on, soulmates with unbroken bonds will be able to recognise each other.”
After that, the scientist goes on to further explain how the other senses work in a soulmate bond. But you only really need the first part to confirm that Naru Von Ejellan is actually your soulmate, Cale Henituse.
Needless to say, you kept quiet. He may be your hostage, but you’re not going to willingly help him just because. He doesn’t even know you’re soulmates.
But that fact doesn’t hurt as much. You grew up having to come to terms that you have no soulmate, this much can’t hurt you.
…
Okay, it might hurt a little. You can’t even break the soulmate bond because his unaware (and honestly, a part of you doesn’t want to).
Still, going home is your priority right now. Soulmate or not, you can’t stay here and be White Star’s fancy hostage.
“[Name]-nim, thank you for telling Uncle to bring me some more cookies.”
“The pleasure is all mine, Naru-nim.”
A while back, the two of you agreed to just address each other with “nim” as both of you are young masters in this place.
“Say [Name]-nim, I remember my father telling me that the two of you talked about anything and everything. He told me before that I can ask you if I ever have questions. Is that true?”
Contrary to Naru’s statement, you and the duke aren’t that close, but you get what he was trying to say.
‘Duke Fredo said you know some things.’
And well…
“That’s kind of true, but…”
You subtly looked at the guards stationed just a few feet away from the pavilion.
A part of you longs to help your soulmate, even if he doesn’t have an idea about the connection you share. Every night you spend trying to convince yourself that his no big deal, that you’ll get over him once you get home. Only for you to turn around and forget you even tried when you look into his eyes.
However, whether you want to or not isn’t the question: the heavy surveillance put on you will get you discovered and possibly punished or killed.
You have to go home.
You just can’t risk it.
“They must be adult talk then.”
Naru supplies an excuse for you to which you immediately latched onto.
“Yes, that’s right. I know you’re his heir, but there are some things children shouldn’t worry about just yet. If opportunity permits, though, I would love to talk about it when the right time comes.”
The two of you smiled in understanding, and with that, the topic changed back to something more lighthearted.
Later at night, you couldn’t help but reflect back at what had happened so far. You felt like everything was moving too fast to the point that you didn’t have any time to recall just how insane everything had been.
First and foremost, your goal. Your priority is still to get back home. Escape White Star and just find a way to return to your world.
“...But why am I so desperate to go back? Nothing is going on for me there.”
You try to think about what makes that world “home” aside from the fact that it was what you knew before you got thrown in Endable Kingdom.
Quite frankly… there’s nothing you could think of.
No friends, no loved ones, no soulmate…
Only scrutiny and isolation.
There’s no point in going back just to feel desolate.
“I also don’t belong here.”
You’re the epitome of a foreigner in this land—in this world. Even if you escape from White Star, you have no clue where to go if you are to stay in this world. You’ll have no means of making money. No knowledge of how and where to hide from his troops.
Sure, you’re soulmate is here, but even putting aside the fact that he doesn’t know about the bond, you two are practically enemies.
Even if you aren’t, you’re sure he couldn’t care less about you.
“What do I have… where… where do I belong?”
Nothing
That was the harsh answer you concluded with, and tears silently started streaming the moment it clicked upon you. You tried your best to stay silent, not wanting to cause a ruckus to the point of burying your face in the pillows.
But no matter how deep you bury your face, your heart still hurts from the self-inflicted heartbreak.
This was the first time in your life that it fully dawned on you just how alone you were.
How you belong nowhere.
That you have nothing.
You thought that you were used to it. You thought you had grown numb and accustomed to your unique norm.
But you were wrong.
It still hurts.
It hurts so damn much you can’t do anything but cry.
Just where do you go from here?
What are you desperately fighting for?
The world you don’t belong in, despite being born and raised there?
Your soulmate who couldn’t care less about you and is unaware of the heartbreak he brings just by existing?
Just what is it?
You want someone to lay out the answers for you. To stop confusing you.
But alas, there is no such person.
And with that, you fell asleep with your face still buried in your tear-soaked pillow.
* * *
Succeeding the night where your entire will to fight crumbled, you just… started to not try as hard.
Needless to say, you couldn’t in good faith just let White Star succeed in his plans, so you don’t just outright cooperate with him. But you just cared less about the whole debacle you are in.
People around you noticed the change and tried to ask what was wrong, to which you just answered that you were feeling fatigued.
White Star and a few others didn’t believe you, but gave you your space.
“Such a respected person! He was injured by that evil Cale Henituse bastard!”
You flinched at Naru suddenly shouting, you almost forgot that you’re currently at the assembly hall.
Pfft-
“Are you alright?”
White Star whispered beside you, to which you covered up your laugh with a cough.
“Uhm, yes. I was just surprised because Naru is so sweet.”
In reality, you were holding your laugh because Naru is announcing war on… himself?
Weird, but whatever gets the plan going, you guess.
The whole thing was funny for you, though you get where Naru, or rather Cale, was trying to do.
“Last but not least, please allow [Name]-nim to be in this expedition as well if they so wish. I believe that their intellect can be further utilised with the information that I have once we are looking for Cale Henituse’s lair.”
Naru’s one last demand shocked you to your core. He was basically opening a way out for you.
The you who is his enemy and turned down the chance to help him in the past.
He was giving that you a chance.
“[Name] is an esteemed guest of mine; we cannot put them in harm’s way.”
“I, Naru Von Ejellan, and the vampires will make sure that they are safe and sound.”
“Since my nephew is so determined, I guess you should have the last say.”
White Star turns to look at you, awaiting your final verdict.
“I…”
Everyone tuned in to your words, the crowd was split between wanting you to accept and decline the invitation.
“I’ll go on the condition that I will be on Count Mock’s team.”
Cale Henituse’s heart shattered for reasons he didn’t know when he heard that, but he didn’t know why.
And that’s information you will never know.
“Very well then.”
With that, a final decision was made with people whispering amongst one another why you chose Count Mock specifically.
And honestly?
It was because the guy was dumb.
Of course, his not that dumb, he wouldn’t be where he is right now if he were.
But his greed triumphed over his every being, and not only will that be his downfall, but that will also be the tool that will grant you your freedom.
If your line of thinking is correct, Naru will provide his address and let everyone go in. However, that place would be either super dangerous, full of traps, or just plainly filled with strong people; that’s why he doesn’t care. Actually, it could be all three from what you know about the man in the short while you interacted with his facade.
Gauging from that, you’d guess that they’d probably take out most of the squads while keeping some of the high-ranking captives for several reasons you could list all day—there are just so many benefits they can get from doing it. So, chances are high that they won’t directly kill Count Mock because he has some use. The battle might be fierce, but it will be less dangerous compared to sticking with someone like an aspiring noble who will be killed for sure.
Sure, things might not go according to your prediction, but you are sure of one thing.
Battle and chaos will ensue.
Chaos that you will use to escape this horrid place.
You aren’t quite sure yet where to run after, but you can conjure plans after you discover more about this world once you escape.
* * *
And would you look at that, battle and chaos indeed happened.
The moment “Bob” and Choi Han attacked, you quietly unsheathed your rapier and prepared to slip out and escape.
“Are you also betraying us? After such generosity, his majesty showed you?”
But of course it can’t be that easy, can it?
Some nameless mob shouted at you before lunging before trying to hear what you had to say.
Not that you’d try to make an excuse anyway.
The moment he did, you immediately blocked him. The two of you went back and forth with your weapons, with you backing away from the main source of chaos.
You still hadn’t forgotten your priority: get away from here.
Soon, it was just the two of you fighting, who knows where. You had the upper hand, but you weren’t without injuries. The rapier given to you might be better than the sword you wielded in the Castle of Light, but it still wasn’t your main choice of weapon.
However, it’s not as if you can use two pairs of sticks in a life-or-death situation, so this will do.
To be completely honest, you didn’t know how you had the upper hand given your lack of experience on the battlefield. Nonetheless, it somehow happened, and you are close to beating your opponent.
The two of you are heavily breathing, and the ground you are standing on is dyed red because of the blood oozing from your respective injuries.
You have a nasty slash on your shoulder, while the no-name mob has an injury on his side from your attack.
With adrenaline fueling you, you attacked for the last time; one last stomach thrust the mob hadn’t been able to block, making your sword pierce through his stomach.
Once you removed the sword from his body, he immediately dropped to his knees. You were sure he was still alive, though.
He had to be alive.
Or else you would lose your mind, having nightmares about this being your first kill.
But you put all those worries to the side for now and just bolted.
You fast like the wind, trying to get as far away as possible before the adrenaline rush runs out. From what you’ve heard, this forest is more dangerous than usual; it’s a place that hasn’t been explored in centuries because of how vast and unusual it is, but if Cale had set a base here, then there must be an exit somewhere.
However, for now, you must find something for your wounds. Some sort of shelter, like a cave, where you can rest while letting the big gash on your shoulders close.
Just something.
After a few minutes of frantically running around while slashing the monsters that come your way, you finally found a resting place in the form of a huge tree. A part of it is hollow, giving you enough space to go in and conceal yourself.
Ignoring the searing pain from your injuries, you carried a chunk of wood to cover the entrance of the tree before going in and closing it.
Huff
Huff
You breathed once you were sure you were secured. Your limbs felt heavy, and everything was crashing down like meteors all at once. Gathering strength for one last time, you tear the bottom of your clothing in favour of tying it around your shoulders to finally stop the bleeding.
Feeling a bit secure, you closed your eyes, letting rest overtake your body.
“Human, I think it ends here!”
Or that’s what you thought before hearing an unknown voice speaking just outside of your hiding spot.
You tried to keep conscious, to not let the dark swirls in your vision take over. But it was easier said than done, especially when you’ve lost so much blood.
“I’ve got you, you can sleep for now.”
And after that, you didn’t know what happened.
* * *
If Cale was being frank, he didn’t know why he did that. There was absolutely no reason for him to demand your presence in this expedition and give you a living chance.
You weren’t his responsibility, you weren’t one of his people, he didn’t even have a use for you.
Sure, he can demand you to tell him about what you know about White Star, but he doesn’t really need it much.
And a part of him doesn’t want to demand anything from you.
Well, that part of him also felt sad when you announced that you weren’t going to be in his squad, so he guessed that part of him must have faulty judgment.
But nevertheless, he did what he did, and now it is up to you to decide on what to do with the opportunity he solemnly presented.
…or is what he would like to say.
“Human, there’s a trail of blood here! I’m sure it’s theirs! We have to go find them. Hurry! Hurry!”
Cale Henituse would have left it at that if this toddler weren’t so adamant about finding you.
“They’re a good kid, a bit scared and need help, and the human is a kind person, so let’s take care of them, okay?”
Is what Raon said while planning for this very day.
He would never say it out loud, but Cale was secretly happy at the thought of seeing you again. He just has this urge to take you away from White Star and keep you by his side.
Cale would blame it on charm magic, but everyone knows you have no supernatural abilities.
“This blood looks fresh, we must be close, human!”
Raon enthusiastically said, for some reason, excited about acquiring a new family member. Cale kept saying that he won’t take them in, but Raon seems to be sure that they’re going to be a part of the group soon.
“Human, I think it ends here!”
The toddler sniffed the air before pointing towards the large tree in front of them.
“They’re there!”
Raon was about to conjure an explosion, but Cale held his hand up.
“Wait, they might get hit.”
“Ah, you’re right, human. I guess this mighty being got too excited for a moment.”
Raon then sheepishly, but still carefully, removed the debris clogging up something they presumed to be the entrance of a hiding spot.
True enough, once they opened it up, they could see you, heavily wheezing and desperately trying to stay awake.
“I’ve got you, you can sleep for now.”
Cale gathered you in his arms, hoisting you up so he could carry you back to his home. He has no clue why, but holding you felt so natural, like it was meant to be. As if he were born to experience this very moment.
If he paid attention, he swore he could feel sparks go off from the moment he touched you.
He doesn’t know how to explain, but…
It was like the world was finally in the right order.
Surely, once they get back, his arms would sore, and he would regret carrying you.
For certain, he would bury these feelings, for he doesn’t know what they mean.
And when you wake up later, Cale would definitely revert to his stoic self as if none of this is happening. As if he doesn’t feel sparks fly whenever he makes the slightest bit of contact with you.
But those things are for later.
Right now, Cale and Raon will just go back home with the help of the sound of the wind while you rest in your unwitting soulmate’s arms.
a/n: I'm gonna be honest guys, there's an entire act 2 to this fic that I had to cut because I feel like I've kept you waiting for so long. So I might do a part but NO PROMISES just yet. But yeah, there's this whole arc of romance-centred plot between reader and Cale that I had to dismiss </3
a/n: this is based on epic the musical's "the horse and the infant" and "just a man" as requested! I wanted to make this longer and write what happens after reader grew up a bit but i also want the focus to be in Cale's feelings and their reunion :<<<<
tags: male! reader, reincarnated! reader, child/baby! reader, spoilers about Cale's past life, set around the ending of book 1, fluff and angst, platonic relationships, hints of mentally unstable Cale (it's Cale what did you expect), yandere Cale if you squint very hard.
Pls don't repost my work anywhere without my permission
Requests are open and welcome
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req by: @xjdjfbcuf
Kim Rok Soo does not know many things about life. Despite all those experiences, even with the combination of his ability “record“ and read many books he is not all-knowing. But that’s normal, expected. If there’s one thing the man had learned it’s accepting just how unpredictable life can be.
That's why, whatever life throws at him, he accepts and adapts with ease. It’s not easy, both mentally and physically. But what else can a hopeless man like Kim Rok Soo do? If he cannot adapt, then he dies.
This was why even when the most precious people around him died he moved forward. Represses his emotions so that the people under his care do not experience the same thing. Put others above his wellbeing for he is empathetic and compassionate like that despite the whirlwind of bullshit life has put him through.
But sometimes his efforts aren’t enough.
Kim Rok Soo poured more than blood, sweat, and tears just so you have the same as Choi Jung Soo and Lee Soo Hyuk. As a young child under his care — used to be under their care — Kim Rok Soo doesn’t want to lose you or abandon you. Hence why he tried his damnest just so his team would have a 0% mortality rate.
Not everything goes according to plan though. Kim Rok Soo can have several contingencies, and make plans a to z, but that would never stand a chance when the gears of fate turn against him.
And turn against him they did.
For not long after his brothers you also died.
Your death devastated him. You were so young, so little. He was supposed to protect you, shield you from the cruel and harsh outside world.
But he failed to do just that.
And so his baby died.
Alone
Scared
Helpless
Just like how he is feeling now, Kim Rok Soo cannot take it upon himself to dwell on his feelings.
Once again the only thing the man named Kim Rok Soo could do was adapt and move on.
Ignore the pain.
Ignore the longing.
Ignore that empty feeling.
Other people are counting on him, he cannot let his flimsy mental state ruin their lives too.
He already ruined theirs, he cannot ruin anymore.
This kind of mentality continued as Cale Henituse. From picking up weapons to picking up bottles of booze. From warding off monsters to avoiding annoying nobles. Cale Henituse adapted seamlessly to this new life he was thrown into without any notice or manuals.
However, there is one thing that bothers him as he goes on his quest to get his slacker life.
When he first woke up in this world there was a small note in his pant pocket and all it said was:
[The heir shall await for the day you relieve it from its fate.]
This kind of thing was never mentioned in the novel. In the first place, Cale Henituse never had a major overarching role. He was just there as a small obstacle course for the main hero, Choi Han.
So what exactly did that note mean?
Why was it in his pocket?
Why did it feel divine?
Is that note for him or the original Cale?
Questions he had no way of answering kept piling up each time he took out the small, yet sturdy piece of paper. Hence why he decided that he has more pressing matters to deal with, like preparing for his slacker life, and that note can wait later.
True enough the answer unveiled itself when the time was right. And that time was when White Star was finally defeated.
Cale Henituse should be resting. He wasn’t gravely injured or anything but everyone kept giving him scary glares when he tried to move around too much. Cale knows his weak, but seriously? Just how much of a weakling do the kids imagine him to be?
Usually, he would be more than happy to do nothing. Relish in the short lavish lifestyle of doing nothing but eating, reading, sleeping, and repeating it all over again. But this isn’t his usual situation. Despite the White Star and the Seal God being defeated another annoying thing has popped up.
[The heir awaits at the temple.]
Another note slipped in his pocket. At first, he tried to ignore it, his too tired and weary, surely it could wait for another day?
[You must go now before it becomes a bigger threat.]
Another hour, another note. Cale continues to pretend that it didn’t exist.
[Defeat her while he is not ready yet.]
Okay, that’s it Cale has had enough. His pocket and mind feel too heavy to the point he cannot sleep without those notes haunting him.
Which brings him to his current predicament. Sneaking out at night to go back to that blasted temple to kill whatever heir White Star — or so he assumes — left behind. Throughout Cale’s walk notes kept popping, guiding him where he needed to go.
Finally, after 5 minutes of walking Cale Henituse comes across a closed door where that heir is supposed to be. As he opens the door he readies himself for any possible attack that might come. However, none came. Instead, a lone crib draped by a canopy sits in the middle of the room.
“You’ve gotta be kidding me…”
Cale spoke for the first time that night as he approached the crib.
“You have got to be fucking kidding me..!”
He cursed as he looked at the baby inside the crib.
At just one glance he instinctively knew who that baby was… Cale– no, Kim Rok Soo instinctively knew that this baby was you, or at least a reincarnation of you.
This is not White Star’s baby.
This is his baby.
He cannot kill the baby he already failed to protect once.
“I’m not gonna do it. I’m going to take this baby under my roof.”
Cale spoke with finality, if he were speaking to his people they would know that this decision was absolute. That no amount of convincing can change his mind.
Unfortunately, this unknown god doesn’t seem to be aware of that fact.
[That child is the White Star’s heir. If you don’t end him now he’ll come back to avenge his father.]
“His father that is incapable of loving? His father that he won’t even remember because his a literal baby right now?”
[It does not matter, end this baby now or this baby will end everything you have worked for in the future.]
Cale crumpled that last note, but another one appeared almost immediately.
[You already have blood smeared on your hands. You cannot avoid smearing more, you can only choose whose.]
“Bullshit.”
The commander spoke as he scooped the baby— his baby, not White Star’s— from his crib. His voice sounded strong and nonchalant, but the tremor in his hands betrayed the facade he was putting on.
Deep inside, despair and agony wash over his entire being. Crashing against his heart like tidal waves that cannot be controlled. Visions of his people dying reel over his head like a broken record desperately begging to be destroyed.
“I’ll raise him as my own— no he is my own. He doesn’t need to know who the White Star is.”
And yet he is resolute.
[The other gods will make it known how much of a sinner his father is.]
“Try that and see what will happen.”
Cale Henituse is ready to take that risk. More than that he is ready to go against literal gods just to not lose you once again. He cannot take going through that whole ordeal a second time, he doesn’t think he can handle it.
And so he leaves the temple as silently as he entered it. Leaving no trace except for the crumpled notes that littered your crib.
Silence lingered in his temporary room as Cale closed the window after entering through it. Everyone else was asleep— well the assassins probably know he snuck out but trust him enough to not follow him— and the kids decided to leave him alone and sleep in another room as he is still “recovering” according to them.
With only you and the moon accompanying him, the commander silently arranged his bed to be baby-friendly so that you could rest. There are so many logistics and care that go into taking in a baby, but he can think of all of that later. For now, he’ll relish in the fact that he has reunited with his estranged. A supposed miracle sent by the gods, if it wasn’t for the fact that those very beings want you dead.
As Cale settles the both of you on the bed you use your tiny hand to grab onto one of his fingers. It was as if you were aware of your past life and knew just how much he cared for you. His heart swells with pride and love, his feelings are so strong that he cannot help himself but let out a small smile as you squeeze his finger before falling back asleep.
Just like that the two of you fell asleep, unaware of the inevitable chaos your presence is bound to cause in the morning.
“This old man let you sneak out last night because he trusted that you know what you’re doing. But it seems like I overestimated my puppy young master.”
