Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Alver Crossman knew that Cale Henituse is irredeemable trash. However, the first time he sees him, sitting calmly over the Northeastern without care for the world piqued his interest.

His smiles were fake.

His actions are different than his words.

He's interested, that this Cale Henituse was not trash.

Until he found himself following his footsteps without knowing he's has fallen into a great scam... that's falling in love.

Would it be okay if want some of his time? Or if he wrote him a damn poem of love.

Would it be okay if he opened his heart? Or if he tries to take a part of his heart.

He had never thought he’d dream of being his man and showing him a view that’s grander and vast than the Kingdom.

He asks himself, if it would be okay if wants his smile? or held him for a while?

All the people around him wouldn’t let him. He vowed to be faithful and always be true, but would it be alright if he desires his heart? Or have him as the sole person in his beautiful eyes?

He wanted to pull him close and whisper into his ear. He wanted to whisper all his feelings with nothing to fear.

He is a noble…

While he was royalty.

He wanted to be his world, but would it hurt to ask for his entirety? Of if he wrote a love song.

There’s nothing he’d rather do… than to spend his whole life loving only him.

He can’t believe living in this kind of world without him.

He had fallen deep. He can’t pick himself up.

Damn… he didn’t expect that he’d fallen victim to this damn scam called Falling in love.

TBC

Chapter Text

“Nephew, these are the records of the Young Nobles who will be attending the Founding Anniversary.”

Alver skimmed through the file and noted most of the young heirs were coming. It’s been so long since he rose to his position, but he can’t seem to control the generations despite being brilliant and likable royalty. 

He intends to pull some nobles into his line, and he needs to start with his peers. 

Antonio Gyerre, the second prince's closest confidant. It will be hard to pull him to his side, knowing his stubbornness owing to his grandmother. 

Karin Orsena, from the duchy, has yet to support a prince, but they’ll choose the third prince. 

Venison Sten. Alver frowned at this scumbag. He pushed his brother by force out of the succession. He shouldn’t have this kind of backstabbing traitor. He can’t have him betray him knowing that the Sten Family were trying to usurp the throne and had been controlling the black market. 

He checked a few more candidates for his confidante, but none of them satisfied his standards. Most of them are bastards, wannabes, and power-thirst young nobles who were trying to get on the side of the strongest. 

He needed someone he could trust. 

Someone who can move and express his wishes without being a hindrance. 

One who he can trust with his decisions and support. 

He needed someone who could be his limbs and brain outside the palace walls. 

“Hah.”

“You don’t like any of them?” Tasha asked. 

Alver sighed and smiled at his aunt. He continued skimming through the files until the last which contained a record that even a guidance counselor would give up and kick out of school. 

Cale Henituse. 

Hah. To be honest, his family is one of the ideal vassals. However, the household continued to maintain its neutrality.  Count Henituse can be said to be the most promising noble and a role model. He moves for his people, petitioned for his people, and worked hard for the survival of his territory which landed them as the wealthiest family in the Rowoon Kingdom. Even Orsena Duchy, in terms of wealth, couldn’t be compared. 

He wanted to have the count by his side but — “his son is a crazy bastard.”

That’s his problem. How can he discuss politics with a jerk who squandered his life as trash and a drunkard? Cale Henituse is well-known for trashing around. There were rumors about him being a cradle snatcher, a casanova, and so on — and he had an uncountable number of children. 

Now that’s some rumors. 

The County has said nothing about it, nor has it addressed the rumors, but they have now sent him to the capital. 

He guessed it's for reformation? or Rehabilitation? or that punk has finally been evicted from the house?

That’s possible. 

[AN: What do you think of baby Cale? ]

His aunt Tasha spoke, “It seems that Young Lord Henituse has been quite tamed nowadays. It has not been a while since he turned eighteen, but reports said that he had become quite, um, matured? or he has grown up.”

“You’re not sure?”

“His change was drastic, but it has not been a while. He seemed to be likable nowadays too.”

Should I try?

There’s no harm in testing the waters. Cale Henituse could be his chance to have the count in his line up or he’d be useless to him. Nevertheless, he needs to watch how this Cale Henituse changes. If he is, he plans on having him as his confidante. 

He may just be useless trash, just as everyone says. 

Or he could be a lion in sheep's clothing, a predator in waiting. 

But… 

“Nah…” Even the great Deruth Hentiuse did not say anything to his son. 

He shouldn’t expect it. 

The day where Alver meets the Young Nobles. 

He knew that Cale Henituse’s hair was blazing red, one that made him look like he was on fire. Alver did not expect him to look like this as he entered his palace’s hall. The reports did not give justice to his handsome features. They did not capture an inch of his beauty. 

He stood out more than most of the nobles who wore lavishly designed clothes or high-class suits. 

His style showcased his physique, which isn't too manly or weak, but you can say suits him. 

It was the very first time that he had seen someone like him—the first time he couldn’t take his eyes off a person. 

After realizing his train of thoughts, he decided to enjoy the attention focused on him, as he headed to his elevated seat without any introduction. All of the nobles got up to greet him, and he, as the Crown Prince, left the second and third princes behind as he headed to the highest spot in the hall.

Bang.

As soon as he stood in front of his seat, the door closed. It meant that everyone was present.

Alver looked down at the second and third princes, as well as everyone else, and started to speak.

“Welcome. Thank you for responding to my invitation.”

This was somewhere where he did not need an introduction. Alberu looked down from the top. Cale Henituse blankly looked up at him, before looking back at the clock.

Alver was irritated that Cale was not paying attention to him. He kept looking at his watch and him, but his gaze was not on him. He was very irritated. He is trash. 

“Precious individuals who will make this kingdom shine, the future leaders of our kingdom, this prince is very happy that all of you have come to this gathering.”

He was slowly turning on the engines of his glib tongue. It was at that moment.

“Hmm?”

He shifted his gaze to the front door. The closed door was pushed open as if it were being reopened. He could hear some chattering through the resulting gap.

He noticed Cale Henituse secretly smiling. A servant rushed to the crown prince from a different entrance at that precise moment.

Something is up. 

He's convinced it has something to do with Cale Henituse, who appeared to be the most at ease in the hall. 

Alver was certain, but his prejudices about this person were kicking in. 

He appeared to be deep in thought for a moment before waving to the knight who peered inside. It was at that point that he decided to watch the end of the farce that someone had prepared for him — no, prepared for someone else who was deeply affected by that person's appearance. 

Venison Stan. 

Screech—

This was such a grand play that he decided to play as a principal by indispensable cooperation. He’ll see whether he can take something from this farce and make it favorable to him. 

He watched the large door open once again.

The servant did not dare to call out the person's name because he was after the crown prince. But there was no reason to.

Let’s see this play until the end. 

He thought while secretly glancing at Cale Henituse and the rest of the neutral Northeast Region.

A wheelchair entered the banquet hall.

Taylor Stan, Marquis Stan's paralyzed eldest son. He'd arrived with the insane priestess Cage at the banquet hall. Taylor and Cage's gazes quickly moved past Cale without anyone noticing. But that was sufficient for the three of them.

No — for four of them. 

The fifth one was the enraged Venion Stan glaring at his brother. 

Alver internally smiled. He sees it. An opportunity to place someone in Sten Marquessate. He exhilaratingly chuckled lightly. He couldn’t contain his excitement. 

In this deliberate act, someone delivered a useful person to him. They could have approached him directly, but it seems that the mastermind behind this has planned this play to the tiniest detail. 

And who was he to decline such an offer?

It's similar to when he's conversing with various groups of people at the party and catches their gaze from across the room, telepathically speaking to them. or that sly side-eye to give each other, signaling something worth joking about and starting laughing, completely perplexing people with their behavior. 

The con man who planned this all — is brilliant, a master schemer worse than he is. 

He needed that brain. He needed that talent. The talent that can work from behind and stage everything according to his will. 

At that precise moment, he noticed Cale Henituse with a satisfied smirk while watching the entire awkward Northeast table. He felt as if he had predicted everything that was going to happen while brilliantly playing the awkward innocent young master. He can tell his allies from his enemies by the way he moves his finger, and the way he looks down and secretly eyes people around him. 

No way.

He had the feeling, but he kept denying it. 

Is he the mastermind?

This elaborate play insulted the House of Sten and balanced the power out of nowhere. 

He wants to meet this person and see for himself. He wants to talk to him and ask him to work with him. 

He’s interesting. 

Cale Henituse was the most intriguing person he had ever encountered.

That young man is no trash — just a plain predator waiting to bare its fangs in his sheep’s clothing. 

 He’ll take his time and take this person by his side. 

TBC

Chapter Text

He'll watch this elaborate farce till the end. 

‘I guess they decided to flat out reveal their identities.’

It was a nice decision. If the mastermind wants to piss someone off, this is the best and most brutal way of pissing that one off. 

“What is this...”

Venion Sten's shocked, angry voice came from the northwest region. He was glaring at his own brother. Just the fact that he acted this way made Alver want to laugh so hard, but as an intervenor, he wanted to see how this would end in his favor. 

He opened his arms as if he was welcoming someone. His warmth and heartfelt insincere words reached out to the person with the calmest demeanor inside the hall. 

Cale Henituse has finally looked at him. 

See that? I'm great! 

He praised himself in his head as he welcomed the gate crashers and made them sit at the Northeast tables. 

"I didn't expect to see Marquis Stan's eldest son, Taylor Stan, and a priestess of the God of Death here."

Fortunately, he enjoyed this farce more than he anticipated. The sullen expression he had to put up with at every banquet was replaced by surprise and shock. He has to meditate on the same old boring thing because these egoistic nobles prefer something more spectacular than lavishly decorated clothing styles and business talks. 

"I heard there was an opportunity for the kingdom's nobles to meet with and discuss with your majesty; please accept my apologies for coming without an invitation."

Hah! So that's it? I expected it to be much more difficult, but after hearing this, I know exactly what he requires of me. The mastermind behind this farce had planned for my direct participation in it. 

He wasn't just a third-rate performer in this farce. The mastermind emphasized his role and staged the development he had been seeking for years. In this farce, he was the standout second lead actor.

He couldn't stop smirking. He noticed Cale Henituse's calculated expression, which indicated that he was aware of and comprehended the situation. 

Cale Henituse, if this is the farce you've prepared for me, I'll gladly participate. 

He has no idea why he would do this, but he has a feeling that something bigger is brewing without his knowledge.

"I did request a representative from each household, but if the household does not have a representative, it makes no difference who shows up; I'm guessing you were upset that I only sent one invitation to the Marquis's household, Mister Taylor?"

“Just a bit, your majesty.”

Alver caught a glimpse of Cale Henituse, who was staring at Venion Sten. For those who knew the Sten Marquessate's affairs, his words rang painfully awful. Even though it wasn't official, everyone assumed Venion would be Sten's successor. His words play on that subtly. Noting that there will soon be two successors vying for the title. 

The third prince's power will crumble once he names the other heir to the Marquessate. 

'That's the strange part.'’

Alver was aware of the grasps of the second and third princes. Even if the King favored either of them, he knew it would be difficult to change him. He grew accustomed to it. 

So why did the person who orchestrated this point this at him? 

Why him?

"I apologize for upsetting you, but I am relieved that you appear to be in good health, Mister Taylor; it has been a while since we last met."

Taylor responded with a smile. 

"Your Majesty, my legs may not move, but my hands, head, eyes, ears, mouth, and everything else are still very much alive, and have grown even stronger." 

"I see; you are still alive; I had forgotten that the strongest is the one who survives to the end."

He can't help but be drawn in. Previously, he would approach everyone and fail miserably, but for the first time, someone delivered that thing to him. He can't let this opportunity pass him by. He can't let this golden opportunity slip away. That glimmer of hope of gaining control of the Sten Marquessate was right in front of him. 

This situation was quite amusing to Alver. 

'It'll be entertaining to watch.'’

He, Taylor, Venion, and the nobles of the various factions. It was amusing to watch the expressions on everyone's faces. This was a tense situation that could burst at any moment. This is something the perpetrator would request in exchange for some wine and snacks to complement the play.

"Is the lady, then, a priestess of the God of Death?" 

"Your Majesty, this servant of eternal rest named Cage greets you."

Cage appeared to be a saint as she said the traditional greeting of the God of Death's priestesses. However, there was much knowledge about curses in her mind.

Before speaking with Taylor, he accepted Cage's greeting. He had a well-thought-out strategy for dealing with this person once and for all.

“Let us talk later. It is time for this gathering to start. I am not sure where to sit the two of you.”

He confirmed that he would make time later to speak with Taylor. He looked over to the northwest table. They were all filled with worry and anxiety. Neo Tolz was terrible; he appeared to be anxious and fidgety.

Everyone was tense, but only one person laughed at this farce. 

Cale Henituse, you're having a great time with this. He's staring at everyone and observing their expressions. That is not the expression of an idiot. 

 Alver would have enjoyed it as well if he hadn't been sitting at the very top of this hall. 

‘Hmm?’

Their gazes locked at that moment. 

Something swells within Alver. He simply decided to brush that feeling aside and compose himself as if he were looking for a good spot to place his visitors. Although it was subtle, he caught Cale's gaze on Taylor, who was also staring at him. 

Annoying

Alver had an immediate bad feeling.

‘Right there. Let's see how far this farce can go.'

“I guess there is a good spot for you.”

He made his decision and noticed that the redhead quickly figured out where it would be.

A game can be played by two. My reason would be simple, the safest route, which no one in this hall can easily access. 

The position lacks a high-ranking noble, but it has authority equivalent to one. Even though some families chose to become subservient to the various factions, there was still a balance of power on this table. Furthermore, there was a household on this table that was powerful and wealthy enough that even the highest-ranking nobles did not dare to poke.

“Mister Taylor can sit at the Northeast nobles’ table. There just happens to be some extra seats there.”

Gasp. He heard Neo’s gasp and saw one of the northeasterners' concerned expressions as he turned his gaze to Taylor and Cage.

“Thank you for providing seats for us, your majesty.” 

“Thank you very much, your majesty.” 

“It was nothing. We should work together with people who will make great contributions to the kingdom in the future.”

Time to play my own show. I've put that one on the hot seat, but that hit the spot. 

“Can we fix up the seats a bit?”

Who could refuse the crown prince? In response to his question, the Northeasterners rose to their feet.

“Of course, your majesty.”

The Northeasterners can act this way because they have something to discuss with him. Tasha completed her assignment despite the fact that it was not particularly noteworthy. The Northeasterners wanted him to invest in the northeastern shoreline while remaining neutral in business. 

A tourist attraction would be inappropriate. That shoreline must be turned into a naval base, but he can't tell them that. 

That was quick. Alver overheard one of the nobles whispering to the redhead. It was subtle, but he could read Young Whilsman's expression.

“Cale, remember. Be still. Just be still.”

Hah. Hilarious. How can you tell him to sit still when he's already made a mess? Hah! The people of the Northeast are fascinating!

He's putting them beside Cale Henituse. Heir to the strongest household of the remaining neutral households.

Now, what will your next move be?

This mind game sure is exciting.

The servants bowed after finishing before departing.

“Please sit.”

Cale Henituse quickly walked over to sit back down after he gestured to the group. There was no chair by his side, but a wheelchair soon arrived to take its place.

He can see them playing their parts brilliantly.

“This is entertaining." 

He muttered under his breath, but loud enough that the second and third princes turned to look at him. 

“Then, although it was slightly delayed, let us resume.”

He announced the start of the gathering.

"I wanted to gather the people who will bring forth our kingdom's future and share a meal with them; thank you all for coming, and I hope we have a wonderful meal."

The servants entered with plates of food for each table as soon as he finished speaking. From the back of the hall, an orchestra began to play background music. This was the distinction between a true feast and a shambles. It was a combination of a feast and a discussion, with natural movement between tables.

It's finally time to meet him. He'll embellish this meeting and disguise his actions as nobles' camaraderie.

Cale Henituse's face revealed that there was no way he could summon the nobles for any reason. He's a quick thinker, but his expression is selling him short.

He can come up with a thousand reasons, but I just want to see him up close.

He had to applaud this jerk for acting as if none of this was his business. He simply appeared to be enjoying the food and liquor in front of him!

He's not even paying attention to him! Alver was irritated enough that he wanted to smack that jerk. If he does so, his dignity as the crown prince will be in vain.

Alver noticed Cale's hand subconsciously reaching for the wine glass the servant had left for him, but it quickly vanished.

“Cale, just five minutes.”

He was itching to laugh! When the glass of wine vanished, the redhead looked so disappointed! He looks so cute.

Wait — what?

"You appear to be in a good mood, your highness." 

Alver wore a stoic expression and replied, "Yes, I am." 

It's ruined because of you. 

Alver spoke with the nobles he summoned while watching Cale Henituse's babyish actions and staring dumbfoundedly at the glass of wine and the wine itself. 

People were looking at Cale, who could eat in this tense situation, with interest.

He's really fascinating! 

Cale could hear the voice of the Black Dragon in his head.

There are also magical video recording tools all over this hall.

“Oh.”

I'm hoping it's only for the Northeast Tables.

Cale Henituse let out a cute gasp and began to smile. Anyone watching would think he was acting like this after eating something delicious.

'At least I know one thing.'’

Alver deduced one of this person's objectives.

Everyone in the hall was paying attention to what was going on. Everyone was awkward except one. 

He saw Cale slowly get up and lightly brush his hair back as he began to speak after seeing the three of the northeastern stand up. Cale followed the three nobles up the platform to meet with the crown prince.

"Oh, our nobles from the Northeast!"

He greeted them with a cheerful smile. He had shaken hands with everyone who had come up to greet him. 

He felt the need to show off his good looks. 

[AN: even if you flaunt it your baby cale is a dense bastard! Bwahahahaha!]

Alberu Crossman. His blonde hair and blue eyes gave him the appearance of a real-life fairytale prince. The Crossman family, the Roan Kingdom's royal family, was known for their beautiful blonde hair. They called it the symbol of receiving the Sun God’s blessing.

"Your Majesty, it's wonderful to see you; Eric Wheelsman greets his Majesty for the first time in a long time." 

"Yes, yes, Mister Eric, don't we have something to talk about?"

Bait them! But he had to look cool too. 

But… 

.

.

.

.

Why is that jerk staring at me like I'm a pest? I'm pleasing to the eyes. Everyone would be staring at me. Everyone fall in love with my looks! Why are you not looking at me?

He was certain that he possessed lady-killer looks! Why is this person not paying attention to him?!

This is the first time he has ever been so irritated. Nobles would pay attention to him, whether it was negative or positive.

WHY IS HE NOT LOOKING AT HIM AT ALL?!

"Yes, I'm looking forward to discussing it with you!" 

He returned his focus to Eric Whilsman.

"I, too, am looking forward to that moment. You are the intelligent young master of Count Wheelsman's family, and the Wheelsman family is in charge of the entrance to the Northeast region, and they have been doing an excellent job. How could I put that off?"

He's gradually getting into it.

He looked at Cale, who was quietly standing there, watching Eric, who was smiling at him and slowly activating his glib tongue. He was praising Gilbert and Amiru as well.

'Interesting. Cale Henituse remained unaffected.' 

Cale Henituse sat quietly watching everything until his turn came. He looked at him and extended his hand to Cale, who bowed his head slightly. 

"Mr. Cale of the Henituse family, responsible for the Northeastern region's edge, it may be my first time meeting you, but thanks to Count Deruth's good work, we are no longer afraid of the Forest of Darkness, and you have no idea how reassuring that is for me and everyone else."

Cale Henituse, show your true colors right now.

“I heard that Mister Cale is a very free spirit. I’m sure this is because the artistic souls of the sculptures in the Henituse territory have given you an epiphany. I feel like your free spirit makes your soul very pure.”

It was probably difficult to praise someone who was known for trash like this. In that aspect, Alver knew that he was amazing. 

[AN: I love how he over-praises himself in front of Cale, so let's use that. Hahahahhaha]

However, he was forced to speak positively about Cale as long as Cale did not do anything trashy during this gathering. The royal family wanted the Northeast under their control as well. Furthermore, there was no royalty who would despise someone like Count Henituse, who ruled over his territory expertly.

‘That is why this preference for certain people will not impact the families.’

However…

(‘◉⌓◉’)

Cale sincerely grabbed his hand as he started to use his own glib tongue. It was his turn now.

"I also felt something after meeting your majesty today; I realized that, in addition to our current sun, his highness, we also have you, the one who will shine over the night to keep watch over the citizens; it was a wonderful image for my eyes."

… Loading….

… Buffering…

┻┻︵ヽ(`Д´)ﾉ︵┻┻

What the hell?! << Internally screaming. 

Cale’s voice was very calm and relaxed, and he looked very confident.

“… Is that so?”

He appeared perplexed for a brief moment before his expression returned to normal. 

"Indeed, your Majesty, I may not be able to sleep now that I have personally met you, the star in our citizens' minds."

Alver was speechless! 

Eric's jaw dropped, and Gilbert and Amiru couldn't help but stare at Cale in disbelief. Cale observes him as he thinks. 

That's not how trash would act!

Cale Henituse appeared to be preoccupied with something. 

The audacity to disregard my existence!

He appeared to be listening to something, but he is perplexed. There's nothing but him talking and talking, which irritates him because he's not distracted by him. 

Should I make a move?

"... Mister Cale appears to be similar to me."

Wow. He's completely ignoring me! Me?! The Crown Prince! If the most eligible man that ladies want to marry is ignored!

He was saying something, but Cale was too preoccupied to respond. 

"Your Majesty, such a statement is the greatest honor of my life." 

Bathump!

What was that?

He let go of Cale's hand as if he was nervous. Lucky, Cale did not notice the nervousness, and stepped back without a word, moving behind Eric.

He couldn't help but notice Cale with interest before shifting his gaze to Eric.

Bathump! Bathump!

This crazy heart? Why the hell are you beating so loudly??

He was terrified. 

What was that? Why is that — no — nevermind. 

It's time to call it a night. 

"It was a pleasure to share this dinner with all of you tonight; I have prepared a simple wine party for those who might be interested, so please enjoy yourselves; and I have also reserved a spot for all of you at the upcoming birthday celebration."

He said all of this with a cheerful expression.

"I hope you'll all be there to share in the day's joys."

‘Sigh.’

He had high hopes, but he can't make any more moves than he has already. 

"Let us then wrap up this dinner."

Alver looked over at Cale Henituse, who had risen from his seat and decided to leave the hall. 

His gaze was fixed on him until his silhouette and shadow vanished in the hall. 

His heart was racing wildly. 

"Perhaps I'm sick." 

TBC

Chapter Text

It was difficult to read the Northeast's proposal on the shoreline. Alver was well aware that the tourism project would not last long. However, knowing that these are the nobles who have remained neutral, he cannot dismiss the shoreline, which has the potential to become the most powerful naval base on the Western continent. 

The Northwestern shoreline was made up of sandy beaches. In comparison, the shoreline of Ubarr and Chetter territory was complicated, with many small islands. In addition, they were surrounded by cliffs. Finally, there were only a few places where ships could safely anchor. Of course, the fishermen there were experienced enough to avoid the whirlpool and fish safely.

The Ubarr and Chetter families had average wealth, lacking both the funds and manpower to complete a project like building a naval base. That is why they approached the Henituse family for investment and support from the crown. 

But how can he support something that will not benefit him in the long run?

Regardless of how dangerous the whirlpools are, that location could become their weak point once the civil wars between the north and the Whipper Kingdom occur. The Rowoon Kingdom will have a difficult time fighting there once it is breached.

"Young Lady Ubarr, I will be frank," Alver said. "This tourism project will fail; it may be good for the first few months, but the location, the waters, the whirlpools, no one would want to spend their time in dangerous water, and no one would invest in a short-term business."

The Northeastern nobles had gone silent. 

"There's nothing wrong with remaining neutral while conducting business; however, failure will yield no results." 

He understood why they were looking for the safest route. 

Gilbert Chetter spoke up, saying, "Count Henituse said the same thing, Your Highness." 

Alver had to push them a little harder. 

"Then what do the waters of the Ubar Territory have to offer?"

That eerie silence has returned. 

"A naval base," Amir Ubar said softly. The young heiress is an expert in her field. Her territory could become the most powerful fortress to protect them at sea. 

"Then why are you so afraid of becoming one?"

"No one will protect our territory once it falls," Amir Ubar replied. "High-ranking nobles are eyeing the Northeast, and while we've been neutral for years, we're not that naive to think we don't know what they truly want."

Alver inwardly smiled and said, “But you have me?”

Amir’s eyes widen. 

“Are you interested?”

Alber rose to his feet and pointed to the golden map of the entire continent. He pointed to bodies of water extending from the Northeast to the northern part of the Southeast Region. The northern lands, the waters, and even the kingdom beneath them are all threatened. 

"Unrest is brewing around the Rowoon Kingdom," he said, sounding disheartened and sad. "The Rowoon Kingdom was known as the land of survivors, but we can't just survive with what we have now."

"What do you mean?"

"We are survivors... We must take whatever we can to survive; our military is weak; we lack a naval base that could protect us from other kingdoms with coastal territories; that is why."

"But we are in a time of peace?" said Eric Whilsman.

"How long will this last?"

That silenced the Northeast. 

"I am not forcing you to change your views or support me, but I do hope that you consider the people under your jurisdiction. The Ubar region is known for its strategic location, which would make invaders have difficulty intruding, but we don't know how long they will remain with only the whirlpools and difficulty of location."

A bit more. He thought. 

"I hope you give it more thought," Alver said earnestly, "and I will respect whatever decision you make."

He sat in his chair after dismissing the Northeast Nobles. Amir Ubar's gaze seemed to be set on her goals. 

“Haha,” he chuckled lightly.

He began laughing like a madman but stopped at the moment he remembered Cale Henituse. 

Cale Henituse. 

He breathed and closed his eyes tightly as he remembered everything from the hall. 

“Nephew, are you alright?”

“Aunt.” He seriously called. 

“Yes?”

“Am I ugly?”

*coughs!* The dark elf knight with his aunt choked on his own and excused himself. 

Alver got up from his chair and took a position in front of the room's large mirror. In the mirror, he examined every aspect of himself, from his hair to his eyes, nose, and lips. “I am handsome, aren’t I?”

“Yes, why did you think that? You’re so handsome! The handsomest of all beings!”

Alver shook his head. He can’t understand what his aunt is telling him. 

"Why are you acting like that?" Tasha asks.

"There's this guy," Alver said, looking at her.

"I thought it would be a girl," Tasha expressed disappointment. 

"no... it's a guy... You'd find him suspicious if you watched the Palace's recordings during the banquet.”

Tasha looked at him for a good while and said, “Oh, it’s the redhead.”

[TASHA’S POV]

He sounded whiny when ignored by a girl.  What’s with the person who ignored her nephew?! He must be blind!

Anyway, there’s no harm in listening to her nephew’s worries. 

“What happened?”

“that guy even when in front of me, he’s ignoring me. I’m confident with my looks. Everyone falls for my looks and even told me I’m like a fairy tale prince that even men would find it hard not to ignore.”

“And?”

“He ignored me throughout our conversation. That bastard! He dared to ignore me! He’s not looking at me. He’s treating my existence like some normal occurrence in the world!”

Aigoo. How adorable! It's the first time he's been so whiny!

"Well, you're even hotter in your original form."

Alver sighed and looked at himself in the mirror. 

“Should I make it shinier?”

Tasha laughed quietly to herself. 

"Oh, I heard the young master is fond of money and gold."

"Make it shinier then," Alver said, referring to his golden hair, "and let's see if he can ignore my fabulous existence during the grand banquet in the plaza."

While planning his looks for the Founding Banquet, Tasha noticed two horns growing from Alver's head. 

Anyway, all she has to do is support him to the best of her ability. 

It's entertaining to watch her nephew get excited. 

[ALVER’S POV]

"Young Lord Taylor Sten is waiting in the drawing room, Your Highness."

Finally. Alvers smiled as he looked in the mirror once more. His usual fake big bright smile. 

"Let's meet the present that the perpetrator of this farce has given me."

The moment Alver entered the drawing room, Taylor Sten with the priestess Cage was already waiting. He still had a smile on his face as he looked at them. 

“Welcome, Young Lord Sten.”

"It's a pleasure to see you again, Your Highness."

Alver hadn't planned on dragging himself this far. He sat down on the couch. His palms were clasped together as he looked them in the eyes. 

"What do you have to offer me?" 

He was aware of what Taylor Sten required from him. It’s obvious because no one else aside from him can help. What can a paralyzed useless person do in power struggles? He required something from him, just as he did from the other. 

"The Sten Marquessate will not stand in your way, Your Highness."

A satisfying and serious response. 

Taylor said, "You have it. The ancient power that can heal me."

“Yes...” and it’s useless to him. Even though his mother has given it to him, it’s an ancient power that can only be used once. The Star of Healing. 

"Well, then," Alver says as he places a document on the table. 

Taylor read the content. He looked baffled at one clause. 

"Hah, as he said, you are an interesting person, Your Highness."

He? Who’s he?

Alver didn't say anything. He had a feeling he knew who was behind Taylor Sten's actions. 

The person who directed this man to him must be aware of everything that is going on in the continent. Otherwise, these obvious political and covert movements would not have resulted in this. 

"Right..." Alver, "I want you to move the moment the Kingdom asks you to."

That was his primary goal. 

He must have this individual on his side at all costs before the Second and Third Princes do.

“We have a deal, Your Highness.”

The negotiations with Taylor Sten ended uneventfully than he originally planned. He removed his outer clothes and stood naked in front of the mirror in his original form. 

Does that person know my origin?

If so, he may pose a threat to him. 

If not, that's preferable. 

Standing in his birthday suit. He had dark hair, dark skin, and dark eyes, as well as pointy ears. 

He's a dark elf. A quarter at that. 

Otherwise, he has to dispose of that person. No dark creature can become the sun of Rowoon. 

He sighed and wore the necklace that was hiding his true self. 

“I have to be careful.” 

He can’t trust anyone who could betray him. He has to play his cards and place them under negotiation. 

Nothing is free in this world. 

He lay on his bed and looked at the ceiling. 

Red. 

That’s all he can see. 

The redheaded man, his expressions, and everything that happened that day. 

Cale Henituse. 

“Just who are you?”

[AN: YOUR FUTURE HUSBAND!!!!!!!!!!]

TBC

Chapter Text

Venion stan out of his sight. 

Taylor Sten is under their contract. 

Cage, the priestess, becomes excommunicated. 

At the end of this whole founding anniversary, Alver was satisfied. 

What’s left is the Northeast Region’s proposal and Cale Henituse's. 

ARGH! He had more questions than facts about this jerk, no matter how hard he investigated! Apart from his usual antics of drinking even outside the Henituse Villa, he is unremarkable. 

Why did I do it even though he's some kind of evil mastermind? He's nothing but garbage! In the noble setting, an annoying existence. 

He must have gone insane when he decided he was the mastermind. 

“hah.”

"Are you thinking about the redhead again?"

How can he not? He’s acting outside of what he expected from him. 

This is the first time someone has put to shame whatever human reader and radar he has perfected. 

He can feel headaches brewing just because of one crazy bastard! He’s just plain nuts! Annoying! and.. and!

"Calm down... You're ruining your bright day... Look at your gold hair, it'll dull after all that shining magic you cast."

The next time he sees the redhead, he is sitting calmly on the northeast chair, gazing at the plaza's Clock Tower. Alver had a nagging feeling that something bad was about to happen. 

“The stars of the Crossman family, our royal family, are now entering!”

There was only one entrance to the Plaza, so Alver led them in, flanked by the second and third princes and the other princes and princesses walking behind them. 

They are a group of people with beautiful blonde hair. 

The cheering of the citizens filled the plaza. It was so loud that it felt like the ground was shaking.

‘“His Highness, King Zed Crossman, the sun of the Roan Kingdom, is now entering!”

Anyway, Alver shines the brightest in the procession. Of course, every eye should be on him!

He eyed Cale Henituse and was ready to wink at any time, but the crazy bastard was looking at the bell tower and not at him!

What the hell!? Am I that unattractive?!

He was internally screaming in frustration as he walked to his seat beside the King. He kept looking at Cale Henituse but the bastard was looking at his watch at the Bell Tower and looked around, unminding everything prepared for this banquet!

Is he that bored with me?! The Royals?! 

He murmured, “Am I that unattractive?”

"Big Brother Crown Prince, you are handsome; why are you talking like that?" said the second prince, Robbit.

Alver smiled at his brother and said, "ah... nothing..."

"Is there someone who doesn’t like you? They must have a strange taste if they're not attracted to you," Robbit inquired cautiously.

Alver, the only bachelor among the three princes, was taken aback when the second prince struck up a sweet conversation with him. Robbit has never crossed his path and has been vocal about his desire not to assume the throne. 

"It appears so."

“That girl must have a strange taste then.”

The problem is — the “she” you are referring to is a “he”.

Ah. Why did he bother talking about it at all? He just needed to focus on the thing right now. He'll also meet with the Northeast Nobles soon. There's also something odd about the neutral households. Why is Cale Henituse not present at the negotiations with the four families who control the Ubbar territory? 

He now had more questions! Cale Henituse!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your existence is a headache!

Cale began to smile at that point, which he noticed.

Some people are moving outside the Plaza where the nobles are. 

“Robbit.”

“Yes, Big Brother Crown Prince?”

“Be prepared.”

The king's fanfare was still very loud. King Zed entered the plaza and proceeded to the highest platform. Alver just calmly watched this all happen.

Cale Henituse looked at the clock again.

Alver also looked at the bell tower. It was then that the King lifted his hand, and the cheers slowly died down. Finally, once the plaza was completely quiet, the king started to speak.

“It has already been 30 years since this king has received the blessing of the sun to rule over this kingdom.”

The king seemed very happy. 

9 in the morning. Alver noted. 

“Huh?”

Collective gasps and confused voices echoed. 

“What is that?”

Alver looked at the top of the Bell Tower and saw something but his gaze went back to Cale Henituse, who leisurely look at the top of the tower. He looked as if he anticipated it. 

“What?”

“Who is that?”

“What is going on?”

The mumblings of the crowd started to get louder. King Zed looked behind him and then moved his gaze up the Bell tower. Cale Henituse also looked at the top of the Bell Tower and started to smile.

King Zed started to shout.

“Who are you?!”

Alver was readying himself to conjure some small-time magic. The knights and mages headed to the Bell Tower. The citizens started to get nervous about what was going on. They had no choice. A person appeared on top of the Bell Tower, and then more people in black attire started to appear on top of the buildings nearby as well.

“Get down this instant!”

“Everybody, head up to the top of the buildings now!”

He heard the knights' voices nearby and turned to face the man dressed in black and wearing a mask who stood atop the Bell Tower. 

Why? Why does he seem relieved? Was this something he planned?

Alver simply couldn't believe it. Is he putting on a performance? How can he be so composed? Was it part of the plan to send Taylor to him? Why bother?

“It should be fun.”

A chilling voice that sounded like metal screeching against one another, filled the plaza. Then, the red mana shot out to different spots in the plaza.

Alver clenched his teeth and stepped forward in front of the king. No one will be able to protect the throne from the third prince's faction if the king dies. Even though he is the crown prince, he cannot ascend to the throne simply by his position. 

The vibration began beneath the Bell Tower.

Beeeeeeep-

Beeeeeeeep-

Magic devices started to go off in multiple locations. The red mana that was flying toward the detonation devices inside the magic bombs suddenly lost strength and started to spin aimlessly in position.

It was the result of the mana disturbance.

Then, it happened inside the plaza as well.

Beeeeeeeep-

Four spots started to ring in the plaza.

“Found it.”

It was low, but Alver heard Cale’s quiet voice being drowned out by the alarm of the magic devices.

Someone within the area of those four alarms would have the magic bomb on them.

People are making their way toward the source of the strange sound. Amid the chaos, a Cale Henituse stood calmly assessing the situation with those calculating gazes. 

*Bathump!*

Again, that weird beating of his heart again. 

[AN: You’re alive, of course, it’s beating]

The crazy mage was laughing. Also, a loud noise echoed alongside the sound of scratching metal, combining to create a terrifying screech. 

The blood-crazy mage, Redika, was laughing.

“Your Highness! Please get to a safe spot!”

The Royal Knights and some mages were next to them and the king to help them escape. Alver’s gaze landed on Cale, who looked toward him. His hair was still blonde.

The citizens were yelling for the knights to open the door and rush out. The citizens were yelled at by the knights and soldiers.

“Please calm down!”

“Please wait just a moment!”

“You expect us to wait in a situation like this? Get out of our way!”

“Are you crazy?! The nobles are trying to leave right now! Let us leave as well!”

Alver was contemplating whether to fight. If he does, his disguise will be blown and he’ll lose everything he's worked hard for. 

However, he can see people moving around, pulling things left and right. 

Magic bombs? Alver looked instinctively at Cale Henituse, who was watching the people moving around. His gaze was steady and composed. He had calculated this. He had predicted it. Cale Henituse may be the lousy trash young master, but he has the situation in the palm of his hands. 

‘…, ‘This one,’ was a failure?’

His attention went back to the mage. 

His expression stiffened and he noted that there was something else as well. 

“Oh well then.”

The metal screeching voice rang throughout the plaza. Redika shouted toward the king and the knights without caring about the fact that the mages used levitation magic to approach him.

Snap.

He snapped his fingers and two people appeared next to him.

These two were dressed in all black, with no red and white star symbols on their chests. They were both carrying backpacks.

God damn it all! There’s more!

Those two people were most likely members of the assassin team of the secret organization. They were people whose lives did not matter. 

The two of them each took out three scrolls and ripped them at the same time.

Shield, acceleration, and combustion. 

“Go.”

The mage gave the order, and the two people rushed toward the citizens below the Bell Tower, their bodies now on fire. He hurled two balls of red mana at the two people.

“S, stop them!”

Magic bombs were guaranteed to go off if they were not dismantled.

Unfortunately, Redika was closer to these two people than anybody else. The red mana reached the backpacks of the two suicide bombers.

The bombs were going to detonate soon.

The two people, who had used acceleration magic, were rushing toward the plaza at a fast speed.

One of the two rushed toward the royal family while the other...

‘He’s coming this way.’

Rushed toward the nobles.

All of this happened in less than 10 seconds.

“Aaaaaaah!”

“R, run away!”

“Dodge!”

It was too late to dodge. You were not going to get out of the bomb’s range simply by running for a few seconds.

“C, Cale, let’s go!”

“Young Master Cale, hurry!”

He can hear the Northeast attempting to save Cale, but it is too late. 

I don't have a choice. Should I fight? or… not…?

He wanted to be king, but he couldn't even save his people at this point.  No, he can, but he will lose everything if he does. 

Duty or his desires? He’s torn apart. 

Rather than allowing something like that to happen,

“…Sigh.”

Cale’s deep sighed and opened his palm up into the air. 

At the same time,

“Explode!”

The mage shouted in joy.

“Huh?”

Alver was readying himself for the worst-case scenario. 

The suicide bomber who was headed their way was surrounded by large wings. A silver shield shot up to the sky as if it was protecting the people in the plaza, and the wings of the shield surrounded the bomber. It looked like the shield and the wings were completely swallowing up the bomber.

And a strong shield that was not very visible because of the silver light that surrounded the silver shield.

A holy-looking person with a silver shield was standing underneath the sun. A strand of silver light connected the red-haired man with the shield in the sky. 

It was Cale Henituse. 

At the same time, Alver’s heart beat even louder and louder. 

A million stars may shine brightly in the sky. He cannot, however, deny that this person shines brighter under the ray of silver. Red hair, with crimson and silver highlights, stands out like a torch of flame. 

He was standing there, arms stretched out, saving the people he couldn't save. 

He couldn’t take his eyes off him. 

He didn’t dare take his eyes off of him. 

He looked so pretty under the light. 

*Bathump! Bathump! *

“…Fuck!”

What’s with me? Why is my heart shaking uncontrollably before this person's presence? 

Cale Henituse, what is it that you want from all of this?

He was well aware that it would go unanswered. 

.

.

.

.

.

It's terrifying to think that someone can move him and drive him insane. 

TBC

Chapter Text

A/N: I’ll clear this one since there are people dm’ing me regarding this. 

FIRST, THIS IS ALVER'S POV. Expect changes from the canon.
SECOND, I'M ADDING MY DIALOGUES WHILE USING THE TRANSLATED DIALOGUES, so if you see Your Majesty referring to Alver, that is not my dialogues, and I will not change them with respect to the translators, but Narration will refer to him as Your Highness.
THIRD, DON’T CONFUSE THE ORIGINAL POV WITH ALVER’S POV (since it will be filled with romantic gags).
FOURTH, SITUATIONS HERE ARE OVERLAPPING; I can't explain them, so read the novel again. Although this is canon divergence, I will not write anything that is not in the canon, I’m just adding the romance. 

Thank you very much!

___

In the plaza, two explosions that could not be compared to the previous one went off at the same time. Everyone knelt and covered their heads with their hands.

The screams of people getting injured or killed filled the plaza. And then...

A gust of wind that sounded like rain passed over the crowd's heads. People in the plaza's center were covered in dust from the ground, while those near the fountains were drenched by fountain water before slowly raising their heads.

The first thing they noticed was something heading north. The royal family was not harmed because a shield was built to protect them, but the people around them were.

These were the people who arrived at the plaza before anyone else to await the king. There were also servants, lower-ranking officials, lower-tiered knights, and mages who didn't have enough time to launch their shields.

Some of them were hurt, while others died. The royal family's blonde hair was obscured by the black smoke.

The silver shield gradually shattered into shards of glass. The silver wings also fell apart. As black smoke began to pour out, there was a person standing in the center. 

The person who did not turn his gaze away from the figure, Alver, felt his entire being go numb. He felt chills run down his spine as sweat beads rolled down his brow. The explosion was powerful. However, that solitary figure in that solitary location stood at the end of the silver strand. He stood proudly with his head and arms out, like an omnipotent man. 

“Young Master Cale.”

Alver was thinking about a lot of things. He was jerked by instinct, wanting to run as fast as he could towards the figure standing still in the plaza. He notices Cale wobbling on his feet and begins to fall. He was about to reach out, but a woman with brown hair stood behind him, looking at them. 

If he suffered, the recoil from the explosion would be severe as well. 

He can hear a woman calling out Cale Henituse's name. 

Alver could only stand there blankly, pondering why he wanted to run to him. 

Cale appeared to be in pain. He was staring at his palms with a relieved expression as if nothing was wrong with him. 

His heart continued to race as he felt both miserable and relieved. 

Someone protected what he couldn't. 

Someone did it without being asked. 

That much pain was still excruciating. He's a royal with power, but he can't move as he pleases. 

Cale Henituse, the trash, the Northeast's lost cause, moved on his own and protected whoever he could. 

or is this part of his plan? or just a ruse to get his attention?

He can hear several people calling out to Cale. He was insecure because no one bothered to ask him if something was wrong. 

He felt helpless and weak, but he couldn't hate him. 

“Hyung-nim.” 

"I'm fine," Alver said weakly as he looked at Robbit.”

Robbit smiled and looked at Cale Henituse, who was sitting motionless on the ground. He resembled a chipmunk waiting to be fed. How cute. 

He was watching Cale interact with some strangers who he assumed were his people. Until—

"I'm fine... cough!"

"B, blood......!"

Within him, rage began to rise. That rage was directed at himself. Cale Henituse appeared to be in pain. It didn't look good in the eye, and he couldn't help but feel helpless as he stood back and watched him. 

He was about to approach him when he noticed Cale's satisfied smile. Even the people around him had devolved into shambles. 

"Do you find this amusing? Stop laughing!"

Priests and healers rushed forward after entering through the gate. Cale didn't seem to have the courage to say that nothing was wrong, so he let them check on him and waited for their diagnosis. 

They are certainly quick. He sincerely felt relieved. 

There appeared to be some commotion near the gates. It was the black-haired man who had been moving from the outside before the explosion. He was speaking to the knight with a cold gaze while sneaking glances at Cale. 

They must be his people. 

The man in black shook his head and waved away as Cale scowled. He appeared to be apologizing. A young boy with two kittens on his shoulder looked at him, but Cale signaled that he was fine and continued to sit on the ground. 

Choi Han had a cold look in his eyes as he spoke to the knight in charge of the nobles. Cale had instructed the black-haired guy not to come forward under any circumstances. Cale frowned and waved away from him, who had defied his orders.

Several people were visibly frustrated when they looked at Cale. Who wouldn't? He nearly died and had been signaling left and right that he was fine.

Alver frowned and clicked his tongue, which was uncharacteristic of him.

“Um. Hyung-nim… is the girl fine?”

He looked at the second prince. He seemed more concerned with the 'girl' than with his brother.  Nonetheless, he replied, "very fine."

He just stared silently at Cale who looked at the girl. His expression was serious you wouldn’t think he was trash. 

The bastard mage was still present. He looked at them, the royal family, then at the nobles, especially, he locked gazes with Cale Henituse. The mage crazily laughed. He thought that he’d fight more but he fled bidding the King of Rowoon farewell and that they shall meet again. 

The mage disappeared. He also took everyone who came with him as well. His teleportation magic was strong, there was no way for people attacking him to know where they went. However, Cale’s gaze looked sure. As if he had calculated this. No — he planned all this and defied the enemy. 

But… Why?

Alver never had news of the county being attacked. There was no reason for Cale Henituse to foil the enemy's plan. It could also be deduced that he was with cohorts with them while staging this grand plaza incident. 

But the mage looked like he didn’t know about Cale and his people. 

Cale was also frowning and definitely cursing inside his head as he coughed blood. 

He was so confused. He couldn’t discern whether he was a comrade or not. 

Cale then slowly stood up on his feet. 

“Treat the young noble well.” He looked at the king who was heading back up to the podium. The people of the plaza started to chatter once again. The enemies have disappeared but they left a cruel sight. The king will be heading to the podium to calm the crown. 

This could be my chance. 

He noticed Cale glanced at him, aware of him approaching. He looked at the girl beside Cale who seemed familiar. 

Breck Kingdom’s Princess. 

He was shocked. He didn’t think the princess would be working with someone like Cale. He was even more confused than he was supposed to be but he calmed himself down in hopes of finding out the truth behind Cale Henituse’s movements. 

However, Alver Crossman was sure of what Cale would want. Fame, prestige — the same old thing that every young noble would want. 

He stood in front of Cale and smiled. 

Does my hair still shine? twinkling? Damn it, I should’ve fixed my look before approaching. 

“It really is hard to protect something.”

Alver was taken back. 

He looked at Cale's sincere expression towards the priest. It’s not the same expression he wore when dealing with people. It was genuine. He could tell. 

He's relieved. 

The man who was known as trash, Cale Henituse, had shown such courage. Everyone was extremely shocked to learn this. Then there was what he did just a moment ago, shielding people from the explosion before tumbling over and spitting blood. However, he was now standing there as if nothing had happened.

The nobles were keeping an eye on Cale, and because the king had left, many of the citizens were as well. They couldn't forget the silver light.

Alver would never forget that moment in his entire life. 

“I guess this is your first time looking at an ancient power.”

Ancient powers, the power of heroes.

“I see.”

Alver approached Cale from behind and placed a hand on his shoulders.  He can smell a light cologne scent with a citrus undertone. He shook his head and composed himself. 

This is his chance. He wants to know what this person’s goals are. 

“Your highness.”

Cale finally turned around and made eye contact with him. His deep reddish brown eyes matched his phony blue eyes. Alver couldn't help but get lost in his gaze.  When he looked into those eyes, he felt as if he were about to drown. It was peaceful. It was crystal clear. He seemed to be looking at his soul rather than just anything. 

Those clear eyes suddenly turned calculative. It was at that moment that the thing he was expecting would be more than just what he wants. Cale henituse seemed to formulate a plan in his mind at this instant. Alver can tell that he was planning to use this situation to his benefit but—what?

Alver realized that Cale was similar to him. 

“Young Lord Cale.”

It was pure instinct, but Alver couldn’t stop his current urges. He wanted to welcome this person who seemed to have a good grasp of the goal he wanted to achieve. He couldn’t help but hug Cale with half shock and half admiration on his face. 

It was so fast that he went on and said the first thing that came into his mind. 

“Thank you. We are so proud of what you did.”

That way, anybody could see that he was so full of admiration that he did something that he should not have done as a prince. 

Cale's body appeared to be a good fit for him. He seemed to want to stay in his arms. The electrifying moment gave him the chills, and he couldn't control his urges as both a man and a prince.

He must, however, stick to his plan before destroying it. 

"Young Lord Cale," he said quietly, "you and I have the same style, right?"

He was both excited and nervous because he had met someone who was exactly like him. 

It's as if they were destined to be together!

His ecstasy is gradually revealing itself. He will not let this person pass him by.  He'll have him with him. 

"I'll make sure nothing bothers you and reward you handsomely, what do you think?"

The warm light touch on Alver's back and the arm hugging him back came at that moment. He blushed profusely but calmed down as he held him even tighter. He's lost in his own thoughts.  He simply does whatever pleases him. He's panicking internally, but he can't, he can't; he must maintain his dignity. 

"It was nothing, Your Highness; I simply did what any citizen of the kingdom would do."

His heart sunk. 

Cale just finished his fraudulent hug of admiration and let him go. 

He was disappointed. He wanted more. He doesn’t want to let go yet. 

WHY?!

He just looked stiff and dumbfounded as he watched him leave for the palace.

He wanted to hug more. Longer. 

That night, unable to sleep, he rolled around his bed, recalling the light sweet scent that lingered on his gala, which he is currently hugging.. 

Alver Crossman! What the fuck are you thinking?!

[AN: the start of your gay panicking]

TBC

Chapter Text

As Alver followed behind Cale Henituse in the carriage, he issued several orders to his servants. He was talking about Rosalyn just as the carriage door began to close slowly, and Cale cast a glance at Rosalyn just as the door closed completely. 

Cale leaned back in his chair as the door closed behind him. He seemed to enjoy the Royal carriage because he appeared to be at ease before looking at him. 

Alver then decided to ditch his fake smile and adopt a stoic demeanor similar to the person in front of him. 

"Do you require any healing?"

Cale replied bluntly. 

"My body is healthy, but shouldn't I get the best doctors and priests to look at it? I just want to lay around for three or four days." 

“Ha.” 

Alver couldn't help but laugh, which sounded like a sigh.  He did, however, nod his head.

"You're right. That will be good. The noble who saved everyone is hurt, and the crown is doing everything it can to nurse him back to health. Very nice."

We are the same. He didn't need to put on a show now that he and this person were the same types of person. That’s why he got to the point. 

"Are you involved with them, Young Lord Cale?"

He was referring to the people who had appeared in the plaza today. He wanted to be certain and had been waiting for his chance. Cale made eye contact with him. His gaze was clear and calm. 

He may tend to take advantage of others, but Alver had to put his safety first. 

He was expecting a proper response, but trash would still act like trash. Cale responded to his question with ease and with a bright smile on his face. 

"Why, Your Highness, would I do something so vexing?"

“Indeed.”

Alver immediately agreed. There’s no way he’d go as far as to make an elaborate show as that. There was no way someone hiding as trash would do something like that. 

He could tell Cale was only stepping in because there were no other options. Cale was forced to make a decision. 

"The crown may attempt a futile investigation into you."

"Will you protect me, your highness?"

"Why are you asking such a simple question?"

He was going to protect him without even asking. He drew back the curtains to see the crowd of citizens outside. He put his smile back on and continued to speak.

"Let's finish our conversation when I come to see how you're doing later."

He's thinking about what to do next. Until—

“Your highness.”

 “Yes?”

"This Cale is always available for a conversation with our nation's star."

The corner of his mouth twitched into a frown.

 "I don't want my actions to be exaggerated when you package them for public consumption."

"I'll only package it a little bit; I just need enough to keep people from complaining about the crown."

He kept speaking while casually saying the next part. It sounded a little glib, but it was true.

 "Anyway, thank you; the number of people injured was reduced as a result of your assistance."

His words, however, were genuine. He couldn't protect them while also needing to be protected. He's strong, but he can't move around freely. 

It would sound heartless, and people might think he was neither bad nor good. He looked at Cale, who appeared to have made a decision. 

"I'm looking forward to receiving my reward." 

“Ha.” 

He shook his head but didn't say anything like, 'don't look forward to a reward,' which meant he would make sure Cale was handsomely rewarded for his efforts. Does this guy understand the concept of moderation? He appeared to be on his way to loot my treasury and bankrupt me.  

However, that night, 

1. IS. UNABLE. TO. SLEEP.

Alver continued to roll around on the bed. He kept thinking about the plaza incident and Cale's numerous expressions. 

When he closes his eyes, all he sees is Cale. 

What's the matter with me?!

He sat up straight, changed into his robes, and went to work at his table. He needs to be distracted or his mind will wander and he will remember that jerk. By chance, he came across the Northeast Shorelines proposal. 

He read the proposal and had to commend Amir Ubarr on how well it was written. In the final section, he can see the signatories and potential investors. 

Count Deruth Henituse. 

He sighed and repeated, "Henituse." 

How did the Count become the father of someone like Cale Henituse? Bassen outperformed Cale in every aspect of social rivalry. But Cale Henituse has something special about him that makes him unable to ignore his presence. 

He’s a mysterious person. Alver had to say that because it’s true. 

Cale. Cale. 

"I'll know when I talk to him tomorrow," he said once more.

I should make my moves now and see if I can entice that person to join me.

When he realized he was thinking about Cale Henituse, he frowned and furiously brushed his hair. 

No way! Why am I thinking about you again?

Whether he's at work or doing nothing, his thoughts keep returning to Cale Henituse! 

What the hell’s wrong with me?!

It was at that moment that he knew he fucked up. 

He can’t fall asleep. 

He can only stare at the ceiling with wide eyes, unable to sleep. 

The next morning, 

Alver met with Taylor Sten, who had informed him of the Marquessate's plans. Their conversation went well, but it appears that Taylor Sten is serious about keeping his benefactor's identity hidden. He's not that gullible. It's as clear as the sky with the sun who his benefactor was. 

After dismissing Taylor, he met with the Northeast Nobles. 

The discussions with him were led by Amir Ubar. Eric and Gilbert appeared to be nervous, but everything was well planned. 

"Lady Ubarr, may I inquire as to what prompted your decision?"

Alver's mention of the naval base during their last meeting was merely a passing remark.  He didn't expect her to surpass his expectations.

“It was Young Master Cale who said it would be great.”

Young Master Cale. 

"Young Master Cale once spoke to me about the Ubarr territory; his words may not have been as candid as your highness's, but they struck me before our first meeting, and I've known for a long time that the tourism project would be short-lived."

"Were you aware of the brewing problems?"

"Yes, we are the only territory that could be breached through the waters." 

Alver smiled contentedly and signed his name on the paper. 

"Prepare the contract with the investors," Alver said with a smile. 

Two down. 

Now, 

"Do you want to say something, Young Lord Eric?" Eric Wheelsman asked, fidgeting.

"Um... Your Highness... The matter concerning Young Lord Henituse..."

Ah. Someone had left him a note late at night to keep things quiet. 

"It's fine. I've already taken care of it."

"Thank you, Your Highness; young Lord Cale may be referred to as trash, but he is not a bad person."

How can he be so certain? Alver didn't give it much thought, recalling Eric and Cale's childhood friendship. 

He can't help but be upset. 

In any case, he decided to dismiss the northeasterners and finish his work so that he could meet with Cale Hentiuse. 

However,

He can feel his stomach churning to the point where he wants to take a dump. 

Why am I sweating? It's just Cale Henituse. 

He gritted his teeth and punched the pillar next to the door. 

Alver Crossman, calm down. You are the Crown Prince of this kingdom. Don’t chicken out now. 

It is, after all, just one man. 

"Hooo," he exhales, finally opening the doors. 

He was suddenly unable to hear or breathe. Everything seemed to come to a halt at that moment. The Healer with him immediately took care of Cale. 

And the time to have their first discussion about his reward soon arrived.

 “You can head out now.”

“Yes, your highness.”

 He sent out the priest, who sat there filling the time without actually doing anything before turning to make eye contact with the Redhead. The redhead was in awe that he, the Crown Prince, had come to visit until the door closed and he began to speak. 

 “That expression of yours is giving me the chills.”

“Thank you very much.”

Cale returned to his usual relaxed demeanor. That made him feel better as he sat on a chair next to Cale's bed, looking like a patient.

"I said you were currently resting, and I said you got up at the plaza despite the difficulty so that you could help calm things down like a proper noble."

 He started to smile before adding on. Proper noble, my ass.  

"Since you revealed that you have an ancient power in the plaza, I played along and said you have a defensive ancient power that isn't very strong; isn't that what you wanted?" "Mm."

Cale pretended to contemplate as he responded.

“A young noble who is weak but stepped forward for the kingdom. It’s nice.”

 “Indeed.”

They both prefer it that way. After all, appearance is everything. Everyone would look up to Cale if they saw him as a selfless noble who would protect his kingdom. Developing relationships with this person would also be beneficial to him. 

"Any information about rumors about you and the current situation will be delivered to you through your butler by tomorrow; make sure to look."

 He wasn't treating him the way he was supposed to. Cale's intelligence tells Alver that he already has his personality under his control. If he wants to work with him, he should treat him as a prospective contractor. As if he were dealing with someone he didn't want to deal with but had no choice. 

This is exactly how it should be. 

Cale Henituse, his instincts tell him, is dangerous.  

Cale made eye contact with him. After seeing Cale's relaxed demeanor, he began to frown and thought for a moment before finally saying what was on his mind.

 "...By the way..."

He's a little hesitant, but he was expecting more. Cale just sat there patiently, as if this was a rare occurrence. 

He asked him, “…You are human, right?”

“Huh?” 

Aw. That’s so cute…

Alver internally screamed and composed himself like shit. 

TBC

Chapter Text

Alver could see that Cale Henituse suddenly had an expression of disbelief as he answered back. As he looked at him, his cheeks puffed up and his eyes were puzzled. He looked like a cute chipmunk.  

“…I am human?”

It was an expression that asked why he was asking such a stupid question. He sighed subconsciously. There's nothing wrong with double-checking that everything is fine. 

"Sigh. Of course, you're human."

He continued to speak while pointing at both of them.

"Both you and I are human."

Although, I’m a quarter not. 

Cale appeared to be struggling to keep his cool. Alver had to applaud him for remaining calm after hinting at this. He had a feeling Cale Henituse was suspicious of his origin. He should know by now that this man is not someone to cross paths with. Even if he 'dislikes' this person, he should avoid getting on their bad side. 

"You are correct; there isn't much to be human about."

Things he noticed during the banquet at the plaza. 

"At the banquet hall, I thought I was mistaken, but there are some strange smells around you."

“…Smell?”

Cale was taken aback.

"I just took a shower."

That's why he smells even better, but there's this odor. 

After Cale's retort, he can't help but open and close his mouth a few more times without saying anything. 

Why did I think his scent was pleasant?

He frowned, causing his wrinkles to appear. He was thinking about matters. He chose to remain calm rather than agitated. Since Cale Henituse dislikes beating around the bush, he should stop doing that too.

"I don't think it's necessary for two people as similar as us to try to sugarcoat things; so, what do you want as your reward?"

He asked the redhead while crossing his arms. He was late, but Cale Henituse appeared to be aware that he had been dealing with everything in the aftermath of the incident. Also, he had to look at the file containing information about him. 

However, there was nothing on Cale. Well, there was something, but it was useless.

It simply stated that Cale Henituse was a trash who enjoyed drinking and partying. That was even worse than not knowing anything at all. The Cale in front of him.

There were more slanderous rumors, but he chose to ignore them and focus on his actions as trash and a drunkard. 

Consider the way he responded to his question.

“Your highness, can you please explain what I will need to do for you first?”

There was no way trash would ask such a question. Alver responded truthfully.

"I want you to say nothing to the nobles."

Appearances matter. He was well aware that this would be the most difficult task. It also demonstrates that the royal family was willing to stake Cale's reward on it. The crown could not afford to have that incident reflect negatively on their position of power. 

That was why he was asking Cale for this, and he was able to do so because Cale was a member of the Henituse family, which was not affiliated with any faction.

“I also want you to praise the crown every so often if you are asked.”

“Including speaking about your very understanding nature, your highness?”

He’s fast to catch on. He’s someone who shouldn’t be looked down on. 

“Of course.”

Alver and Cale both raised one corner of their lips as they began to smile. Their smiles were strikingly similar.

“Since it is an ancient power, isn’t what you revealed today the extent of your power?”

Let's play along. 

“Of course, it is useless for anything else.”

Ancient powers. Alver cast an inquisitive glance at Cale Henituse, who shrugged his shoulders. 

He is more familiar with these ancient powers because he once possessed one. 

Taylor Sten could only have been sent to me by someone familiar with Ancient Powers.

If it’s fame and power, Alver can give him that. As long as it's about politics and nobility, he can put an end to it. For as long as this person keeps his mouth shut. 

“What is it that you want? Something for your family? My agreement to invest in the Northeastern Shoreline? Or settling the battle for power in the Northeast?”

He boldly asked. 

That was why Cale responded comfortably as well.

“None of those belong to me, your highness.”

"...Doesn't it belong to you?"

Cale pointed at himself as he stared at him, confused.

“Please give it to me.”

What Cale wanted was something he needed for himself. 

"hah," he was taken aback. He couldn't stop himself and let out a snort.  He's a fascinating individual! He finally realized what he desired from him. Even though Cale had lived as trash, humans, no, all living beings, wished to reach greater heights and gain control of everything.

Cale was ultimately more important to himself than his family or those around him.

What did he even expect?

“Then what is it you want? A higher title? A medal? Do you want to have your faction in the capital?”

Alver's expression changed as he inquired. Cale shook his head no at Alver's suggestions, contrary to Alver's expectations. That meant that none of them were accurate.  It meant that none of them were correct. He then said a single word.

“Money.”

Did I hear it right?

“What?”

He looked at him, perplexed by the fact that he desired something other than fame and fortune. 

"Please give me money; I'm not interested in a medal or a higher title."

What on earth did I just hear? Is he for real?

He couldn’t help but place his hand on his forehead and thought many things for who knows what he’ll use that money for. 

However, only one thing came to mind. 

“To buy alcohol?”

Cale responded right back.

“How did you know?”

Alver smiled and accepted Cale’s request. He then got up and informed Cale about the details. 

He is serious. He’s that desperate? Has Count Henituse finally cut off his budget for him to be so desperate for money to buy alcohol?! Unbelievable. 

“Once you receive the report tomorrow, take a look and then let me know how much you want.”

“Will you come to visit me again?”

“Why? You don’t like it?”

He felt annoyed with that. 

Cale responded with an extremely fake expression on his face.

“It would be the highest honor to see you again, your highness.”

Cale's response gave Alver chills on the back of his neck, so he told him to rest before storming out of the room and disappearing. However, he was not a patient who could rest peacefully. 

The moment the door closed, Alver had a huge smile on his face as he chuckled lightly. 

“Hah.” 

That was a good laugh.

He looked back and felt distant as he stared at the door. 

Cale Henituse. They could’ve become friends if only their standing allowed it. 

If only I were not in a situation where I'd be betrayed by people I trust. 

He likes Cale more than he thought, although his mouth is a bit problematic for him. 

He’s a cute and fascinating person. 

He left the door to Cale’s room with a huge smile on his face. 

TBC

Chapter Text

Alver lay on his bed like a normal being for the first time after speaking with Cale Henituse. What did he mean by "normal being"? It's because he's never laid his back on the mattress earlier than he normally does. He let out a sigh. His conversation with wCale Henituse replayed in his mind. 

His adorable reactions. 

His crude but direct words. 

His arrogant declarations. 

He recalls everything. 

It's the first time someone hasn't suckered up to him and instead struck a deal for something else.. 

“Nephew.” 

He looked at his aunt with his head tilted to the side. 

"Ah, Aunt... Could you please prepare a golden plaque?"

Tasha was taken aback at first and inquired, "To whom will you be giving it?"

"Cale Henituse," he says. 

His tone of voice was gentle and kind. He didn't know who he was, but he used to mock Cale Henituse's name. He valued appearances above all else, and he met someone who couldn't care less. 

But that damn bastard he thought gave him so many chances in his lifetime? 

He couldn't figure out why he was acting this way. He'll never understand why he'd go to such lengths to do this.  He is capable of leading a normal life. He can continue living his trash life. 

He didn't have to go so far as to help the people around him or pave the way for the opportunities he had been looking for. 

"Do you have faith in him?"

That question made him consider whether or not he trusted that person. 

"I'm not sure."

This was the first time he had felt this way about someone. 

He had to admit that Cale Henituse had a sharp mind. He can guess that he can rake thousands of plans on the spot. He admits to seeing how this person can gradually control the kingdom without lifting a finger. 

He should be cautious. 

He should be on high alert and keep a safe distance from him. 

But he is unable to. 

Cale Henituse could become the most dangerous man in his path. 

He can't, however. 

"You're beaming." 

He looked at his aunt, who gave him a soft grin. Alver pressed his lips together and looked at his aunt. 

"Is he really that interesting?"

"A lot."

“Then you can trust him.”

He was surprised. 

“You smiling would mean he piqued your interest.”

She meant that Cale Henituse could become his closest confidante because their goals are similar. 

"I am in a position where I could be betrayed."

"From the looks of him, he appeared to be someone trustworthy..."

Alver was about to respond, but Tasha interrupted him. 

"That boy had this way of attracting nice people to himself. You can’t start a relationship without taking a risk."

Okay, that sounded ominous. Alver decided to act as if he hadn't heard anything..

The people who surround Cale are mysterious, but they prioritize his safety over the royal family's. That was something he saw. Alver knew that. 

He knew because he was also drawn to him. 

"Aunt, what do you think of Cale as my confidante?"

"That would be good," Tasha said, adding, "There's a saying that says you should keep the most dangerous man you perceive by your side if you want to survive."

It was quite unusual for her aunt to tell him it was alright to trust someone.

“Thank you very much.”

“Welcome as always, dear nephew.”

It was the day Cale Henituse would return to the Henituse Villa a few days later. Alver put all of his projects on hold, issued orders for everything that needed to be done right away, and, of course, roped in that redhead. 

Tasha was quick enough to obtain all of the documents required for the issuance of the golden plaque. His personal wealth may have been comparable to the crown, so it should not be considered a loss when Cale Henituse employs it. 

He knocked on the door and took a deep breath. When he opened it and entered, he saw Cale Henituse's half-naked body about to be clothed. 

“Your Highness.”

"Pardon," he said, turning around. 

"We're both males; nothing wrong with that."  

It was obvious and logical. 

The correct question, however, would be, "What's wrong with me?"

When Alver turned around, he blushed. He could feel his body starting to warm up. He inhaled a few more times as he listened to the loud rustles of clothes being worn. 

"This is the first time I've ever seen a noble getting dressed without assistance."

Cale's lips curled into a light chuckle. 

"My manservant is currently on leave, so I might as well do something on my own."

"You don't let other people touch you?"

"It depends on the individual."

Alver turned around and gathered all of his courage. He noticed Cale struggling with his zipped-up shirt from the back. 

"It appears you're having difficulties."

"I need your assistance, Your Highness."

"I am royalty."

Cale snorted, but he walked close to him and reached for the zipper on the back. Cale's lightly muscled back is clearly visible, with fine lines defining it.  He didn't have bulky muscles; he's a bit petite, but his body is still lightly toned. 

He zipped the sleeve up slowly. His throat was drying up as he swallowed hard until the zipper reached Cale's nape. 

Cale's nape was pinkish but otherwise pale and white. His finger brushed Cale’s silky hair. 

He expected it to be coarse or tangled, but it was soft and silky instead. As the sun shone down on him, the bright rays seemed to ignite a beautiful blazing hair. 

“Your Highness?”

"Ah, it's done."

He sat down on the couch after faking a cough. 

He placed the previously agreed-upon document and the golden plaque because neither of them had to beat around the bush. 

Cale Henituse followed suit and took the opposite seat. 

"The Ubarr Coastline."

"I'll look into it," Cale said, "after all, it was planned from the start, and I'll get the nobles out of there as well."

"Why are you doing this?" Alver decided to be direct.

Cale took a breather and looked at him. "It's for the sake of a dream," he replied, his eyes clear and without hesitation.

"Would you like to be my confidante?"

Cale Henituse smirked, "rather than that... Aren't we just business partners under a contract?"

*pang*

"I see," Alver sighed deeply and leaned back.

This person wishes to move alone.

His final question would be, "Why me?"

Why did this person specifically target him? The train of situations was all directed at him. 

Cale leaned forward, palms clasped together, and asked, "What do you think, our future Sun of the Rowoon Kingdom?"

"Young Lord Guardian of the North," he says, leaning in, "I'm just making sure my money is safe."

Cale chuckled and shook his head. Alver shook his head and said. 

"Well, then... if you find anything interesting that will benefit me, come to me, prepare the contract, and I'll sign it."

"Thank you very much, Your Highness. You really are generous. I look forward to our future transactions."

That also sounded very ominous.

He’ll watch how Cale Henituse would react. 

But it seems that trouble would be Cale Henituse’s surname a few months after the incident.

“What’s with these paper works?!”

His attention was caught by Cale Henituse’s letter.

[To the bright Sun of Rowoon Kingdom! What does owning a magic tower feel like?”

Damn it. 

Alver couldn’t help but laugh. 

“This bastard is nuts!”

TBC

Chapter Text

*tak*

*tak*

*tak*

“Hah!”

*tak*

*tak*

*tak*

*Rustles.*

*tak*

“Hah.”

"Are you okay?" asked the dark elf who was assisting Alver with his work.  Alver looked at him and sighed dejectedly once more. 

"Are you love sick?" asked the dark elf, who had no idea why Alver was acting this way.

“What?”

Alver sat up straight and stared at the dark elf. 

"No... I'm not..."

"However, you're behaving like one. " 

Alver frowned and immediately remembered Cale Henituse. 

"You appeared troubled and less energetic after the nobles left for their respective territories." 

"I'm just concerned."

The dark elf waited for him to say something. 

"I have a feeling that something magnificent is on its way to me, but there's this ominous feeling that gives me the chills."

"So you're lovesick."

"No... why are you pushing that?"

"You looked like a lovelorn maiden waiting for some attention; you even had a video communication device installed in your room after that," the dark elf continued, "and you always looked at the device as if you were waiting for someone to call while making a mess of the documents."

Alver inhaled deeply and gazed at the young Dark elf. When the device sent him a message, he simply shook his head and decided to ignore him. Cale Henituse had called and left a message. He got to his feet and approached the device. It should’ve rung. 

It appears that the palace hampered my communications.

"Prepare another video communication device," he said, "it appears that someone is attempting to deliberately interfere with my messages."

That’s annoying. He had to be cautious in all aspects now that he had someone who’d work for him outside the palace walls. He listened to Cale’s message, which posed a very attractive deal to him. 

“Alright...” 

The dark elf exited the room. Alver destroyed the device after hearing Cale’s message. 

Tasha also entered the room at this time with very important news. 

"The Archducal House of Breck Kingdom has fallen." 

Alver broke out in a cold sweat and trembled lightly. 

"Three people..." Tasha huffed, "Only three people... they destroyed the Archducal house with three people in less than two hours, and the two people with Breck Kingdom's princess belong to the Cale Henituse's people."

Holy…

A devilish grin crept across Alver’s face. He slowly raised his hand over his face and laughed as he listened. 

He made the right choice. 

“Nephew?”

“I think that's why I’m wary of Cale Henituse.”

He’s weak, definitely weak. He can’t smell that strength among those people around him. 

Cale Henituse is dangerous because he surrounds himself with dangerous individuals who grant his wishes. Cale Henituse is dangerous because he has complete command of all situations. His mind, not Cale, is the most dangerous thing to him.

Alver would be able to freely control politics if he had that person. 

His only option is to grant him everything under the guise of business transactions. 

Cale was also aware that allying himself would endanger Henituse County. He was well aware that his presence could force the Henituse into a corner. That is why contracts are the only way to keep that unknown strength in check. Cale Henituse is putting himself under control under the guise of a contract. 

A guy who calculates everything at will. Furthermore, he’s offering tempting transactions, which he couldn’t resist.

 "He intends to purchase the Magic Tower of the Wiper Kingdom."

"That sounds insane."

"Furthermore, he just wanted to own the tower," Alver chuckled lightly as he looked out the window.

"That's something only an insane person would do," Tasha said, shaking her head. 

"Well... We're both crazy bastards," Alver remarked, "Prepare a deal, Aunt..."

“A deal?”

"Yes, a contract..."

If Rowoon doesn't have something, this is his chance to get it. 

"I'll own half of the tower's assets," he joked. 

Tasha was perplexed by how quickly Alver decided what he wanted, "The mages, aren't they tower assets as well?"

"You two are meant to be," Tasha said, holding her breath.

She turned around and started to wonder how to draft the contract. Her face is telling Alver, double the work then. 

Tasha’s hunches were right. 

"CALE HENITUSE!" 

Alver screamed at the top of his lungs. He was buried with paperwork from the Breck Kingdom, as well as complaints about two entities that most likely belonged to Cale Henituse factions. 

He brushed his brow in frustration and went about his business. He needed to talk it out with that jerk. 

He should not have trusted him with such sensitive matters.  His workload more than doubled simply because of one person!

“Your Highness, Lord Cale Henituse, is requesting a video communication.”

Hearing that, he stood up and looked at the mirror. He took the comb and styled his hair for the sake of flaunting his looks at that bastard. Anyway, he’s annoyed at the fact that Bastard doubled his workload, but he won’t be requesting communication if it isn’t important. 

He wore his gala and sat on the couch. 

“How do I look?”

The dark elves who were assisting him all looked at him, puzzled. Only Tasha, the only person sane enough to respond, said, "You look as handsome as ever, nephew."

"All right," he said, crossing his legs and posing in a dignified yet bad boy manner. He needed to speak with Cale Henituse about the Breck Kingdom and hear what he had to offer him next. 

"Oh... my hair... is it shiny?"

"Yes... very shiny…”

The Dark Elves were rendered speechless. Alver had never been interested in such frivolities. Perhaps the Young Master's disregard for his existence irritates him!

“Start.” 

Tasha synchronized the device with the county before instructing everyone to leave. 

“It is my great honor to speak with the star of the nation, the wonderf-“

“Enough.”

He abruptly cut him off. Cale's words give him chills.  The bastard paused, a sly grin on his face. He calmly observed Cale, sitting leisurely but respectfully, before getting right to the point. 

“What a mess they made in the Breck Kingdom.”

Cale's smile widened.  He appeared to have been waiting for him to bring up this subject. He appeared to have anticipated this, but he remained silent. The redhead just sat there silently smiling as if nothing was wrong. He had the look that said everything would be fine.

Rather, others will clean up the mess for him. 

"Given that you're not saying anything, I'm guessing you're already aware of what happened."

He had the look that said, "See? Everything was resolved without saying anything.

“Princess Rosalyn seems to have made her resolve. How else could she obliterate a Grand Duke’s entire family in a single day?”

They were both watching each other. Examining each other's characteristics and words to see what else they might find useful.

"She also renounced her claim to the throne."

Rosalyn did relinquish her claim to the throne. It was now time for her to reveal her true nature as a mage.

"But, from what I've heard, she was accompanied by two very powerful individuals; everyone else may not know, but I do."

His sharp gaze was fixed on Cale.

"Are they not your subordinates?"

Lark and Choi Han, Cale answered back with the truth to his question.

“My subordinates?”

Alver expected him to deny them, but it appears that the information his aunt gave him was correct.  Those people were not Cale's subordinates, nor did their information indicate that they were from Henituse County. He was able to figure out, however, that these two people had made a deal with Cale. 

Just like the relationship between the two of them, they are people who are working for him under certain conditions. 

Such a frightening fellow. 

He couldn’t help but smirk. He leaned back on the couch and casually spit it out. 

“You sly fox.”

Cae could not disagree with that. He saw Cale’s lack of reaction and shook his head before adding on.

“Why do you want the Magic Tower?”

He didn’t need to beat around the bush or be glib around this person. 

He already anticipated what his response would be, so he expected Cale to be honest with him. 

Cale looked at him with a serious expression. 

“Your highness.”

Cale sat up from his seat, which made Alver also sit up with curiosity. Cale then continued.

“Every so often, I have this thought that you and I are very similar.”

He started to frown. Just thinking about it felt like a terrible thought. 

“Such a terrible thought.”

“I agree.”

The redhead simply ignored his disdain for the fact that the two of them might be similar. 

“The Roan Kingdom is a kingdom without anything.”

Silence. Alver couldn't help but smile.  This is Cale Henituse's true nature. He's enticing him with an offer he can't refuse.  He smiled. 

He appeared to have taken to the bait.

“Not going to watch what you say now?”

“Your highness, you are currently smiling, aren’t you?”

“Well, it is the truth.”

He did not disagree.

The Roan Kingdom was a kingdom where neither knights nor mages were particularly powerful. Despite its long history, it was just average in every way.

He was well aware of the fact that, while this would be fine in times of peace, it was not acceptable to be mediocre in all aspects during times of chaos. He was aware that they required at least one specialty area. The naval base won’t just suffice. 

He is aware, however, that it is not something that can be easily created in a short period.

Such a large-scale problem would take tens of years if they were lucky, but hundreds of years on average if they were not. That was why he had made up his mind.

Take it from another.

Take another kingdom's specialty and make it your own.

And a suitable prey appeared before his eyes.

The Whipper Kingdom, formerly known as the Kingdom of Mages.

Cale and Alver made eye contact as he commented.

“You sharp bastard.”

The two of them had similar smirks on their faces.

"The Magic Tower for me, and you, your highness-"

Cale and Alver answered at the same time.

“Mages.”

“Mages.”

A brief silence descended on the room before Alver covered his eyes with his hand and began to laugh. This is the first time he has ever met such a fascinating person.

He discovered gold, but it turned out to be dangerous gold. 

Cale henituse, the Rowoon's hidden treasure disguised as trash, is the Kingdom's and his most dangerous existence.

“Haha. Interesting. At first, I thought it was terrible that there was someone else like me.”

He laughed for a while before removing his hand and answering.

“I will give you whatever you need.”

He won't go against him as long as he can satisfy this person's desire. He can give him anything he wants as long as he continues to work for him. 

Cale Hentiuse will not betray him as long as he keeps his end of the bargain. 

He waited for Cale’s response.

“Thank you very much.”

Just that sentence and nothing else. However, that last sentence struck him properly. Alver was curious about this confident attitude of Cale’s and asked.

“But why is it that you want the Magic Tower?”

There's nothing wrong with asking why he wants the tower. He had a feeling it was one of his whims, but —

He returned his attention to the redhead. If he's planning everything, especially the military forces, he must be aware of what's going on in the north. There was an existence that caused the Roan Kingdom concern. Alver was aware of that. 

Cale Henituse must have been aware of the North. 

Especially since the territory of Rain City, Henituse County would be the target of an invasion. 

War creates chaos, and chaos creates opportunities for those who are prepared. One of those opportunities was the mages' running away from the Whipper Kingdom.

The crown prince, who did not wield much power in the kingdom, would use them to consolidate his power and expand his influence within it.

That is why he cannot afford to make even one mistake with this person. 

He had to be wary of him, let alone earn his trust with anything he could. 

No one would give him the opportunities that this person has. 

“I just want to own a Magic Tower.”

“.. I shouldn’t have asked.”

He snarks. He could see a sly smile on Cale’s face as he shook his head. He predicted things would turn out that way. The golden plaque he had previously given him would be used to buy it. 

“Then why is it that your highness needs the mages?”

He started to smirk similarly.

“I just want to give them a home.”

Both responses were terrible excuses, but neither called the other out. The two people who were sitting back casually, as if they were part of a painting, just kept talking to each other.

Yes, it should be like this. 

“When do you plan to head out?”

Terrible excuses would make up for the things that are bound to be acquired. 

“I plan to go in about a month.”

The civil war should be ending by now. What great timing. 

“How will you get there?”

“By ship.”

“And your guards?”

Guards. That word made Cale start to smile, and he realized his mistake.

“I guess that was a useless question. Cale, make sure you are careful since your body is still weak. You know what to do, right?”

“I will bring back any good things.”

“Sometimes we are on the same page for no reason.”

Honestly, they just did. It’s quite fun too. 

Cale and Alver, although the two of them were very different people, the smirks on their faces looked so similar right now.

They cut off the communication. 

Alver leaned on the couch with a huge smile plastered on his face. 

This is exciting. 

Never in his life had he looked forward to speaking with someone. 

He focused his attention on the video communication device. 

"Cale Henituse... The Rising Star of Rowoon Kingdom..."

By hook or crook, you'll be by my side. 

Author: Yes, hottie,  just pin him on the wall and kiss the daylights out of him!

TBC

Chapter Text

[ Author: I am angst and a family-au writer… yes, very much so, that I love making my readers cry, but why is it that all I have in my inbox were lovey-dovey requests? It’s hilarious that the inbox contains ships, cursed ships, and even romance that would make you cringe. Hahaha. and I’m single! All these things are rubbing my lonely-cold-deserted love life. Anyway, HAHAHHAHHAHAHA...  Happy reading folks!]

"Inspect everything Cale Henituse is doing."

He gave the order to the dark elves. Simultaneously, his people mobilized the elementals and placed Cale Henituse under strict watch. It's fine if they can't be approached.  They need to figure out whether he'll betray Alver and make sure he knows about it.

Cale Henituse is a suspicious person. 

But why couldn't Alver look away from the communication device?

The Dark Elves were perplexed as to why Alver was behaving in this manner.

He’s like a maiden waiting for her crush to call her. 

*sigh.*

Following the destruction of the tower that Cale Hentiuse had painstakingly built with his own money, mages seeking refuge were sent to the Rowoon kingdom. Alver took advantage of the opportunity and established the Mage Brigade under the Crown Prince's name. He was discreet in every corner of the Royal Palace, not allowing the nobles to pry into it. He is currently gathering all of the mages fleeing the Whipper Kingdom. It will take a long time to persuade them, but he will succeed.

"Now that I have the Mage Brigade, it's time to strengthen the Knight Brigade."

As soon as he saw the communication device, he said this. The Nobles had inquired about his whereabouts. He knew he had to create a diversion on things to avoid repercussions but—

Cale Henituse set up the ideal situation in which Nobles had to remain silent. 

The Sten Marquessate. 

Cale Henituse, Taylor Stan, and Priestess Cage worked together to bring the Marquis and Venion Sten to justice. He was waiting for the redhead to summon them for martial proceedings when he learned he would be keeping Venion Sten for another four days.

It seems he had an excellent torturer by his side. 

Black market. Black Organization. 

Cale Henituse wanted to end Venion Sten in the worst way ever. He’s a sadist to enemies and skins to his allies.

“Venion Sten was caught in an illegal auction.”

A devilish smile crept on his face. “Is that so? Prepare to seize the traitor.”

That was the greatest diversion Cale had created for him when he was building his troops. 

But why is this jerk not contacting him at all?

He frowned deeply and fixed his gaze on the communication device. There are already a few broken fountain pens and communication devices on the side. 

"Don't be disheartened, Nephew. Young Lord Cale is said to be entering the capitals after returning from the Northwest," Tasha said calmly as she handed him over. 

Alver stood up and turned to face his aunt.

“What?”

"Young Lord Henituse has arrived in the capital."

Alver immediately returned to his room with his aunt and changed his clothes. He chose the most expensive gala he could afford and even enhanced his appearance. 

"You know what, Nephew, you appeared to be a shy maiden on a date."

"What are you saying, Aunt? All of this is for Cale Henituse to look at me; he has the audacity to ignore my great existence, so I should make myself even more presentable."

"Ah... alright... I understand," Tasha said, shaking her head and ignoring the fact. 

At least, her nephew is smiling these days whenever Cale Henituse’s name is called or uttered before him. 

Not long after that...

“It has been too long, your highness.”

Cale, who was wearing a simple yet stylish outfit, attracted the attention of everyone.

“Yes. I am glad to see you again. How was your recovery?”

He smiled brightly as he hugged Cale, his sparkling blond hair and blue eyes matching Cale's red and reddish-brown. He greeted him with open arms, ready to put on another shitshow for the day. 

"Thanks to your highness's concern and the royal family's generosity, I was able to rest well and recover."

Cale, who was smiling as if he was telling the truth, appeared to be in good health. Alver smiled at him and pointed to the interior of the palace, as if pleased that Cale had recovered.

“Come on in. I should at least give you some tea since you’ve come to visit after such a long time.”

He didn't know why, but he wrapped his arms around Cale's waist as he led him into the palace.  The Dark Elves are probably bawling their eyes out after seeing Alver, the ever stoic, fake, glib tongue Alver, who doesn't give a damn about being a gentleman with others—acting like a gentleman to a young lady! — No! To a young lord!

But why did he look more like the puppy than the master?!

“Yes, your highness. I’m sure you are busy with work, so I will only take a bit of your time.”

However, they can only watch the prince welcome the hero of the plaza incident while swallowing all their words. 

Click.

The moment they entered his office and closed the door, both Cale and Alver, who had been walking close to each other, quickly moved away.

“Your highness, you must be tired.”

Alver looked at Cale’s side and sighed lightly. The numb feeling in his arms that used to wrap around Cale’s waist disappeared along with the warmth. The sweet scent became distant too. 

A blush crept over his skin.

“I’m sure you feel the same way.”

Alver sighed before pointing to a table on one side of the office. However, he noticed that Cale had always walked over there and sat down on what seemed to be the most comfortable couch.

“People will think you’ve been here a couple of times.”

“It is my first time here, but I feel like it is very welcoming.”

Alver feels all giddy the moment he hears that. He pursed his lips to stop himself from smiling. 

Cale had no qualms about using his glib tongue. Alver sat down and looked at Cale, who was sitting on the couch of his choice while leaving the seat at the head of the table open for him.

“I thought I told you to come as quickly as possible.”

“That is why I cut into my sleeping time to rush here, your highness.”

Cale's response elicited a snort from Alver. He had to act like he had no idea what Cale had been up to, but the person who should have been in Northeastern Henituse territory had arrived from the West.

And he was well aware of what was going on in the West, no, the Northwest region right now.

“You are a very suspicious person.”

Alver sipped the tea brought over by his servant and quietly observed Cale until the servant left the room. He had a lot of things to talk about with Cale today. He had several requests for Cale as well.

He has a sneaky look on his face.

He's sure Cale sensed that his gaze was one that seemed to want to take a lot from him today, but that thought and their 'friendship' would go the other way. 

Click.

Quick-witted as always. 

With a small click of the door, the servant exited the office. Alver was about to say something when someone else began to speak even faster.

“Your highness.”

‘Huh?’

Cale made eye contact with him, who appeared befuddled.

Cale took a magic bag out of his pocket.

“I have prepared a present for you.”

“... For me?”

A present for me!!!!!!!!!! Alver was perplexed and delighted at the same time. It's a gift! a gift for him!!

“Yes, for the star on the minds of our Kingdom’s-.”

That doesn't sound right. He fell silent after hearing that. 

“Enough.”

After that, Alver was not pleased to learn that Cale had a gift for him. In fact, he regarded Cale with even more suspicion. It was because of what had happened with Cale up to this point. He couldn't, however, lie and say he didn't get excited when he heard about a present. Alver had already received one of Cale's so-called presents from one of the Flynn Merchant Guild's people a few weeks ago.

“Let’s first take a look at this present.”

Cale slowly opened the magic bag with his permission. 

Tap.

The glass bottle was placed on the table.

“… What is this?”

Cale showed with his actions instead of answering.

Squeak, squeak. The lid of the glass bottle slowly opened.

Alver was nervous, but he was also looking forward to it.

This small glass bottle contained black water.

The lid was completely opened, and an invisible substance began to leak from the bottle.

This odor. 

The scent of dead mana gradually began to fill the room.

His entire being shook so hard as he slowly lifted his gaze to meet Cale’s. 

Reddish-brown was looking straight at him in the eye. 

“…You-.”

This person knew!

Cale slowly closed the lid back while seeing that Alver could not continue to speak.

“Your highness, of course, this present is not free.”

There was no way Cale would give something so precious for free.

It was poison for humans and not precious at all.

But for a being like him… It’s more precious than any treasure in the world. 

Dead mana.

This redhead knew! He was right to think he was the most dangerous thing in existence for him. 

Dead mana.

Those with the darkness attribute used it to perform magic. Of course, it was nothing like regular mana. Magic devices designed to detect mana were unable to detect dead mana. Particularly if the dead mana was used by a powerful race.

"I heard the late Queen was a normal person, but people assumed she was part Southerner because her skin was a little dark."

His hair and eyes were normal, but he was well-known for his appearance. People also said that his mother was beautiful.

"Dark Elves have dark skin, but I heard that a Dark Elf mixed child has skin similar to Southerners."

Cale looked toward him and finished his deduction.

“So then, the child of a half-blooded Dark Elf?”

No… He contemplated for a while, I should check out first if he’ll me out.

He answered more confidently while watching Cale's calm expression.

“You’re driving me crazy.”

“I guess I was right.”

Hah. Should I kill him? 

That was the only thing inside his head right now. 

TBC

Chapter Text

Should I kill him?

Alver just quietly observed Cale just as the others did the same. 

“And?”

Now that he knows my secret, I should make him shut up or else. 

He responded confidently at the end of the silence. He could easily erase this person's existence because he was stronger than him. His face was perfectly still. He was determined to protect himself rather than maintain an unnecessary relationship. 

Cale, on the other hand, simply shrugged his shoulders. 

"All I can say is that I can give you this, but not for free."

What?! He couldn’t believe Cale had nothing else to say after giving him such a strong blow.

“Ha, haha-”

Is that it? He’s not going to threaten me?

Alver burst out laughing. It made Cale wonder what would have happened if the office didn't have soundproof magic. That, or what would have happened if he hadn't dispatched the servants and subordinates.

The temperature dropped in the room.

"I was going to put you to work; I shouldn't have told you to come."

Alver was sick of seeing Cale's relaxed mug.  His gaze was drawn to the bottle containing the black liquid.

Mother.

The weight of that word pierced into Alver’s heart. The reason why he had to work so hard and build his power from scratch. His maternal family was something that the world declared an abominable existence. 

He’s a Dark Elf.

They were dark creatures who were chastised by the people of the continent for their proclivity for darkness. The dead mana flowing out of the dead was the foundation of their power.

Dark Elves were previously found near graves or villages that had been destroyed by illnesses.

People despised Dark Elves for this reason, even though they never harmed people or desecrated corpses.

As a result, the Dark Elves have gone into hiding. They were even better at hiding than the elves.

Alver shifted his gaze away from the glass bottle and toward Cale. Cale simply returned his smile. Cale’s gaze was clear. He’s not feeling any negativity from him. He’s looking at him, the real him. He was not averting his gaze, but Alver couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal and treachery. 

It’s natural. 

It’s normal for him to be cautious. 

His reason is to tell him otherwise. 

“And you’ll keep your mouth shut?”

“Of course.”

“But not for free?”

“Naturally.”

Alver spoke his honest feelings. The only time that someone didn’t curse their existence. The very first time that someone didn’t point out his only flaw. 

It made him feel that existence was natural. 

“You sly bastard.”

It made him believe that there were people who would accept them. 

"Why, thank you.”

Alver despised the fact that Cale didn't even flinch at what he said. At the same time, he felt relieved.  Cale had approached him directly rather than the favored third or second princes who were vying for his position.

It meant Cale wanted to make a deal with him.

That's why he was relieved. It was because Cale resembled him.

He did, however, have a question.

"Are you sure you're not one of us?"

Cale couldn't have known his true identity if he wasn't also a Dark Elf. Alver couldn't figure it out.

His mother's siblings were the only ones who knew his true identity.  They had assisted him so that his father, the king, would not learn the identity of his mother.

They were all on Alver’s side.

“I will die if I drink that.”

For humans, dead mana was like a lethal poison. When he heard the word "die," he felt pain in his heart. 

“Don’t you need it?”

Alver came clean with it.

"Of course, having it is beneficial; it will strengthen me, and it is also clean; there are no traces of poison."

“Of course. It is a very precious item.”

Cale continued as if what he said next was not surprising.

“Since it is a dead dragon’s mana.”

“What?”

Alver could not hide his shock. He then let out a sigh after seeing the smile on Cale’s face. It’s even more powerful than the black mana his aunt would occasionally bring him. 

“You’re driving me crazy.”

Alver wasn't speaking in the manner of someone in his position, but he didn't want to today. Instead, he was speaking in the manner in which he addressed his mother's siblings. How can a normal person obtain such a precious item?

“You have no plans to say anything about my identity.”

It is difficult to find dead mana these days. But it was a dragon’s dead mana?

Of course, there was very little dead mana in the glass bottle. However, the fact that it was a dragon's dead mana would cause Alver to become at least three or four times stronger than he was right now.

Alver couldn't understand why Cale would give him something so valuable, even as payment. He thought Cale was similar to him, but now he couldn't understand him.

Who is he? Why is he doing all this?

“Why are you asking something so obvious?”

Why did he choose me?

After hearing Cale say that it was obvious, Alver was at a loss for words.

However, it was the obvious choice for Cale.

'The Rowoon Kingdom needs to grow stronger,' was the only thought that came to him.

If you looked at the current power struggle between kingdoms, the Breck Kingdom and the Rowoon Kingdom were at the bottom. Under Toonka's leadership, the Whipper Kingdom was on a one-way train to hell, but they were a different story.

Simultaneously, the Southern Jungle was gradually regaining strength after putting out the fire.

Furthermore, the Northern Alliance was planning an invasion. Alver was gathering mages from the Whipper Kingdom to expand his power and prepare for the Northern Alliance's invasion.

However, this was insufficient.

‘It’s obvious.’

Taylor now had control over the Stan family, which meant they would support him.

Another thing.

Cale had one more thing to say to him. 

“Did you need the Magic Tower?”

“It must be hard to speak like that when you already know about everything.”

The number of mages approaching him, as well as the speed with which they were approaching, had increased.

He’s not sure how to handle the redhead anymore. It felt too good to be true. 

He had already obtained some items from Flynn Merchants. 

He immediately sent a single message to all of the living mages in the Whipper Kingdom.

[The future ruler of the Kingdom of Boulder will protect you.]

Alver, who had benefited greatly from it, wished for Cale to either relocate or restore the Magic Tower to the Rowoon Kingdom. However, he was no longer in a position to request such a thing.

"I don't think I can give you an order or command, but maybe a request."

"I have no plans to rebuild the Magic Tower."

That was exactly what Alver expected Cale to say. That was why he was gradually persuading Cale, knowing that Cale disliked annoying things.

“However, I can eventually give you a part of the blueprints to build the Magic Tower.”

Alver brushed his face with his hands. Just what the hell does this person want from him?!

“What do you want?”

Alver realized there was no need to beat around the bush any longer. He is not currently in command of the conversation.

“I need something to happen in two years.”

He can only read the documents in front of him. He was perplexed before frowning and ending with shock as he returned his gaze to Cale. “…Just what the hell is this?”

Cale had a short answer for him.

“I believe that is for you to determine, your highness.”

He’s serious. 

Sigh.

Alver could not help but sigh.

However, Cale was able to leave the office with the contract signed by him. He won’t lose anything, this is the best offer he can’t set aside for suspicion.

“I’ve never felt so iffy after signing something beneficial to me.”

“I believe you just need to enjoy it since it is a win-win for both of us, your highness.”

It was unquestionably a victory for him. Cale would keep his identity hidden for a few years, then give him a bottle of a dragon's dead mana and a portion of the Magic Tower's blueprint.

Even though he had received this enormous profit with a monetary value that was nearly impossible to calculate, he was feeling uneasy. It was because Cale was smiling too much.

It was like he was on a field of flowers all by himself.

“Then I will be on my way, your highness.”

“Hurry up and leave.”

I need to organize my thoughts and determine how I should treat him. 

Alver told Cale to leave, but he didn't want to send him away. He wanted to keep Cale here and beat some information out of him. However, he could not do so.

"The Forest of Darkness, the Northwestern Route, and the Sea."’

Alver couldn't figure out what Cale was after when he asked for something that wasn't money or material goods.

The door shut. Alver breathed heavily as he stared at the couch where Cale sat down. 

“Nephew.”

“He knew.”

"You mean..." Tasha exclaimed, "We should get rid of him!"

"No..." Alver remembered Cale's direct stare. 

He remembers feeling both relieved and distressed. 

"He knew... But didn't say anything... He just made assumptions."

Cale has his unique way of turning a bad day around. 

He made everything better, and the second he offers something to brighten his mood.

When he looked into his eyes, all he saw was pure beauty with no disguise. He's looking at him.  He’s looking at his soul. He's looking at Alver, just Alver... not the prince... not the dark elf. 

His heartbeat quickens just by looking at him. 

He was certain that these feelings were not lies. 

If only he knew how much turmoil he was causing in his heart. 

If only they'd met a little sooner. 

Maybe, just maybe, they could be good friends rather than business partners.

Perhaps he wouldn't have to be so wary of the man who made him feel like he belonged in this damn world. 

Cale Henituse. 

He muffled his voice, bit his lips, and gritted. 

“Order all our people surveying Cale to retreat.”

Alver —

It’s time to trust someone, unconditionally. 

That’s the reassurance that Cale had given him.

Cale Henituse. I'm just thinking about him.

So… Why?

. 

. 

.

Why does your presence make me want to cry?

However, he couldn’t find the answer to this question. 

Cale's gaze just only keeps replaying before his eyes, with his heart beating loudly.

TBC

Chapter Text

The magic tower has been destroyed. 

Alver smiled contentedly as he rose from his chair and summoned a few trusted men. 

"Open Rowoon's doors to the mages seeking refuge, and assure them that the crown of Rowoon will protect them."

His plans are flawlessly taking place. 

When he received a report that required an immediate response, he looked at his communication device. Looking at how he couldn't move freely right now, he decided to ruin Cale's moment with his slacker life. That dofus shouldn't have believed in such a life; instead of working so hard for something unattainable, he should find someone who can make him love it. 

Yes, Cale should have found someone like him. Rich enough to make him live that slacker life. 

Anyway. 

As soon as the other line was connected, a blue light surrounded the video communication device. 

Alver flashed his ever-present genuine/fake but bright smile. 

"Young master Cale, our kingdom's treasure, how was your day today?"

  "Why are you behaving this way?"

He seemed irritated that he had called. He should be grateful! The shining sun of Rowoon Kingdom personally favors and trusts him! 

"Given our relationship, why wouldn't I act this way?"

'What exactly is our relationship like? 'Cale's face was filled with this expression. Alver made every effort not to laugh. Cale Henituse was adorable whenever he frowned or looked annoyed. He enjoys bullying this redhead. He can consider this payback for all that secondhand embarrassment he had to endure. 

Cale should've realized how he must've felt when he addressed him as 'your highness the star of the kingdom.'

“I guess we have a pretty good relationship with each other?”

Contrary to what he was saying, Cale’s expression was as indifferent as before. Alberu, on the other hand, kept a gentle smile on his face. That expression was priceless. 

"Of course, especially since we have such a good relationship." 

Hoho. He's having a great time with this! See that expression on Cale's face where he felt that foreboding shit after a blissful month of doing nothing?

He still appeared to be convincing himself that this was all for nothing. 

"I'm hoping you can do me a favor."

“That is difficult. I am currently very busy .”

Naturally, he simply ignored Cale's lies and said what needed to be said.

"If you don't help me, I'll be deposed as Crown Prince and die."

Yeah! You'd better know that if I don't become king, you can kiss your blissful life goodbye! I'm fine if you kiss me. 

Alver slapped himself mentally. What the hell is he thinking?!

Cale flinched, which he noticed because what he had said was quite serious.

He was currently gathering Whipper Kingdom mages and strengthening his forces. The formation of a force to aid in the defense of the Rowoon Kingdom.

In turn, Cale was assisting him in ensuring that the kingdom and his home sweet home were safe for him to live a peaceful life.

He was aware that Cale was watching him. He must have thought he didn't look this concerned even after Cale figured out who he was. Unfortunately, his situation is more important to him than his identity being discovered. 

He's not surprised about everything else. 

Cale sat up on the rocking chair and started to speak.

“Let’s hear what you have to say. Just what is it you need my help for, your highness?”

He started to speak.

"Dark Elf."

Of course, he knew about it. 

Cale anticipated him saying those words.

Cale appeared to be starting to realize his slacker life was waving goodbye before it vanished.

Crown prince Alberu, a quarter Dark Elf, continued to speak.

"Can you go to the Dark Elf Village?"

Cale's eyes remained closed. That's to be expected. He should've thrown a fit, but he remained calm as always. 

Hah. I could stare at him like this forever 

Anyway, he can't right now, but when he gets the chance, he will. He just hoped that this jerk wouldn't give him headaches, mountains of paperwork, or kilometer-long receipts. Hah. Just thinking about it hurts. 

"I need you to retrieve an item for me because the Dark Elves who are assisting me and I are all unable to move right now."

He was busy strengthening himself with dead mana while the Dark Elves who were assisting him were busy getting things done.

"I also need a human to go."

He's the best person to ask about this right now. Despite the fact that it was expertly crafted, this item was a one-time use item that would activate as soon as it came into contact with someone who possessed even a trace of Dark Elf blood. That is why only beings without the darkness attribute, such as humans or animals, could be transported.

Cale slowly opened his eyes and leaned back in his rocking chair.

He always looked cool and beautiful when he did that. 

"What exactly is it?"

Cale's casual posture was probably treasonous in the eyes of the king, but all he could do was frown.

As expected of Cale Henituse! The one and only Cale Henituse!

"Sigh, why do I only have someone like you by my side?" He's grateful, really, but this guy would sometimes irritate him.

  “What did you say?”

"I was thinking about how lucky I am to have someone as attractive as you by my side."

Aigoo. Did that shut him off? Look! look! he’s speechless!  He couldn't help but chuckle at Cale Henituse's expression. He noticed that the longer he spent with Cale, the more of his true personality began to emerge.

‘He knows my weakness.’

But ironically, that was the reason Cale Henituse was the only person he could trust. Cale had at least kept his secret for the past two months.

“If it is difficult for you to move right now, couldn’t you tell your subordinate to pick it up later?”

Cale was well aware that he had a large number of subordinates under his command.

It's just that the situation necessitates the hiring of someone like Cale. No, this is something solely for Cale.

"I really wish I could."

He exhaled a small sigh. He was currently secretly using the video communication device with the assistance of a Dark Elf mage rather than a palace mage.

"I have to visit the Empire."

There's also the Moguro Empire to consider. 

They made direct eye contact.

"The imperial prince invited me to the Sun God Twins' celebration."

Cale appeared surprised by this celebration. Cale, on the other hand, appears to have quickly grasped the gravity of his situation.

The Sun God Twins were a Holy Maiden and a Saint who were said to be the Sun God's embodiment. They were the Holy Maiden and Saint, who were always present in any good fantasy world. 

“Mm.”

Cale looked like he was suddenly at a loss for words.

In normal fantasy worlds, the Holy Maiden and Saint were said to be extremely good and used as a symbol of sacrifice. However, in 'The Birth of a Hero,' their level of "good" or "bad" depended on the god they represented.

"The Church of the Sun God is an enemy of the Dark Elves, and I'm worried that they'll figure out that I'm a quarter Dark Elf. If that happens, mm."

 “A terrible situation would happen.”

Sometimes, he found Cale's devilish brain to be too terrifying even for him. 

 "Indeed."

The Dark Elves were reviled on the Western Continent. As someone with even a trace of Dark Elf blood, he would be deposed as crown prince immediately. Furthermore, he may perish.

"Those twins would attempt to murder me."

So I need your assistance.

 Their interpretation of justice was quite shady.

Cale's chill this time was much worse than when he heard the term 'Dark Elf,' and Alver could see that his entire body was covered in goosebumps.  Cale unconsciously began to speak.

“Please enjoy your journey.”

Alver started to laugh. 

I'd have to face something even more dangerous if I went with you. 

"I wasn't planning on taking you anyway."

 "But why is the imperial prince hosting such a celebration at random? He probably had to contact all the other kingdoms."

 "Perhaps he's insane."

Cale was at a loss for words for a moment after hearing his casual remarks. 

“…Aren’t you being too casual in front of me now, your highness?”

He shrugged his shoulders and responded back.

"I think it's strange as well; according to my information, the current Emperor and the imperial prince were supposed to be trying to get rid of the Church of the Sun God."

They were both aware that the imperial prince disliked the Sun God's Church.

The imperial prince desired to be in control of the Empire in the future, so he pushed alchemy to increase his strength. Why would someone like him value the Sun God's Church, which he couldn't control?

The Church of the Sun God was also aware that the current Emperor and imperial prince were attempting to drive them out of the Empire.

"But how come the imperial prince is suddenly celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Church of the Sun God?"

Like some insane person attempting to stage a massive farce.

 “Not at all.”

" You know what is even funnier?"

 “What is it?”

 "Apparently, it has also been 500 years since the Alchemists’ Bell Tower was created. They are having a celebration for that as well."

“Ho.”

Cale let out a gasp. Ah. That looked so cute! 

“The Church of the Sun God allowed them to celebrate alchemy at the same time?”

 "They must have since the imperial prince went around inviting people."

Cale and Alberu made eye contact again.

“Something smells fishy.”

 "Definitely fishy."

He started to smirk. Cale looked pretty calm right now. 

So this is how he looked whenever he was thinking about something. He appeared to be calm and composed. 

"Don’t you get the feeling that something is going to happen during the celebration?"

“I’m not sure.”

However, Cale feigned ignorance. It's clear that this man was uninterested in religion and didn't give it much thought. Cale, being the kind of person he was, probably wouldn't mind even if it was the kind of hell.

He has the appearance of someone who does not want to get involved. 

Same, baby, same sentiments. Who would want to visit a hellhole? Only a suicidal maniac would consider doing so. 

It would be fine as long as he wasn’t being dragged left and right.

"Liar."

However, feigning ignorance did not work against the crown prince.

"Anyway, I need your help, and I will definitely compensate you later."

Cale did not respond immediately to his sincere request. He is confident, however, that Cale will respond positively. He's getting the gist of his personality. 

They appear to be similar but are not.

He agreed to travel to the Empire because his position prevented him from sending the second or third prince. Cale finally started to speak after a while.

"Your highness, the shining star of our kingdom."

He suppressed a sigh. Cale appeared to be planning to reject him. However, the continued words caused him to smile.

“Where is it?”

Bingo. 

Cale must have considered the fact that he is the only person he could turn to for assistance right now.   

Which meant that he had no choice.

Cale could not let the crown prince die.

He laughed quietly before beginning to speak. Using that logic, Alver apologized for forcing him to leave.

"You must travel to the west."

Cale's mind was taken to a specific location as a result of his response.

It was one of the five Forbidden Regions.

“The Dark Elves live in the Land of Death?”

 "You really are very smart," Alver said, satisfied with his ramblings. "The Dark Elf Village is located there; you just need to get the item from the village's chief."

 “Mm, your highness.”

Cale should have known about it. That location is a desert and would undoubtedly be hot. Furthermore, it's a dangerous place, even for him. 

 And it is currently summer.

"What is it?"

His mouth released a slightly gentle voice. He wasn't acting or strategizing; it was his genuine voice. Cale cautiously asked his question.

"Can I refuse to go?"

For a brief moment, the room was deafeningly quiet.

How adorable could he possibly be?! He had to swallow the squeal that was coming out of his throat. Cale Henituse is truly a spoiled noble! He's not annoying; in fact, he looked adorable while puffing his cheeks!

 Then Cale nodded his head.

“I’ll go since I said I'd go.”

"Mm. I will give you a guide. Since it is the desert, you need to be with someone who knows the way."

He explained everything to Cale, who nodded his head solemnly. He seemed sincere enough that he felt sorry for Cale.

“Your highness.”

 "Yes, young master Cale."

  “I can ask you for any travel expenses, right? May I buy a lot of magic ice? I really hate the heat. Furthermore, can I pick the reward again? This time I will choose money. ”

Cale asked a lot of questions all at once. He quietly observed Cale before responding. He's more concerned about the heat than he is about the dangers of the desert. He wanted to laugh, but this is a serious matter right now.

These little perks are adorable! He suppressed his urge to smile and said.

"Of course, go ahead and do whatever you want." 

I have an entire fortune to spare you. He giddily thought and suppressed his laughter. 

Cale started to smile as he responded back.

“I’m sure you are already aware, but I always complete my tasks with 120 percent efficiency, so I expect an even greater reward.”

 "I know, which is why I said I'd do whatever you want."

I can provide you with anything you desire. 

  "Yes, sir, please leave it to me."

 "Sure, I’ll trust you."

Cale would most likely plan a few more things before leaving. 

I should prepare my pocket so I don't have to let him suffer from the heat. 

But an image of a red-cheeked Cale flashed before his eyes. 

Alver couldn't stop himself from squealing.  

He'll definitely look quite pretty with red flushed cheeks. 

Ah. Alver Crossman!

He just rolled on the bed after his conversation with the redhead 

TBC

Chapter Text

“Is this my room?”

"Yes, sir, you may stay here tonight, young master-nim."

Alver finally felt that thrill after a long time. Cale will surely avoid her aunt's grateful gaze the moment he opens the door to this room. Click.

And then...

Bang!

See? He slammed the door shut with a thud. A long, deep sigh echoed once again. 

He watched as the redhead dragged his feet into the room. Tasha quickly shut the door behind him. At the same time, he started to speak.

“This is not your room.”

“Of course not, your highness.”

With this fancy feast waiting for him, he couldn't help but smile at Cale.. 

I’m rich! This is nothing!  hahahahhaha!

"I had no idea you'd come all the way out here to meet me."

“I am in a bit of a hurry.”

Cale looked toward him, as he casually added on.

"Tunka assumed command of the Whipper Kingdom."

Tunka's group had begun to move after being dormant for several months. Tunka's position as commander-in-chief meant that the Whipper Kingdom's royalty had fallen into Tunka's hands.

Cale's uninterested tone could be heard.

"They've gotten themselves a one-way ticket to hell."”

Exactly. Alver started to smirk.

“Indeed, although it has nothing to do with us right now.”

“I guess he doesn’t know your highness stole all of the remaining mages?”

"Of course not; how could the Whipper Kingdom know when even our own people aren't sure?"

He and Cale exchanged glances.

Cale's bracelet slipped from his grasp and landed in his palm.

Siiizzle.

As black smoke engulfed his body, a noise resembling water hitting fire could be heard.

Click.

He put the bracelet on his wrist. He slowly revealed his dark-elf self. 

"Your highness, your appearance is also quite lovely."

what—-?! The quarter Dark Elf, his true appearance, appeared in front of Cale.

The blonde hair and blue eyes vanished, to be replaced by brown hair and brown eyes. Alver's skin was also noticeably darker than that of most people. Even though he was only a quarter Dark Elf, the Dark Elf traits were obvious.

"Why are you asking such a simple question? Everything looks better when you're handsome."

I am handsome! Cale says I’m handsome! He likes my dark elf side!!!!

“The blessing of the God of Death. I’m relieved.”

He could feel the power within the bracelet. He could also sense the impact of the blessings Cale bestowed upon him as a gift. As he continued to feel the power within the bracelet, he shared one piece of information with Cale.

"Tunka is said to be going to the Empire in place of the Whipper Kingdom's heir."

Cale started to frown.

“…Sounds like it will be a mess.”

“I agree.” You created that mess, actually. 

Alver then asked Cale.

“Will you be spending time at home?”

“Yes, your highness. That is indeed the plan.”

Cale appeared to be lost in thought for a few moments. He must be thinking about Whipeper Kingdom. It's irritating to think he's preoccupied with something else. 

"What are your plans?"

"I intend to farm for a while and then rest."

Ugh. What was I expecting? His network, the seed he planted, the money he planted and grew all without even tending to them. He would only be giving orders and would not be doing any actual work. 

This is what makes Cale Henituse so terrifying. a formidable opponent. 

"I don't think anyone would believe you'll be farming with that expression on your face."

He's grateful that Cale chose to assist him rather than the Second and Third Prince; otherwise, he'd be facing much worse odds before this person decides which side to take. 

Alver felt iffy about Cale’s face. He could tell Cale had a lot of different plots forming in his head. 

He's terrified of Cale but not of him. 

Anyway, I need to watch for a while before deciding what to do. 

However, he quickly returned to his blonde hair and blue-eyed appearance and said goodbye to Cale. He needed to quickly head over to the Empire.

Cale soon left the capital and headed back to Harris Village in the Forest of Darkness.

He didn't expect Cale to be so intimidating, to the point where this jerk Tunka actually called him a friend. A friend! He, the Crown Prince, should be the only person he’s making contact with. He is now a confidante, but Cale has the audacity to be so close to others! Not only that, he’s the hero of the jungle? When? how? What on earth has he been doing behind the scenes? Even Breck Kingdom’s prince came to him and asked for his well-being!

Is he raising a force to usurp Rowoon?

No, he can’t. 

That’s why he needed to call that trash and curse at him. 

[A/N: sounds like a jealous husband.]

But Cale didn’t answer 

“Just what in hell have you been doing?’

His voice sounded quite chaotic.

“Why does Commander Tunka call you his friend? Why are you the hero of the jungle? Even one of the Breck Kingdom’s princes was asking about you and his sister. Everybody stealthily came over to ask about you before leaving. You’re driving me crazy.”

He couldn’t help but rant as he left that message for Cale. 

He couldn’t help but feel annoyed. 

"hah! Cale Henituse, what on earth are you doing?" he exhales, slamming his hand on the table. 

No, actually, this is quite good. This could go in my favor. 

But the fact that Cale was much closer to them than him irritates him. 

Theirs is a contractual relationship.  

He sat on his chair and calmed himself. Just thinking about it, disheartens him. 

“What should I do?” Everything that Cale is doing right now gives him doubt as to why he chose him. 

Just the fact that he couldn’t fully understand Cale gives him room for doubts and worries. 

“Nephew.”

He raised his head and motioned for his aunt to be quiet for a moment. He needed to steal himself in preparation for whatever outcome this contractual relationship might have. 

Cale Henituse. 

His name rolled wonderfully in his mouth. 

Alver was sure. 

He can’t let Cale go anywhere else. 

He’ll be by his side. 

TBC

Chapter Text

Alver Crossman is currently sulking. The Palace of Joy was in a gloomy mood. The prince, who seemed to be experiencing love-sickness, would hiss loudly if they made a mistake. 

The bastard who created their prince in this manner is not calling him at all. 

Countless sighs echoed throughout the room. Numerous hair dye spells were cast to enhance his glamour and attractiveness, waiting… just waiting for one call. 

After spending some time in that rural village, it pained Alver to leave Cale without saying anything, so he left a message through the communication device. 

However, after so much time, the blasted Cale Henituse is not replying. Only when he went to Mogoru that he learned what Cale had been doing…

“Just what the hell have you been doing?”

Alver’s voice sounded quite chaotic.

"Why does Commander Toonka refer to you as his friend? Why are you the Jungle's hero? Even one of the Breck Kingdom's princes inquired about you and his sister, and everyone came over to inquire about you before leaving. You're driving me insane."

He just kept ranting. Is Cale only supposed to pay attention to me? Why bother bothering with other kingdoms?!

He'd spent the entire day staring at the communication device. He even left thousands of messages, but no one responded. 

"The audacity," Alver hisses and groans as he rises to his feet. "Don't answer if you don't want to! Let's see if you have nothing to ask of me."

Oh. That sounds very childish. 

Tasha smiled secretly because this was the first time her nephew was looking forward to talking to someone, let alone someone who shared his thoughts. 

Birds of a feather truly do flock together. 

"Haaaaaaa, anyway, I'm returning with one of the Breck Kingdom's princes. Oh, and the Pope of the Church of the Sun God is dead. The criminals are the twins who were the Church's Holy Maiden and Saint. They are said to be on the run, but nobody knows where they went." 

Cale would probably contact him after receiving these, right?  

He smiled as he brushed his hair to the back of his head. 

"Sigh, what a mess, what a total mess."

Nope! Cale must respond to me.

Alver did everything he could to set up a meeting with the redhead if he ever decided to contact him. There was never enough paperwork!

He had completely forgotten that he was waiting for Cale's call. He'd been chatting with dignitaries and even babysitting a prince from another kingdom. 

It's nice not to think about Cale, but this workload is definitely putting a strain on his patience. Especially now that the Northern Kingdom has formed an alliance. 

*ring! ring!*

He plugged in the communication device and turned to face the person who had contacted him. Alver, whose face appeared on the video communication device, did not appear to be in good health. He was staring at Cale as if he was trying to figure out who he was.

Cale did not tell him about the Northern Alliance. It had not been the appropriate time to say it. However, now was the appropriate time.

"Didn't the three Northern kingdoms form an alliance?"

Alberu did not respond to Cale's question, instead observing him quietly. After a while, he finally cracked a gentle smile.

Smile, Alver, smile. 

"I knew you were just pretending not to know, which is why you helped me with the Whipper Kingdom and the Naval base to protect those mages."

Cale remained silent in the face of his accusations. He asked back with a surprised expression, as if he didn't expect a response.

"So, what do you think we should do about it?"

"Miss Rosalyn is going to meet with her younger brother."

"I suppose she is aware of this information as well."

"She is my friend," 

Alver said, scoffing at Cale's response before continuing. Friend… Alver didn’t believe that. 

“You know that maintaining this secret is the most important thing, right?”

“That is why I didn’t even tell you until now, your highness.”

Seeing Cale’s sly smile made him feel like there was no worse expression in the world than Cale’s smile as he quickly ended the call. Although Cale looked really beautiful with that kind of smile, the boundless paperwork is making him think otherwise. 

“Then see you next time.”

“Any time, your highness.”

The video communication came to an end. 

“Ah. While you look all pretty and cool, your work is not and will never become one.” He sighs and continued to write like a madman all while remembering Cale’s while doing paperwork. 

But the next few days were a blessing for a workaholic like him. 

Cale’s face was full of boredom. It was even close to exhaustion. How cute…

“Why don’t you stop with that face?”

“You have the same expression, your highness.”

He was looking at Cale with a similar expression. They were tired of each other after seeing each other via video every day. However, they still needed to talk to each other because there was work to be done.

Well, he’s not that tired actually. He can’t help but feel alive and motivated to do all the work while staring at this bastard’s face. 

“The fourth prince said he will take three of the Royal Knights and head to the Henituse territory. I am leaving the Empire tomorrow, so you can assume that he’ll leave around the same time.”

“Yes sir. I will let Miss Rosalyn know.”

“Tell Count Deruth as well.”

“Yes sir.”

Cale looked like he was thinking something else. So Alver had to catch his attention by saying something out of the ordinary. 

"Would you like to hear something amusing?"

“Not at all.”

He unintentionally revealed the truth. Cale is the only one who treats him this way. It's endearing and quite addictive. Previously, there were only three types of nobles: leechers, bitches, and wannabees. Although Cale could be classified as any of them, he can't help but think this man is in a class of his own.

"I'm going to tell you anyway."

He simply decided to ignore Cale's feelings, as he always did.

"Do you know how the Pope of the Sun God Church died?"

"Your highness, are you allowed to discuss such matters while in the Empire?"

"I've already used noise-canceling magic; have you forgotten who I am?"

'Can you tell me who you are? You command a large number of mages.  I’m sure you have a lot of magic devices as well.’ Alversmiled. This is what this cretin is thinking right now.. 

Cale acknowledged this and nodded to Alberu, who continued to speak.

"Once the Emperor announced the start of the festival, the Pope delivered an opening address because the festival was related to the Sun God, and it was held in front of the Imperial capital's Sun God Temple."

He put on a bitter smile, thinking about the incident. The Pope stood lower than the Emperor but higher than the Imperial Prince, who stood next to the Emperor. It was designed in this manner to give the Pope's face. That was not something to grumble about. There was another problem.

"That platform flew away."

“What?”

"The Temple and the platform were both blown up."

Cale is thinking about something else. 

“An explosion?”

“You’re so sharp. Yes, an explosion. It was similar to what happened to us.”

The word 'us' caused Cale's expression to change. The only thing Alver could be referring to is the Plaza Terror Incident in the capital.

"The Holy Twins and people dressed in black, as well as magic bombs similar in strength to those in our capital, are you getting a sense of it now?"

Cale sat quietly with a stiff expression. He went on as if he understood what Cale was thinking.

"I was saved by a mage's shield, but the believers in front of me were slaughtered; it wasn't just the Pope; I will definitely find and destroy the organization that did this; it meant that they planned to do the same thing in our Kingdom."

Alver hadn't forgotten about the mage.

"This time it was a different mage, but I will definitely find and punish that mage."

“Mm, your highness.”

“Yes?”

“That mage is no longer in this world.”

“What?”

“He is dead.”

Cale avoided Alberu’s gaze.

“... Did you kill him?”

“I didn’t do it.”

What did he even expect?

“Haaaaaa.”

Cale must be thinking about something very important. He didn't want to stop because he always received and benefited from it. "Then, see you soon, Cale," Alver said as he looked at the redhead.

He smiled as he turned off the communication device.  

“Yes, I’ll see you soon, Cale.”

Then he closed his eyes, content with how he made that redhead drop his jaw for acting like a bitch. 

“How cute.”

Of course, that made his day. 

TBC

Chapter Text

[CALE HENITUSE’S POV]

"Cale, it appears that His Highness, the Crown Prince, is lavishing you with attention that no noble has ever received."

Cale got chills when his father said that. 

"And it's more intimate than a lord would do to his vassal..."

"You're joking, father; his Highness just likes me."

Cale had noticed the same thing. Despite keeping the Crown Prince at arm's length, he had the uneasy feeling there was more to it. He's a dense bastard, but not that dense considering how Alver Crossman treats him more than usual.

He felt shivers run down his spine. He had heard of BL genres but had never read one. 

He simply decided to ignore it and refuse the prince once he emerged from the shell. 

He hoped Alver wouldn't have to go that far. 

“But Cale, His Highness’s likeness seems a bit too much,” Deruth said, but Cale didn’t mind it. 

There’s no way. Right… 

there’s no way… 

Cale decided to ignore the prince’s calls for now. 

[ALVER CROSSMAN’S POV]

TWO YEARS LATER…

It’s been two years since he knew Cale. The redhead had the audacity to ignore him for two whole years. They rarely communicated, and Cale mostly talked to him about some things but shut the communication device immediately. 

However, there’s something much more important than their petty games of emotions and annoyance. 

War is right before them. 

“Young master Cale.”

War is approaching, but this jerk went ahead and posed disrespectfully while leaning on the bed. Alver would like to hang out as well, but there's no end to this damn paperwork. Anyone would be irritated to see someone relaxing on a bed when he had to work as if there was no tomorrow. That bed now appeared to be extremely comfortable. It would be nice if Cale could sleep next to him. 

Alver frowned. Where in the hell did he get those ideas? Cale Henituse? of all people? Why would he want to share a bed with him at all?

He might as well annoy this bastard now. 

“Your highness-”

He cut him off. He frowned as he started to speak, almost in agony. 

“You really are not the kingdom’s star but the kingdom’s light.”

'...What the...?' Cale's face stiffened. He didn't mind because he was using his glib tongue for the first time in a long time.

"With a light like you, our Rowoon Kingdom is not even afraid of the darkness; you are not just a star, but our kingdom's brightest star."

Cale clearly wonders why he's acting this way. Even though he was full and relaxed, he began to become irritated.

“Your highness, shall I sit up?”

Cale tried to sit up and stop leaning on the bed.

"No, there's no need to do so. I heard about it.” 

You need some beauty rest before I put you to work to the bone. 

He no longer appeared to be in pain as he began to smile brightly. Someone might mistake him for being in a beautiful flower field or something. He had the impression that he was somewhere better than a flower field.

"You coughed up blood and nearly fainted while attempting to apprehend human traffickers in Gyerre territory?"

“…A part of it is true.”

He did not cough up blood or almost faint.

"You used incredible charisma to apprehend the human traffickers, destroy their buildings with the silver shield, and free the imprisoned citizens?"

"...I guess so?"

Although exaggerated, that endearing expression made him want to tease this endearing creature even more. Cale Henituse seemed to grow more beautiful with each conversation. 

His locks were long and flowing. Despite his manliness, his mature face appeared to be that of a young lady. His voice was sonorous, enough to make Alver want to sleep right now. 

"You pretended to be drunk and watched the human traffickers from a restaurant window before confronting them with only one knight by your side?"

"...Could you please stop?"

He smirked. Cale started to frown. All stress and exhaustion had left his system, as he appeared to be in good spirits despite his tired appearance. 

"It appears that you have already heard about the majority of it, your highness."

As one would expect from his Baby Cale! Alver thought proudly and smiled brightly at him. 

“Yes. My informant told me about the rumors spreading through the territory.”

The exaggerated version he mentioned was rapidly spreading throughout Gyerre territory. The Duke's Estate had no way of stopping the rumors from spreading. He had come to a conclusion after hearing the rumors.

“A good crazy bastard.”

Although it's annoying to see Cale smirking at his words. Cale's charisma made him want to treasure him even more. 

Wait… what?

A... Anyway, according to the other information he had received, he did not cough up much blood but there was only a small amount of blood. That would explain why he was laying down to rest. He could have rested and reported to him in the morning, but he was too polite and waited until after midnight to do so.

That's why, even though he didn't like the bastard, he found Cale to be the easiest to work with. 

It was because Cale was similar to him.

“What is it you need to report?”

He wasn't the cruel type to put a recovering person in jeopardy. Furthermore, this cretin was the one who would soon replace him at the Caro Kingdom's auction house.

"It's just a short report, but the merchant guild that traded with the Chryshi household is from the Empire, and there is also evidence that the Chryshi household hired an assassin guild in the past to kidnap a child."

He felt a headache coming on.

"Is that a short report?"

"Yes, your highness; the Gyerre household will contact you shortly; I attached the chain so you can use them as you wish."

"...I suddenly feel tired."

How far had he anticipated all of this?!

Contrary to his words, he was bursting with energy. He's the type of person who seemed to be happiest when he could manipulate others.

“I will hold on to the chains tightly.”

"Yes, your highness, I'm confident that the wise star of our kingdom will be able to handle any issues that arise."

Alver noticed Cale was perplexed. He can't help himself. He usually hung up after Cale finished his report and began to flatter him. Cale stiffened up, clearly, wondering if he had something else to say. 

It's just that seeing his face after such a long time put Alver at ease. 

He doesn't want to end the call. He wants to talk to him more. but…

Cale appeared to be uneasy right now. 

Alver looked at him for a moment before saying, "Sleep well," with a soft smile, resigning himself to his choices.

Click.

He hung up.

He didn't want to end their conversation after they'd been talking for so long. He was disappointed that Cale seemed eager to end their conversation. 

Alver couldn't figure out why he was feeling this way. 

He longed for him. 

He longs to hear Cale's voice. 

He wants to talk to him more, regardless of whether the topics are sensible or not. 

He looked at Tasha, who seemed pitying him. 

"How are you feeling?"

“I’m alright?”

"But you looked like you were about to cry..."

Alver chuckled after a brief pause. 

"It's not like that, Aunt."

"Nephew..." Tasha took his hand in hers and looked him in the eyes. “I’ve been with you for a very long time and I know what you’re feelling.”

Tasha looked at him in the eye. She smiled at her, like how his mother would do for him. 

"Savor those feelings, nephew." 

He couldn't figure out why Tasha said those words to him. 

"Gender doesn't matter in the face of love."

It was the first time Alver couldn't come up with a defense. After hearing those reassuring words, he felt as if the thorn in his heart had been removed. 

"I'm... in love?"

"That's for you to understand and realize, nephew."

He couldn't sleep at all that day. 

He couldn't stop thinking about Tasha's words and his actions.  

“In love, huh?”

He laughed. 

In reality, he's terrified... 

It's a foreign concept to him. He grew up in an environment where he was unable to express his emotions. He's in a prison disguised as a paradise on Earth. 

To him, it was a distant word. 

Love. 

It's terrifying. 

It's extremely frightening. 

He is in a position where he cannot completely trust anyone.. 

He's terrified of betrayal.. 

If he gives his heart to someone, he will be destroyed.. 

The thing that destroyed his mother and what his father deprived him of. 

The image of Cale Henituse flashed through his mind as he closed his eyes. 

He sighed deeply and felt that heavy thing in his chest. 

If this is what Tasha described to him, he must stop. 

Before he falls hard… 

Before he makes a mistake.

Before he’s hopeless drowned in this petty feelings. 

His mind reasoned, but his heart told him otherwise. 

It's excruciating. 

He is unable to breathe. 

Right... He just needs to deny it and go on living his life as if nothing is wrong.  

He can do that…

"In the end... I'm still the fool."

TBC

AUTHOR: kekekekekkekekekkekekeke

Chapter Text

[CALE HENITUSE’S POV]

Alver Crossman is distancing himself from him. Cale suddenly realized the changes that happened around him. Especially the Crown Prince’s cold demeanor while discussing matters with him. 

“My Lord, is there something wrong?”

Ron cautiously asked. Cale looked at his butler. 

“You seem to be lost in thought.” 

What a sharp, vicious old man. 

"There's nothing wrong... Have you completed what I ordered you?" said Cale, shaking his head.

Even the bastard crown prince dispatched him to Caro Kingdom. He appeared to be determined to keep a safe distance from him. 

He should be happy, but... 

He doesn't seem to be used to it. 

"Damn it..." What's the matter with me?

He pondered and decided to put an end to all of his thoughts about Alver Crossman. 

They're just one of the contract partners for the throne and his peaceful slacker life.. 

[ALVER CROSSMAN’S POV]

The Northern Alliance started to move. 

He was debating whether or not to call Cale, which he did ten times. He simply left a voice mail and began to move in accordance with their plans. It's better to be safe and start early.

He looked over at Cale, who appeared to be doing well.

He, who used to be majestic and spotless, was now leaning back in his chair, his hair a tangle. Anyway, the headache has vanished now that he has seen this lovely face. Though such a bastard gives him lifetime chills and unending headaches, his presence seemed to be a cure for it. 

“My heart is hurting seeing you like this, your highness.”

“Bullshit.”

He was about to say something else when he noticed Cale's poor appearance and decided not to. They’re in the same boat. It's either die or sink.  Either way, they're doomed on the same shit. In either case, they're doomed on the same shit.

“We saw the Paerun Kingdom’s knights going into Norland.”

Paerun, Norland, and Askosan.

These were the names of the three kingdoms in the Northern Alliance. Of the three, Norland was the kingdom to the north of the Forest of Darkness. They would be bordering the Roan Kingdom if the Forest of Darkness did not exist.

"After delivering that information, the informant destroyed the video communication device."

One of Norland's Dark Elves was the informant sent to him.

"The fact that his elemental hasn't returned appears to indicate that he is still alive."

“He will return alive.”

Alberu returned to the topic at hand, smiling at Cale's response.

"I am currently working with the Breck Kingdom to see if some of the Paerun Knights have also defected to Askosan." 

With the Gorge of Death separating them, Askosan was the closest kingdom to the Breck Kingdom.

"It appears that the Paerun Knights went to Askosan as well."

“Indeed.”

However, something is wrong with their current situation. 

“Something is weird.”

That was why Alberu found it odd.

“It is still too early to cross through the ocean. What could they be thinking?”

There was a reason that the Roan Kingdom and the Breck Kingdom had prepared for the attack in spring. Although Askosan and Norland were at the bottom tip of the north, they were still further north than the Roan Kingdom in the northeast. Their shores were still likely to be frozen. This was especially the case because it was currently early February, one of the coldest times of the year.

Alver bit down on his lips.

Their prediction was incorrect, and the Northern Alliance's decision was unexpected. The fact that they chose to do it so openly indicated that they were confident in something. He then considered the northeastern shores of the Roan Kingdom. The construction of the naval base. This information had already spread across the continent. They kept it hidden for as long as they could, but something like that was difficult to keep under wraps indefinitely.

The majority of people, however, believed that the naval base was in its early stages.

They would be mistaken.

They had finished tens of ships and were preparing for war by having mages hide them with magic.

'It's all thanks to this punk, too.'’

Alver turned his gaze to Cale.

Cale's subordinate, the Dwarf Rat with mixed blood. Although he had returned to Henituse territory, he had stayed at the Ubarr shores for a while to examine their blueprints..

Thanks to that, they were able to start building the ships earlier than expected.

However, their plans for the spring had to be altered.

Cale was as terrifying as his people. 

Strange people seemed to gather around Cale. 

People of various races surrounded Cale. 

Alver believed that this man had the potential to unite the continent. Looking at how he goes about things, that won't be a distant dream. 

Their informant was also discovered.

He realized there was an unknown factor that he had overlooked. 

He couldn’t resolve the thoughts in his head without knowing this crucial factor.

Alver untied the knotted tie around his neck.

"Can you figure it out, Cale?"

Alberu inquired, his voice frustrated. He had a feeling, but he wants to be certain. The victorious variable in a war will be determined by certainty and uncertainty. 

Alver is already aware of it. 

He could see the throne he desired. 

Cale was the only person to whom he could express his frustration, and he had called Cale in the hope that Cale's usually calm demeanor would help calm him down.

He did, however, laugh pityingly.

"How could you have known?"

“Wyvern.”

He stopped laughing. Aren't they simply legends? Tales of old age triumph in whatsoever? 

 But remembering that there were still dragons in existence, Alver was certain. 

Cale was aware of something that neither he nor the rest of the world were aware of. 

After all, there was only one person who came to mind. 

"The sky."

They were not using ships. No, there would be ships. However, they would come via the sky first and then via ships later. But what can we do about the sky?

His concerned gaze was drawn to Cale. Cale is being truthful with him. 

"...When did you find out?"

"Are you aware of the fire in the Paerun Kingdom's lake?"

"Did you do it?"

“Yes sir. That was when I found out. I forgot to report it.”

“You son of a- haaaaa.”

How can this obnoxious jerk be so adorable right now?! He's even cuter right now with the way he's shrugging. 

"... Our astute young master Cale, they'll be flying over the Forest of Darkness if they come through the sky; will Henituse territory be safe?"

He could see the corners of Cale's lips twitching. He had been waiting for a long time. Alver observed that Cale had been prepared for a long time. 

When is the question?

He made the decision to think about things now, but...

From the beginning. Cale had been planning from the beginning. Even before he arrived at the palace two years ago. 

“Your highness.”

“Yes.”

"Please prepare an order giving me command of the military forces in the Northeast region."

“Ha.”

He burst out laughing. Cale was asking for something monumental in such a casual manner. He was endearing and cute for a vicious bastard. This is probably why he likes this man so much. A variable that can move on its own and provides him with the most support.

His trashy demeanor seemed to be an attempt to divert everyone's attention away from him.. 

[A/N: I doubt that XD]

'Yes, it should be like this. This is the Cale Henituse I'm familiar with.'

He simply needs to provide what this man requires. He simply needs to listen and give him the support he deserves.

"Please prepare a Knights Brigade as well as one of your Mage Brigades."

Cale began to smile.

“And then just wait.”

He held his hand across his eyes. ‘This crazy bastard. Just wait? So he’s going to defend it on his own?’

He smiled as he asked Cale a question.

“Just what the hell have you been up to?”

Cale just shrugged his shoulders.

“You cheeky bastard.”

Contrary to his choice of words, he was smiling brightly. He brushed his messy hair as if he was combing it. At the same time, he also realized what he needed to do. The races, the reports, Necromancer Mary. Cale is a meticulous man that prepared everything with thousands of plans ready inside his pretty little head. 

“So there was a reason you called the necromancer back to you. Do whatever you need to do. I’ll take care of the rest.”

“Just gain power, your highness.”

“Don’t worry. It is all in my hands once the war begins.”

He, who seemed to finally be back to his usual self, started planning a way to push forward the plan he had with a clear mind. Alberu was deep in thought and missed Cale suddenly flinching.

He gazes at Cale and nodded. Without a word, the communication device closed. 

“It’s starting.”

He sigh and stood up. 

“Cale will be fine.” He reassured himself and plans how to support Cale in every way possible. 

Atleast, he should be prepared to pull Cale from the frontlines and save him. 

He understood the extent of his feelings for Cale. It was a camaraderie and unequivocal trust. 

Cale… is someone who will never betray him. 

That’s why, his feelings aren’t what Tasha told him to be. 

Cale is a stranger, his contract partner, and now, his one and only friend. 

yes… As long he’s alive, no matter how dangerous it could be.

Cale’s safety would be his priority. 

TBC

Chapter Text

Alver takes a deep breath. He activated the communication device and was the sole decision-maker in this war. The peaceful Rowoon will be engulfed in discord and flames of war in no time. However, this is their only opportunity to make their presence known. 

Everything is in its proper place. 

Everything has been meticulously prepared. 

It's time to finish what the enemies began. 

It's conceivable. 

No, they will make it happen. 

He and Cale will make it happen. 

"I, Zed Crossman, will delegate all duties to Crown Prince Alberu Crossman and hand over the throne to him next year."

The camera then focused on him. He began to speak, still projecting the image of a gentle and just prince.

“Turn on the video.”

‘Video?’

The magic behind Alberu was featured in a video.

– Rooooooar!

The roars of monsters filled the banquet hall.

The nobles could see monsters flying in the air.

Cale’s prediction was right. So he needs to respond to that call of duty imposed on him. 

He had been debating this for a while before making up his mind after hearing Cale’s comment.

‘Your highness, the entire kingdom will become heroes.’

Alver and the Rowoon Kingdom made up their minds at that moment.

The Paerun Kingdom had feigned being fair and just by claiming to be a land of knights. 

They would do the same.

He recalled what Cale had said.

‘Your highness, it isn’t as if we are doing something bad. We are just pretending to be a fair and just kingdom.’

‘Funny bastard.’

The Rowoon Kingdom had made its decision.

They were going to use their strength fairly and openly suppress them.

He began to speak.

Through the video communication device, his voice echoed throughout the banquet hall where Cale was sitting.

"The Roan Kingdom has the longest history on the Western continent; we may not have any specialties, but we have the longest history."

The Rowoon Kingdom had been the only peaceful kingdom since the declaration of the Indomitable Alliance.

The Rowoon Kingdom was the last to declare its position to the others.

Take advantage of this opportunity. This is your one and only chance!

"We will demonstrate the survivor's strength."

The crown prince addressed the Western continent with assurance. Simultaneously, the banquet hall was filled with silence, no, shock.

They had only recently discovered the truth.

Alver, who connected a communication device to Cale's, broadcasted what Cale said to the Northeast Region. 

The trash, the lost cause of Henituse County, would take command of all forces that they had secretly gathered for years. 

"The Wyvern Knights Brigade will not get past Henituse territory," Cale said sternly. The entire hall was silent. This is the first time they’ve seen a wolf in sheep's clothing, revealing himself with the authority they all so desired. 

“Absolutely not.”

Cale moved to the center of the table and took the silver plaque.

"I, Cale Henituse, take command of the military in the northeast region as of today."

His speech was respectful. He did, however, leave no gaps.

"From now on, you must listen to me."

Cale looked around at the nobles of the southwest and northwest factions who were averting his gaze, as well as the nobles of the other factions who appeared to be in disarray.

The nobles in the capital who were listening shuddered as well. 

"If it is the noble's way to associate with the powerful..."

People who sought power on the eve of war did not deserve to be remembered as heroes.

Cale was using today to determine who would become heroes and who would survive by allying with the powerful. He needed to know this in order to properly utilize the nobles.

Cale gave the nobles a friendly smile.

"You'll soon have to decide who you need to attach yourself to in order to survive."

It was a word for everyone, including the nobles who looked down on them. 

This new power will be revealed at the conclusion of the first battle. 

The cogs they've installed are now turning.. 

Cale exited the halls of the Northeast Henituse Halls at the end of the video.

"Prepare the communication room!" Alver ordered everyone, and soon the real fight would begin. 

Please stay safe. He prayed, "Be safe, Cale."  

The Henituse territory was shrouded in war clouds.

Alver was feeling nauseous and nervous, but he needed to remain calm during this time. A leader must have a burning heart but a calm mind. If he failed, then he had no reason to start a war. 

"First Brother," Robbit said as he approached him. "What can I do to assist?"

Alver looked at him and ordered him to sit beside him. 

"You must keep an eye on things," because this will be the beginning of the Rowoon Kingdom, and your child will succeed. Alver had already planned to take Robbit's child as his successor out of all his siblings. He will hand over the throne to his brother's son after completing all of his plans. Unlike the other princes, Robbit was not hostile to him and even helped him when he needed it. This man, too, did not desire the Crown Prince's position and had been doing his work diligently, faithfully, and without regard for him. 

Robbit sat next to him. His gaze was fixed forward, watching the silver shield defend the Henituse territory. The most dangerous place, but it also feels the safest right now. 

Wyvern roars filled the sky soon after. The flying beings appeared to be dangerous as they filled the sky. 

"Cale Henituse," Alver Crossman exhaled deeply. 

The moment has arrived. Horns echoed throughout the communication devices installed in the Rowoon Palace. Alver Crossman intends to demonstrate the overwhelming power and force that Cale Henituse is currently leading. 

There’s no need to be recorded in history.

He wished he could laugh. The irony of that verse, as well as how the Henituse goes about his business, is fascinating. 

"May the Lands of Rowoon bless us all." 

Neither the gods nor the devils. Alver prayed earnestly to the object that his endevor would never be forgotten. 

Baaaaang! Baaaaang!

The banging noises were so loud that they thought they might shatter their eardrums.

The battle began with the wyverns slamming into the silver shield. Alver's hands formed a fist, but he didn't dare to look away as the redhead man stood in front of him, solemn and determined.. 

He should do the same. If he crumbles, his subject will crumble with him. 

Once, ten times, nearly a hundred times. No matter how many times they rammed into the shield, it did not break. 

It only got brighter.

The soldier reiterated what the count had said previously.

“…The shield will not break.”

He wasn't sure why, but that word seemed very powerful right now. 

He can feel his heart racing with emotions, and he soon realized how noticeably strong Cale's back is right now. 

It was at this point that Cale Henituse began to smile. 

Cale's cold smile brought the war's dread to a halt. 

The Forest of Darkness.

A life began to emerge from the Black Swamp.

It was the only skeleton with black bones.

The bones without any hide started to flap their wings.

Hundreds of skeletons were in the air.

The skeletons in the air revealed a massive existence.

"Haha..." He couldn't stop himself from laughing.  This is why Cale didn't require the power of nobles. 

"Sure is... this is the best way to get to that future you're talking about."

His fantastical world. 

A battle with a massive advantage was bound to be exciting.

"hahaha... My goodness," he couldn't help but laugh at this madness.. 

'That crazy bastard.' He thought of Cale as a crazy bastard..

However, as he watched that crazy bastard through the screen, the tips of his fingers went numb.

‘We can do it. It’s possible.’

‘The entire Roan Kingdom will become heroes.’

This insane bastard had never said anything he couldn't back up. That was why he chose to believe him, and the sight in front of his eyes exceeded his expectations.

'Your highness, the Henituse territory will begin to ignore all communication from the temples immediately.'

That's what Cale said as he summoned the necromancer. He had immediately responded, 'I will accept responsibility.'

He murmured to himself as he observed the large Flying Skeleton Brigade approaching the wyverns.

"It appears that I have no choice but to accept responsibility."

He then began to smile. However, there was someone else who couldn't smile right now.

This jerk does the most insane thing ever. On their way to his office, he has to prepare his buttocks and hands for the upcoming paperwork. 

"They even brought out catapults!" Alver was enthralled. How can such a small territory have all of this?

Everyone realized, however, that the Henituse's pride and honor could not be passed down to the next generation or even in the future. 

The neutral household that takes pride in being the Kingdom's protectors. 

The Guardian of the Northeast. 

The Guardian Household, which will be written down soon. 

The device began to emit a black aura. Choi Han was a true swordsman. 

It has started. "History will soon be rewritten," Alver predicted.

With only one person decorating, the entire world's races are united. 

The Henituse Household is a talent-supporting family. 

When a helmeted knight appeared out of nowhere, the fight was at its climax.  

Alver had no idea such existence existed. He was on the edge of his seat when he noticed the shield had shrunk in size. 

Cale's voice was audible to him.

“Fuck!”

The powerful collision of forces began to cause havoc. Alver was fervently praying that nothing bad would happen. He prayed for Cale's well-being. His heart was filled with dread and anxiety. 

Damn it... Damn it. He needs to relax. 

"...You son of a bitch," Cale clenched his fists, his entire body trembling. "Raon, stay put!"

Raon? who’s Raon?

Cale was the target of yet another powerful attack. 

“Ca—”

He had stopped it. The power of restoration and the will to live. It was human strength that allowed them to survive all manner of natural disasters.

The shield did not break.

“Hyu, hyung-nim!”

Basen's cry rang out. He was clutching the railings with one hand, as if he was about to jump off the tower and rush toward Cale..

It brought Alver back to reality. He needs to take action. He needs to calm down. 

As the leader of all these forces, I need your help in the back!

“Basen Henituse.”

His dry voice, calling out to the second born, drew the latter's attention back to his sentence. Don't move as a person who handles information...

The Kingdom will fall if the tower falls. Cale placed Bassen here because he is the only person capable of leading the County if Cale Henituse falls. 

“What did your hyung-nim order you to do?”

Basen raised his head.

He remembered what Cale had said to him. The communication room. This was the current information hub for the entire Roan Kingdom. In a war, the most important factor was information.

"Do not forget your task if you do not want to be embarrassed, no, if you do not want to regret this in the future."

Although he was speaking to Basen, he was also speaking to himself.

His bloodshot face was visible through the screen as he focused on what was going on in the Henituse territory.

He had one more thing to say to Basen. "The Royal Knights' First Brigade and the Mage Brigade are on their way to Henituse territory."

You, Henituses, are the first in line.

The secondborn was reminded by Alver. 

This is a time when he should have complete faith in Cale. 

A series of explosions followed. However, Alver's attention was diverted elsewhere.. 

Cale had sat down as soon as the countess helped him. Cale's eyes, ears, nose, and mouth were all dripping with black blood. Cale was coughing up so much blood that he appeared to be having difficulty breathing.

Alver almost stopped breathing when he saw Cale act like this. 

"... I... I'm fine."

No... You're not...

Alver was on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Cale….

His lips bled as he clenched his fist firmly. He wants to go, and he wants to be there to support him. Damn it. Damn it... he wants to go to him and make up his mind about everything. 

"Stay here," Cale said, moving his hand to grab the air. After seeing someone attempting to grab the air, Alver began to frown. He thought Cale was hallucinating. His mind must have been harmed as well. 

After seeing the Count look as if he was about to go insane while looking at Cale, the countess finally calmed down. At least one of them needed to think clearly.

However, she struggled to keep her emotions in check after hearing what Cale said next.

"...You'll get hurt if you go......"

That tone… as if he was chiding a child. 

The words he barely managed to utter made it difficult for him to keep his tears at bay. The things he was saying while coughing up blood, the things he was saying even though his mind was probably a mess.

Even at this very moment! It gave him the impression that his heart was breaking.

Cale was finally able to speak up again.

"... Stay by my side- cough!"

Cale coughed up blood once more. He then began to bleed once more. Cale was unable to say the remaining words aloud. Cale appeared to be guarding something. 

Anyone would cry after seeing Cale in this condition. 

Hundreds of thunderbolts struck the wyvern knights and the Bears. The thunderbolts hit their targets with pinpoint accuracy. These thunderbolts were like that sword from earlier, slashing everything in their path.

With all of the fighting going on, Cale was coughing up blood. 

Cale began to rise gradually. He had not yet fallen. Alver felt relieved. Cale’s the only person in his eyes right now. 

The helmeted knight launched an all-out assault on the castle. 

Cale remained motionless. 

Cale burst out laughing. A calm voice began to emerge from his mouth. "I knew those damn Bears were cunning."

The knight's eyes shook slightly.

It was then that the overwhelming attack made the redhead smile.  

Cale closed his eyes. A gust of wind passed him by. It was the aftershock of the explosion.

Cale started to walk. He was dizzy from using his ancient power too much.

But there was one more thing he needed to do. Cale moved over until he was standing next to Count Deruth Henituse.

“Father.”

Cale assisted Count Deruth Henituse in getting back up. That action caused the soldiers to stand up as well. They all raised their heads to the sky.

There was not a cloud in the sky.

The silver shield that had been shielding the soldiers remained.

Cale returned his gaze calmly to Count Henituse and made an observation.

“The shield did not break.”

Along with the heart, which did not break, was Alver Crossman, who had been keeping his heart on his sleeve. 

Finally realized. 

I am indeed... in love with him. 

TBC

Chapter Text

Alver had realized his feelings. He couldn't help but feel enraged as he looked at Cale, who seemed unconcerned about his surroundings. 

He was concerned about nothing. 

He was worried that he might be in pain. 

But everything vanished the moment he saw him in this light. 

Is this how he should feel after realizing his emotions? 

Is this how love was meant to be?

Getting angry at himself because the object of his affection appeared to be used to all of this pain?

He didn't want to see Cale in this state. 

He lamented the fact that he was the one who had put Cale in this situation. He was to blame for Cale's suffering during this war. 

He suppressed his emotions and calmed his heart. He can't appear worried about something else in front of him. 

He couldn't keep his stern tone from coming out. 

“Your highness.”

“…Yes”

With a stiff expression, he looked at Cale, who wore a tried and dirty face and expressed that he had been at the center of the battle. Cale didn't mind if he was speaking to him or Bassen, who was reporting on the current situation at Ubar Water. 

He was waiting for Cale to say something. When…

"Please send the First Mage Brigade and the First Royal Knights Brigade to the shores of Ubarr."

“Again?”

"What are your plans for the Whale tribe?"

"I'm still debating whether to have them fight with us or to keep their identity hidden."

It was one of the issues he had been thinking about. Cale's expression, however, was even more disturbing than his thoughts. It was just an excuse to talk to this man for a little longer. Even if they're at war, this small talk could provide Cale with a brief respite.. 

Cale stopped walking.

"Your Highness, I know you probably have a lot of questions, but I will contact you later."

"All right, I get it."

Cale didn't seem to want to talk to him any longer. 

They can't go back in time and stop everything. 

It's difficult to see Cale all bloodied up while he's safe in the palace. 

It's difficult to keep his instincts from coming to him, and yet...

He's been ripped apart. 

He has a million ideas for how to get Cale off the front lines. He's been thinking about how to keep himself safe, but no matter how much he cracks his brain with all his ideas, he can't entrust all these battles to someone else. 

Cale had been turning the tide of the war regardless of what the enemy threw at them. 

He's terrified of Cale's ability to think everything through and flip the tables. 

He couldn't help but feel goosebumps crawl across his skin. 

Cale is his most wanted companion as well as his most terrifying adversary. 

However, even if he rationalizes his thoughts in this manner, Cale is the only one who desires them right now. 

"Please forgive me..." he begged. If he can't be open with Cale, he'll just keep him close and keep an eye on him from afar.  

.

.

.

“You are smiling.”

Alver said as soon as the call connected. Cale was smiling from ear to ear. 

Cale responded,  “I seem to have gone crazy from fatigue.”

That would be news. Alver didn’t believe him. He frowned while remaining silent, making Cale think this was an odd situation. 

“I plan to go to the Ubarr territory tonight.”

“...With that body?”

Cale didn't waste any time responding to him.

“Yes sir, I will be going with this body.”

“Haaaa.”

He sighed. Cale appeared to be upset for some reason. Why would Cale be upset?

They were silent, but it only made the conversation more awkward. 

“Your highness.”

“What is it?”

“The Whale tribe.”

He was still debating whether to have the Whales fight them or to keep their existence hidden. 

"What about the whales?"

“Let’s hit the Paerun Kingdom.”

Silence filled the room.

He started to laugh after a while.

“Ha, haha”

He laughed for a long time. Regardless of how frail he appeared at the time, this man is insane. Cale appears to be enjoying the fight despite being bloodied all over.. 

He then looked at Cale Henituse's sloppy expression. He could also see Cale's piercing stare..

'This punk is truly amazing.'’

The crown prince began to smile.

"I like it, I like it."

He then said one more thing before leaving.

“Take care of your body.”

Click.

He hung up without even waiting for Cale's response. Cale will be able to rest sooner or later. He should enjoy that life before becoming prime minister when he ascends to the throne.  

The signal from the Ubar Region eventually reached him. Alver gathered his courage to speak with Cale once more. He believes in his acting abilities at this point. He must set aside his emotions and see through it all. 

His handsome face appeared on the screen. His voice could be heard throughout the office.

“Our kingdom’s star, Cale Henituse.”

See that? Everyone believes Cale is Rowoon's star. 

"The grand nobles at the meeting discussed awarding you a first-class medal of honor; what do you think?"

The Grand Nobles' Gathering. This was Rowoon kingdom's largest gathering of marquises and higher nobles.  The king or his representatives usually attends these meetings, and he’s leads this meeting right now. 

The first-grade medal of honor of the Rowoon Kingdom.

It was the highest honor medal in the Rowoon Kingdom.

The war was far from over.

They had also not defeated the Indomitable Alliance. 

The fact that they still wanted to award him the medal demonstrated that the grand nobles viewed the victory of the northeast region favorably. That was why they were considering rewarding their commander, Cale, handsomely.

Nobody had received a medal of honor in the previous 200 years. He would also be the youngest recipient ever. Cale would rise through the ranks of the military, beginning with this medal of honor. 

Rowoon Kingdom’s nobles.

Cale had the most merit during the battle and would probably have the most merit throughout the entire war. The person that you approve of being approved by others. The joy a person gets from that was significant as well.

He was expecting Cale to accept it. however….

“I do not need it, your highness.”

‘Don’t need it?’

“The war is not over yet. I do not need such empty compliments.”

Cale really did not need it. A medal of honor? He didn’t need such an empty compliment.

Cale could speak with a scowl as nobody other than the crown prince was able to see him right now.

“Please just make it so I can make sure the soldiers have time to eat.”

That was Cale’s request.

At that moment, he was looking at Cale as he started to speak.

“Forget the soldiers’ meals, why don’t you take care of your own-!”

Alver commented at Cale’s pale face which looked as if he had starved for a week before stopping himself. He felt as if he would sigh.

“Your highness, I am also one of your highness’s soldiers.”

That shut him up. This punk who seemed sharp and witty enough to make sure that he wasn’t at a disadvantage was oddly dull about his health.

‘No. There is no way this smart bastard is so stupid about his own body. He is probably pretending to be so dull.’

Alver put on a bitter smile.

War.

As the crown prince, and the current highest commanding officer of the Rowoon Kingdom, Alver could understand why this bastard could only ignore his health. That was why Alver pretended not to see Cale’s condition as he continued to speak.

“You must have a headache from the temples contacting you.”

He was about to say something else. He was about to say, ‘I will cut off the priests’  communications soon, so don’t worry about it.’ He just decided to change the topic. 

Cale... He forgot... Is currently one of his soldiers. 

Cale, on the other hand, responded before he could.

"No, it's not that bad."

Cale had leaned back so far in his chair that he was almost laying down, he noticed. He was grinning as if he'd never had a stiff expression before.

Alver was struck by an odd sensation. It was an intuitive feeling for him, and Cale began to speak as if he was responding to that intuition.

"Doesn't the Caro Kingdom have a lot of money?"

“…Indeed?”

The crown prince recalled the Indomitable Alliance's march toward Caro. 

The borders of the kingdom.

"The Caro Kingdom also lacks the strength to defend itself against the Indomitable Alliance."

“Indeed?”

The Rowoon Kingdom was able to do so because they were prepared and because they had Cale Henituse. The crown prince was fully aware of this fact. Cale’s voice reached Alver’s ear at that moment.

"I also assume that our victory will spread throughout the continent within the next day or so?"

The crown prince was speechless, but Cale was not waiting for a response. He kept talking.

"Many churches in the Caro Kingdom are associated with light."

"...Tell me more."

He looked at Cale, who seemed to have everything planned out. 

"Your highness, you are currently smiling."

He was grinning. The Caro Kingdom, which was wealthy from the auction house and famous tourist attractions, lacked the strength to repel the Indomitable Alliance. This was also true of the temples associated with light within the Caro Kingdom.

They, too, would want to live.

Who would they then approach?

They would reflect on how the Rowoon Kingdom had recently triumphed.

The Caro Kingdom would undoubtedly seek assistance from the Rowoon Kingdom.

“Your highness, the Caro Kingdom is weak.”

"I'm assuming they'll contact us for assistance?" says Alver. This will be advantageous to us. I can loop them, scam them, and give them to Cale later. 

Cale nodded and opened his mouth to say something.

If the Caro Kingdom approaches them for assistance.

"At that point..."

Cale appeared to be contemplating something. 

"The Rowoon Kingdom will gain even more strength; the trashed beings are returning to the world to give the Rowoon Kingdom approval in the kingdom and on the continental level."

The trashed beings.

The Land of Death.

The Dark Elves lived beneath the Land of Death.

Alver Crossman was a quarter Dark Elf.

He couldn't help but scoff at Cale's remarks, having spent his entire life hiding his true appearance.

“The trashed beings will be accepted.”

Those words made the human Alver, and not the crown prince Alver, get emotional.

However, as the crown prince, he had to think first and make the decisions.

It would end up being a profit.

The Indomitable Alliance may have lost to the Rowoon Kingdom, but they would certainly try to defeat the Caro and Breck Kingdoms.

'They'll be aiming for the Gorge of Death after the Caro Kingdom.'’

That meant that future events would undoubtedly benefit the Rowoon Kingdom. Alver began to speak.

"You're a really good crazy bastard."

Cale said nothing to refute that assertion.

Those words caused him to nod his head. 

He, too, wanted to be true to himself if he wanted to stay with Cale in the future. 

Not as the phony human Crown Prince... but... 

Just Alver... 

The quarter dark-elf and human Alver. 

“Cale…”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

"Let's give it a shot."

He wore a peaceful expression. 

However… 

Cale, upon seeing this, held his breath. 

He didn't say anything and just stared at the Crown Prince.. 

This man has never before smiled like this. 

Cale had never seen him wear such a wonderful expression before. 

It's perfect for him. 

Cale paused and smiled gently. 

He looked great today. He should like this often. 

"Yes, Your Highness, let us try it."

It was the best image that Cale ever recorded of Alver Crossman in this life. 

TBC

Chapter Text

Alver smiled brightly. He stepped outside the palace to look around when he noticed children playing with silver shields. They're playing the commander game, with Cale as the commander and the others as the enemy. He smiled. The stoic boy's hair was dyed red while he wore the Silver shield. The puppy-looking kid with the stick, acting like Choi Han and brandishing it to the left and right, is there. There's a Mary in disguise, Deruth Henituse, Countess Violan, and even the dragons and enemies. 

If Cale saw this, he would frown. 

Alver smiled warmly. The children regard the forsaken race as a hero. There were times when he questioned religion, but one thing was certain: if fate brought Cale Henituse to the Rowoon kingdom, it was always for the greater good. 

There will come a time when I, too, will...

Be free to move around and be proud of his race. 

He used to believe that churches housed hypocrites and liars rather than devout believers. People labeled others as heretics and discriminated against them. 

That, however, is not the case. 

The gods have yet to abandon their people. 

Gods will bestow grace, but humans will have to earn it. He and Cale will undoubtedly strike that balance. 

No matter how difficult or harsh their paths may be. 

If it's fate, they'll forge ahead and look forward to it.

People who discriminate against believers will become beacons of hope rather than empty words of salvation. 

The Sun God's church, he'll shut them up and slap them across the face as the true saviors. 

"Return to the palace!"

He must speak with Cale Henituse immediately. 

The Northeast Forces successfully defended the Northeast Region and Ubar Waters with no casualties. Cale is safe and sound. He's been moving around in an attempt to locate the enemy. Everything will eventually fall into place. Sooner or later, power will fall right into his grasp. They've survived numerous battles, and now they're up against another foe who is doing all the heinous things on the planet. 

He went into the Royal Library to look for religious books. If he is to protect Cale and the others, he must be well-versed in the religions and the reasons why they are considered heretics. 

No matter how hard he thought about it, it was amusing. 

They were shunned for no apparent reason. 

Simply because they are distinct. 

He burst out laughing. As he looks around at the books, that anxious feeling returns. Soon after, as he stood there blankly, he noticed the bright moonlight shining on him. It was hypnotic, to the point of making him smile as he gazed at the starry sky. It's as if war never happened in this kingdom. When he opened the book he was holding, a seal fell right into his hands. 

This is something that the head of the household possesses.

Another piece of paper fell to the floor, and as he looked at it, he noticed the floor was arranged in an unusual manner. He noticed something strange, something very familiar, such as the seal in his hands, and he placed the seal on the empty figure. 

After all the shelves moved around him, everything went dark and a secret passage appeared in front of him. 

There’s a secret passage in the library?

Of course, this is the Royal Palace of Rowoon. Every palace here has one or two, if not more. He entered cautiously and walked down the winding stairs. He came to a halt when he came across a boulder with prophetic runes written on it. 

His hand failed miserably to his side. He couldn't say anything or blink his eyes. Confusion flooded his mind, along with the question, "Then why am I still working so hard?"

After closing the portal, he exited the secret location and sat on the chair. 

His mind was racing with questions, but only one of them snapped him back to reality.

What am I doing here?

He soon became aware of someone's presence. The door slowly opened, revealing the person who immediately came to mind. It was currently the middle of the night.

There was only one person in the empty room, and he was sitting there in the moonlight.

"Welcome," he said alone in the Grand Library of the Roan Palace, greeting Cale. .

Cale had asked him for ancient texts with information on the Gate to the Demon World, as well as ancient records on the Crossman royal family and the Roan Kingdom.

He had come to hear what Alver had discovered.

“Your Highness.”

Cale greeted him and attempted to enter.

“Stop.”

He did, however, show his palm to stop them.

Guards, librarians, and administrators. Except for Alver, there was no one else present.

He pointed to Cale. "You enter on your own."

Only Cale was permitted to enter. Choi Han and Raon could not enter.

"Didn't you say you were interested in learning a secret?"”

Alver stood there, a strange smile on his face, full of bitterness and anguish.

"Well, if what I'm looking for is a secret, then..."

Cale smiled as he entered the library.

You wouldn’t want to have anything to do with me, then.

"I'll gladly come in."”

Even if this is the last. I'd be with you before you pushed me away, it was a miracle and a blessing. 

Cale turned around and began to speak before continuing on his way. "Please stand outside the door for me."

Choi Han quietly nodded and began to close the door.

The door slowly closed, until...

Cale couldn't see anything outside because it was completely closed.

“Why are you just blankly standing there?”

Cale turned away from the door and faced forward after hearing his voice.

“Are you not coming?”

Cale shrugged his shoulders and started to walk after hearing Alver’s jovial voice.

The two of them were the only ones in here, so Cale’s steps echoed loudly.

“Did you get rid of everybody else on purpose?”

“Yes. They all have the day off today.”

“Is that okay?”

Cale stood in front of him, and he took a document out of his pocket and waved it around.

“Do you see his majesty’s crest?”

Cale chuckled after looking at the document with the king’s crest.

“It’s more of a do not approach warning than a day off.”

“Yes. Even the guards are 10 meters away from the building.”

Cale quietly listened before asking a question. Alver would want to stall for as long as possible. 

“I guess it is a big secret?”

“I’m not sure.”

Cale could see that he was still smiling but that his eyes were stiff. His eyes were not normal and seemed to hold anguish.

He turned away after seeing Cale staring at him and started to walk.

"...The royal family appears to believe it is a major secret."

"Does that mean you don't believe it's a big secret, your highness?"

Cale walked with his back to the camera. Cale's gaze is drawn to him behind his back. He just gave a bitter smile, keeping all his thoughts and whatnots to himself, hoping—just hoping—that this man would do something different than the rest of the world, which had shunned his race. Cale Henituse is a man who desired to live in peace and happiness. He's the type of man who is willing to kill his enemies to obtain it or to prevent all threats from being made.  

"You can decide after you look at it."

He was delegating the decision of whether or not to keep it a secret to Cale.

"Sure, but your Highness, it appears we are going somewhere unusual?"

The Grand Library of the Rowoon Kingdom's Palace..

That was the most extensive library in the kingdom, as well as the location of the most valuable books. The Grand Library of the oldest kingdom on the continent lived up to its name by being  multiple stories high, and although the surface level itself was larger than any other building in the kingdom, it also had three large underground levels.

"All you have to do is follow me."

He kept walking toward the center of the first floor of the Grand Library..

"Cale Henituse, there's a rule we have to follow every time we extend the library."

“What is it?”

He came to a halt in his stride.

Cale turned to face him, who was bathed in moonlight streaming through the large window on the first floor. He began speaking in the center of the moonlight.

"Keep the sun's gaze by your side at all times."

There are numerous windows in this building. 

"And this is where I am right now..."

He lowered his gaze to his feet. He was currently in the center of the moonlight, but this was the location where the sun was at its highest point.

"Don't cover it with anything."

He reached into his pocket and pulled out a small wooden box.

The box was simple to open. The box had a small seal on it. It was an iron seal that appeared to be quite old.

“This is something that only the head of the Crossman household can possess.”

Cale flinched at Alver’s explanation.

He, who realized the reason behind it, smiled as he asked.

“What’s wrong? Are you shocked I said the Crossman ‘household,’ and not the Crossman Royal family? Anyway, this is something only the head can have.”

Alver had an odd expression on his face as he held the old seal in his hand.

Cale's face was similarly expressionless as he opened his mouth to speak.

"...Did you borrow it from his Majesty?"

“Borrow?”

When Alver looked at the seal, his face turned cold..

“It is mine.” Hesitation in his voice. 

Zed Crossman still held the throne of the Rowoon Kingdom.  Cale had heard that crown prince Alver still went to the king for approval on major decisions. Although the crown prince was in charge of most things both inside and outside the kingdom... there was a lot of speculation as to why he hadn't yet taken the throne.

Cale had assumed that Alver would wait until the Rowoon Kingdom had grown into a stronger kingdom or an Empire before ascending to the throne.

He also suspected it was due to the current state of chaos on the continent.

‘But that wasn’t it.’

Cale's lips twisted up at the corners.

"Your Highness, you were already the ruler."

“Well, I won’t disagree with your statement.”

The corners of Alver’s lips twisted up as well. He then quickly continued to speak. Something is definitely odd about this man today. 

“There were no ancient texts in the Rowoon Kingdom’s Grand Library that discussed the Gate to the Demon World. I investigated because I thought there might be something similar, but there was nothing.”

Alver had looked for the name, ‘Gate to the Demon World,’ as well as the Eastern continent’s Three Restricted Areas. However, there was nothing in ancient texts about the Gate to the Demon World, which is one of the Three Restricted Areas, and only a few records about it in recent documents.

"However, I organized some ancient texts on the Demon World and the Demonic race for you, so take them with you later, as well as the most recent information on the Gate to the Demon World."

Alver discovered something even more repulsive. 

“Thank you very much.”

"You don't have to thank me just for that."

“…Your Highness, what are you doing?”

Cale started to frown.

“…That profane expression remains quite terrible no matter how many times I see it.”

Alver commented before closing his eyes.

He then kneeled on the floor. His hands were touching the tiles on the floor.

Alver, who had his eyes closed, could not see Cale’s expression as he focused on touching the floor.

He then opened his eyes.

He immediately started to speak.

“You scared me.”

“How?”

Alver frowned while looking at Cale, who was crouched right in front of him, before moving the hand holding the seal with an expression that seemed to be saying that there was no point in talking to Cale.

“Cale.”

“Yes, sir.”

“I’ll tell you about this library’s final rule.”

He closed his eyes again and placed the seal in the small gap under his left hand with his right hand.

"This spot where the entire sun's gaze falls..."

Alver turned his right hand and touched the gap that would be difficult to see with the naked eye.

"Close your eyes for a moment."

Cale turned around when he heard a small click. Alver smiled and thought about how cute and obedient Cale is, but he didn't wish for anything more.  He's moving slowly because he doesn't want to hear painful words escape his luscious lips. 

“…This.”

The bookshelves began to move. Every bookshelf on the first floor began to move gradually. Cale turned around when he heard Alver's voice. As he began to speak, his eyes were open and focused on a single point. This is the point at which the sun's rays all fall. Close his eyes for a moment.

"You'll then arrive at a point where you can avoid the curse."

Cale also looked in the same direction. He noticed a gap created by the moving bookshelves.

“It’s darkness.”

A spot where no light could reach was formed. During the day, neither sunlight nor moonlight would reach this location. Cale followed Alver as he walked toward it.

"All right, let's go down."

A staircase led down from the area occupied by the bookshelves.

"It leads to the second floor of the basement."

That was all Alver said before heading down without hesitation. Cale quietly trailed behind him.

An ancient stone staircase leading underground...

As Cale and Alver walked down the dark staircase, the magical torches on the walls lit up.

“Why are you not saying anything?”

Cale who was walking behind Alver heard his voice.

"I'm sure you'll tell me everything, your highness."”

“My goodness.”

Alver shook his head.

"Are you not curious, despite the fact that I used the word 'curse?'"”

"Not at all."

"...You're such a... adorable dongsaeng."

He sighed and continued to speak. They had some time before they arrived at their destination.

“There are many records about the Crossman Royal family since the creation of the Roan Kingdom.”

"Of course," she says.

The Roan Kingdom and the rest of the continent kept extensive records about the continent's oldest royal family.

"However, there aren't many records for the Crossman family."

Cale had noticed Alver telling the difference between the Crossman Royal family and the Crossman household. Alver smiled because his little pretty head makes it easy for him to explain but also because he wanted this moment to last. 

"The records of the Crossman household are mostly passed down verbally, and those records are only passed down to the descendants and no one else."

Cale was thinking about how many rules there were.

"To be honest with you..."

Alver stopped walking. He's always afraid of the moment of truth. 

In front of him was a stone door.

"No one knows where the Crossman family came from."

“…The start?”

“Yes. There’s no record of the first head of the family. There are just records that have been passed down orally through generations.”

Alver turned around to face Cale.

"There's a line in one of those records that says, 'Go around the world over and over until I give you the revelation to go to the Land of Boulder.'"

The Land of Boulder was named after the legend of the Guardian of Boulder.

The Roan Kingdom that was built on that land...

The stone door opened quietly on its own.

Alver took a step back as Cale heard Alver's voice and turned toward the open door..

"As the head of the Crossman household ruled over the Roan Kingdom, he remembered one thing."

“Ah.”

Cale let out a gasp.

A small stone chamber appeared behind the open door.

It was as cold and desolate as a prison cell.

And on one of the walls of that stone chamber...

Instead of a wall, there was a large boulder. There were words written on the boulder.

< Descendants of the cursed blood. >

Cale’s gaze quickly turned toward him.

Alver pointed toward the boulder.

“Read the rest.”

He saw the rest of the statements written on the boulder.

< The touch of the Sun God will always be by your side. >

< Never set your eyes on taking over the sky. >

< The Sun will always rise. >

< The moment darkness is planted in your bodies... >

< The moment a person with that darkness becomes the head of the household, the sky 

will be destroyed, and the ground will tremble. >

Alver Crossman, a quarter Dark Elf, was standing there with his dye magic removed. Cale looked at him slowly. His saddened gaze was fixed on the man he had entrusted this secret to. 

"The Crossman household was always concerned about the appearance of the head, because they were concerned about a different attribute that might be mixed in."

He directed his finger at himself.

"They couldn't be mixed with the darkness attribute like me, which is why I hid."

He had a twisted grin on his face.

"Now, this is the incredible secret of the Crossman royal family."

That twisted smile betrayed both his sorrow and shame. It had his unwavering self-confidence at the same time.

“…Ah.”

Alver gasped after seeing Cale blankly staring at the ceiling.

Was this punk thinking that he shouldn't be king as well?

Alver did not believe such records. That was why he had pushed himself to do his best. 

"Excuse me, your highness. Hyung-nim, no?"

"What's the matter? Are you shocked?"

Seeing Cale Henituse look shocked... Alver couldn't hide his resentment. He'll still be abandoned in the end. 

Cale began to speak unconsciously.

“Your highness.”

"Yes, what is it? Do you think I should not be king?"

When Alver heard Cale's voice, he cracked a self-mocking smile. In the end, it was the same... Cale will undoubtedly think the same as others.  

“I think your ancestor was a criminal?”

“Huh?”

What the fuck did I just hear? Alver looked at Cale and stood there like a handsome idiot. Can he not hear himself?

They just stared at each other with stupid expressions on their faces.

Criminal? Now this jerk is accusing his family?!

Bring me back my 24-carat sweat, you damn bastard!

TBC. 

Chapter Text

"...What about my ancestor?"

Come again! That didn't sound right to me. 

He was sweating cold beads, but this mf went and smacked him on the head. Alver can't believe what he's hearing! Cale Henituse just revealed that his ancestor is a felon!

"...Didn't I say he was a criminal?"

‘Is there something wrong with my ears?’

He did not appear majestic as he inserted his finger into his ear.

"I believe something is blocking my ears."

Where is the gore?! the tender betrayal! the drama! the stupid nonsense he'd been doing in his dreams while professing his love for this person! Alver couldn't believe what he had just heard. Cale is still making up nonsense about the prophecy. This is prophecy! Although he used to deny it, he's not stupid enough not to believe it. He simply cannot accept that this lovely redhead is currently concocting some nonsense as an excuse!

"Ah, should I explain more clearly then?"

"No need; my ancestor was a criminal, haha; how could I listen to such nonsense?! Hahaha-"

"You heard correctly, Your Highness."

“Hmm?”

“Huh?”

 They blankly stared at each other again. The two of them were silent for a while. He soon started to frown.

“This is probably the most shocking thing I’ve heard in a while!”

“…Is that so?”

“Is that so?!”

He started to frown even more.

I was going to tell him about the royal family's secret and ask him if I deserved to be king... So, what the f*ck is going on with this nonsense?

He had decided to reveal this information to Cale Henituse.

He was already the de facto ruler of the Crossman household due to his possession of the seal, but King Zed Crossman was vehemently opposed to his decision.

He'd brushed aside the opposition and brought Cale here.

Cale must have requested information on the Crossman Royal family because he believed it would be useful in fighting the White Star.

He was aware of this as well and wanted to assist him in defeating the White Star. There was another reason, however.

'...It's my weakness.'’

His actions today essentially exposed Cale Henituse's weakness.

The royal family's weakness came first. The Crossman Royal family was said to have received the Sun God's blessing and protection. However, upon closer inspection, it was revealed to be a curse rather than a blessing. If this was revealed, the Crossman Royal family's power and fame would crumble.

The second was his weakness. The fact that he was born with Dark Elf blood and possessed the darkness attribute. According to the curse, someone who should never have been the head of the Crossman family had duped the family into making him the head. Because it was Cale, he was able to reveal these two secrets and weaknesses.

'Because he realized who I was.' and never thought anything strange of it.. 

This jerk was someone who was aware of his Dark Elf heritage but had no ill will toward them. This bastard was someone who helped him. This jerk resembled him. That was why, with a heavy heart, he had brought Cale Henituse here today. Despite the fact that everything about them could end in the same way. 

But-

‘He’s speaking nonsense?’

Alver couldn't stop frowning when he thought Cale had a screw loose. He began to speak almost as if he were sighing. Actually, the two of them have lost some screws in their heads because they are still making stupid shits.  

“You see those words on the boulder?”

“Yes, sir. I can?”

‘Ah, this bastard.’

He held back his anger and continued to speak. He honestly couldn’t think straight right now. 

“That boulder is the only record of the Crossman household other than the orally passed down information.”

He focused on one sentence on the boulder.

< The moment a person with that darkness becomes the head of the household, the sky will be destroyed, and the ground will tremble. >

“It says the world will turn to chaos if someone with darkness becomes the king of the Rowoon Kingdom or the head of the Crossman household.”

“I guess so.”

‘What?’

After hearing Cale agree so easily, Alver was at a loss for words. He then came to a realization.

'...I thought he'd be different.'’

He didn't expect Cale to act like this. He expected Cale to read those words and say something like, "Why should we care about the Sun God's curse?" 'Darkness, my ass.' was what he expected Cale to say..

“Ha!”

He pathetically felt sorry for himself. He was so naive that he thought Cale would be an exception. 

He began to laugh as he realized he had hoped to hear from Cale. He wanted to hear Cale say something like, 'forget the record, and do a good job ruling the kingdom.'’

He raised his hand unconsciously to brush his face. He was experiencing some strange feelings right now. It was difficult to put into words how he felt right now.

Dejection?

Disappointment?

Maybe embarrassment?

How should he explain this emotion? He could not tell. He just put a majestic smile on his face as he did when he faced his vassals. He then turned toward Cale.

“Cale. It should be terrible if I become king because of the Sun God’s curse, right?”

Cale started to frown at that moment.

“What nonsense are you talking about?”

“Hmm?”

“What are you trying to say?”

Cale muttered quietly to himself before ignoring him and walking toward the boulder. After seeing Cale's unexpected reaction, he quickly followed behind him and began speaking urgently. Something seemed odd.

"If a Dark Elf like me becomes king, there will be a curse!"

“Excuse me?”

"If what is written on the boulder is true, something terrible will happen because of me; I am someone who should not exist in the Crossman house-"

"I don't think so."

“…Huh?”

Cale's face was expressionless.

"Alver Crossman, Your Highness, your existence is natural."

He flinched and repeated Cale's words aloud, as if to himself. His heart began to pound loudly, and tears threatened to fall from his eyes. 

"...I'm supposed to be here?"

‘Me?'The him who was shunned and ostracized by the world? Him, the son of a lowly maid and a quarter heretic? He was… supposed to be here?

“Yes, sir. You are fated to be here.”

‘Unbelievable!’

He opened his mouth subconsciously and retorted to Cale's remark.

"...But you agreed with what I said earlier, saying, 'I guess so,' when I said the world would flip over and the Sun God's curse would rain down on whoever became king with darkness."

Cale remained silent, but the words he had hoped to hear had come out.

However, he couldn't figure out what was going on because his mind was in a state of disarray at the time. His face reflected the chaos. Cale looked at him as if he were strange.

"I read an ancient document that had turned to dust as soon as I finished reading it."

Cale abruptly changed the subject, and he chose to listen quietly.

'Your existence, your highness, is natural.'’

Those words lingered in his mind. Over those words, the things Cale was saying began to fill his mind.

"That document contained some information about the appearance of the ancient White Star,"

Cale claimed it was from an ancient document because he couldn't claim to have heard it from the Super Rock, one of his ancient powers. 

"The reappearance of the ancient White Star?"

“Yes, sir.”

Cale pointed toward him.

Of course, he pointed respectfully with both hands.

“Your Highness, I thought about you as soon as I read the description. It was very similar to 

the appearance of the man who would become the sun of the Rowoon Kingdom.”

“…Just what-”

Alver closed his mouth without finishing his sentence. His mind quickly started to move.

Cale's hands began to move toward the boulder in the stone chamber.

"All right then, the words here about the descendants of the cursed blood, as well as the part about never setting your sights on conquering the sky."

Cale pointed to the word darkness written on the boulder.

"And then there's this darkness over here."

He continued to speak while looking at Alver.

"Your highness, there is something I am speculating on."

"Can you tell me what it is?"

"I believe the White Star's sky attribute is from the Demon World."

“Ah.”

He gasped. Everything Cale said made sense.  He heard Cale’s cheerful voice at that moment.

“Now then. Please let me explain the words on this boulder using my hypothesis as the basis.”

< Descendants of the cursed blood. >

“The descendants of the ancient White Star.”

< The touch of the Sun God will always be by your side. >

< Never set your eyes on taking over the sky. >

“Do not seek out the sky attribute.”

< The Sun will always rise. >

< The moment darkness is planted in your bodies... >

< The moment a person with that darkness becomes the head of the household, the sky will be destroyed, and the ground will tremble. >

“If one of you receives the power from the Demon World and ends up in possession of the sky attribute ancient power... The sky will be destroyed, and the ground will tremble as the world turns into chaos.”

Cale pointed to the last two sentences.

< The moment darkness is planted in your bodies... >

< The moment a person with that darkness becomes the head of the household, the sky will be destroyed, and the ground will tremble. >

“This seems more like a prophecy than a curse. Or maybe a warning?”

Alver brushed his face with his hands.

“Pfft.”

He could not help but laugh. He opened his mouth to ask.

“What about when I said the world would turn to chaos if someone with darkness becomes the king of the Rowoon Kingdom or the head of the Crossman household earlier? You said, ‘I guess so.’ Why did you agree with me?”

“Because the world would turn to chaos if the White Star bastard became king?”

“Ah, this bastard-”

He could not hold back as he shouted toward Cale.

“You should have clearly explained yourself from the beginning if that was the case!”

Cale flinched at Alver’s shout that sounded like a scolding while looking at the smile on his face with a confused expression.

“…Your Highness.”

“Hyung-nim.”

“Yes, sir. Hyung-nim. Umm, it might just be a hypothesis, but your ancestor might be the ancient White Star?”

Based on what Cale knew, the ancient White Star had suddenly appeared in the world and died in the final battle.

There were no records of his family, his past, or his relationships.

That was why there was no way of knowing whether he had any descendants, but for some reason, Cale felt like he was right.

‘Either way, it’s not something good.’

Cale frowned at him, who seemed to be happy for some reason. Alver raised his chin and asked him back.

“So what?”

“I guess that’s true. You’re right. There’s nothing you can do about that.”

After seeing Cale nod his head, he used his hand to keep the corners of his lips from twitching. He was taken aback when he learned that the ancient White Star could be his ancestor.

He wasn't, however, a villain in that sense..

Furthermore, even if some of the previous kings of the Rowoon Kingdom were ineffective, they were never evil or harmed the citizens of the Rowoon Kingdom. The kingdom had been in difficult times due to their inability to properly lead, but future generations took responsibility and fixed it so that they could survive until now.

'They believed that only by becoming King of the Rowoon Kingdom could they avoid the Sun God's curse.'

It was amusing, but the Crossman family had fought for survival for generations.

As a result, the Rowoon Kingdom is the continent's oldest kingdom.

His ambition was to elevate the Rowoon Kingdom beyond its current status as the oldest kingdom and to make it even greater.

"Ah, Your Highness, I told you I was going to meet a sage, didn't I?"

“Yes.”

He gently responded to Cale and waited for Cale’s next words with a relaxed mind.

“That sage was the World Tree.”

“Huh?”

‘Who did hesay?"  ’

His jaw dropped. T he World Tree was an existence he had only heard about in legends. However, his expression calmed down after hearing what Cale said next.

"That World Tree said you were fated to exist in the Rowoon Kingdom, your highness."

Cale could now understand why the World Tree had mentioned to him at random that he was fated to be here. That was why he spoke up calmly and without hesitation.

"Doesn't that mean you should become king and live your life as you please, Hyung-nim?"

For the Rowoon Kingdom to thrive, the crown prince had to ascend to the throne.

“You are fated to be here.”

Cale decided once more that he needed to push for Alver to be king in order to live peacefully as a slacker without worrying about the Rowoon Kingdom. Cale firmly expressed his desires to him, who stood there with an odd smile on his face.

"Please, Hyung-nim, become king."

He began to speak as if accepting that will.

"Of course, I must ascend to the throne."

He quietly brushed his face.

Cale could see his true quarter Dark Elf appearance as his dye magic was removed. Alver looked at his reflection in Cale’s eyes as he started to think.

‘Fate. I am fated to be here.’

He thought that bringing Cale here was one of the best things he had done in life.

It assisted him in overcoming his self-doubt.

He looked quietly at Cale, who appeared to be thinking about a lot of things while looking at the boulder, before beginning to speak.

"As expected... this is only one of the reasons why I'm madly in love with you."

Silence….

“What?”

What the fuck did he just said?

TBC

JISEI: yihieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee. sweet...

Chapter Text

"As expected... this is only one of the reasons I'm madly in love with you."

Silence….

“What?”

What the fuck did he just say?

Alver raised his hand subconsciously to cover his face. He became terrified when he realized he had said that aloud. His thoughts were so scattered that he didn't realize he'd confessed in the worst way possible. 

He moved his hand slowly and looked at Cale, who had a flushed face and cheeks. 

“wha…”

He looked at him. Cale is standing still. He just stood there, looking surprised. 

“Your Highness….” 

Alver looked at him. He's patiently waiting for Cale to say something. However, it appears that it is the other way around. The redhead remained deafeningly silent. 

“Just what is all about love?”

Alver was returned to him. Cale gave him a direct stare. It's obvious, and it's heartbreaking. As if Cale had no idea what that was.. 

“You asked me about love.”

His gaze had softened to the point where looking into his eyes was painful. "Cale... Dongsaeng..."

“...”

He made the decision to confess once and for all. 

"It wasn't until you came into my life that I realized the true meaning of the word," he admitted, unable to deny his deep desire for his closeness and affection any longer. "Love is not a choice, and it is certainly not something that can be controlled; my love for you is like an unstoppable, wild storm; it may end up destroying me from within, but it will not change the fact that you have always been my destiny."

At least for me, you are my destiny.

If Cale turned him down. He hoped Cale would at the very least appreciate it. Alver was well aware that a relationship between two men was unacceptable. In this world, cut sleeves are an abhorrent existence. 

A simple thank you or expression of appreciation would suffice. 

"Your Highness, you're confused."

*cracks*

The moment Alver heard those words, he felt a searing pain in his heart. "I am the closest person to you, of course you'd be confused," Cale said.

He couldn't believe the logical Cale was making excuses right now.. 

"We should return, your Highness... We need to discuss this thoroughly... You could be sick..."

Cale moved quickly and dragged Alver above him. 

Alver was stunned and speechless at the outcome of his confession. 

"Don't confess your love until you are certain of it; not everyone has the same level of understanding; your duty in life is more important than your love, and you must play every honest role to justify it."

He knew... and yet... This is still so painful... 

Alver slaps Cale's hand away. His shoulder swung back and forth.

He looked at Cale, flustered, but...

"Don't make fun of my emotions."”

Cale's eyes widened the moment he said those words. 

"A simple thank you would have sufficed..." 

He didn't tell him how he felt for him to say this to him.  

"I didn't tell you my feelings so you could mock me..."

Cale was deafeningly quiet. 

Alver felt like crying. 

"You could've said you don't feel the same way... a simple appreciation would've sufficed."

Just one simple thanks. 

.

.

.

Cale looks at the Crown Prince, who has turned red with sadness. 

"How dare you mock my feelings, Cale..."

The single tear that fell from Alver's eyes felt like a knife stabbed through his heart. He couldn't say anything after Alver walked away from him. 

He stood alone in the Grand Library's grand hall. He had just realized everything he had said. All the hurtful things he said to him. 

Cale is unfamiliar with such situations. 

Yet… 

The agonizing pain was real. 

“Cale-nim…”

Turning around, he noticed Choi Han and Raon together. He smiled, but both of them appeared surprised. 

"Don't try to smile if you can't, Cale-nim..."”

"All right, human, don't smile while crying."

I'm... crying?

He touched his face and felt something cold.  

He's crying. Kim Rok Soo, who has forgotten how to cry for a long time, is crying. 

“Human…”

"Let's go back..."

He wanted to apologize but lacked the courage to do so.. 

Not when he can't bear Alver's genuine emotions.. 

This is the first time Cale has been unable to speak or think. Only Alver's words reverberate in his mind.  Only Alver’s pained expression replayed inside his head. 

I don't know... I don't know anymore... What should I have said instead of pointing out his feelings as a big mistake?

He didn't understand why he had to apologize and... respond quickly... 

But when will he be ready?

[*****]

Alver slammed the door to his room shut. He couldn't help but punch the pillar and heave. He leaned on it and sat on the floor, frustratedly brushing his hair. 

Cale doesn’t feel the same way. 

It's only natural for him to distance himself from Cale at this point.. 

Alver experienced the excruciating pain once more. When he looks up, he notices the bottle of wine on the table. He doesn't like it. However, it's as if I'm calling out to him. 

He stood up and swayed his way to the table. He grabbed the bottle, opened it, and drank the contents as if it were tea. He felt a burning sensation in his throat. 

It’s not a dream. 

He’s not dreaming. He slams the bottle down and brushes his head once more in frustration. The tear that he had been holding back miserably fell to his cheeks. 

“hah…”

The most agonizing tears are those shed in silence. 

He is unable to cry out loud. He is unable to express his anguish.  He began hitting his own chest to relieve the pain. Hitting himself to stop the pain or changed it to something else. 

It hurts even more than when I lost my mother. 

This life is what Cale makes it. His world, as well as this one. 

Hearts are made to be broken.

“Was it hard?" He asked himself. "Giving up?"

Not as difficult as clinging to something so genuine. 

Even though he appeared to be whole after putting the pieces back together, he was never quite the same as he had been before the fall.

"I'll never leave you, even though you're always leaving me."

It was a promise because he could never live the same way again. 

That was the night he wallowed in grief... 

"After all is said and done, grief is the price we pay for love."

It's the price he'll pay to keep falling in love. 

TBC

kekeke. kekeke kekekeke. the painnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnn!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Chapter Text

Spell the word “AWKWARD”.

Deruth and the rest of Cale's people were staring at him, lost in thought. I'm floating somewhere, but I'm hoping it's not six feet beneath the ground. Cale will either plan someone's murder or murder someone right now.. 

The Crown Prince has taken a seat in front of them. They're discussing their next moves as well as the enemy. White Star has arrived to make hell on Earth. The idiotic bastard is attempting to rule the world. 

"That's it... I didn't learn anything else about the demon world," Alver Crossman said to Cale, who couldn't meet his gaze.  He sighed and put the ledger away. He stood up after handing it to Tasha. 

"I'll go on now... I still have work to do."” 

Everyone who knew how Cale and the Crown Prince were always acting together was taken aback. 

The flirtatious air had vanished. Cale, the stoic, is pursing his lips right now. The pushy Prince is doing nothing. 

Deruth rose to his feet. Ron arrived soon after. 

"Your Highness, is there something between you and Cale?" the Duke asked as he approached the departing Crown Prince.

The Crown Prince appeared to be taken aback. He gave Deruth his usual flashy smile and said, "It's okay... It'll take time..."

"You've confessed..." Ron said quietly. Deruth blanched as he gazed at the awkwardly smiling prince.. 

“You did?”

“I did?”

"What did Cale say?"

"It's because he's the closest person to me... and... I might be sick..."” 

Deruth sympathized with the Crown Prince.  

"It's okay... Cale's not to blame... I did say something, too..."”

"Did you say something, Your Highness?"

“How dare he mock my feelings?”

Cale is not like that... they both said something they didn't want to say.. 

"Cale... isn't used to this sort of thing..."

"I'm aware that the rumors about him being a playboy were all false..." Alver smiled, "If he knew... he would know how to properly turn me down."

A simple "thank you for your feelings" would have sufficed.

"I should leave... please contact me if anything happens... I doubt Cale will call me after all that..." said the Crown Prince.

"It's incredible that you can act as if nothing happened," Ron said, staring at him.. 

"Honestly... This is the only answer I had... I'm the only one who fell, so... If I want things to stay the same, I should have confessed the same way..." 

The two older men felt sorry for him because of his smile. Alver bowed slightly and left the Villa to return to the palace. 

"It's not wrong to love... nor is it wrong to be honest about it," Ron exclaimed when he noticed someone's presence.

"I hope he'll be happy even if his feelings go unanswered," Deruth said as he noticed Cale listening in on their conversation.

"Your Grace, that would be difficult..."

"Right," Deruth agreed, "after all, first love has always been the most difficult to forget."

The two men exchanged devilish grins. This unexpected confession has an impact on Cale. 

They just hoped Cale would find an answer before one of them gave up. 

[*****]

A grand victory ball will be held in the palace after the fight with the Empire. The bell tower has been demolished. Crown Prince Adin has now been taken care of. Only that their relationship grows colder over time. 

When Alver entered his room, he noticed the redhead sleeping on his bed. He must have come here at the children's request, or he may have given a report about it. The children have gone missing. 

He looked at Cale. He sat on the edge of the bed. He locked his gaze on him for a few moments longer. He subconsciously reached for Cale's head. He patted him and gently combed his hair with his finger. 

"It would've been the same... if I hadn't confessed." If he hadn't made that mistake, he could see him whenever he wanted. 

But what can he do? Cale gave him reasons to exist. He's the only one who has never shunned him because he's different. Cale was the only one who reassured him about everything he had done. He is the only person he has ever trusted. 

"Even if you decide to betray me... I will never betray you... I love you," he said, bitterly smiling. He leaned down, making another mistake he'll keep hidden. He stood up and kissed Cale on the cheek. While waiting for the children, he changed his clothes and sat on the sofa, watching the redhead sleep soundly. 

Cale was fully awake and listening to his words, but he had no idea. 

.

.

.

A week before the ball came by. The kids were always stopping by to play and eat treats. Of course, he happily spoils them to the point where they're even more round and fluffy. 

He can't work much because a dragon has taken a liking to his lap, his head obstructing his vision to write papers. Ohn had taken a liking to his shoulders and had been sleeping on them. Hong was dozing off over his hand. This adorableness overload was priceless! However, he must work. 

He sighed in defeat. He leaned back and fashioned an Ohn pillow out of it. The kitten seemed to enjoy it and purred for him. Raon slid into his lap and circled around to sleep comfortably, while Hong rested in his palm and he gently caressed his belly. 

Soon after, a redhead entered the room and stared him down. Cale sat down at the table and placed the paperwork on it. There was an awkward silence, but Cale did not leave.  He spun around and leaned against the table. 

“Cale/Your Highness.”

They both paused and said, "You go first."

"I'll go first," Cale said.. 

Alver remained deafeningly silent. 

"That day... I apologize for everything I said."

"I apologize as well..."

The fact that they both knew they couldn't lie right now gives them confidence. 

"Honestly, Your Highness... I don't know how to love... or fall in love... that's why I said you must be sick..." Cale laughed awkwardly, but he was not going anywhere. 

"Are you giving me an answer?" Alver cut to the chase. He cracked a bitter smile. 

"I'm still thinking about it..." 

Alver came to a halt and looked at the redhead. Cale was blushing, but his expression was solemn. Alver smiled, relieved that Cale was thinking about his words. If Cale is not turning him down. He’s giving it some thought. He still has a chance.

"Then... give me a chance," Alver said, mustering all his courage, "to prove that my feelings were genuine."

“I know it’s rea.” Cale said, “You’re not someone who will lie about your feelings.”

Alver remained silent. The usually vocal Cale is struggling with words. He can’t help but feel happy. Cale is really giving him all these thoughts. 

“Thank you…”

Cale looked at him. It’s as if he wanted to say something like, There’s nothing to be thankful for. 

"For giving some thoughts about my feelings..." Alver smiled. He can live a long life and wait. "I will wait for an answer," he said, hoping to hear it before Cale left this world. He hoped to hear something favorable, like a simple thank you, but this current situation was even more satisfying than anything. 

He has not yet been turned down.. 

Alver was deep in thought when he felt a light, trembling touch on his chin. It caused him to raise his head, but he wasn't expecting Cale to make the move.. 

Cale's lips met his. His hand caresses his cheeks despite the cold. Alver smiled and patted Cale on the back with his free hand. 

It was a simple kiss. Cale stepped back, not brushing his teeth or looking disgusted. 

"Do you... dislike it?"

Cale flushed even further. He's so adorable!

“I… like it…” 

Alver smiled. "Let's try it, Cale," he said, touching his free hand to Cale's hand.

Cale looked at him. Flustered and embarrassed. 

"This relationship, please..."

“al… right…”

Alver smiled brightly at him. 

.

.

.

Cale's heart skipped a beat when he saw this smile. 

Stop. Don't be so loud.

He's worried Alver will hear his wildly beating heart. 

He averted his gaze, but he soon felt a soft kiss on the back of his hand. When he looked at the Crown Prince, it seemed as if time had stopped.  

That smile. 

Those stares. 

Cale felt the desire to monopolize it. 

He desires those genuine actions to be directed solely at him. 

Did I do it too... for a long time?

He is unsure. But he felt like he'd regret it if he pushed this man away. 

This sensation is pleasant. 

He wishes to remain a part of it. 

He squeezed Alver’s hand and stayed in that position for a long while, until the children, woke up. 

TBC

Chapter Text

All it took was a simple kiss. Since that day, Alver had been in a good mood. 

Cale also appeared to be on cloud nine, smiling to himself so much that everyone assumed he had finally gone insane. 

What happened to the gore? The smirk! The sinister smile that causes even enemies to pee and flee before it frowns upon them!

While working, Cale appeared to be smiling really, really genuine, real, helluva obvious that he was in a good mood. They also noticed him touching his lips and staring at his hand as if he were a lovelorn maiden deeply in love. 

He'd been smiling more, which made his people uncomfortable, to the point where they almost cursed him, "Who the fuck are you?! Bring back our Cale-nim!"

"You appear to be in a good mood, Cale," Countess Violan pointed out.

“Am I?”

"You've been smiling all day, and it's scared the shit out of your people," said that elegant voice, joking but solemn. 

Cale pursed his lips but smiled even more. 

"Well, you should get ready for the victory ball," Violan said as he rang the bell, "and you should style yourself even more."

Cale simply nodded and walked alongside Ron. He didn't say much, but everyone seemed to understand why he was acting the way he was. 

"They must be doing some testing."

"If he didn't, he wouldn't be smiling like this."

"It's been a long time since I've seen him smile."

"He might be dense, but his actions are surprisingly honest," Deruth said to his wife.

"It'll take time, but not a long time," Violan says, humming and smiling back at her husband.. 

"He really took after his mother in that aspect," Deruth recalled fondly, "and Jour was a bit dense too." 

"I thought it was you..." Violan smirked. 

"If it had been me, I would have jumped on someone and gotten it over with."”

"We should prepare to welcome our new son-in-law," Violan chuckled lightly.

"I want to be the first to beat the prince."

"Oh, give him some slack... It's fine if your son isn't a dense one."

Deruth pouted and appeared cursed. Anyway. Ron was humming happily. 

"I guess I'll have to teach the Young Lord the Art of Seduction."

That scared the Henituse Couple. Ron's smile is anything but angelic. 

Does he want them to shack up or fall apart? 

They'll never know. 

[*****]

"Aunt... do I look good?" Alver asked Tasha for the nth time. He had gone on and on about his appearance, changing clothes and finally settling on the black and gold gala. His hair was slicked behind his ears. His lips were adorned with a lip bum, giving them a shiny appearance. His body accessories were simple. 

"How many do I have to answer you? You look good! and handsome!" Tasha almost yells at her nephew for being a worry wart. "Young Lord Cale will be overjoyed when he sees you! So have a little more courage!"

When Alver looked in the mirror, he looked like a lost puppy. Cale agreed to try dating him about a week ago. They've been calling each other every night, talking about work, and nonsense, and just enjoying each other's company without saying anything. 

His heart was overflowing with joy. The euphoria is making him smile from ear to ear. 

When Robbit saw him smile like a puppy for a week, he seemed disgusted with him. 

If this is how it feels to be in love and in a relationship with someone he cares about, he should have confessed sooner and risked everything. 

“Your Highness, it’s time.”

He sighed deeply and collected his thoughts. He shouldn’t look wimpy and shy, right?

With the dignity and aura of the Crown Prince, he entered the grand hall. He walked into the crowd, looking for Cale. He couldn't find him in the crowd until he got to the front. He said a few words while still looking for Cale.. 

Only to find Cale at the side, leaning as beautifully as ever, with a glass of wine in his hand. He's dressed in a white gala with black and gold details. His long hair was styled in a loose braid that hung from his shoulder to his chest. Cale stood out from the rest of the nobles. 

— Cookie prince, you're drooling.

He quickly covered his lips and wiped away whatever liquid was present. He looked at Cale, who was silently laughing and holding out his hand as if he was patting their baby dragon. 

Alver smiled. To be honest, it made all the nobles around him look pale. He appeared to be both holy and innocent, as well as frightening!

A/N: They're genuine smiles, for fuck's sake, you noble bastards!

Alver couldn't help but chuckle lightly. He looked at Cale, who appeared to be annoyed by the nobles around him. After dealing with a few foreign ambassadors, he decided to approach him. 

"I hope you have a good time at the party."

A woman from some kingdom approached him, dressed in such revealing but high-class attire. Alver looks at him but is disgusted by him. By comparing herself to Cale, she had been emphasizing her curves and boovs. Cale's beauty is unrivaled. He doesn't even need to put on heavy make-up like this woman. 

She appears to be the princess of a small kingdom. Alver doesn't care about the type of kingdom they have, but he despises the fact that she casts knowing glances at him when he's uninterested. 

"Your Highness... it's a—" she said, reaching out to him. He can't avoid that hand; otherwise, he'll appear disrespectful. . “pleasure to meet yo—”

*tap.* 

Someone's hand pushed her hand away. He looked to his side and noticed Cale staring at the woman. 

"Hyung..." Cale's tone was soft and flirtatious, "let's drink."”

“you… how disrespectful!”

Cale eyed the woman and, and leaned on Alver. 

"Oh... I didn't expect you to be here... Lady of Nightly Activities."” 

Cale declares this as if nothing is wrong. 

"I am Cale Henituse... The Crown Prince's sworn brother..." Cale approached the girl and whispered into her ear, "It is my duty to expel insects attempting to harm my Crown Prince."

Cale was aware of something. Alver remained silent and spoke as kindly as he always did. "It appears that the Young Princess is intoxicated... Please assist her to the guest room."

Cale shifted his weight back to his side. The smile he wore a while ago vanished because of a woman. 

Is he... jealous?

That made him smile even more. 

He quietly raised his arms and placed them on Cale's back. Cale flinched, but Alver soon realized his hand was holding Cale's hand. 

He smiled and kept a big smile on his face. Duke Deruth wanted to rip that smile off his face when he saw him almost tear the handkerchief he was biting. 

He heard Cale satisfied, let out a small "hm," and stayed beside him for the duration of the game. 

Too bad they can’t dance in the hall. He really wanted to dance with Cale right now. 

.

.

.

[MEANWHILE]

Choi Han is standing behind them and sees them holding hands. He is currently malfunctioning: ▼(❍ᴥ❍)▼

Mary: Choi Han, breathe…

Deruth: ﾉಠೃಠ▄︻┻┳═一

Ron: how cute… ♪┏(´∪`●)♫

Raon: ♪(・∀・*)ノ human! human! Kyahh kyahhh!

.

.

.

The ball has already reached its apex when Cale and Alver decided to escape. 

They ended up in the Palace of Joy’s rose garden, where all roses and other ornaments are in full bloom. 

Alver made Cale sit on the bench. He smiled and knelt down, knowing that Cale was feeling discomfort with his shoes. He took it off along with his socks. 

“It’s red.” 

“I think this is new.”

“This hasn’t been broken yet?”

“not sure…”

Alver smiled and began massaging his feet. Cale looked at him and smiled widely. Alver really looks handsome. 

His head can record this. He can replay this anytime he wants. 

“Too bad… we can’t dance if your feet hurt.”

Dance?

Cale looked at him. Alver gazes at him. A bit sad but not disappointed. Maybe he was looking forward to dancing with him. 

“We can still dance…”

Cale took his feet and pulled Alver up. He placed the Crown Prince’s arms around his waist. Cale arms wrapped around the Crown Prince’s neck, as he stepped on Alver's shoes. 

“Now we can dance.”

Alver’s eyes widen. This is the closest they’re been with each other. Cale is taking initiative. 

He smiled. Cale is really trying to figure out how he feels. By remaining close to him, he is attempting to elicit an answer. 

“This is giving me, so much hope.” 

He smiled as he whispered that to Cale. 

Cale looked at him. His hand moved slowly towards his cheeks. 

"Not yet... but... if this is painful... tell me... and I'll stop."

Alver buried his head on Cale's shoulder instead of letting go. They began to sway to the sound of the orchestra emanating from the grand hall. 

"no... don't stop... even if this becomes a memory by the time you realize your feelings, I'd be even happier that I spent this lifetime with you."

Cale's heart was pounding. He wrapped his arm around Alver's neck and soaked up his warmth. 

We're causing each other harm by doing this. Nonetheless, I despise the thought of him in someone else's arms. 

“Alver…”

Calling each other by name would be their only assurance at this point. 

"Don't think of something so wasteful..."

They should live each moment without regret and express what needs to be expressed. 

"Don't let go..."

"I'll never let you go..."

Cale laughed heartily for no apparent reason. 

He's not sure yet, but he's becoming increasingly certain that he has feelings for this person. 

"Yes... don't..." 

Cale slowly understands this person's heart. 

He hopes not to lose him...

Just like how he lost the people he held close to his heart. 

TBC

AUTHOR: YIIIIIIIIIIIEHHHIEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEMETOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!1INEEEDANALVERINMYLIFE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!CALE!!!!!!!!!ANSWERHIM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JISEI(UPLOADER): CHEFKISS!~( ˘▾˘~)~( ˘▾˘~)

Chapter Text

Cale is taking the initiative in intimate matters, so Alver decided to respond in kind. 

He looked at his brother, Robbit, who had tamed the girl he was interested in. There's nothing wrong with consulting a professional about that. 

"You know, brother..." Robbit hands him the book that will taint his otherwise unblemished life. "You have to read Grandpa Benedict's book."

A/N: the resurgence of trauma!!! BWAHAHAHAHAHHAHAHHA

Like... WTF? He examined the red book. He had a creepy feeling about it. It's almost as if it's telling him not to read it while also telling him not to. 

He looked at his brother, who was grinning maniacally at him. 

"It's the reality megabook," Robbit says, patting his shoulder and smiling. "A little bit of technique would drastically change everything."

And who is he to deny the words of a professional? 

Alver returned to his palace and began reading the book. Cale and the kids stopped by once more. He patted the kids' heads and asked for some treats. He took some tea and began brewing some for him and Cale to enjoy. 

"You should be a cafe owner rather than a king," Cale said, smiling. 

"When I retire, I plan to open a cafe and tea shop."

"You should include some sweets... we can hire Vicross."

They both laughed as they looked at each other. He placed a cup of tea in front of Cale. 

Cale accepted it, blew it cool, and sipped. He almost burst into tears, causing the Crown Prince to panic. 

"Don't worry... It's just... It's been so long since I've had regular tea." 

Alver couldn't believe what he was saying. "What kind of tea were you drinking all day?" Alver asked as Cale frowned. He felt bad for Cale if he was constantly fed bad tea.

“Ron’s Lemon Tea from Hell.” 

Alver chuckled lightly and refilled Cale's cup. Cale likes sweet tea. I should also prepare other flavors. 

He'll stock his office cupboard and feed himself with it.  He imagines Ron giving Cale only pure Lemon Tea. It gives him chills just thinking about it. 

"Your Highness, The King has requested that you review these reports." 

"I'll be right back..."

“go on…” 

He took the papers and went through them one by one. 

.

.

.

Cale observed Alver Crossman's solemn expression. He's annoyed by his shitty grin, but watching him go about his business was enjoyable. He can see the creases between his brows. 

How adorable. 

He smiled and rose to his feet. He wants the guy to sit next to him. Why did he come here if he was going to work?

He took the remainder of the paper and assisted him. Soon after, he heard a long sigh, which prompted him to look at Alver, who appeared to be dealing with something unpleasant. 

"Marriage counseling." 

"Don't misunderstand," Alver said.

"I won't..." is perfectly normal.  People frequently sell their children in order to gain more power. 

"I'm not going to marry..." Alver extended his hand and took his.  "If it's not you... I won't marry... I'll stay alone for the rest of my life," he took his hand and kissed the back, intertwining their hands while his lips rested on his skin.

How powerful those words could be. Cale was worried because of the solemnity in his voice. Alver used to annoy him, but his sincerity was something Cale couldn't shake and abandon. Marriage between two men is impossible—in this conservative world, it would tarnish both men's reputations for the kingdom. 

Some noise was made by the sliding sound. Cale ended up sitting in front of Alver on the table. The Prince smiled as he looked at him. He leaned in and eventually hugged his waist, resting his head on his tummy. 

"You're thinking hard again," Alver said, smiling and looking at him.. 

This strange sensation is causing his entire body to shake. 

Cale crouchs down and places his lips on the blonde's head. Soft caresses followed as his hands rested on Alver's head. 

“tired?”

“no…”

Alver's soft chuckles can be heard by Cale. 

"Thank you, Cale..."

There's nothing to be thankful for, but Cale couldn't say that.  He remained seated and stroked the Crown Prince's head.. 

"I should be grateful."

Cale had to make him wait for him in vain because he couldn't express his feelings for him. 

Nonetheless, Cale chooses to cherish these moments, despite the fact that he has no idea where this relationship will lead. 

.

.

.

Alver flushed profusely. 

Who the hell writes pornographic novels in his own diary?!

He wanted to smash and tear the book apart. 

"That Robbit... I'm going to kill him."

"If you're stuck, why don't you go to your grandfather?"

"Grandfather... Obante?"

"He had four wives, including your blood-related Grandmother," she says.

Oh... Why hadn't he thought of that?

He stood up and walked out of the palace without looking back. 

.

.

.

Cale went to Alver's palace by himself for the first time. He had been waiting for so long that he had fallen asleep on the bed.  He awoke and sat down when he noticed Tasha smiling at him. 

"Lord Cale, my nephew left on urgent business."

Urgent business? Then why didn’t he hear anything about it? Alver would surely leave a notice before he left. 

He lowered his gaze. He sensed the impending loneliness once more. 

He sighed, "Ah..." Tasha patted his shoulder. 

"Don't worry, he'll come to see you when he gets back..."

Is it too urgent for him not to tell me? What brought me here in the first place?

Cale was taken aback by his own thoughts. Since when had he been so demanding? He's not that needy, and he's capable of doing anything. 

He sunk into the mattress and slept all night. Like he cares. He just decided to stay for the night and leave the next morning. I hope he’s fine. Alver had been going around with dangerous works that the king assigned him. I should roast that King before Hyung ascends the throne. 

He closed his eyes and had a dream that night. The dream was not the same dream he used to have. He was sitting on his chair when someone suddenly back-hugged him, kissing his cheeks and leaning his head on his shoulder. 

Cale knew exactly who this belonged to. He smiled briefly before everything went dark. The man let go of him. It was Alver Crossman. He stood in the distance with a serious gaze in his eyes. 

"Cale, let's put an end to this..."

Alver turned away from him, just like the memories where people leave him. 

He stood there, nailed to his feet, before reaching out, but Alver was gone.

He abruptly opened his eyes, feeling searing pain. It was all a dream. He looked through the windows. It's early morning. 

He groaned until he felt something move beside him. He yelped as a strong embrace drew him closer to the man sleeping beside him. 

"Your... Highness."

Alver gave him a groggy look. He frowned and sank into Cale's arms. "Get some more rest."

Cale panicked. He didn't know where to put his arms. His heart was beating so loudly that he could hear it. 

"It's very loud."

"What is it?"

Alver laughed and kissed the spot on his chest where Cale's heart had been. 

"This one..." 

Cale took a deep breath. He wished for the earth to swallow him whole! 

"It's nice..."

Nice? Cale was baffled, but he didn’t say anything. 

“I like the sound of your heart racing only for me.”

Cale looked down, and Alver also looked up. Their faces were now centimeters apart. They looked at each other intently, not wanting to back off and be defeated. The mesmerizing moment suddenly turned into an innocent kiss. 

Cale didn't even know how to kiss.  The first time they did it, he simply let his lips rest on Alver's.  The kiss was exactly the same this time. He and Alver are unable to close their eyes. They continued to stare at each other until the older man moved above Cale. He parted his lips and touched his chin. 

Alver asked for permission, "May I?" 

A/N: Laughing hysterically. mwahahahhahahah. I need an ALver in my life too!

The sequel of dreams never changes, but Cale, who wanted to cherish every moment, nodded. 

Even for someone like him, he wants to treasure what remains. 

He's terrified. I was terrified of what might happen . 

He had never known love, but friendship was a different story. 

"Yes.... it's... alrig—"

Alver's lips muffled his even before he could finish his sentence. He can feel the older man's breath on him, and his warm tongue soon knocked on his lips and teeth, asking for permission.. 

Alver's face was so close to him in the shadows that he could smell the sweet ropy fragrance of sandalwood. He had his tongue in his mouth. He couldn't see his face because his tongue was moving so quickly and urgently. Plunging like some writhing thing into his gaping maw, it nearly overwhelmed his senses as it sought something deeper, licking every part of his mouth. It was the power that forced him or got him back to where he was helpless with his eyes closed shut, in a tongue trance. 

Cale groans as Alver's hand digs into his shirt and touches his bar skin. It's hot, and the kiss and his touch almost burn him. 

"Cale..." he said as he opened his eyes and looked at Alver. He's in his dark elf form. His handsome face greeted him. "uhh," he said, urgently and needily.

He yanked Alver's head back and kissed him again.  The force of Alver's thug causes the buttons on his shirt to come undone.. 

“Al…ver…”

The prince came to a halt and looked down at the shambles beneath him. Cale's hair splayed beautifully on the pillow and mattress. His flushed face piqued his interest even more. This is becoming dangerous. Really dangerous. Cale looked even more delectable and alluring when he was out of breath.  

Damn it... it's as if he's imposing himself on him when their feelings aren't yet entwined, albeit mutually. 

“Cale… I…” 

"May I love you with all my might?" says the hesitant voice.

Cale's eyes widen when he hears that. He remembered the dream in which he was left alone once more.  He pushed him away and pulled his shirt close. 

"I... need to return, Your Highness."

"What are you afraid of?" Alver asked, grabbing Cale's hand, but Cale gave him a hurtful look. 

Alver stopped. He understood but cannot express himself. 

“I…”

"Cale..." forcing Cale to admit that his worries won't help them, "I'll listen when you're ready..."

He embraced the redhead and kissed him on the cheek. 

"I told you... I can wait..."

Cale, on the other hand, is terrified... terrified that if he doesn't respond, this embrace will soon turn cold. 

But Alver was determined to wait. 

Except for this man, he had never been so in love. 

TBC

A/N: ARRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIIIIIBBBBBBBBBBBBAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!! KYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!!! 

JISEI: *grinning shittily* the silence and misunderstandings and fears hohohohoh! Don’t worry Cale, Alver will break all your worries!!!!! mwahahahahhahaha

Chapter Text

A/N: THE COURTING BEGINS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Obante advised him that in order for love to blossom, he should make the object of his affection notice him. 

"How am I supposed to do that?" 

Give him all of the golden plaques? He'd go bankrupt if he did.  He knows how much money Cale loves, to the point where he's saving so much for his Slacker life. 

Or, if he promises him a slacker life, Cale will be doing nothing right now. That would be harmful to his health. 

"Hmm... I wonder what I should do?"

How to get Cale to notice him in a romantic way. He wished his grandfather had elaborated on this point, but the old fart advised him to discover it for himself because attention varies from person to person. 

"It only occurred to me that I knew nothing about Cale."

He sagged on his table and closed his eyes to clear his mind. 

He felt small taps on his cheeks and noticed their adorable little kids staring at him, "Cookie Prince, what's wrong?"

"I saw an angel just now."

The children laughed at him. 

"Where is Cale?"

"Human told us to come by and said he'll be going to the eastern continent, where he's currently opening a small shop."

I've got some time now.

"Oh... Cale also said he'll miss you!" Ohn exclaimed happily.. 

The children appeared to be aware of their parents' relationship and were open about it. 

According to his grandfather, a man must swim thousands of seas and cross the highest mountains to win the heart of a strong woman. He also advised him to carefully plan his next move and weave his way into her life. He advised them to become friends. Seeing how certain he is and how interested he is in her, the grandfather said he'd leave it to him and not disappoint him; Darkelves are romantic and do not dare sully the Clan's romance or he'll disown him. The only difference was that the object of his affection was a man rather than a woman. What a cruel grandfather. 

Alver sighs. Relieved that the children came to him instead of Cale. Before they left, he said goodbye and handed them some candy. Cale spoils them rotten, and Alver adores him. They're so adorable. Despite the fact that they are incapable of having children, he has three.. 

He remembered it again one morning. 

Cale appeared to be used to being abandoned. It's as if he's trying to push anyone who enters his comfort zone and declares their love for him. It's as if he's open to his kind of them but runs away when it gets too much. It's as if he's trying to make sense of every situation by imagining the worst possible outcome. 

Cale is keeping something from him. Something he couldn't even say out loud. 

It's as if he's accustomed to pushing everyone away.. 

As if his emotions have gone numb. 

He just hoped he was wrong. 

It's as if someone had previously broken his heart. 

Just thinking that Cale might be in love with someone other than him angers him. 

Cale is his first love, and he hoped that hed be Cale’s first too. 

.

.

Alver looked at the child who was showing him money. 

"Alver... Alver... let's go shopping, Duke Fredo gave me some pocket money."

Cale's eyes sparkled so brightly that they pierced his heart and made him almost squeal. He's in the form of a dark elf. There's nothing wrong with him being a creature of the night since he's in the Eastern Continent. 

He laughed. He was well aware of Cale's penchant for money.  

I have to fill out my bank accounts now. 

He walked around the Molden kingdom, holding Cale's hand. They were not bothered by anyone. It's as if only the Western Continent has some shady norm about dark creatures, making it seem like a serious joke. 

Cale was holding his hand as well. They appeared to be siblings out for a walk. 

They took a seat in the shop that Vicross had opened with Ron. It's their current safe haven. 

He and Cale talked about a few things. Cale, on the other hand, refuses to let go of his hand. 

Cale yanked him up and dragged him to the second floor. Cale grabbed his collar to reach for a kiss as the door closed behind him. Their tongues were teasing each other. However, he can't help but frown because Cale clearly looks like a 12-year-old. 

"Shit... I feel like a criminal," he grumbles, biting Cale's nape.. 

"ugh... I'm supposed to be the vampire," Cale grumbled.. 

Alver laughed after calming down. He was pleased with the mark he had made on Cale's skin. 

They just sat on the floor. Cale was sitting on his lap, leaning against him. 

"It's no surprise..."

"Curious about what?"

"What makes me so drawn to you."

His grandfather's first requirement rings like an angel's bells right now. 

"I feel at ease whenever I'm with you." 

"Since when..."

“when what?”

"Have you noticed me?"

"Back when I was eighteen... I've been watching your moves... of course for my future plan... and... I noticed how you treated me... I tried to ignore it but... the more I tried, the more I'm drawn to you..." 

It means, somehow, Alver had some space inside his heart. 

"You remind me of someone..."

Someone? 

Alver's thoughts went backward.. 

"Did you... have feelings for that person?"

It was the question he bravely posed.. 

"I am not..." Cale explained, "I am not someone who is incapable of loving someone..."

It breaks his heart to hear Cale dismiss himself as incapable of falling in love.

"However, when I'm with you, I feel like I'm eating my words."

Hope. 

“Cale… I…”

"I seemed to like you, Your Highness," Cale said, not moving from his embrace, his head buried on his shoulders. 

"So much that I missed you when we were apart," Cale said, his voice shaking. "The person you remind me of was a dear friend who forces me to call him Hyung."

"Did you call him, Hyung?"

"No," Cale replied, his voice happy and calm, "you're the only Hyung I've ever called."

His mind was at ease.

The silence continued until they both nodded off while sitting on the floor. Alver hugged Cale protectively, making him feel secure in his position. They simply remained by each other's sides until morning. 

Cale and Alver awoke early. Vicross had just finished setting the table while the others ate their breakfast. They sat in the back and ate quietly and comfortably. They were feeding each other and teasing each other while talking about nonsense. 

When it came time to leave, Alver stood up and looked in the opposite direction.  

"I'll see you in the capital next time, Cale."

He'll be preoccupied with what Cale is attempting to accomplish..

"Let's call each other," Cale stated openly.. 

Alver smiled and moved his gaze away. 

Cale called out to him even before he could take his fourth step. 

He turned around, and the vampire child reverted to his redhead appearance. 

Cale kissed his cheeks and rested his hand on his shoulder. 

Alver was stunned. They'd kissed with their tongues before, but this kiss turned his knees into jelly as he collapsed like mush to the ground. 

Cale laughs and teases him, saying, "So pathetic." 

He unconsciously touched the cheeks that Cale had kissed. 

Cale was beaming at him. He transformed back into the young vampire. They are looking at each other on the same level. 

"I'll see you soon, Hyung," Cale said, kissing his other cheek before fleeing to Duke Fredo's palace. 

Cale mocked him with a huge smile that made his heart beat so fast it felt like it was going crazy and leaving his chest. 

“Bye…”

"Yes... take care..."

He's a hopeless case... 

Really hopeless... 

"Damn it... I really like him!"

He squealed, unable to compose himself.  

[Meanwhile]

Ron: fufufu… Now I know who’s dominant. ( ͠°◡ ͡°)

Choi Han: our Cale-nim... (′ʘ⌣ʘ‵)

Vicross *totally grossed out*: ( -_-)>

CHILDREN: (¬‿¬), （✿˶′◡‵˶）, (ㄏ〃ω〃)ㄏ, COOKIE PRINCE HAS GONE CRAZY, HUMAN!

Back in the county, the Duke had been feeling really really irk. Proceeds to take out his sword.
(ง ͠ ᵒ̌ Дᵒ̌ )▬▬ι════════ﺤ He has to go to the capital and wage war…

.

.

Well, they can’t help someone who is terminally in love. 

Cale felt like he achieved something today. 

“I need to work hard.” It’s the first time he found working really pleasurable. 

.

.

.

OMAKE:

A/N: sdatucale?!!!!!!!!!!!

Cale: I’m very much sane, author-nim… You’re just lonely, you don’t have an Alver in your life. 

A/N: … *loneliness rubbed right on my face* ๐·°(৹˃̵෴˂̵৹)°·๐, I’ll just murder the plot. kekekkekekeke

Cale: b*st*rd. you can try. ∋(Ψ●ｰ●)∈ 

A/N: Laughs like a madman. kekekekkekekekkekekekkekek. MWAHAHAHHAHAHAHHAHAHHAHAHAHAHHA

TBC

Chapter Text

Grandpa Benedict's book was completely useless. Alver frowned, debating whether or not to tear the book. He just stood there staring at it and looking at what he had prepared ahead of time. Everything is made of gleaming gold and jewels, which Cale enjoys collecting. 

"Rather than gold and jewels, something given from the heart would be the best," his aunt Tasha said. 

"But Cale might not want it," he said, looking at her.

"Rather than appearing luxurious, something unusual to Lord Cale would be preferable."

Alver took a brief moment to reflect. Cale had no particular interests aside from money and treasures. 

Because he was so lost in thought, his aunt had to shoo him away and look for a clue in the capital. He, of course, went undercover. He noticed some people looking at clothing. Some people are crazy about cheap trinkets. Some are simply enjoying each other's company while strolling around town. 

"This is cute!" he exclaimed as his gaze was drawn to the young couple. They appear to be Cale's age based on their appearance. It wasn't your average couple; it was a male and male couple. 

He was surprised when they held hands because they were in their own world. Soon after, he began to hear people pointing at them and cursing them as if it were the most heinous thing in the world. 

They, however, pay no attention to those who call them dirty. 

He notices a pair of bracelets on their wrists. It's just a plain bracelet with initials dangling from it. "Compared to the love that everyone knew, that kind of love is much better and more real," Alver said, feeling the sincerity of their relationship.

Everyone turned to face him. 

"It wasn't their fault they fell in love; they just happened to fall in love in the wrong world."

After that, everyone calmed down. He walked away, paying no attention to them. He returned to his palace, but he was still lost in thought. That's when he notices a satin black ribbon in front of him. He took it and looked at it for a few moments. He picked up the needle and thread and began to embroider. 

If anyone sees him doing this, they will undoubtedly laugh and label him insane.

You’re lucky Cale Henituse! No prince would be in their right mind to embroider something for you!

He smiled, pleased. Cale's birthday was approaching quickly. 

However, not everything went exactly as planned. His little embroidery is a little cursed to look at. He intended to give it to him, but it's abominable, a work of utter garbage. 

He lets out a sigh. Damn it. It's completely ruined. 

“Your Highness.” 

He looked out the window, and Cale descended like an angel from the heavens. 

I'm done. 

He’s dead. His breath is taken away by the breathtaking beauty. 

I’m dead.I'm so dead.  I love him so much!

He almost drooled while looking at Cale, his sleeves open, revealing a bit of his skin and collar bones, which looked utterly seductive. 

“Is that for me?” It dawned on him that he forgot to keep his abhorrent work!

"um... this is..." What should I do? What am I supposed to do?!

Cale approached him and sat between his legs. His red flowing hair cascaded down to his lap like a waterfall. It's really lovely. Cale's hair looked best on him. 

"What are you up to?"

"Look at how lovely your hair is."

Cale snorted, his finger resting on the ribbon's tip. “Tie it.”

“w,what?”

"my hair... tie it up with this..." 

Alver was adamant about tying this into Cale's hair. 

Cale should only enjoy the lovely things in life, not things like this.  

"Come on... I'd like to try out my lover's work."

lover? lover? Cale is my lover!!!

He coughed. Cale wanted this, so he couldn't help himself. It's not his fault if it looks strange in his hair. 

He started braiding Cale's hair. His hair stood out even more because it was black and gold. 

Cale smiled as he looked at him. His satisfied expression made Alver smile as well. 

“I like this.”

Alver paused. He should know by now that anything would look good on Cale. 

“Why are you here?”

"I missed you," Cale admitted sheepishly as he leaned against Alver. "It's been stuffy since then..."”

And you came here because you felt at ease?

Alver smiled even wider. He leaned against the couch to make it more comfortable for Cale. He wrapped his arms around Cale's waist and held his hand. Cale appeared to be very uncomfortable in this position. He may not be sitting properly now that he is leaning on him. 

With such pure thoughts, he inquired. 

"Cale... do you want to move to the bed?"

Cale flinched. He looked at him because he was sweating. There's nothing wrong with his word. He just wants Cale to be more at ease because he came here by himself. The blush on the redhead's skin, on the other hand, looked absolutely stunning and... seductive. He didn’t realized the weight of the words he just said. 

Cale stood up. He’s not facing him but he’s holding his hand. 

He was dragged to his bed and pushed into the mattress. He assumed Cale was just being feisty, but he blushed as soon as Cale began unbuttoning his sleeves.

“C, Cale?”

Cale removed his sleeves and straddled his waist. Alver looked at him as he sensed Cale looking at him seductively.  

"Cale... I... just wanted to—mnph!"

Cale kissed him passionately. His eyes were tightly closed. Cale's hand forcefully opened his sleeves. His slender finger dug into his neck, collar, and chest. 

Cale appeared stiff despite the deep and sweet kiss. Alver was aware that Cale was nervous, but this was not what he wanted to do with him. 

Even when he stands helpless in front of the redhead. Alver drew back and slammed Cale onto the bed. He pinned his arms over his head and kissed him deeply and sweetly, rubbing his hard member beneath. 

*Mmgh! Argh!*

Alver drew back the moment he heard that. He grabbed the blanket and wrapped it around Cale, tightly hugging him. 

"This isn't what I want, Cale." 

Cale jerked in surprise, he felt. 

"No, Cale... I didn't want to do this until you were certain of your feelings for me." 

He desired Cale's heart, not just his body. 

"I thought it was an invitation."

"I wanted you to be at ease." 

Cale remained deafeningly silent. His trembling body finally calmed down. That explains his nervousness. 

"Cale... I'm not going to force you, not until you say you love me." 

Like and love are not the same thing. 

"This is comfortable," Cale says as he leans against him. 

But it's undeniably unpleasant. 

"I'm not sure why, but whenever I'm with you, everything feels comfortable. Hyung..." Cale was nervous, "What have you done to me?" 

Is it okay if I take it as a step closer to his heart? 

Cale is not the type to say something like this. It must imply that his presence has some effect on him. 

"Sleepy." 

"Then sleep." 

He heard Cale take a deep breath before falling asleep. 

I will definitely treasure him. 

.

.

.

Cale Henituse looked in the mirror. His hair was braided to his side, and Alver Crossman's black ribbon held it in place. 

He smiled. 

"It suits you, Cale-nim."

"Hm," His smile drew everyone's attention. 

They already knew that Cale and Alver were in that sort of relationship. 

Of course, they didn’t need to say it out loud, but Cale definitely looked really happy right now. 

Well, it doesn’t matter as long as Cale is happy. 

.

.

.

But no one knows that such happiness won’t last long. 

TBC

*evil laugh*

Chapter Text

It was the talk of the town, and Cale frowned the moment he heard rumors that Alver Crossman was marrying. 

Cale's dark voice echoed dangerously, "Your lover is here, and you dare get engaged with someone else." Everyone shivered when they heard his angry voice. Even the children went behind Eruhaben to hide. 

"Beat him up," the old dragon encourages.

“I’m planning to, Eruhaben-nim.”

Then Cale left for the palace. 

**

Alver relaxes his tie as he sits in his chair. After establishing himself as the Supreme Leader of the Rowoon Forces, the nobles had been attempting to marry him off. They could not wait to seize power now that no one could challenge his authority. 

"Cale will be enraged."

“Good that you know.” 

Alver was taken back. Cale was sitting on the long couch, as he owned it. His eyes glared at him as he stood up, yanked him from his seat, and pushed him onto the couch. Cale straddled him and wrapped his tie around his eyes. He couldn’t see him, he couldn’t see Cale. 

He became terrified when he felt a cold hand on his hair. 

"Your lover has arrived, and you have gone to marry someone."

"That is a misunderstanding; I—"

"Even if it is... remember Alver Crossman, I do not share." 

He pursed his lips and waited for Cale to finish what he was saying. 

"The nobles wanted it, but I refused," Alver explained. 

Cale laughed coldly. "The Crown Prince and his Commander are engaged in sodomy, and they will be overjoyed to have their daughter as your wife now that you have seized power."

The raspiness of his rage and the coldness of his voice. 

"I am angry. But I am not sure why; it has to be because of this stupid game of emotions," Cale explained.  

Alver Crossman, you made me like this. 

Cale closes the gap between their lips and devours Alver Crossman's mouth. His tongue protrudes from his mouth in a deep kiss. Alver was unable to move. He simply let Cale possess him, but he soon felt something wet on his cheeks. 

Is Cale sobbing?

He extended his hand and embraced Cale. The blindfold was then removed, revealing Cale with a long tear on his cheeks falling to his. 

"I am a man," Cale said as they parted, "and I can not be anyone's bride... Are you okay with that?"

This stupid love game had an effect on Cale's thoughts. 

"You are everything I could want," Alver Crossman said before sealing their lips again. 

He shifted their positions and pinned Cale to the couch. When he looks out the door, he notices some of the nobles staring at them. He continued to stare at them without breaking the kiss. Cale's hand on his head intensified the kiss. 

"Ngh," he moans and smirks as the nobles present him with the Noble Ladies. 

Regrettably, he now belongs to Cale Henituse. 

The greatest man he could ask for. 

**

Alver Crossman's involvement in sodomy became public knowledge. His Commander, the Hero of Rowoon Kingdom, was none other than his partner. 

Cale frowned. He just got out of trouble only to find himself deeper in it. He despises the fact that those nobles are attempting to smear his reputation. 

Alver was doing his best and told him that he’ll take care of it. 

“I must distance myself from him for a while.”

**

Weeks passed when Alver Crossman realized that Cale had been distancing himself from him after the scandal broke out. 

He understands, but isn’t this too much?

He is not even responding to his letters or his communication device. Cale would always leave a message, but he is not talking to him. 

He is cautious, he understands that, but knowing Cale's personality—he must have realized the difficulties that come with having royalty as a lover. 

He can not have it. 

He scowled even more. 

Everything changed the moment he saw a future without the redhead. 

Oh no... I have fallen too far!

He would not have been so expressive if he knew what was going to happen.. 

He got up from his seat and approached Cale Henituse. Cale entered his room through the window just as he was about to leave. He looked at him stupidly. 

“Your Highness.”

Alver Crossman remained deafeningly silent. He got to his feet, approached the redhead, and slammed him against the wall. Cale did not say anything. 

He leaned over Cale's shoulder. 

"You are driving me insane," he complains. His hand grabs Cale's back, and his hand on the wall curls into a fist. He missed him terribly, but knowing how their relationship would affect them, he tried not to miss him.

He licks Cale's neck all the way to his ears. A lewd moan escaped the redhead's lips. 

It prompted him to bite his nape, leaving a mark that Cale could not conceal. 

He leaned back and grinned bitterly at Cale. 

“Should we end this?”

He notices the surprised expression on the redhead's face. 

"If this is difficult for you... We should end this."

Not to fall any further. Not to become entangled in this life any longer. 

Instead of responding, Cale embraces him and kisses him passionately. No words were required to express what was hidden within their hearts. 

"I am sorry," Cale apologized, but Alevr silenced him with a kiss. . 

The deeper the kiss, the more dangerous it becomes. Alver wants to mark him and claim him, but he does not want Cale to fear him. 

"It is okay... I want this," Cale says as he kisses his lips.  They walked back and eventually collapsed onto the bed. Alver did not resist his desires.  He kissed every inch of the redhead's body, marking him as his. 

They had a passionate night, revealing everything they had been keeping hidden from each other. 

But—

"Your... mnnh!... High... haa...nesshhh... slowly down... I...mmm.... tirrred..."

"It is not my fault your stamina is low."

He smothers Cales with kisses, leaving red marks all over his body. 

"Cale, I love you..."

Cale, on the other hand, has yet to respond. 

Alver did not care whether he responded or not.

So long as this redhead is in his arms. 

TBC

Chapter Text

Ah. We finally did it. 

Cale looked at the Dark-elf in front of him. He is sleeping soundly. He wants to pinch his nose to wake him up because his attendants will arrive any second now. He did not want to wake him up at the same time. He had never seen him sleep so peacefully before.  It would be a shame to wake him up on one of the few nights when he sleeps so soundly. 

He kept staring at him. His brow brushed up against Alver's. 

He smiled and touched his cheeks before kissing the dark elf on the brow and wrapping his arms around him tightly. 

He is going to love this kind of moment. Waking up with this dark elf would be fantastic as well. 

This kind of morning would be ideal. 

So peaceful. 

The image of two people crossed his mind just as he thought it was peaceful. His heart thumped so loudly as he suddenly remembered how wonderful peaceful mornings with someone used to be. 

It bothered him because the memories of those two lingered in his mind. 

What if... I lose this peace?

That perilous thought crossed his mind once more. 

After all, every person he holds dear either abandons him or dies without saying anything. 

Will I... lose this person as well?

He clenched his teeth and wrapped his arms around the dark elf. 

He does not even want to think about it.. 

.

. 

However, he did not believe Alver Crossman was aware of his melancholy. Not only was his heart racing so loudly, but Alver was wide awake even before Cale did. 

What are you afraid of, Cale? Why do you appear to be in pain?

Those questions lingered in his mind.  

The thought of Cale with someone else crossed his mind. 

Is he with someone? Someone else Cale cares about besides him? He could understand if it was family, but Cale's expression was anything but. 

His pained expression indicated that he was clearly in love. 

He could feel Cale's arms tighten around him. He did not move. He basked in his warmth.. 

Cale's happiness was more important to him than the possibility that he would abandon him once he realized his true feelings for him. 

.

.

They were both completely unaware that their actions were causing harm to one another. 

They both tried to hide their confusion and concerns by wearing a small smile. 

The war raged on. Cale was always on the battlefield or doing business as usual, while Alver waited for him and felt relieved once he knew he was safe. 

They would spend the nights together as if they were both desperate to feel each other. They would hold hands or simply lie on the end to ensure that the other was still alive and well.. 

But they never discussed their relationship except when it came to the war. 

Alver was well aware of the toll it was taking on both of them. They were both preoccupied with something, but they could not help themselves.t. 

This is what they initially agreed on. 

But he never expected to see Cale in a coma after being subjected to the Sealed God's test. 

He regretted that he had mastered the attitude of not inquiring about Cale. 

He regretted not asking him any questions or sharing his burden with him.. 

Cale seemed to be the most powerful for him. That no matter what happens, Cale will always recover from his flaws and do everything in his power to win. 

Not this. Not this… 

The world around him broke apart. Only darkness remained.

He can only hold Cale’s hand. He can only cry in silence while worrying about him. 

Cale’s voice. His laughter echoed throughout the room as he reminisced. 

The thought that Cale might not wake up hurt him the most. 

Losing him is driving him insane. 

They say it only takes a minute to crush on someone, an hour to like them, and a day to love them, but... It takes a lifetime to forget someone. 

Cale was the greatest gift the world could have given him. He loves him so much that it is driving him insane. 

He does not want to leave, but... 

"He will be fine... We will let you know if he is awake," Ron assured him.. 

With a heavy heart, he let go of Cale's hand and returned to his post. He resents being the Crown Prince at times like these. He can not stay where he wants, and he can not do anything he wants. 

He cast one last glance at Cale before he left for the capital. 

And after a few days…

Only to see him awaken from his slumber with tears streaming down his cheeks. 

The communication device he had left open by the shelf clearly allowed him to observe Cale's expression. 

Cale had opened his eyes unexpectedly and without any warning. He sat up and leaned against the head of the bed, expressionless, before bursting into tears.

Teardrops were falling one by one.

His heart quivered, wanting to rush over to him and wipe those tears away. He wished he could hold his hand and let him cry all he wanted, but Cale's words hurt him even more. 

It would be appropriate to see him cry out in rage or annoyance. Those are the reasons he would have expected to see him cry.

‘…But this-!' He thought as he clenched his hand over his chest.  

Cale crying like this! He lowered the hand that was covering his mouth and had clenched into a fist at some point. He felt compelled to speak up and dispel the room's depressing atmosphere. 

It was at that time. 

"...Why am I crying? I am not sad."”

Cale said this before lifting the corners of his lips and attempting to smile.

Alver was speechless. His covered his mouth with his fist. Cale's lips, which he had worked so hard to lift, appeared sorrowful. He wanted to ask him. He wanted to know why he looked like this, but—

He realized that Cale did not need him the most right now. 

He could not speak because he saw someone with a pale face, smiling sorrowfully and crying. He is one of the reasons Cale has had to go through all of this. Cale would not have had to go through this hell and remember everything that had hurt him if it had not been for him. 

Only painful memories could elicit such an expression. 

Cale must have suffered the most from that love. The love he fantasized about during his long slumber.. 

He closed the communication device quietly. He can not take another look at Cale, who insists he is not hurt or in pain. He decided to just wait for him silently and greet him with open arms. 

"What is the matter, nephew?"

He looked at Tasha and said, "I... do not know what to do now..."

How can he compete with someone so dear to Cale? How can he keep his heart when that person can make him look like that?

Alver shook his head and leaned on it. 

"Nephew... you should ask Lord Cale and express your true feelings to him."

“But…”

“Nephew…” 

He looked at his aunt, who responded solemnly. 

“Fight for what you feel.”

TBC

Chapter Text

Alver Crossman is terrified. 

His heart sank when he noticed Cale casually conversing with him. He bit his worries and informed him of the Henituse Household's elevation to the status of Duchy. Cale was watching him as he always did. 

"What is wrong?" his voice knocked some sense into his heart.  His eyes were worried, and his voice was solemn. Of course, there was no need to tell him everything that had happened to him. 

"Nothing, just tired," he replied, smiling at him. 

Alver is acting similarly to his mother, who hid her true feelings from the man she loved. To wait silently for his return and for him to tell him about all his concerns. 

Would he still have something to say if he asked Cale to stay?

They will naturally grow apart sooner or later.. 

He was well aware that it would be painful. 

But the fact that they had gone days without speaking made him wonder if they were truly in love. He was unable to look into his eyes.  How did they get this far? And why did something so unusual have to happen? 

His mind was flooded with memories. 

It reminded him of all the things they used to be.

He was well aware that they could not return to those times. 

"It was an oversight."

"What exactly did you say?"

He turned to face Cale. He had not realized he would say it so loudly. 

Even when things were going well, he never imagined that their relationship would end. 

"Cale..." he asked, "Do you love me?"

He thought that another love would mend his broken heart.

Cale did not respond. 

“Have you ever thought about my feelings?”

“I don’t understand.”

"Why can not you tell me?"

Cale appeared befuddled. "What is there to tell you? Alver, tell me what is wrong?"

"There is nothing wrong, Cale. That is why I am asking." Alver could not even cry. 

Cale's distance from him after that made him feel extremely lonely. 

"Do you love me?" he inquired once more. 

"I..." Cale paused for a moment. He was trying to figure out why Alver keeps asking him, "Like you..."

I knew it was over when we started doing things on our own. We both made mistakes. I feel like I am drowning in sadness, anger, and resentment in different lakes.

He wished him the best of luck as his strength and endurance are put to the test. 

“Alver…”

"I love you, Cale..." he finally said, not expecting Cale to respond, "So much that it hurts."

Cale does not say anything to him. Cale remained silent, even when he was in pain. He wanted to be his guiding light, but after seeing how things went with them after he awoke, he realized—

We were not meant to be. 

"Where are you?" Cale asked.

"Cale, I am sorry... I think we need some alone time..."”

"I AM ASKING YOU?! WHERE ARE YOU?!?" Cale's voice rose, but he smiled bitterly at him. 

"See you soon, Cale," Alver said with a shake of his head.

"ALVER CROSS —"

He cut the conversation short and buried his face in his palm. 

Love and liking are not the same thing. 

When you like someone, you want them to be happy, even if it is not with you. To love someone means to be willing and able to prioritize their happiness over your own. One of the most common misconceptions is that like gets confused with "love," but they’re very different things – liking another person makes us feel good about ourselves, while love makes someone else feel good about themselves.

The most significant advantage of loving another person is that it is an act of vulnerability because you are admitting a desire for their happiness and well-being over your own. It also implies that they can not hurt you with their words or actions because your only concern is their happiness. But, because you can not control how they feel, it is also a risk to love someone else as much as you love yourself, because it means that if something goes wrong for them or if they decide to leave one day, the pain can be raw and intense.

He recognized the things that made him unhappy right away. He was aware of what he needed to do. 

He must put an end to all of his delusions. 

He remained silent until the new Duchy's Confirmation Ceremony began. He notices Cale's solemn expression as he approaches him. 

He put on his usual mask, which he had honed over the years. As if nothing had gone wrong. 

Cale became his sworn brother in every aspect of the ceremony, not a lover or someone else. 

He could not get Cale's face out of his mind at that moment.. 

He was almost in tears as if he did not want this kind of connection between them.. 

He bit his lower lip and walked out of the hall.

"Let us talk." 

He turned around. 

"What might our Lord Silver Light require?" 

He noticed Cale's eyes widen in disbelief. 

“You Bastra—”

Even though Cale is capable of doing anything, Alver has already taken a step back. 

A clear indication that they should resume their previous relationship, nothing more, nothing less. 

Cale's hand sadly fell to his side. 

"Are you... abandoning me?" Cale asked, his voice breaking.  It’s not loud, not even angry. His tone seemed like a lost child. 

He gave Cale a warm smile. 

"I can not give you the world you want," he said softly, "but I... want you to be happy."

"You make me happy."

"How?" Alver inquired. "I never asked anything that you are concerned about; everything changed that day when you woke up after three weeks; you know, what made me realize I could not be with you?"

Cale remained deafeningly quiet.

"It is that I love you so much, but you will never love me as much as I love you."

Two words with different meanings. 

"Cale, I am willing to give you everything..."

Alver honestly said. 

"But the closer I got, the further your heart went..."

He was unsure what to do. This was the first time he had become so disoriented. His heart will not listen to anything he has to say.. 

But if it continues like this, Cale will never look at him again, turning away on the road he took. 

He does not want to lose him right now.. 

He doesn’t want to call him back. 

The only love he knew was painful, which is why he must stop before becoming like his mother or father. 

He was not sure if it was appropriate to hold Cale's icy hand. 

But he muttered "Sorry" one last time.

So even if he acted strong, he could be enveloped in silence.

He can not blow their memories away from his heart.

His gaze was fixed on him. 

But from afar, under the moon's silhouette, he can not tell if his tears are falling. 

Without even realizing the kindness you wished for me.

"You are the only one, My Only Love."

Cale kept an eye on him, no matter what time it was, as he ran straight for his dreams. 

He can not be replaced. Everything was possible because he was present. 

He did not need anything else after that because a miracle was calling for them to meet.

He will never forget the warmth he felt. 

"Cale... I am not the most important person to you... and I know I can not compete with that..."

Cale is still trapped in a memory that he will never forget. 

"I do not want you to resent me for wanting you to love me..." 

After all, Cale had shed enough tears for that memory with the person he had shared his life with. 

He had a feeling, but he did not say anything. He hoped Cale would tell him, but Cale did not. 

Cale remained silent even when confronted with his feelings. 

“I want you to be happy…”

Happiness that he will never experience with him. 

"I am sorry, Cale... I can not hurt you more than I can now... Surely, we will face even more worries like this in the future if we continue..."

However, one thing is certain. 

"I want our memories to be the happiest for both of us, Cale... It is not your fault... It is mine... Mine only..."

He can not stay in the dark like this forever. 

"I am so sorry, Cale..."

So sorry... for loving you so much. 

TBC

Chapter Text

*clack, clank, clank*

The sound of bottles slamming on the table continues. Even the children could not understand what Cale was doing right now. His expression was cold and distant. He is silent, as he usually is. 

Right. Cale went home alone after the Henituse Household became a duchy and began drinking like there was no tomorrow. 

“Cale-nim…”

*Clank clank*

Choi Han realized right away that Cale desired silence. He simply sighed, opened his arms to the children, and nodded, as if he understood what Cale was currently going through. 

The entire Household was concerned. Cale has never acted or drunk like this before. It is been five days since he began drinking. Even though he was also silent, Cale should not be drinking like this in the middle of a war. 

The morale of the entire force is also decreasing. 

“Let’s just destroy it all.”

Even before Choi Han could sleeve the room, Cale wobbled on his feet. 

“Let’s destroy the enemy and retire already.”

But Cale-nim…

Choi Han stared at him. 

Why do you look so sad?

As if his world was torn apart. 

Cale looked solemn. It was because his mind was more complicated than ever before.

Cale's unexpected attacks on ARM surprised the entire Rowoon Kingdom. 

Choi Han and the children, however, could not take it and went to the Crown Prince, but were denied entry. 

Something must have happened. 

They are both denying each other's existence right now.  

"I am going to beat him into a pulp," Choi Han declared solemnly.

They can not deny the Royal Instructor entry because he is here to teach/beat up his student, can they?

Of course, the Royal Knights recoiled when he asserted his authority for the first time. They were not even sure if they could hold him down if they denied him entry.  For fuck's sake, he is the kingdom's sole swordmaster. 

Choi Han kicked his feet off the ground and flew up, landing perfectly on the terrace of the Crown Prince's room while the knights were perplexed. 

Of course, he assumed the Crown Prince would be more relaxed, but he was no better than Cale. 

"It makes it difficult to enter, right?" Vicross and Ron arrived. 

"Are you here to beat up on him as well?"

"The Young Lord has been depressed recently, so we might as well."

Alver Crossman was working hard—perhaps a little too hard. His eyebags were enormous and black. He is paler and thinner than before. He looks as if he has not gotten a good night's sleep since the confirmation ceremony. 

The Children, on the other hand, beat them to it. 

“COOKIE PRINCE!” 

Ron, Ohn, and Hong all entered the room at the same time. They all looked at him with skepticism as the Crown Prince smiled half-heartedly in front of them. 

The Crown Prince only smiled, but the children will not make it easy for him. 

"What happened between you and Cale? Cale has not stopped drinking!"

The Crown Prince's bitter smile faded quickly. 

"It is as if he genuinely loves me," he murmured. 

"He is," Ron, who had followed, said. "What happened?"

Before they beat up the Crown Prince, they should ask him because Cale will not say anything.

Alver looked at him, puzzled. Cale has feelings for me? He did say he liked me. 

Ron was not pleased with his expression.  

“Young Master is not good with words, but whatever you’re worrying about, is just your worries. The young master is not someone who allowed someone in his heart.” Ron’s words echoed, “But you are the exception.”

I am the exception?

He looked up, and tears streamed down his cheeks. He did not know what to say.  He was at a loss for what to do. He is at a loss for what to do now. 

"Cale once called someone’s name, someone that made him look so miserable. I couldn’t even make him smile that day. I didn’t know when it started. But… from that day, Cale had been so distant to me. We’re drifting apart." he began his story, "He has never told me that he loves me or even answered back once."

"But that does not mean you two should bre—"

"I am scared! Alright! I am scared of turning into a monster! I am scared of becoming like my father if Cale and I stay together."

After all, his father, the king, did everything he could to keep his mother by his side, even when she did not love him at all.  Nothing is more miserable than a one-sided love. His unrequited feelings would develop into an obsession. He did not want Cale to feel that way.. 

The more he desired, the further away Cale's heart seemed to be. 

Everyone was taken aback when he said that. 

"If these feelings will soon turn me into a monster—I would rather watch him and freely love him from afar," he reasoned, so he would not feel the terror of his obsession with him. 

There is nothing to live for in this world, other than being in love. 

Alver has seen it all. Just like the water flowing in rivers, love comes and goes—love is that pain—a feeling that reigns. 

It kills him silently, showing no signs, until there’s nothing to live for in this world. 

It’s that kind of feeling that Alver Crossman is trying to avoid. 

Cale deserves to rest, just as Eruhaben-nim said. 

Cale would never find that life with him. 

It only took a second for Choi Han to actually beat him up for real. A strong punch landed on his face. 

“He did say that he didn’t have a family or a lover to die for.” Choi Han, who knew about the life that Cale as Kim Rok Soo has to go through, said, “He said that as if nothing was wrong.”

Alver remained silent. 

"And Cale-nim could not say those words right now." 

He looked at Choi Han. His voice was gloomy, and he said. 

"He said he would just destroy everything and retire so I would not have to deal with him."

Choi Han's voice was filled with sadness and pain. 

"What you did could be right or wrong," Choi Han said, "but Cale-nim is not someone who will lie about his feelings." 

Alver felt like he regretted doing so. 

“You became the world that Cale-nim is willing to die for.”

Then everyone left. After Choi Han said that, Alver was at a loss for words. He was unable to respond or justify his actions. 

Only Choi Han's words echoed inside his head. 

He transformed into the world for which Cale is willing to die. 

He obviously killed Cale from the inside out. 

Cale's expression when I turned away from him was priceless. 

He remembered the moment he apologized to him and turned his back on him. 

He wishes he could return to the dazzling days, the beautiful days when they were always together, like a shadow when that person's smile shone on him.

The sun is hiding early in the morning yet again today. The light vanished as it took Cale and flew away from his grasp.  The space between them gets larger.

Cale will be his last, his precious last, until the end of time, when he will be his forever.

Erase, forget it, and then erase it. He no longer enjoys it; in fact, he despises it.

Cale would cry out in the darkness, calling out his name. He will wait for them to be together again.

Not this time.

Not now...

Not this.

But... Life after death.

"Forgetting you is like erasing myself."

Cale felt numb as he stood there watching him leave because this love is so painful. 

"If you leave right now, Alver."

A love he is willing to push into the corner.

"I will never meet you again..."

Love is perfectly seeing an imperfect person.

It is the kind that keeps you coming back even when you are in pain.

He did not mean it. But the agony is too much. He was willing to let go. But not in this case. Not in this way. He desired a more subtle, forgiving departure. Not this. Not because he was just a random choice this time.

The person he loves. It is so difficult to live day by day. When he is not present. If only he was not here. And once more... He is crying once more today.

His love is the one who causes him pain. If he can see this love—as much as love can be seen. Cale would be happy.

But at the time, he is lost and crying on his own as he stands there with his ultimatum. 

"Now I understand why they warned me not to fall for you..." 

Cale said, stopping his steps and slowly turning around to see his crestfallen, crying face.

Cale was crying.

"Because you are a fool who will follow all your damn responsibilities while taking all the burden with you." 

Cale laughed, snickering.

He’s so ashamed of why he did all that. 

He is Cale’s present, but he chose to believe that he was living in the past. 

Cale smiled when he was with him and cried when he decided to end everything. 

He spent the next few weeks pondering how he should approach Cale. He took the time to beg his forgiveness.  

But he never imagined the sealed god would put Cale through such a test. 

He appeared in the dream that Cale was forced to enter after striking a deal with Death's god. A different Cale stood in front of him. He arrived in this world as a Black Tiger. 

His hair is black, and he has numerous scars all over his body. 

He was staring back at him. 

“Alver?” 

He could not take his eyes off the person named Kim Rok Soo, who was leaning his head on his. 

"Did you come to get me?"

His voice was so sad. 

"Did you really come for me?"

Kim Rok Soo was smiling and leaning against him. 

“I’m happy…”

Kim Rok Soo continued to say this. 

“That you really came for me.”

Would the gods punish him right now for being so selfish?

He had done good things. Suffered from it. He just wants... One...

Only one person...

The love that kept him alive.

How greedy love had made him.

Love is a painful experience. hard... a sacrifice...

Most of all, love is sorrow...

But it is the best thing that has ever happened to him. 

“Yes… I came for you, Cale.”

TBC

Chapter Text

With this fight, the deal with the God of Death will come to an end. Lee Soo Hyuk continued to fight for the position of Hyung-nim because Cale had been referring to him throughout the fight as Hyung, a monster. 

Choi Jung Soo and Lee Soo Hyuk. The two people that Cale called as he slept 

It is no surprise that Cale liked them; they were good men who complimented his prickly demeanor. 

Cale, on the other hand, lays on him, nuzzling the tiger's beastly scent. Cale decided to spend the night with him. Alver can only wrap his arms around Cale and let him rest his head on his neck. If he had hands, he would have embraced the man to keep him warm.. 

Choi Han was looking at them with concern, but Alver had no intention of pushing Cale away now. 

"This is the first time Rok Soo-yah has dozed off."

He looked at Lee Soo Hyuk, who was serving drinks to Choi Han and Choi Jung Soo. With a smile on his face, he looked at them calmly. 

"I am not sure what Rok Soo-yah has been up to, but he will never do anything without a reason." 

He only focused on Lee Soo Hyuk. 

“Take good care of him.”

His smile gave Alver some hope. 

"Rok Soo-yah was never a person who would let anyone close to him," Lee Soo Hyuk explained. "There is always a wall between other people because he did not want to expect anything more, but Rok Soo is the kindest and most loving man you will ever meet."

"He will never lie to his feelings unless it hurts him," Choi Jung Soo responded, "because he is the type of man who has endured a lot of pain, that is why—even the slightest feelings directed towards him scares him the most."

Both of them exchanged glances. 

"Because he can not take the pain if he loses it anymore," they both said loudly. 

Kim Rok Soo groans, sinking further into Alver's fur. His soft snore made him feel at ease as he kept an eye on the people Cale had been with. 

Cale had respect and admiration for them, as well as a family to which he could return.  

I made a mistake. 

A huge blunder. 

"So please... stay by his side even if it kills you," Lee Soo Hyuk said, "because you are the only person to whom Rok Soo-yah has opened his heart."

“I… will.”

.

.

The night went on until sunrise. Cale awoke and looked at Alver, who remained motionless while watching him sleep. 

“Cale.”

“Hm?”

"Let us talk when everything is finished."” 

Cale looked at him. His palm was resting on his cheek. 

"Do we have anything else to talk about?" 

Cale stated unequivocally that he did not want to discuss anything other than war and the throne. 

"About Us."

Cale looked at him. He stopped petting the black tiger with his hand. 

Cale’s bitter smile made him miserable. 

"Cale, I love you..."

He stated it solemnly. 

Cale also leaned in and whispered, "I love you too..."

Cale's bright smile washed away all his worries as he said it. He leans in, and a big, warm embrace greets him. 

But as soon as they shared that embrace, the sealed god intervened again, causing Alver to fall back to the ground and return to his world. He felt an immense power surge right through him.

"When it is all said and done, I am not going back."

He will be true to his words and actions and will profess them once more in public. 

Cale became his world in the same way that he became Cale's.

He did not know what to think after seeing Cale stab himself with that twig. The only thing he could think of was how to keep the kittens from seeing him do something like this. 

After that, everything moved quickly. Cale was on his knees as the Sealed God's temple crumbled beneath his feet. He breathed a sigh of relief when Choi Han led him outside, only to hear the Duke threaten his slacker life. 

He smiled as he watched Cale be proclaimed the Kingdom's greeted hero. 

“Alver…”

He looked up at Cale. The kittens meowed. He went down first in front of the flying temple. He notices Cale looking at him intently. 

“Down.” 

Choi Han had not heard that.  Choi Han, on the other hand, dropped him from the floating temple. Cale's arms were already around his neck, a smile on his face, and his weight soon landed on his body as Alver went to catch him. 

All to end with a warm kiss proclaiming that he is Cale's property.