Chapter 1: A tragedy in the making (Song: Feeling Good by Michael Bublé)
Chapter Text
Cale was waking up more tired lately. He was drained and groggy, napping more than usual, but brushed it off whenever his family brought it up. The more they pestered him the more touchy the subject got until he wasn't wanting to speak about it at all.
Choi-han and Beacrox were out very late tonight. Choi-han couldn't sleep so he asked Beacrox to spar. since he had nothing better to do and was also feeling restless, he agreed. They'd been sparring for about thirty minutes when a dim light started glowing in Cale's window. a figure then emerged onto the balcony, setting a foot on the railing as if they were about to jump.
they both froze. "Cale-nim" Choi-has whispered.
"Why is he awake?" Beacrox took a few steps closer to try and get a better look at the figure "if that even is him.."
the cloaked figure jumped off the balcony flying through the air. A flash of red showed from under the hood.
Beacrox and Choi-han exchanged a glance.
"we're following."
"But what if Cale-nim sees us!"
"As long as you keep quiet we'll be fine" Beacrox threw a cloak at Choi-han then started running after Cale.
Choi-han followed and before they knew it they appeared in Rain City after finding a secluded teleportation circle that didn't seem to need mana to activate.
Cale or the person they assumed was Cale ducked into an alley behind a bar they'd never seen before. After searching the ally there was no sign of him so they decided to check the bar
"Let's find a table and watch, we don't want him noticing us" Beacrox whispered, pulling a mask up over his mouth and nose.
"this is stalking! Cale-nim will be annoyed if he finds out!" Choi-han responded through gritted teeth, also pulling a mask up. He begrudgingly sat next to Beacrox at an empty table. That's when they heard a familiar voice.
"one day he'll accept the fact that he's an amazing performer"
"was that miss cage?" Beacrox looked over to the bar where he saw Taylor and Cage sitting and laughing.
"what are they doing here?" Choi-han asked, following Beacrox's gaze.
"Shut up, I'm trying to listen," Choi-han glared at Beacrox, who ignored him completely.
"well he's already an amazing actor and manipulator, he's also good with crowds. he just doesn't like the attention" Taylor said as his glass was filled with red wine
"such a waste of talent," Cage smiled mischievously "good thing we put it to use, even if it's only two weeks"
Taylor laughed at Cage as she smugly sipped her wine before deciding the bottle was an easier option. "He's gonna get some sort of petty revenge after this is done."
"Let him! totally worth it when we get to see him owning a stage instead of a battle field" she took another swig from the bottle before refilling Taylor's glass.
'Are they talking about Cale-nim?' Choi-han stared at the table tracing the woodgrain with his nail.
Beacrox seemed to be piecing things together when the lights dimmed as the bar went silent. a figure with long hair stepped out on stage. They pulled their hair in a ponytail as they walked up to the microphone.
Beacrox couldn't make out any details because of the darkness. he grumbled and leaned back drumming his fingers on the table
birds flying high, you know how i feel
This person's voice was amazing, but it was their presence that made the audience hold their breath. They stood closed eyes singing. the smile on their face was all that was visible as shadow covered their eyes.
'it that the young master? but why would he be onstage? is he being played' Beacrox had questions but stayed silent
sun in the sky, you know how i feel
"their amazing.." Choi-han murmured
Beacrox peeked over to see Tylor and Cage smiling like they knew something. an uneasy feeling bloomed in his stomach. he turned his attention to the stage once again. the performer swayed side to side hair following in a mesmerizing wave
Breeze driftin’ on bye, you know how i feel
They walked slowly to the front of the stage, microphone in hand. Some of their bodies became visible; they were thin, almost frail. but their down tilted head kept their eyes hidden from the audience.
It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life. For me
and I'm feelin'
they drew the words out creating tension in the air as they fixed the microphone back in position. They took a deep breath repositioning their hand on the microphone, prepping to be seen, to be watched.
"Cale-nim would never do this without payment..."
"that's something we can agree on"
Good~
The beat dropped and the spotlight came on revealing a man with long platinum blonde hair, crystal blue eyes wearing a backless suit with a low V-neck exposing the performer's chest. his arms raised as the instruments got louder, he pulled back and crossed his hands over his heart.
I'm feelin' good~
"that.. that cant be Cale-nim.." Choi-han stared at the performer, whose mesmerizing presence felt familiar, but that couldn't be Cale. Cale practically shriveled when he was in a spotlight, he would go up on a stage and sing for a bar without some type of motivation.
Beacrox was confused, first Cale seemingly jumped out of his window. Second, even if that WAS Cale, how did he change his appearance without magic? or did he have a magical device?
Fish in the sea, you know how i feel
the performer winked at someone in the audience who swooned dramatically. The blond man onstage walked around the stage slowly. All eyes followed him
Both Choi-han and Beacrox were 80% sure that this wasn't Cale and as the performer worked to gain everyone's attention that number went up.
River running free, you know how i feel
he swayed back to the microphone stand tiling like a dancing partner as he continued. He reached out to the audience dramatically, then pulled back, shifting his ponytail over his shoulder and smiling.
Blossom on a tree, you know how I feel.
"Their a great singer" Cage praised eyes glued to the performer.
Taylor was doing something similar, eyes fixed, lazy smile as he traced the rim of his glass being careful not to make a sound or interrupt the performance
Its a new dawn, its a new day, its a new life, for me
and I'm feeling good
a larger smile crept across their face as they surveyed the room. They took the microphone off its stand coiling the cord around their finger as they slowly descended the stairs continuing to sing as they mingled with the guests
Beacrox seemed to be hiding his interest. While choi-han was being rather open about his curiosity, and judging from Beacrox's expression he might have stars in his eyes
Dragonfly out in the sun, you know what i mean, don't you know?
he did a flirty waved at Taylor who copied his motion back. Cage blew the performer a kiss which he caught deftly and pressed to his heart.
'That's not Cale-nim. That can' t be him' but if that wasn't Cale where was he? why did he jump out of his window? and how was his voice so amazing
Butterflies all having fun, you know what i mean
it was harder for Choi-han to think when he felt someone behind him. the performer placed a hand on Beacrox's shoulder, tracing it across the back of his neck before strolling away leaving Beacrox confused and Choi-han amused
the confusion didn't fade quickly as Beacrox realized that if this was Cale he either didn't recognize them, or was purposefully messing with him in particular
sleep and peace when day is done, thats what i mean
Choi-han stifled his laughter as Bacrox looked over his shoulder at the performer who smiled at him blowing a kiss in his direction.
Beacrox was not sure how to react, so he ignored it
and this old world is a new world and a bold world, for me
another intense beat dropped and the performer headed back to the stage with a kick. he leaned back into the song pausing in the middle of the stair as he sang louder
For me
Choi-han, after recovering from laughing at Beacrox, glanced over to see Cage smiling as she watched the performer dance around the stage as the music continued. The performer didn't seem to mind all the eyes hummedwith the music, making eye contact with Cage every now and then.
Cage whispered something to Taylor who laughed and took another drink after Cage gestured in their direction.
'damn it, they might know we're here.' Beacrox's hands twitched he didn't have his knife readily available to clean as it would look awfully suspicious right now
stars when you shine, you know how i feel
He raised a hand to the ceiling above the stage which was painted like a night sky. He closed his eyes like he was trying to envision something or calm his nerves.
'Does he have stage fright?' Choi-han was baffled at who this could be. if Cale-nim was here he would have had it figured out by now. But he wasn't, or he was and Choi-han just didn't know it
Scent of the pine, you know how i feel
a warm earthy scent danced from the performer enshrouding the bar with a smell of nature. It was familiar and comforting, where had they smelled this before?
Oh freedom is mine, and i know how i feel
his voice was loud and powerful demanding attention, demanding the spotlight. he leaned forward with sheer power in his voice
its a new dawn, its a new day, its a new life, huh
the music only got louder with his voice.
It's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life..
he smiled, holding the microphone and leaning forward with it as he only got louder and louder.
'who ever this is their amazing' Choi-han thought taking in the force of this person's voice
It's a new dawn! It's a new day! It's a new life! its a new life for me~
with each crash there was a flare from the spotlight and a dramatic pose from the performer. Their hair ended up coming undone, falling around them and giving them a sort of golden glow
and I'm feelin~
the music paused entirely as he sang. Once they'd taken a deep breath it started back up with him
good~
the lights dimmed until it was pitch black, when they came back on the performer was gone. Then the applause started.
Cage ran up and took the microphone
"Everyone bid Eros farewell! thank you so much for performing for us"
she gestured off stage where presumably Eros left. Beacrox and Choi-han immediately rushed to leave, if that was Cale they might be able to catch him in the lie if he's not there when they get back.
When they returned Beacrox peaked into Cale's room to see the red head sleeping peacefully surrounded by the kids.
Ohn actually stirred blinking to see Beacrox at the door. "hello.." she yawned doing a big stretch before padding over to him. "Did you need something?"
"yes actually, apologies for waking you." he hadn't meant to wake the kids, or Cale for that matter "has the Young master left his bed at all?"
"no? why?"
Beacrox shook his head "just curious since he hasn't been sleeping well, good night Ohn"
"goodnight?"
He closed the door and Ohn jumped back on the bed curling up in front of Cale's sleeping face.
Cale smiled, opening his eyes."I'll make sure to buy you something tasty tomorrow. You're getting better at acting" he pulled the kitten away from the edge of the bed back towards the cuddle pile.
"i have a great teacher" she responded, puffing her chest out.
Cale just patted her head in response
Chapter 2: the Lovers (Song: Valentine by Laufey)
Summary:
after returning and talking with Rosalyn about the whole situation
the now trio of Choi-han, Rosalyn, and Beacrox return to the bar only to uncover a relationship between this mystirious performer Eros and the Marquis Taylor Stan.
Notes:
hello again! i hope everyone who read is enjoying i have a few prewritten chapters that i still need to edit before posting but they should be out soon-ish? do not expect regular updates if you are following this i am a scatterbrained person and will not meet those expectations.
hope you enjoy reading!! <3<3
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
"so was it him?" Rosalynd asked, staring at Choi-han as he paced around her room.
"i have no idea at this point, because if it wasn't him who jumped out of his window," he flopped down on Rosalyn’s bed "but when Beacrox asked Ohn she said he was there all night"
she tapped her foot, thinking. "you could ask his highness, They're rather close," she paced around in a similar fashion, "I could also ask Cage,"
Choi-han sat up, crossing his legs as he watched Rosalyn. He couldn't fathom the idea of that flirty performer being Cale. He was called Eros right? wasn't he the Greek god of love? how did he even know that name?
"I'm going to that bar again tonight. i have questions id like to ask" he stood up and started to walk away when Rosalyn caught his hand.
"don't think you're solving this mystery without me, if this is the young master i know i wanna see it with my own eyes" she smiled, a gesture Choi-han returned after processing.
***
The night descended slower now that they were waiting for it. Beacrox had agreed to tag along again and both him and Rosalyn were working overtime keeping Choi-han away from Cale. If Cale saw Choi-han acting odd all bets were off on him figuring out what was going on.
Once everyone had gone to bed they donned their cloaks and masks, Rosalyn used simple magic to change hair and eye color, Beacrox had her colors, Choi-han had Beacrox's colors, and she had Choi-han's colors.
They arrived early enough to get a good seat in view of the stage, and watch as Taylor and Caged walked in, posting up at the bar once again. chatting as they drank.
a few unimportant performers sang or told jokes on stage. All of them were starting to think he wasn't going to perform today. Then Cage stood up and took the mic. "Now, please welcome to the stage, Eros!" The performer walked out onstage, hair up, red and white flowercrown on his head, fabulous suit on. He gave Cage a kiss on either cheek before taking the microphone.
"hello everyone," he started, voice smooth with a hint of accent, "i have two love songs, for all the romantics out there." he smiled lighting up the stage as the crowd cheered.
"that cant be Cale.." Rosalyn muttered, jaw hanging open. shed seen Cale give speeches, rally troupes, but this Eros commanded a stage like he was born to act.
"but!" everything went quiet "ill only be able to sing one today" he pouted closing his eyes as he tapped his cheek. "so! you'll decide. I have one that's a little... different."
Beacox noted the twitch in Eros' eye. like he was done with everything, he's seen Cale get that twitch before but he always played it off. mentally adding another tally to the Cale is Eros argument he resumed paying attention
"or i have something a little softer, something for everyone who is new to love" the added description seemed to interest most of the crowd. "So which one should I do?"
After the crowd went silent deliberating, Taylor called out "I'd love to hear the softer song." he stopped himself before he could add something on, a pet name perhaps? Beacrox couldn't tell, but after making contact with Rosalynd, he gathered that she noticed it too.
Eros smiled, "Seeing as the only person to ask me nicely was my darling, I will be doing the song he requested, lights please!"
there were a few annoyed grumbles that were very quickly shushed as the lights turned to a soft pinkish instead of the warm yellow, Eros very gently took the microphone off the stand
I've rejected affection for years and years~
he drifted from side to side then leaned against a wall hugging himself
Now I have it and damn it it's kind of weird..
Rosalyn thought the sudden shyness was probably an act. It was a very good act, but there was no cue that he was actually in love, no mumbling, avoided eye contact, or blush had shown itself. But as she watched more carefully Eros was trying very hard not to look in a certain direction.
He tells me I'm pretty, don't know how to respond. I tell him that he's pretty too, can I say that? dont have a clue..
He placed his hand against his cheek and smiled softly like he was embarrassed about something. He shook his head almost dismissing a thought and a faint blush started to form over his face
'Gotta admit he's a good actor' Beacrox thought, taking a sip of wine, when he got wine? Who knows.
with every passing moment i surprise myself, I'm scared of flies I'm scared of guys, someone please help
he hid his face quickly and only after a moment did he turn back around continuing the dramatic act of a hopeless romantic.
Choi-han was far too focused on one question plaguing his mind to realize what Eros was actually singing. Once he did catch on hearing the tune he was once again enraptured by Eros' voice
cause i think ive fallen in love this time, i blinked and suddenly i had a valentine~
he started softly humming and mumbling with the rhythm as he dance around the stage
As Eros collapsed on the wall like a lover swooning, Rosalyn glanced back to see Taylor, head resting on his hand as the other swirled his wine glass.
Cage looked amused "your head over heels"
Taylor laughed, making no attempt to deny it as he took a sip of his wine. "how could i not be" he mumbled looking at Eros like he hung the moon.
Everyone at the table was shocked by this conversation, Taylor had a lover!? Did Cale know about this? Did Taylor know that he might be dating Cale and not the flawless performer onstage (not that Cale wasn't perfect in every important way) Rosalyn's mental theory board was slowly growing every time new information was added.
What if he's the last one I kiss? What if he's the only one I'll ever miss? Maybe I should run. I'm only 21. i don't even know what i want to become
"So he's 21... " Choi-han muttered lacing his fingers together
"he could be lying" Beacrox shifted in his seat as he mumbled the reply. It was a possibility Choi-han failed to consider. He cursed under his breath, after years of working with Cale the idea that someone would lie about themselves shouldn't be foreign.
he sighed clearly annoyed and leaned back. little did he notice Cage was no longer watching the performance, these three hooded figures looked familiar in a way she couldn't place yet.
Eros continued singing, not minding or not paying attention to the drama unfolding around them. They wove and unwove the cord in between their fingers keeping their eyes on the floor in front of them.
I've lost all control of my heartbeat now. got caught in a romance with him somehow
Eros passed a glance to Taylor and smiled softly before averting his eyes again and descending the stairs to interact with the crowd, the same as last night. Flitting between guests making most feel like this was a private performance just for them.
I still feel a shock through every bone. when i hear an "i love you" cause now I've got someone to loose
he hid "shy" behind his hands twirling a lock of hair around his finger as he sang.
Beacrox found the act convincing enough he started to believe he was head over heels in love. Then he remembered this might be Cale, y'know, the master actor, liar, and manipulator. Someone who's never shown interest in romance before, at least not outwardly
the first one to ever like me back. I'm seconds away from a heart attack.
he fanned himself with a hand slowly returning to the stage after circling around the a few different tables.
How the hell did I fall in love this time? And honestly i cant believe i get to call you mine. i blinked and suddenly i had a valentine
he made a heart over his chest as he finished, blowing a kiss to the audience as the lights dimmed.
as they came back on Cage rushed back to the stage repeating a similar line to last night. "Let's all thank Eros for taking the time to come and sing for us!"
Applause erupted once again and Choi-han realized now was his chance, he got up slowly trying not to be noticed as the other two followed behind.
Notes:
hope everyone enjoyed next chapter will reveal the details of Cale and Cages bet :D hope anyone who read enjoyed and thank you so much for reading!!
eat a snack, take a nap, and drink water!! (you'll feel better if you do) <3<3
Chapter 3: The Bet
Summary:
Cage and Cale sit down for a drink when Cage brings up an intresting idea, a bet
Notes:
Hello again! Hope everyone has been enjoying this fic! Thank you all for leaving kudos it means alot!!
There's no song in this chapter but I hope you enjoyed anyway <3
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
*four weeks earlier*
"so what do you think?" Cage asked, staring at Cale who took a long drink of his wine.
"This bet is unfair on my side. If you win, I will perform at a bar for two weeks straight under a false identity you've made for me. And if I win" he licked his lips, setting his glass down "you haven't even told me my reward."
"What do you want?"
Cale leaned back, debating. He could always use more money, but Cage had a connection that he could use. "i want you to keep the god of death off my back for a month. i dont give a fuck if the world is ending, if i hear or see that bastered again i will personally see to it that he is wiped from existance."
"ooo, that would be so entertaining though" Cage smiled thinking about the bastard's face as she tells him that, it would contort in all sorts of wonderful ways, some mixture of fear disappointment and depression
"you could also just hand off that golden plaque that miss Tasha gave you" Cage nearly spit her wine out. She had been given that as a gift from Tasha for helping Mary and the dark elves perform a funeral for a village elder who requested a priest of death be there. It was a complete secret that not even Taylor knew about. She wasn't sure what she was going to do with it but Tasha had insisted she take it.
"how did you-"
"My poor hyung-nim was distraught about his beloved Aunt handing out such a valuable gift without his permission." he swirled his wine as a smile creeped up onto his face. He loved it when Alberu accidentally gave him information like this. It always proved useful to listen to his Hyungs whining.
"You sneaky bastered" she smiled, raising her glass in a cheer to his tactics. "how about this, either way ill give you the golden plaque. but only if you win will i keep the god of death off your back"
Cale smiled a signature smile that everyone close to him had gotten used to, but it never failed to send shivers down her spine.
"now that the field is evened, ill place my bet" a strand of his long red hair fell from his ponytail landing in front of his face as he leaned to poor himself another glass. he was pretty confident in his opinion on the matter even if his heart hoped otherwise his brain said this was the right choice. he raised his freshly filled wine glass and Cage mimicked his motion
"I do NOT think Taylor stan is in love with me."
***
present day.
Cale took off his various accessories backstage. Still disguised just in case but no longer acting the part of a "flirty performer who thrives off attention" as Cage had called Eros.
This was the second time he'd seen his family in the crowd, a large knot formed in his stomach every time he spotted them. The dread of them figuring out it was him grew quickly. 'Ugh I knew this was a bad idea' he stared at himself only then realizing there was someone behind him.
"a gold for your thought" Taylor asked in a far too sweet voice. Ever since he found out about Taylor's feelings the blond man had started properly courting Cale, in private. No one other than Cage and his children knew about this yet. (he was finding it very hard to lie to them ever since Ron started teaching Ohn and Hong)
"You don't need to spend anything to get my thoughts, that's ridiculous. If you want to give me money just give it to me" He relaxed. making eye contact with Taylor through the mirror.
Taylors hands landed around his waist pulling him into a back hug and nestling his head onto Cale's shoulder.
Cale was indulging in the moment when Taylor whispered "there are three people in the doorway." His eyes were locked onto the reflection of three hooded figures peeking into the room, but his tone was soft as if whispering sweet nothings into Cale's ear.
"I appreciate it, you're far too kind," Cale kissed the side of Taylor's head. Acknowledging that he heard but responding in a similar tone.
Taylor smiled, returning Cale's kiss with a smattering of feather light kisses across his face, carefully avoiding his lips as Cale had stated he was not comfortable with that yet.
Cale giggled spinning to properly face Taylor only to be met with more kisses. Now back in character he started giggling "Taylor! that tickles!" He continued trying to push Taylor's face away but it only resulted in longer pauses between kisses.
"But I still have so many kisses to give you," Taylor said, pulling Cale even closer so there wasn't enough space to push him away easily. Despite Cale being in character he did enjoy the dusting of kisses and didn't hide the genuine smile it was bringing out, which practically made Taylor beam.
"Are we interrupting something?" Rosalyn, Cale clocked the voice immediately turning just enough to see her but not leaving his embrace with Taylor. "dont go far" he whispered.
Taylor nodded, letting go and stepping in front of Cale "why are you backstage?"
Notes:
Hope everyone enjoyed reading! Comments are always wonderful and any song suggestions would be great too!!
Using this moment my other fic that i update semi-regularly just got a new chapter! Its a rare pair fic of Paseton/Cale (Roksoo) its called "Im Just a Shrimp!" If anyone is intrested!
Thank you for reading!!
Take a nap, drink water, and eat a snack <3<3
Chapter 4: A Small Interruption
Summary:
Choi--Han gets to ask the one question hes been thinking about. After they all head back to expand there conspiracy theory board
Notes:
This chapter and the next wont be songfics but hopefully you'll still like them.
Thank you for reading its a little short but other than that, enjoy!
Chapter Text
Rosalyn was the only one conscious enough to interrupt this adorable moment. Beacrox had averted his eyes still wanting to respect this rather intimate moment and Choi-han was caught up in his thoughts. 'these two are hopeless' they had been watching since Taylor entered and only now had one of them spoken up
she smiled awkwardly watching as Eros whispered something to Taylor after making eye contact "While you are interrupting something. I'll let you get away with it." he stated, dusting his hands.
"your reason for being backstage, please." Taylor asked again seeming not to recognize them
"i just had a question." Choi-han pushed past the other two and attempted to walk towards Eros only for Taylor to intercept him.
"That's close enough" he put a hand out shielding Eros from Choi-han who stopped where he was.
"What does your name mean?" Eros seemed taken aback for a moment, glancing at Taylor who shrugged.
"my mother always said it was a family name, that it meant love and passion" he responded after a moment of hesitation.
"a family name?"
"Yes, it was my mothers name and my grandfather's middle name" Eros seemed confused at the question.
Choi-han took a step back only for Beacrox to take a step foraward. "how do you know the Marquis Stan?" he spoke in a softer tone as if talking to a frightened animal as he addressed Eros.
"that is priv-"
"its alright." Eros cut him off. "Me and Taylor were connected through Cage who saw a performance of mine and then brought Taylor to see the following one." he smiled, approaching to stand shoulder to shoulder with Taylor, lacing their fingers together.
"Why do you want to know?" Eros' tone seemed to smooth over the discomfort plaguing the room.
"Simply curious, my benefactor has a small relationship with the Marquis Stan. pardon us for the intrusion, well see ourselves out" Beacrox bowed to the pair then walked out of the room assuming Choi-han and Rosalyn would follow (Which they did)
"That was your question" Rosalynd asked once they had returned.
Choi-han nodded hanging his head as he sat on the edge of his bed. "in my old world, that name was connected to the god of love and... attraction i think?"
Rosalynd nodded along pacing the room as she expanded the theory board in her head 'Damn it, what am i missing'
Beacrox, who was leaning against the wall, finally spoke. "organize our thoughts, what do we know?"
"Cale-nim hasn't been sleeping well" Choi-han started "we saw someone who looked like him jump out his window and disappear behind a bar in Rain City"
Rosalyn rubbed her temples "a performer named Eros just started performing at said bar and as a similar Aura power to Young Master-nim" she continued
"Cage and Taylor know Eros and Taylor seems to be in a relationship with him," Beacrox added, keeping his voice low.
"Eros is the name of a god from a different universe?"
"Yes." Choi-han ran his fingers through his hair. "we need to sleep otherwise Cale-nim might catch on"
everyone nodded, mention was made of asking Alberu. Rosalyn agreed to contact him in the morning.
Chapter 5: A new accomplice
Summary:
Alberus can hardly believe what Rosalyn i stelling him. She thinks Cale, is performing at a bar every night under a fake name??
He'll have to see it to belive it, and just his luck who decideds to show up at his door but the man himself
Notes:
Hello! Once again this isn't a songfic chapter but I promise you all the next one is and it should be a little more consistent after that with the song fic chapters.
Hope you enjoyed the fic!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Alberu didn't know what to think as Rosalynd explained the situation. "im not sure what you expect me to do with information Miss Rosalyn"
"Come with us? Ask Young Master Cale? Contact Taylor or Cage" Rosalyn sipped her tea calmly as if she hadn't just accused Cale of something he absolutely would not do.
'perform at a bar!? That's insane! I had to bribe him to give a speech!' he ran a hand through his hair "Haaa.. this is driving me nuts. fine" he picked up a pen and blank piece of paper "ill contact the Marquis and see if he knows anything. and my aunt will ask miss Cage"
Taylor responded first to his call.
dead end. 'How the hell am I gonna help with this! trying to catch Cale in a crime is like trying to find a needle in a haystack!' he ruffled his own hair letting out an angry sound that made his adviser peek into the room with a concerned look.
Cage wasn't much help either. Tasha said that she ranted about the bar's most recent performer "Eros" a name he recognized from Rosalynd's explanation. Despite her ranting she made no reference to Cale ever being there.
Then someone unexpectedly showed up at his door. It was a slender man in a billowy white shirt, brown vest and high waisted black pants, they had platinum blond hair along with crystalline blue eyes. 'id recognize that smile anywhere' Alberu grimaced watching them enter and seat themself so casually.
"why are you-"
"lost a bet."
Alberu nearly spit out his drink (he should know better than to drink anything when talking this bastered). Cale Henituse, mastermind, strategist and commander. lost a bet? "how? and why was this the condition"
Cale sighed a long tired sigh taking off the illusion ring. After he had finished explaining, Alberu was silent, trying desperately to hold back laughter.
"So you lost a school yard bet on whether Taylor liked you or not?"
"..."
Alberu burst out laughing seeing Cale's face go red at the realization that he was forced to perform because of a crush. "oh i should absolutely tell Rosalyn about this" he said between laughs.
"No."
"why? you cant endanger my savings more then you already do."
Cale's smile made Alberu get a migraine. He leaned over grabbing a cookie and happily munching on it as his Hyung's head throbbed.
"I'll help with 30% of the paperwork."
"deal."
Cale smiled happily, but it didn't last long. "but im watching your next performance" this time it was Alberus turn to smile
"No." immediate cold.
"ill give you a golden plaque"
"No."
"i wont force you to go to this years winter ball"
"...No."
"i wont force you to the parade either"
"..."
"and ill give you the plaque"
"fine"
Alberu had the feeling that Cale would be demanding much more than that. A sudden feeling of dread settled over him. Was this worth it to see Dongsaeng make a fool out of himself? Yes.
***
After talking with Taylor and Cage about all of this Alberu found himself in his true form still wearing a hooded cloak and silk mask. He was sitting happily drinking with the two of them.
"Do you know when they usually arrive?" he asked, making a wild gesture with his wine glass.
"if your referring to who i think, im not sure" Taylor started smiling as the bell chimed "but if i were to take a guess that would be them"
Alberu glanced over to see three hooded figures head to one of the middle booths. "so when does he come on?" he asked a huge smile hidden by silk, gods he was so excited to watch Cale embarrass himself.
"i think he'll come on after this person" Cage gestured to the performer currently onstage.
"aww are you all talking about me?" Cale or rather Eros leaned over from the other side of the bar scaring the shit out of Cage. He laughed after spooking the priestess.
"Hyung! im so glad you could make it" the words were sappy sweet. like they were hiding the type of rage that could kill someone. His smile didn't reach his eyes.
"oh i wouldnt miss this for the world" Alberu was fully combating Cale's sweetness with his own.
"Eros i think you're up" Cage got up and went to walk around the bar, but Eros simply climbed over where he was standing, nearly landing in Taylor's lap.
"Enjoy the show honey" he kissed Taylor on the cheek before heading to the stage with Cage.
"how that going?" Alberu asked as a healthy blush flooded Taylor's face.
"It's nice..."
"nice?"
"hes more then i could ever ask for"
Alberu realized just how in love Taylor was. He understood, who wouldn't love that sly bastard but the idea of being tied to him made a shiver run down his spine "good for you. I'll stick with being brothers."
Cale positioned himself on the stage. It was dark and they'd taken the back way around so no one would see him until the light came on. Alberu took a sip of his wine, this would be a fun show
Notes:
So excited I finally got to add Alberu to the mix, I wanted him to be part of the chaos since I started writing but wasn't fully sure how to add him, im happy with how it came out.
So far on the list of songs to do i have
1 Loosing streak by Blake Roman, Sam Haft, and Andrew Underberg
2 Me and my husband by mitski
3 happier then ever by Billie EilishThese might change i will try to add and delete songs as I decide which ones to do, feel free to leave suggestions!
Drink some water, take a nap, eat a snack, and thank you for reading!!!