Work Text:
Blink.
Choi Han did not know what happened.
A mere second ago, he was in a secret meeting with Rosalyn, Lock, that punk Ron and his son Beacrox, and Crown Prince Alberu—his most trusted allies.
He blinks his eye and now he is standing like a guard dog in the doorway of an unfamiliar room. A luxurious one at that.
Choi Han frowned as he scanned the room while stealthily placing his hand on his sword.
'... Where am I?'
Someone just kidnapped him.
It seems that a mage must have teleported him. But why did he not notice a teleportation circle appearing? Furthermore, even Rosalyn, the Highest Grade Mage, did not notice the teleportation magic cast upon him. She would have reacted if she did.
'It is also very fast.'
He close his eyes for milliseconds and now he was somewhere. Is that even possible? Even teleportation magic takes seconds to activate.
'… An even higher rank mage? Perhaps an Archmage?'
Choi Han frowned even more.
Other than the nobles, there are no other people in the Roan Kingdom that would want to kidnap Choi Han. And especially not someone from the Roan Kingdom as they are currently in the middle of a war with Choi Han on the front lines, a Commander along with Rosalyn.
'That damn secret organization.'
Choi Han was the center of power in the Roan Kingdom and a Commander would be the target of the enemies.
The secret organization that they have been fighting for the past 5 years must be the mastermind behind his kidnapping. The damn organization ARM, the Indomitable Alliance, and the Empire have been targeting smaller kingdoms on the Western Continent.
The Caro Kingdom and the Whipper Kingdom are barely hanging while the Roan Kingdom and the Breck Kingdom formed an alliance and are still strong against their current enemies.
Although they want to form an alliance with the other Kingdoms, unfortunately, the Jungle refuses and the Whipper Kingdom doesn’t want others to interfere with them especially since the Roan Kingdom acquired the Mages from their Kingdom that manage to run away.
Meanwhile, the Caro Kingdom’s Crown Prince Valentino and his trusted allies have been imprisoned by Imperial Crown Prince Adin and the Caro Kingdom barely hangs without their crown prince. The Empire has also warned them not to make any moves nor join an alliance or they will take the crown prince’s life.
And now Choi Han. With him kidnapped right now, it must have been a mess.
Choi Han was mad at himself for not being strong enough not to be kidnapped.
‘I should find my way out of here.’
Choi Han tightens his hold on his sword.
The enemy must be stupid not to tie him. He is one that refuses to give up even if he dies.
"What?"
He then looks down and has confusion all over his face.
His sword.
'This sword… it’s different?'
Even at first glance, Choi Han could already tell that it was not the same sword that the crown prince has bestowed upon him. It feels different but at the same time familiar. It doesn't make any sense. Choi Han never used this sword before.
Looking down at his clothes, it is also different.
He was not wearing the clothes that he would usually wear. Choi Han only wears his commander uniform or combat clothes. Yet his current clothes are rather very comfortable ones, which aren't fitted to be worn in the middle of a war.
"..."
Something's terribly, terribly wrong here.
Why would the enemy change his clothes into comfortable ones and not take off his sword? Even if Choi Han does not pose a threat if he was truly in the enemy's base, a swordmaster is still a swordmaster. They are not easy to defeat.
Clank.
Clank. Clank.
The sound of the sword and quiet mumblings disturbed a certain redhead that is quietly sitting in a rocking chair in front of the window, staring at nothing.
Cale Henituse, former Supreme Commander of the Allied Armies, was enjoying his time very much but was surprised at Choi Han who was on high alert.
The redhead observes the man as he stops rocking his chair.
"What's wrong, Choi Han?"
Choi Han was still busy calculating the situation when a voice spoke. Choi Han snaps his head in the voice’s direction, surprising the other.
'How vicious.'
Choi Han looks vicious and is ready to attack Cale, scaring the redhead.
"You—Cale Henituse?"
This person is the person that insulted Choi Han's family five years ago. The same idiot who lost his family in the war and is the only survivor.
Choi Han frowned once more.
'Did he kidnap me?'
But that would be impossible. Because this person is not a noble anymore.
He had already lost his family and had only gotten a bit of their wealth as the cousins of the Henituse family fought to get their hands on the remaining wealth of Count Henituse.
Choi Han was saddened at the death of Count Henituse as that person helped him but thought it was karma for Cale Henituse.
Flinch.
Cale flinch at Choi Han's odd reaction and the way he called him by his full name. Furthermore, that look he was giving him was making the ex-commander even more scared. He was almost convinced Choi Han would not hesitate to slash him with his sword.
Choi Han's usually bright and all smiley but Cale could see he was in despair.
'What's wrong with him?'
He wanted to ask but does not want Choi Han to beat him up so Cale calmly answered.
"... Who else would I be? And why are you so alert?"
Cale tried to be normal even though he was a bit suspicious of Choi Han.
Choi Han didn't speak as he observed Cale, still on high alert. He then frowned.
He only just notice that Cale Henituse looks a bit... different? It has only been 5 years since he last saw him but he change drastically.
The infamous trash was looking rather skinny and even paler than before. His hair is long and tied loosely with a black ribbon and he is wearing simple clothes—a huge contrast to the Cale Henituse Choi Han is familiar with.
But it is not just about appearance. Something about him feels... intimidating?
He was just sitting lazily on a rocking chair, with lemon tea on his side, looking strangely calm and gentle, but there is an aura that surrounds him that made Choi Han feel small.
His eyebrow twitched.
Don’t Cale Henituse looks too elegant and big?
The black-haired swordmaster was about to speak when there was a knock, alerting Choi Han more as he move away.
"Young master-nim? This is Hans. It is time for lunch."
'Hans?'
Choi Han still remembers who Hans was. It was Count Henituse's deputy butler after the old man Ron Molan left the household and Hans had died in the war in the Henituse territory 5 years ago.
On the other side, hurried footsteps that obviously belonged to children could be heard.
Following the footstep, the door suddenly opened, revealing two kids. One was a silver-haired girl, and the other is a redhead boy.
"Cale!"
The redheaded child didn't notice Choi Han as he immediately run towards Cale Henituse. The silver-haired child looks up at Choi Han with a curious gaze.
"Are you okay, Choi Han Hyung?"
The swordmaster looks down at the child.
Choi Han stared at her unique golden eyes for a bit before nodding his head. He then relaxed a bit as these kids don't pose a threat to him. But his guard is still up, which didn’t escape the silver kitten’s curious gaze.
The silver kitten On thought that something is different with their Choi Han today before heading to Cale on the rocking chair.
'They are not humans.'
Choi Han concluded.
Those eyes do not belong to any human. Choi Han thought they are probably beast people, the same as his Dongsaeng, Lock.
'Did he buy them?'
It's quite common for beast people to become slaves and be sold on the black market. Nobles with sick fantasies would at least have one slave.
However, these children did not have any collars, tattoos, or any indication that they are slaves, which confuses Choi Han. Furthermore, they look healthy and those clothes are more expensive than his.
'Are they really slaves?'
Choi Han was having doubts but considering this is Cale Henituse, Choi Han does not think someone like him would adopt kids. He doesn't even get along with his siblings before they died.
At that moment Choi Han was busy thinking, Hans walked in.
Choi Han stared at the man and immediately confirmed it was the same Hans he met years ago—alive and standing, smiling widely in Cale Henituse and the children's direction.
"Is something wrong with my face?"
Hans suddenly asks Choi Han, who slowly shook his head and looks back at the two redheads.
Of course, he didn't forget to be on guard as Hans stood beside him with his innocent face. Choi Han trusts Hans but he also does not trust people who are supposed to be dead.
"Don't run. You'll get hurt."
Cale Henituse said as he welcome the two kids.
"We'll be leaving after lunch right? Right?"
The red-haired kid excitedly said.
"... That's right."
Today, they are going to leave for a vacation and decided to travel to the Eastern Continent. They have done exploring the Western Continent for two years so now they are going to another continent to explore.
Going with them are Choi Han, Lock, his siblings, the three children averaging 14 years old, Dodori, Eruhaben, Ron, and Beacrox.
Mary cannot come with them as she went back to the Endable Kingdom—where the Dark Elves and the others now live freely—two days ago. It’s going to be the Kingdom’s anniversary and Fredo’s coronation anniversary as well.
Cale and the others already attended the anniversary and coronation last year and the kids wanted to explore places that they haven’t visited yet so they cannot come this year.
Or perhaps they will pay a visit tonight for a bit—if he can fix the problem with Choi Han, that is.
Cale could see his slacker-chan moving further away again. He cannot do anything to stop her as the children look so happy to explore.
Choi Han quietly stood to the side, watching the interaction.
Usually, Choi Han would be watching this scene with a bright smile on his face. However, today was different as Choi Han is currently possessed by 'The Birth of a Hero' Choi Han.
Watching the older redhead, Choi Han thought Cale Henituse is acting like a father. Quite the doting father, which gives him goosebumps.
It's a different image of the Cale Henituse Choi Han is used to as whenever he crosses paths with the redhead, he would always glare at him.
'Is this the result of losing his family? Ha! Had he finally realized my pain of losing my family?'
Cale Henituse loses his family and everything when the war began.
Choi Han pitied the man a bit, but still thought he was trash. He will never forget the insult this person has thrown at his family and he will never forgive him.
"..."
Hans thought it was weird that Choi Han was looking at their young master with such a dark gaze. It was as if he was mocking the young master.
It wasn't pleasant but Choi Han has been with them since the beginning and is part of the family, which is why Hans remained silent. He does not want to suspect Choi Han of something he would never do.
Although he will continue to observe him.
"Let's go."
Cale glances at Choi Han before they all left the room.
Choi Han did not say anything as he followed the redhead. And it felt like he had done this a hundred times already. It's so natural it’s confusing.
Why can't he complain? Why can't he resist?
Why is he even following Cale Henituse's order when he was supposed to find his way out? Isn't he supposedly kidnapped?
Why can't he complain or resist? Something in him doesn't want to hurt Cale Henituse and his people. It is not him, but it's strong enough to dominate him.
Choi Han quietly walked.
Walking down the hallway, Cale Henituse is quietly listening to the two children that are talking about places that they want to go. Hans is also cheerfully talking with the kids, too happy and cheerful, very far from what Choi Han remembered.
Hans used to be so formal when it comes to working.
Also, Choi Han found it odd that they are talking about visiting places when they are supposed to be in the middle of a war.
'Now that I thought about it, where is this place?'
Constant ground shaking and loud noises are very normal after the war began but it is peaceful?
'How far are we from the battlefield?'
If there are no loud noises, it's understandable. But no earthquakes? The impact of the bombs used in the war is very strong, so there should be a shockwave—except there weren't any. It's very weird.
It was too peaceful at the moment that Choi Han almost believe he was dreaming.
War is everywhere in the Eastern and Western Continents, so Choi Han's confusion is understandable.
As they went downstairs, Choi Han notice that there are portraits hanging on the wall. He made sure to look at every single one of the portraits as he walk slowly.
The swordmaster stops in his track, too shocked to even say anything.
"Choi Han?"
Hans called him, but he was too stunned to pay attention to him right now.
Because in front of him, are portraits.
Not just portraits, it is portraits of him being happy and contented.
'... When was the last time I smiled like that?'
Choi Han doesn't remember.
Suddenly being transported to another world, having to fight for his life for tens of years, losing his second home and family, having to deal with a secret organization, and now dealing with the war, it was no surprise Choi Han doesn't even remember how to smile anymore.
'Why is there a portrait of me in his house?'
Is it not too strange that a portrait of him is hanging on Cale Henituse's mansion?
There was even a portrait of him smiling brightly with other unfamiliar people and a few familiar ones such as Rosalyn, Lock, Prince Alberu, Ron, and Baecrox.
Even Pendrick was there, which should not be possible. He was dead and had never met Cale Henituse, let alone became close enough for the redhead to hang a portrait of him.
So why did a portrait of Pendrick hang in Cale Henituse's house?
Choi Han stared at Pendrick's portrait for a bit before proceeding to the others.
There was Lock, smiling happily with 10 other kids. It was a smile Choi Han never saw again after the death of Pendrick.
There was also a portrait of Rosalyn with a beautiful golden-haired individual. Even she was different.
Rosalyn seems to be happy and free. It was a rare sight as Rosalyn was never a friendly person. She does not smile as often as well after the war broke out 5 years ago and the weight of the commander was put on her.
Even a portrait of Ron, Beacrox, and the two beast children he saw earlier with Cale Henituse.
Now Choi Han is staring at a portrait of Cale Henituse with the beast children, and a Black Dragon. A monster and supposedly not possible as well.
Choi Han is certain that the Black Dragon is definitely the Dragon he had killed 5 years ago.
'Why is it here?'
And with Cale Henituse at that?
Though it was a monster, Choi Han thought that smile looks quite adorable? Especially with his chubby cheeks.
The biggest portrait is hanging in the center with everyone present. With Cale Henituse and Prince Alberu sitting in the middle, and Choi Han standing beside Cale Henituse and not Prince Alberu.
Now everything makes sense to Choi Han.
'So that was it.'
Choi Han realized, that this was not his world.
As someone who was suddenly transported to a fantasy world when he was just a normal student in South Korea, Choi Han isn't surprised that an alternative world also exists. Even on Earth, that theory lives.
'An alternate world where everything is peaceful.'
He then looks at the smiling black-haired swordsman in the portrait.
Aren't they supposedly the same person?
What is the difference?
Why did he have to suffer while the other is smiling?
The world isn't fair, Choi Han is aware. Yet he wonders why it has to be him who had to suffer. Why the other did not?
'Why is it you?'
The blooming jealousy in Choi Han's heart is making a certain god giggle.
'Ha.'
Cale stood at the side, watching Choi Han's actions and reaction carefully. He has already signaled On, Hong, and Hans to go first so it was just him and Choi Han in the hallway.
Choi Han being too shocked to see the portraits honestly gave it all.
Furthermore, the disgusted look he gave Cale and his shocked expression looking at Hans is also enough evidence. Cale is sure this is Choi Han from the Birth of a Hero or perhaps just another version. Still an alternative and not theirs.
'Why did he come here?'
Out of all the people, it has to be this Choi Han that hates Cale Henituse and will never trust him.
Cale felt a headache coming.
As usual.
'Damn it! That motherfucker God of Death—'
[It is not me! Not me!]
Cale thought he heard some bug speaking in his head but decided it was a hallucination. He’s tired its normal.
Flinch.
Cale flinches when Choi Han suddenly looks at him.
The two did not say anything as they stared at each other.
The ex-commander, feeling awkward and uncomfortable, sighed as he turned his back.
"We are late. Let's go."
Cale Henituse started walking away without looking back.
Choi Han continued to stare before following quietly. He thought at that moment, that this Cale Henituse is surprisingly bearable.
"—Hyung?"
Beacrox Molan—a former chef and a torture expert—stared at the ten dirty kids staring right back at him.
The surrounding area is quiet. In fact, too quiet.
Beacrox's eyebrow twitched. All this dirt is distracting him and he almost completely ignores the sudden change of location.
"Beacrox Hyung?"
The torture expert frowned at the unfamiliar kids.
'Why are they calling me Hyung?'
He has never seen or met these children before. How come they knew him and even call him their Hyung? The way they act and address him screams familiarity. These kids are familiar with him.
Beacrox is never good with kids, or at least that is what he believes. And if Beacrox ever decided to take children in, they would never be this filthy.
'Who are they?'
He was rather lost at this moment.
The chef stealthy looked around. He was in an unfamiliar kitchen. But Beacrox knew it was his kitchen judging by how clean and organized everything is.
Beacrox approves the kitchen, so it is highly possibly his. If that is even possible.
The foods that are already cooked and ready to serve are also his cooking.
‘I was in a meeting.’
Beacrox recollects.
How did he suddenly appear in his kitchen and is about to serve food? For whom exactly? Beacrox knew for sure he is not working for anyone as a chef after he had left Henituse County to get their revenge.
He was more focused on hunting the secret organization and the war. What is happening?
'Where is father?'
Ron was nowhere in the kitchen.
Beacrox was worried about his father as they were together just minutes ago.
"Hyung?"
He snapped out of his thought when the children called him again. They look confused when he was not answering. At that moment, he decided to finally speak.
"… What is it?"
The child beamed at the reply.
"Should we help you serve the food? Sir Hans said he would call for young master-nim!"
"Young master?"
Bacrox frowned. He really is serving someone. Since when did he serve someone after leaving the Henituse five years ago? It doesn't add up.
"Yes. Young master-nim."
The chef pondered.
Who is he serving? Who is this young master?
"Right. I was cooking young master Cale Henituse’s lunch."
"Yes...?"
The children were looking at Beacrox with weird looks. It is as if they are wondering why he was suddenly acting strange.
Usually, Beacrox would sigh and tell them to wash first right after entering the house before he lets them serve the food. Yet he stared at them with a frown and is not acknowledging their offer of help.
At the moment, Beacrox is acting the same as when they were only starting to get familiar with each other.
'I was right.'
It was his former young master and well-known trash, Cale Henituse. It's not that Beacrox thought Cale Henituse was trash, but he was just not interested in him.
"If you want to help, wash up first."
"Yes, Hyung!"
"Okay!"
The children answered and immediately run out of the kitchen as if they were used to this already.
His head hurt.
As the children left the room, Beacrox did not waste time as he pick up a knife sharp enough to take a life in one strike and take a look at the surrounding. Outside, he can tell they are somewhere in the middle of a forest.
As he walks out of the kitchen, everything's unfamiliar.
He continued to stealthily look around and can hear people's footsteps nearing where he was. Beacrox entered a room and quietly stayed hidden and listened to them talking.
"What's wrong with Choi Han Hyung?"
"Eh, Noona? Something's wrong with Choi Han Hyung?"
Judging by the voice, these two talking about Choi Han are kids.
'Choi Han Hyung?'
Choi Han… Hyung.
Since when did Choi Han become close to children? Beacrox doesn't remember Choi Han taking care of the kids. Yet these children call him Hyung.
That punk is a Hyung.
Beacrox admired Choi Han's skill and respected his strength but that does not mean they have a great relationship. They are not even friends.
"Kitten-nim. He is probably just tired. How about we go eat so we can prepare earlier? Do you not want to list things you want to buy as well?"
"You are right, butler! Let's make another list, Noona!"
"Yes. But where is our youngest?"
"Raon-nim is with Rosalyn-nim and Eruhaben-nim. They are experimenting with a new spell."
Beacrox doesn't quite understand what they are talking about but is surprised by the mention of Rosalyn with unfamiliar names.
Former princess Rosalyn is Choi Han's friend and is the Commander of the Mage Brigade of the Roan Kingdom. She was also present at the meeting Beacrox was in a few minutes ago.
'I don't get it.'
He was in a kitchen preparing food for Cale Henituse and the kids earlier are familiar with him. These three are also talking like they knew Choi Han. And now they also mentioned Rosalyn.
If he was here, there is a high chance Rosalyn is the Rosalyn they are talking about. Especially since these people are talking about experimenting with magic spells. The former princess definitely fits that one word.
Choi Han as well. His name alone is already unique. It is also possible that they are talking about the Choi Han he knew.
And Cale Henituse.
He is working for Cale Henituse and is in an unfamiliar setting. How strange.
Beacrox frowned.
'Am I still in the same place?'
It is too strange. He has a hunch as well.
Beacrox was very confused but decided to listen more.
"Are they not eating with us?"
"Of course they are. They will never miss a meal with everyone."
"What about Choi Han and Cale? Why did they stay behind? Are they planning something?"
"No, kitten-nim. They are just talking."
'Kitten?'
Are they perhaps beast people? Beacrox thought.
Though it is very unusual to find one on the Western Continent as the Cat Tribe resides on Eastern Continent.
"Oh, okay! Now let's go to Beacrox! I want to request ice cream!"
"Me too!"
"Yes, kitten-nims."
The voice faded as they walk farther.
Beacrox quietly opened the door and look in the direction they are going. It was the direction of the kitchen he just left.
'How did they know me?'
Obviously, he does not know them.
Although one of the three, the adult one and is probably a servant given the way he addresses the children, his voice is quite familiar. Beacrox thought he heard them a long time ago.
They are probably going to eat as well since the food he saw he prepared was quite a lot for just one young master. He looks like he was cooking for a feast instead of lunch.
'... What to do.'
Beacrox wanted to explore the place more. Find out where they are and if the enemy kidnapped him, which is quite odd. He was sure it was not magic that bought him here.
Furthermore, there is no reason for them to kidnap him. He is just a torturer and a great sword user working with Choi Han and is hidden from the public. He isn't a threat so it was weird that they would take him.
And his father. Although Ron is a very strong assassin, he is nothing when compared to Arm and their real powerhouse.
There is no way they are both kidnapped.
Especially because he woke up cooking with children calling him Hyung.
However, those people knew him and is coming to the dining area to eat. And probably visit his kitchen since one of them wanted to request ice cream.
Beacrox sighs.
It’s tiring.
Just as he was about to continue, a pair is coming his way.
'Strange.'
One of them is familiar to Beacrox.
Those footsteps are definitely Choi Han's. His footsteps are silent despite being a swordmaster and only those trained are able to hear. Beacrox is sure it belongs to that swordmaster.
Beacrox decided he needed to take a look.
He was good at acting, so Beacrox acted as if he was on his way to fetch the young master who stayed behind with Choi Han.
"Beacrox."
The familiar redhead acknowledges.
The redhead who is called trash is in front of him looking nothing as he did years ago.
Pale, skinny, with long hair. He looks easy to break and is not someone who is used to breaking things.
"Young master."
Beacrox greeted the young master he used to serve in a formal manner.
It was surprising to see how much he changed but he didn't pay much attention to it. Instead, he threw Choi Han who is behind Cale Henituse a side glance.
The other nodded, immediately recognizing his signal.
Beacrox confirmed it is the same Choi Han he knew.
'That motherfucker—'
Cale really wanted to kill a god.
[Believe me, it wasn’t me! Why would you not listen, Cale!]
Cale decided to ignore that. His head has always been haunted.
A headache after a headache.
Cale just wanted to slack off and problem after problem keep on following him. He already knew he was a magnet for trouble but will not admit it.
“… I’m hungry.”
Click.
"What are you doing?"
Rosalyn snaps her head to the side. Someone unfamiliar just talks to her.
Rosalyn stops in surprise and awe.
"What is it?"
The person ask again when the redhead Mage Commander and Tower Master did not respond and just blatantly stared.
No, not a person.
The one in front of her is not a human but a long golden-haired Elf. He was very beautiful that other Elves would look like squid in his presence. That aura he carries is rather intimidating and too heavy.
And strange enough, his presence is comforting.
The Elf frowned at the lack of response.
Rosalyn is always enthusiastic but also gentle. A quiet and surprised Rosalyn is rare.
"Why are you not answering?"
"Excuse me? Yes."
She unconsciously answered.
Rosalyn is confused and is currently letting everything sink in despite her calm response.
The last thing that she remembered is that she was in an important meeting regarding the current war with her trusted allies. However, everything happened too fast that she was not able to react.
Rosalyn is a Highest Grade Mage and is already close to reaching the status of Archmage. Her pride was quite hurt when she was not able to stop whatever abducted her.
'However.'
There was no mana used in transferring her from the meeting room to this place that looks like a lab.
She wanted to explore the place as she took a glimpse of many different and new kinds of magic devices and magic books in the corner but had to be cautious of the new place. Who knows, it might be a trap.
'This place.'
There is nothing wrong here.
Actually, there is one thing. This place is very dense with mana that it would suffocate other mages below her label. But since she is someone who is nearing the Archmage rank, she can endure well.
What occurred earlier was not a work of magic, which means that what happened might be a work of a Shaman trapping her in an illusion.
Or… it could be a work of a God.
Why?
Why would a God interfere? For what purpose?
She then looks down at her hands. There is something that she noticed the moment she realizes she is in an unfamiliar place.
Strength.
'I felt stronger. Very strong. Something I'm working hard to achieve at the moment...'
She was stronger, way too strong than the current her. This body she had right now is stronger, the strength Rosalyn could barely reach. An Archmage rank.
At that moment, she acknowledges something peculiar is going on. But Rosalyn is smart, so she keeps her mouth shut.
The former princess then looks up at the Elf, who is busy observing her.
She can feel the chills those unique reptilian eyes are giving her.
The beautiful Elf sighs and turns his back to Rosalyn.
"Lunch is ready. We are done for today. The little kid is eager so let us go."
Rosalyn immediately follows, which surprises her greatly. It was so natural and felt so right.
'I have never met this Elf before.'
She had met quite a few Elves before and Pendrick is a friend who unfortunately passed away. Other than them, she had never seen this Elf before but he is talking to her as if they knew each other well.
Rosalyn wanted to be on high alert yet this Elf might get suspicious and confront her.
He was already looking at her with an indifferent gaze the moment she space out. An indifferent gaze that hid his observing eyes.
She does not want to be reckless and fight someone she has no knowledge of and in an unknown place. She might be prideful and greedy but not an idiot.
This Elf is definitely not normal. There is something to him that separates him from other Elves and Rosalyn's survival instinct is screaming at her to not fight.
Being in a war for 5 years now, her instinct was never wrong. How did she manage to survive the war if she never followed her instinct?
Dangerous.
Rosalyn thought.
However, if they were on the battlefield, she would have fought him, even if her chances of winning is low. Rosalyn is greedy. She will not miss an opportunity to fight a stronger being.
'It is quite interesting.'
The puzzle just doesn't fit. It is a weird situation but is definitely interesting.
As they walked out of the lab, Rosalyn was surprised to learn they are in a black castle. It is spacious but feels at home? An unfamiliar yet familiar feeling.
"I'll be going, mom!"
"Yes. Be careful."
Rosalyn looks in the direction of the voices and found a great and mighty creature she never thought she would be able to see her whole life.
A Dragon!
It was a Dragon!
Rosalyn barely contains her gasp. It was the first time she had ever met a great and mighty being.
But it did not go unnoticed by the Ancient Dragon disguised as Elf beside Rosalyn.
'Haa. I need to contact that unlucky bastard.'
Eruhaben thought he needed to chat with a certain trouble magnet.
"Auntie."
The Black Dragon turned towards another person in the room that Rosalyn did not even notice until now.
At the moment, there are four people outside the lab. No. Only 2 humans as one is obviously an illusion and the other is a rather chubby Black Dragon.
The one is a woman that looks quite vicious while elegantly sipping her tea. The other person is a buzz-cut man in pajamas and is lying leisurely on the couch with his pillows.
“Yes, Raon?”
The woman answered sweetly. To a Dragon. Same Dragon who called the woman Auntie.
"Where is that weird Pink Dragon?"
Rosalyn really tried her best not to gasp but a little escape this time.
'Another Dragon!'
This time, it is a Pink one!
Now there are two Dragons in one place! Goodness!
Who would not be shocked after hearing a young Dragon looking for another Dragon? Why is there another Dragon here in the first place when a Dragon is supposedly a creature that is selfish and preferred to be alone? They do not get along with other Dragons.
She then composed herself again even though she wanted to go greet the Black Dragon.
The Mage Brigade Commander realizes at that moment that she was most likely in a Dragon's lair which explains the extravagant design of the castle and how mighty it looks compared to normal castles. Furthermore, the reason why it is suffocating and very dense in mana is.
'Why am I in a Dragon's lair?'
Now that is the question. Why did she end up there in the first place?
'Do this Dragon ally himself with the secret organization?'
However, why would a Dragon lower himself to humans? Rosalyn could not easily believe that this Dragon had allied himself with Arm.
If the Black Dragon wanted to kill and destroy humans, he would have done it in a great and mighty way. Not so great and mighty for humans, but the Black Dragon would surely love to show himself that way than using a secret organization to trample humans and weaker creatures.
At that moment, a not-so-elegant tone of voice echoed in the black castle.
"Ha! That weird kid is probably writing a biography with that white-haired crazy shit bastard again."
The buzz cut replied even though his eyes are still closed.
'A Dragon writing a biography...?'
Rosalyn doubts that the Pink Dragon they mentioned is truly a Dragon. If she share this with other mages, they would definitely think Rosalyn has gone crazy.
Because it is crazy.
"What!? They are writing without me!? I want to join too!"
The Black Dragon was about to fly away when the golden-haired Elf caught him.
The Black Dragon squirming with his chubby paws is the most adorable thing Rosalyn has ever seen in her life.
"That's enough, little kid. You will miss lunch. Just call Dodori as we still have to prepare for our departure. Do you want to come or not?"
"Of course, I'm coming! You can't let me out on this vacation!"
'Vacation? Dragon's goes on vacation too?'
Rosalyn is still clueless but did not say anything.
The Black Dragon grumbled and said he has to watch over his human.
Rosalyn was almost awed by how adorable the chubby Dragon is right now but has to stop herself or she might lose a limb for attempting to touch a Dragon, even if it is still a small one.
However, the fact that the Black Dragon had called a human his suggests that he has given a human his protection.
Rosalyn felt a bit jealous.
She is jealous.
"Hm?"
The former princess almost flinch when the Black Dragon looked at her with his bright blue reptilian eyes. It was beautiful.
Then he escape the Elf's hold and flew where Rosalyn was.
"Smart Rosalyn! You are awfully quiet! Are you hurt?"
The Black Dragon is now in front of Rosalyn as it tilted its head.
The worried look on his chubby face makes it look like he cared for Rosalyn, which the latter does not quite understand why but likes the feeling.
"Did something go wrong with the experiment because I didn't help much?"
"No. Everything went fine."
Before Rosalyn could answer the Black Dragon's question, the Elf answered for her.
"Let's get that other kid and leave."
"Okay! Goldie Gramps!"
The Elf glances at Rosalyn and the latter just quietly followed the two. The two humans and the illusion were left as they talk about something that Rosalyn was not able to hear.
They walk into another room and found two individuals happily talking about someone while papers and pens are all over the room.
"You crazy bastard! Why did you let him in, you weird Pink Dragon!"
"Dongsaeng, this human understands me most. I cannot make a single mistake. That is why I had to invite him! We'll make the most perfect biography for the young master-nim! A perfect biography for the legend!"
The man dramatically said.
Although, he doesn't look like a man to Rosalyn. Rather, he seems to be a child despite his mature features?
'Pink Dragon.'
Rosalyn observes the curly-haired man. He just does not seem to be a Dragon? Although he was more beautiful than Elves, he lacks majesty and is more like a child.
Is he a child?
The golden-haired Elf sighs in resignation.
He seems used to this.
"Dodori, stop that. We are going to the young master."
Before the pink-haired could respond, someone in the back that was awfully quiet, finally spoke.
"It is nice to see you again, Eruhaben-nim. You are having lunch with Cale-nim? May I also come?"
Rosalyn's eyes widen in surprise.
Long white hair and green eyes—Clopeh Sekka—is the bastard that attack the Henituse territory years ago resulting in the death of the Henituse family.
He died at the hands of Choi Han. Why is he here!?
'I need to escape.'
She is surrounded by enemies.
Rosalyn cautiously backed away and notice papers on the floor. It is a draft, and she can say it has a lot of Cale Henituse names on it.
The one thing that caught her attention most is the biography’s title.
It says,
‘Biography of the Supreme Commander of the Allied Forces, Greatest Hero in Human History, First Born of Henituse Duchy—Young Master Cale Henituse of the Silver Shield. The Never-Will-Be-Seen-Again Legend that even The Gods cannot touch.’
It was the longest, most exaggerated title that Rosalyn have ever seen in her life.
“…”
Clopeh was dead. Is dead.
However, he was not just a dead bastard.
That bastard was still a swordmaster and the former Commander and central figure of the Indomitable and Northern Alliance 5 years ago.
That same bastard is happily writing a biography for the infamous trash of the Count's Family Cale Henituse with a curly pink-haired man.
"Ah, Cale-nim. My god must have missed me as well. It has been a while since we have seen each other. And I’ve heard you are going on a vacation with the children on the Eastern Continent?”
Clopeh Sekka reach out for something and revealed pouches of who knows what is inside.
"Such perfect timing! I’ve already prepared!"
Clopeh Sekka has gone nuts.
The Black Dragon cried.
"Nooooo!"
“…”
There is no way everything she is seeing is true.
Rosalyn looked down at the book once more. At the bottom part.
Written by; Guardian Knight and Legend of the North, Clopeh Sekka and the Great and Mighty Dodori, Hail the Majestic Pink Dragon (rejoice and grace my presence.)
Rosalyn smiled and relaxed as she concluded that this was nothing but a nonsensical dream. An illusion.
She just needs to wake up.
***
“Hyung!!”
Blink.
One of the well-known heroes, the Wolf King Lock, frowned in displeasure as a familiar voice rang in his head.
‘My head hurts a bit.’
It’s annoying.
The Wolf King covered his eyes and shook his head, hoping to relieve the ache in his head.
He then opened his eyes. Lock woke up standing under the sun. And—someone’s there, looking at him with that innocent smile of his before he was covered in red.
In front of him is his dead brother.
“… Maes…?”
Lock felt like he will faint.
His dead brother continued to speak still with that smile.
“Hyung. Why are you spacing out in the middle of the field? It is hot here.”
“What…?”
The Wolf King was not processing the words of the dead.
His younger brother Maes had died along with their other siblings when ARM attacked their tribe and he was the lone survivor. A lone wolf.
One of his biggest regrets is in front of him, breathing and talking.
Not noticing his confusion and despair, Maes continued to speak.
“We went and helped out Beacrox Hyung prepare the lunch.”
‘Beacrox?’
How could his brother knows Beacrox when he had already died when Lock meet the torture expert?
“But you have not yet shown up so the young master had asked me to fetch you. Are you not joining us for lunch?”
Did he die?
It has been a long time since he last saw his younger brother’s face.
For the first time in years, Lock felt emotions he never wishes to experience again. Pain. Anger. Grief. Despair.
Lock wants to cry but almost forgot how.
He then remembered what he was doing before waking up in the middle of what looked like a training field. Supposedly, he was in a meeting with his family about the new war tactic against ARM and the Empire.
He was overwhelmed he almost forgot where he was supposed to be. It’s definitely not outside the palace of the crown prince where the meeting is held.
So, how is he here?
In an unfamiliar place with a familiar face?
Could he be in the enemy’s hideout?
Out of instinct, Lock swings the sword he was holding—god knows where he got that sword—and points it towards the enemy, his dead brother’s illusion or imitator.
“H-hyung!?”
Maes’s imitator trembled and stumbled in shock that he almost felt guilty. Lock will never fall for the enemy’s tricks.
“Who are you?”
“What, Hyung…? It’s me Maes—”
“I said who are you? Imitating the dead in front of me, the Wolf King. You’ve got guts.”
The Maes in front of him was so shocked he stop trembling. He looks like he was not breathing and it worried him a bit.
But Lock soon noticed that there are a lot of people and beast people looking at him with confusion and fear.
‘What?’
There are Tigers and humans and they look like they get along?
However, Lock never once saw Tigers. It is said that they almost went extinct before the war began and only a few of them manage to run.
It is a surprise to see quite a lot of them in this place.
A person decided to interfere and approach the siblings.
“What is happening here?”
It was Hilsman who approach them. He looked at the scared Maes before looking at Lock and the sword in his hand.
“Sir Lock? What is the meaning of this?”
Rather than angry, he was confused and concerned. Lock is someone Hilsman is familiar with as he would train the children too when he has time to spare.
The same innocent boy had just raised his sword to his sibling. He doesn’t look like himself.
“Lower your sword. You don’t look well. If you two had a disagreement, let’s talk about it in private, yes?”
Lock did not lower his sword. Instead, he became more alert.
‘Who is he?’
Unlike Choi Han who had been to the Henituse territory before, Lock had not and never met this man. However, looking at his attire and confidence, he must be a knight.
“And who are you?”
“… What?”
The knight frowned and his—the imposter Maes looked at each other.
“Lock.”
Before Lock decided to attack, another called his name. This time, it is a familiar voice. A voice he knew quite well.
The Wolf King immediately looks toward the voice.
“Ron Molan.”
It was the old man assassin, Ron Molan.
“Sir Ron, thank god you are here. Can you help out a bit? Lock seems out of it.”
“I’m not—!”
“Of course.”
Ron cut off Lock.
The Wolf King glared. This old man is treating him like a child again.
“Thank you.”
Hilsman sighs in relief and patted Maes in comfort.
“Yes. I will punish him for his action. Do not worry.”
That made the knight flinch.
“No! No! Sir Ron, it is fine. No need for punishment. Like what the Young master always says, they are still children.”
“Ho. I see.”
He then looks at the glaring child.
“Put down the sword. You seem to be tired so walk with me for a bit to calm down before we head out.”
Without waiting for his answer, the assassin glanced towards the Maes and Hilsman and smiled—or what Cale would like to call it, viciously.
“Tell the young master we would like to join him in a bit.”
“… O-okay…”
With one worried glance towards his older brother—who did not even look at him—Maes left with Ron Molan’s words in his mind.
Lock did not have the courage to look at that face again. He might really break down.
Ron Molan quietly watches the scene.
“I’ll head out as well. I have to report to the Duke. Excuse me.”
With that, Hilsman left the scene as well.
‘Duke.’
That did not escape Ron.
After the man left, Lock finally lower the sword and calm down a bit.
Looking at Ron Molan, he seems to have grasped what is happening so Lock quietly lets his dead brother’s imitation go, even if it means this will be the last time he sees that face.
The assassin woke up in the middle of dressing a child. A redheaded child that reminds him of a certain puppy young master, and another silver-haired child sitting at the table waiting for them.
They are Beast children.
The moment he woke up in that situation, he knew something went wrong with the meeting.
Ron thought he had died in a surprise ambush and woke up in his next life, how crazy that sounds. Yet as he has seen his face, it was still the same. Though a bit younger.
But he knew everything was quite the same but also different. His undead arm already gave it away.
The children he was taking care of called him grandpa. They are beast people from the Cat Tribe. A tribe that focuses on stealth and assassination. These children are ones that he would surely train, which explains their familiarity and fondness for him.
“Grandpa, let’s visit your house too!”
The redhead Hong happily said as he fixes his bow.
“We can do that too.”
The silver-haired On replied.
‘My house huh.’
His house and property have been taken from him by those bastards he wishes to kill.
Ron wondered if the secret organization has different plans or if perhaps they did not exist. However, that would not make sense as he would not have worked as a Butler if he was still the Patriarch.
He must have taken it back. Yet he still works as a butler. For who?
“Do you like staying in my house?”
“Of course! It’s very pretty and Cale even said you had a more expensive house than his! He grumbled that you have a very pretty house because he likes expensive things and money!”
Cale?
Is it the same puppy he raised?
“But since he likes grandpa, he will not loot you!”
“I see.”
Ron simply replied.
When Hans, who is dead but is not, sent the children with him as they are going to eat lunch with the young master.
“I will be late.”
“You have something to do? Shall I serve the young master’s lemon tea instead?”
“Of course.”
Ron needed to gather information so he cannot come at the moment. Still, he did confirm it was the same puppy.
Hilsman also appeared. Alive.
Then he called the Count a Duke instead.
Truly, what change?
‘No! No! Sir Ron, it is fine. No need for punishment. Like what the Young master always says, they are still children.’
Cale Henituse.
The puppy's young master seems different from what he heard from the children. Furthermore, he adopted these children and seems to spoil them given the way he dresses them and their room full of interesting and expensive things.
Well, tragedy changes people. The direction the puppy went is not what he was expecting.
“What did you find out?”
Lock finally asked as they went to a more secluded area—that they found out is the Harris Village in the Henituse territory.
“I considered we might be dreaming or trapped in an illusion by a Shaman. However, I do think that this might be real as well.”
Everything just seems too real to be an illusion. Though if it is real, something of this caliber could only be a work of a God. Even Shamans have limits.
Lock pondered for a moment.
“My brother… that imitator mentioned your son. He is here as well.”
“Ho.”
If Lock was here, it will not be a surprise if his son and the others are here as well. However, without Rosalyn, it might take a while before they could contact everyone without anyone getting suspicious.
Hilsman himself is already disturbed by the fact that he mentioned punishment.
‘He seems to know me.’
Hilsman knows he is an assassin.
Ron Molan is indeed respected in the Henituse household. However, there are still people who do not like him and act arrogant.
Hilsman although he was indifferent to Ron Molan due to his high rank, still shows a bit of displeasure towards him when there are things they do not agree with. Now he seems scared.
They cannot afford to be caught.
Those Tigers looked tough to fight.
Lock and Ron do have limits. They can only act in the dark.
“I am a Butler here so I have a duty to attend.”
Ron looks at Lock.
“The three of us in one room would make suspicions. You gather information as I will attend my duty.”
Lock simply nod and the two walked in different directions.
The young Wolf King felt like crying.
He learned that his siblings are all alive. Breathing. Living.
Cale Henituse, that former noble that his Choi Han Hyung hated for insulting his late family, was the one who adopted them and gave them a home. They are part of a big family with Cale Henituse at its center.
That same man is also the sworn brother of Emperor Alberu Crossman of the Roan Empire. The Supreme Commander led the war with the Empire, ARM, the White Star, and the Sealed God.
And they won.
This peace he was currently experiencing, is the result of winning the war.
The Tiger Tribes. The Henituse. The Crown.
All these people loved that person. They were all saved by that person. Lock is one of them. They are family.
One big happy family.
‘It feels so real.’
Lock wanted this to be real.
“Father.”
Ron who went to the kitchen found his son.
He did not speak as he inspected his son’s condition first before he meet his son’s eyes which is also examining him.
Their expression of relief mirrored each other.
“You are fine.”
“I am. So are you.”
“Yes.”
The father and son nodded at each other.
***
"Your imperial majesty? Are you okay?"
Alberu stared at his subordinate in shock.
The fact that there is a person present in front of him and that he was in his dark elf form is very, very shocking and worrying.
Alberu Crossman found himself in this situation a minute ago.
Before he realized that he was in the King's, his father's office, without his disguise, the door has already opened and a man came in and greet him without disgust or surprise.
A reaction he never expected.
Why?
Why was he not shocked?
Why was he not disgusted?
Why was he not threatening to expose him?
One of his father's people has seen him in his original form. He should have already figured out that this is the crown prince's hideous secret.
A dark elf, a creature of the dark.
They can even execute him for deceiving his people and the rest of the Royal Family.
In the first place, why is he comfortable in his Dark Elf form while working? Since when did he reveal his form in front of others who are not his trusted Dark Elves in disguise?
Without one of his disguised trusted people alerting him?
Furthermore, was he not in a meeting with his allies just now? How did he come here? And he was sure it was already midnight, so why is it in the middle of the day?
'What happened?'
There was no magic. He had not felt anything. Why is he here in his father's office? What happened to his disguise as well? He cannot find it in his body.
"... Your imperial majesty?"
"Why are you not surprised?"
Alberu stealthily readied himself in case he has to dispose of the guy.
"Excuse me?"
The man was looking at him with confusion.
Why?
"You have seen me. I'm a Dark Elf, are you not disgusted?"
He said dangerously with a hint of bitterness.
He is a creature of darkness. It is only natural his people would be disgusted with him and ask for his head for fooling them that he is human.
The man gasps in surprise and bowed deeply, too deeply to be considered formal.
"Your imperial majesty! Do not say that! How can I be disgusted with you when you are one of the heroes who save the Western and Eastern continents from the evil White Star and God of Despair?! I can only admire and respect you!"
'Excuse me?!'
Who is the White Star?
And a God!
God of Despair?!
'I've never heard of that God?'
Seeing that Alberu was not answering, the man looks up and worriedly called again.
"Your imperial majesty? Perhaps you are tired. Please take a rest."
Your imperial majesty?
Imperial??
Now that Alberu notices, why is he calling him imperial majesty when he is but a crown prince? That is an insult to the imperial family of the Empire and his father who is the current King.
Definitely, something is not right.
Well, everything is wrong the moment he appeared in his father’s office.
Alberu decided to ignore it for now and put on his usual fake smile.
"I'm glad that I am respected. But may I ask why you are here?"
"Ah, yes. Young master Cale has called. He, our esteemed Eruhaben, and the children will be here in an hour."
"Cale Henituse?"
"Yes."
“Eruhaben?”
“Yes?”
“Children?”
“Yes??”
Alberu’s mouth twitched.
Of course, he knew Cale Henituse.
But why?
Cale Henituse is a former noble and is the eldest of the late Count Henituse. What happened to the Henituse family and territory is truly sad however since when did Cale Henituse become bold enough to contact the palace?
That person has been quiet for a while now. For what reason is he going here in the palace when he has no place?
"I see. Thank you. Call Tasha."
The crown prince dismisses.
The man bowed and left.
At that moment, Alberu took the chance to look down at his wrist. It was the first thing he notice when he woke up.
Alberu is wearing a gold bracelet but he can tell it is a holy artifact or weapon. He does not know what it can do nor how to use it but it is still holy, something that should not be possible.
Where did he have it? It seems very powerful.
‘Didn’t the Sun God curse us?’
He should not be able to hold anything with the Sun God’s power. Yet it didn’t burn him.
When his aunt arrive, Alberu became even more confused.
His aunt is here, in front of him. However, she was not human. She is in her original form looking relaxed and comfortable. Two words that Alberu didn’t know is possible for them.
At that moment, Alberu Crossman thought yes, something is definitely wrong here.
“What is it, nephew? You seem distracted today?”
The worried tone of his aunt made Alberu relax a bit.
“Forget work. You should relax today.”
“No Aunt, I am fine. Are you?”
Alberu cautiously asked as he looks at his aunt’s real form.
That causes his Aunt Tasha to frown.
There was worry hidden in his nephew’s words, which is surprising considering how confident and happy his nephew has been for the past two years since the war ended. Though still had constant headaches due to a certain someone.
“Of course, why would I not?”
“… I’m glad.”
Alberu smiled gently before looking away from his still worried aunt.
He looked out of the huge window and is surprised. Everything seems different from what he remembered. The palace and gardens, it’s better taken and everything’s shining and more beautiful.
Alberu is sure that would take a huge sum of money to make the Palace this beautiful. And the Roan kingdom does not have that, not when they are in the middle of a war.
‘Where am I? Where is this place?’
This is not his Kingdom.
It’s too peaceful.
Everything does not make any sense to him.
Alberu glance at his aunt.
“Though I am confused. I must have been very tired lately but I seem to not have my disguise?”
Tasha frowned.
“Alberu, are you having doubts about yourself again?”
His aunt move and stood beside him.
“I thought you are almost over it now. How many times do we have to tell you that we love you as you are? This is you and your people accepted and love you, us, and our family. Young master Cale.”
The crown prince frowned.
That Cale Henituse again.
Alberu wondered why everyone keeps on mentioning the former noble when Alberu has nothing to do with him.
“About young master Cale.”
Tasha looked at Alberu with a raised eyebrow but still spoke.
“Ah, yes. They will arrive here shortly. I guess the young master is stopping by to ask for some pocket money.”
“Pocket money?”
Why is a former noble asking the crown prince for pocket money like some younger brother with his older sibling?
“Yes, for their vacation. As the doting older brother you are, of course, you still spoil him. You hardly deny him anything.”
Now that’s something.
He could not believe what he was hearing.
The crown prince is a Hyung who dotes on his Dongsaeng who is also Cale Henituse. Him and him.
‘I’m going crazy.’
“Shall we head out and have some fresh air?”
His aunt offered but Alberu was reluctant.
He wanted to use magic to dye his hair and turn his skin back to white but hearing his aunt’s confident voice, he wanted to try.
“… I can try.”
His aunt smiled and they walked out of the office. Of course, Alberu chose the route he knows does not have that many servants.
Contrary to his worry, the soldiers simply greet but there is no disgust. They did not even spare them a side glance or anything that would give away their hate.
Perhaps, Alberu is dreaming.
Yes, he is dreaming. This is exactly what he had been wishing for.
A place where he can be himself, honest and happy, with his people loving the real him, respect, and admire. A place that can only exist in dreams.
‘But I have to wake up soon.’
He has a war to worry about.
However, as they walk, there is something that Alberu notices.
Although everything is more beautiful and different, it is still quite the same. However, there is this one particular huge building that he can see and it is the only thing that was added that did not originally exist.
“What is that building again?”
Tasha stops walking and looks in the direction he was looking.
“Oh, that? Did you already forget? That is our Roan Empire’s newly made National Museum.”
“Come again?”
There are two things Alberu is shocked about.
First, his aunt said Roan Empire. When?
Second, a new museum? They already have one but another is added. For a new one to be built only means they have gathered enough historical achievements and moments to make an entire museum dedicated to it.
‘Did a war happen after all?’
They also did have wars.
If a museum is already built and it is peaceful, did it end already?
Looking at Alberu’s current body, he could tell he is much younger than he supposedly is.
“Yes. Everything it contains is regarding the war that has been happening over the past years. Also, our heroes and you, the sun who had become the true Sun of our Empire with his Moon young master Cale, the Supreme Commander, is the ones that led us to victories.”
“Huh…?”
His aunt looks at him emotionally.
“Alberu. You are the true sun of our Roan. You have always been. I could never be more proud. I’m sure your mother is too.”
Alberu could not speak.
He chooses not to speak.
‘The true sun.’
Can he truly become the sun?