Archive of Our Own

Scott relaxed on the stone terrace of his private pavilion, sipping on wine as he took in the view. It was an open-air gallery overlooking a moonlight courtyard and the city below. He had many residences throughout the area, but this was one of his favorites.

This home wasn't far from the main theater he acted at, so it was where Scott often held afterparties and rested after his shows there.

However, Scott was feeling a bit more tired than usual tonight – sometimes, the masks were... tougher to maintain – so after bidding farewell to his adoring fans, manager, and guards, he had retreated to this space. Accompanied only by his closest friend, a wealthy noblewoman named Shelby, for company.

Scott lazily swirled his glass of wine, leaning back against a pile of plush silk cushion spread as he recounted the highlights of the performance to her. Shelby was sitting across from him at the table, listening intently to his recap as she also snacked on the various refreshments.

Shelby was a dedicated patron of the arts who had fervently supported Scott's dream of acting since they were children, but her horrible accident six months ago had left her blinded. However, she refused to stop coming to his performances, ignoring the whispers of other audience members and fretting of her overprotective family that it may be "too much" for her.

Scott, of course, was happy to describe every visual detail of the performances. They had always spent time together talking after shows, and this was no different. Blindness or not, their friendship wouldn't change. If anything, they had become closer.

"–and during the monologue, I had the stagehands drop the crimson silks from the rafters right as the lighting shifted," Scott explained, passing her a tray of her favorite cheese and crackers that he had imported from another city. "When the lamps caught it from below, it cast a heavy, tragic shadow across the entire orchestra floor. It completely shifted the mood before I even said a word."

"Oooooh, that makes sense!" Shelby said, popping a grape into her mouth. "I was wondering why everyone was suddenly silent–"

She stopped, her body going rigid.

Scott was confused until her head turned toward the windows.

"Someone's climbing up."

Scott immediately sat up, his playful demeanor vanishing into sharp alertness. He knew better than to ever doubt Shelby. Ever since the tragic accident that had blinded her half a year ago, the rest of high society treated her as though she were completely helpless and needed aide in every little thing.

But Scott knew the truth.

Even with her new condition, Shelby was far from disabled. In fact, her lack of vision had only drastically increased her other senses, making her more aware of her surroundings than ever before. Often, such as times like this, she noticed issues far before Scott or anyone else did.

For a moment, neither of them breathed.

Then Scott could hear it too.

It wasn't the heavy, synchronized sandals of the patrolling guards. Instead, it was the muffled, hushed sound of foots scraping against the stone wall. And with it, two distinct male voices bickering.

"–Nikos," hissed a low, smooth voice. "When I said you couldn’t see him because there were too many people around, this is not what I meant!"

"It's fine, it's fine!" a second voice dismissed with a booming laugh. His voice was bright, rich, and thick with a foreign accent. "We will be quick!"

Scott raised a brow as two massive, uninvited figures hoisted themselves over the ledge, stepping into the warm glow of Scott's lamps.

Instead of immediately calling for the guards, Scott tilted his head, moving his trademark poofy hair form his eyes as he evaluated the intruders.

The first man was large, heavily tattooed, and entirely shirtless to Scott's approval. He was practically radiating a carefree, wild energy that made a selfish, tightly wound part of Scott's chest twinge with envy. Especially since it was clear this man was some sort of foreigner which, well, most citizens didn't take well to and treated rather poorly on a regular basis.

Not that Scott had the same opinions. He preferred to judge people on how they directly treated him and others, though he would admit this newcomer was incredibly exotic and different from any other man he'd seen.

And Scott had seen a lot of men in his travels for acting.

The second man was also a solid wall of muscle with ginger hair and orange eyes. He seemed to be some sort of fighter as well given his scars and the sword at his side.

But unlike his companion, this man was tense. Very tense. He seemed to be very aware of the danger of sneaking into a famous actor's private home at night. The fighter's hand hovered near his sword, his eyes continuously glancing at the exits, but he didn't seem like he had come to harm Scott or Shelby. Just cautious and reasonably expecting the guards to be called at any second.  

Scott knew he should likely be more worried about two warrior-like men sneaking into his room in the middle of the night, but he prided himself at being excellent at reading others.

And as far as he could tell... neither man meant him or Shelby any harm.

It also helped, Scott noted with a slow, internal smirk, that both of these men were devastatingly handsome.

Scott relaxed his posture, leaning back against the pillows with an intrigued smile.

"I usually prefer not to entertain guests without an appointment," Scott purred, pointedly looking up and down at the men. "But I suppose I can make an exception for such attractive gentlemen."

The second man raised a skeptical eyebrow, still tense. "I'm not sure gentlemen would sneak into private homes in the middle of the night."

The tattooed man laughed loudly, slapping his companion on the back. "The fun ones do, my Pretty One!"

"Very true," Scott agreed, eyes locked to the broad expanse of that tattooed chest before shifting back to their faces. "However, if you wish to rectify your lack of manners, may I have your names? I'm sure you already know my own."

"No, actually," the cautious man admitted, his tone dry. "I think we heard it being yelled a few times after the show – excellent, uh, work by the way – but your name seemed... very long."

Scott blinked, momentarily thrown off his stride. He wasn't trying to be arrogant, but it was very unusual to find someone within this city – within this province – who didn't immediately know who he was, his birthday, his favorite snacks, where he liked to shop...

Beside him, Shelby let out a soft giggle, clearly teasing Scott for his surprise. The actor nudged her playfully before straightening, smoothing down his clothing to make himself look more presentable.

"My apologies then," Scott said before giving a theatrical bow from the waist. "I am Scott Antonis Mattheos Pagona Pavlos the Third."

The tattooed man blinked. "What?"

"I am Scott Antonis Mattheos Pavonga Pavlos the Third," Scott repeated, inwardly smirking at the familiar response. "But my friends and fans call me Scott."

"I will call you Scott," the tattooed man declared with a solemn nod.

"I will also call you Scott," the cautious man said, rubbing the bridge of his nose.

Scott pressed down a giggle.

From her seat, Shelby offered a sympathetic smile toward the intruders. "It helps if you write it down."

Smothering another laugh, Scott gestured towards the two men.

"And the names of you two gentlemen?" Scott fluttered his eyelashes with flirtatious intent. "I do love anticipation, but you're keeping me in quite the suspense."

The cautious man snorted, though a bit of the rigid tension in his shoulders melted.

But just a fraction.

Hmm, looks like I'll have to work harder to get him completely relaxed, Scott smirked. But I do love a good challenge.

"Nikos Legundo," the tattooed man stated proudly, throwing his shoulders back and puffing his chest in a way that Scott approved very much.

"I'm Abolish," the cautious man said with a short nod of his head.

"Charmed." Scott gestured grandly towards the lavish spread of food and drinks on the low table in front of him and Shelby. "Grapes? Honey cakes? Roasted lamb? Please, help yourselves. I particularly recommend the wine."

"Oh! Don't mind if I do!" Nikos let out a delighted cheer, lunging for the refreshments and meat without a single shred of hesitation. "It has been far too long since I've had any good wine!"

"You should also try the cheese and crackers," Shelby offered kindly, turning her head towards the sound of Nikos's enthusiastic chewing. "Scott got them imported from the sister province, and they are simply to die for!"

Nikos stuffed a handful of crackers in his mouth, nodding his head in appreciation as he chewed thoughtfully.

"Yes, yes, very tasty!" He swallowed, grinning brightly at her. "Thank you, Blind One!"

"Please don't take it personally," Abolish rushed to say before Scott could think to react. "Nikos rarely uses actual names."

Shelby giggled. Scott knew her well enough to see that she wasn't offended. He found that he wasn't either. Nikos spoke with a rugged, blunt honesty that lacked even a drop of malice. It seemed that he simply 'called things as he saw them' without caring what the rest of society thought.

It was rather refreshing, actually. Especially in Scott and Shelby's world filled of high-society sycophants, silver-tongued nobility, and two-faced theatrical crowds.

More than that, ever since Shelby had lost her sight, the rest of the world treated her like glass at best. Others whispered pityingly behind her back, carefully danced around the world 'blind', or spoke to her with a patronizing, slow gentleness that was more than a bit sanctimonious. A way to show how 'good' they were by turning every basic interaction into a public display.

But this Nikos?

He didn't talk down to her. He didn't treat Shelby like some tragic script. He stated her blindness like how he would state the color someone's hair.

For a noblewoman tired of so many walking on eggshells around her, Scott knew that Nikos's bluntness was one of the greatest courtesy he could give.

"I'm Shelby," she said brightly. "But feel free to call me whatever you'd like. Though, we have a friend named Owen who is also blind, so things may get a bit confusing if you called us both that. Should you encounter him, of course."

Shelby paused. "Though, if you do, maybe don't call him Blind One. I don't think Owen would mind, but our... friend Apo would. She'd probably try to claw your eyes out. Which, since she is a bird hybrid, she absolutely can do."

And more, Scott thought, hiding a snort. Even if Apo tries to avoid trouble due to her whole secret revolution work, few things trigger her more than people mistreating her flock. Even if unintentionally. Especially when it involves her inner group, the Feather Holders.

"I'll keep that in mind!" Nikos said brightly. "This Bird sounds like she would be a fun fight!" He gave Shelby an examining look. "You have been very kind and generous... so I shall call you Generous One!"

Shelby giggled. "This is all Scott's food and drink. I'm just mooching."

"Says the one who regularly donates a ludicrous amount of funds to support my shows," Scott said playfully. "It's only because you spoil me so much that I can have such lavish feasts like this after every show."

"I have to!" Shelby shot back indignantly, though she was smiling. "You have so many crazy rich fans who donate even more ridiculous sums! You deserve it, of course, but I've got to protect my spot as your top fan!"

"I think Drift would oppose to that title," Scott said with a smirk.

"Drift and I can fight to the death over it," Shelby said seriously.

Drift was Scott's new personal doctor that they'd met only a few months. She'd taken over after his previous doctor had retired. Immediately after meeting, Drift had declared herself Scott's biggest fan. She was respectful and extremely competent at her work, but often squabbled with Shelby over who knew Scott's plays better. It was a very amusing and welcomed friendship for Scott and Shelby both.

Nikos gave a booming laugh at Shelby's words. "I would like to see that, Generous One! I have feeling that you would surprise quite a few in a fight!"

"I would!" Shelby said, brightening even more at the warrior's confidence. Most people thought she couldn't even walk around a room by herself, nevertheless win a fight. "You wouldn't believe the scraps that Scott and I got into when we were younger."

"Oooh?" Nikos sent an intrigued look at Scott, making the actor's skin heat up at the way the warrior looked him over appreciatively. "You fight, Pretty One?"

"Not since becoming a popular in my acting, no." Scott angled himself in a way that made it easier for Nikos to look. He could tell Nikos appreciated it with the way his dark eyes grew even hotter. "But I do keep up a good work out with all my training and stage fighting."

And sparring with Pearl and the others, Scott thought. Of course, I can't mention that. Why would an actor like myself need to spar, after all? Even I've said that I'm more of a lover than a fighter, but Owen insists that we must be 'prepared' and all. Prepared for what, I don't know, but I've learned to trust his words.

Scott paused, noticing something.

"Pretty One?" Scott asked, smiling flirtatiously. "While I do quite enjoy the name, did you not call your companion here that title when you arrived? Not that I object, of course." He looked Abolish up and down. "You are definitely very pretty."

Abolish snorted, but he didn't seem displeased at Scott's appreciation. "Nikos has called too many people Pretty Ones, so he rotates through titles now."

"He is also Fiery One and Hot One!" Nikos said in agreement. "And many more, depending!"

"Then what about me?" Scott fluttered his eyelashes playfully. "I'm feeling a bit left out on the personal nicknames here. Surely I deserve something unique given how unique I am?"

Very unique, a dark voice whispered in the back of Scott's head. Unique in that you're not unique at all. How could you be when you simply just change your mask to fit whatever the situation requires? Just another fraud desperate to make others like you, even though there's no you in reality. How sickening.

Scott ignored the familiar voice with practiced ease, watching Nikos expectantly for his answer.

"Hmm..." Nikos stroked his chin then nodded. "How about Windy One? And Pretty Actor, of course. That is what I called you when Fiery One and I were enjoying your show – and what a show it was!"

"Always glad when I can entertain," Scott said, though he let a bit of surprise fill his face. "And why Windy One? My father does worship the god Aeolus, and I do as well even if in a more leisurely matter, but it's not exactly common knowledge. Especially if you didn't know about me before this."

Nikos reached out, his thick calloused fingers hovering just inches away from Scott's head. Abolish looked tensed, as if preparing for Scott to scream, but the actor didn't flinch as Nikos touched his fluffy white hair.

Surprisingly, those large, muscled fingers were... quite gentle. Warm. Soothing.

"Your hair," Nikos said in answer, returning his hand to his side (to Scott's hidden disappointment). "It's very... poofy."

"Ah. Fair." Scott brushed up his hair, enjoying the way it bounced and hovered like clouds. "I believe that I must have been blessed by Aeolus after praising him during one performance, because since then, I have possessed stunning volume as you can see."

Which is accurate enough, Scott thought. I know that Owen knows something more about the subject, but he refuses to tell me. Or tell any of our group about certain... strange occurrences that have been happening this past year. But unfortunately, Owen will not budge until we're all 'gathered' and 'the time is right'. So, until that very unspecific time... I suppose I'll just have to live in suspense. If nothing else, I quite enjoy my new look.

Scott's gaze then drifted to Abolish who was still standing like a sentinel at the balcony's edge.

"Aren't you going to eat, Abolish?" Scott gestured to the table that was still quite filled with food and drinks even with Nikos steadily wolfing it down.

Shelby was also a decently big eater herself, which was partially why Scott had ordered so much food. The leftovers they could always save and share with the others they would be seeing tomorrow.

"You really look like you could use some refreshments," Scott continued, trying not to sound too pushy, but also welcoming. "From the sounds of it, you saw my show, but unless you sat in the special luxury boxes, the theater can get quite hot and sweaty – and not in a good way."

Abolish didn't move. He stared at Scott, his dark orange eyes still narrowed in caution.

"So..." His eyes went to the door, and then back to Scott. "You're really not going to call the guards?"

"I see no reason to," Scott replied truthfully. "Yet, at least. If you do not intend to harm me, I have no issue with having two handsome men keep my friend and I company."

"Yeah!" Shelby chimed in, waving in Abolish's direction for him to come over. "It was a surprise to hear you climbing up, but you both sound very nice. I mean, it's Scott's choice of course, since it's his terrace, but if he say it's fine, I'm fine!"

Abolish looked between Shelby's blindfolded face and Scott's relaxed, amused expression.

"...fine." The fighter let out a long, defeated sigh. "If you're really not going to call the guards... I guess it's nice to meet you too."

"Come, sit my friend!" Nikos beckoned, grinning as a still tense Abolish slowly walked over. "You need to eat more. You are thin like twig."

Abolish rolled his eyes. "I told you before. I'm used to surviving on less rations."

"This is not the arena, my Fiery One!" Nikos said, pushing a plate of roasted chestnuts and dried food his way. "Come, eat up! Generous One and Pretty Windy One said they do not mind!"

"Arena?" Shelby asked curiously.

Abolish tensed. His expression became guarded once more.

"I'm a retired gladiator," he said neutrally, watching their expressions carefully. "I won my freedom and am now a blacksmith."

"A fellow entertainer, excellent," Scott said, tipping his wine towards Abolish in respect. "Explains where you get all those muscles."

Abolish relaxed, giving a snort. "You seem to have a one track mind, don't you?"

"You can't blame me when I'm suddenly exposed to all this," Scott said dramatically, gesturing at them up and down. He glanced at Shelby. "And I know that I haven't been subtle, but they are very attractive. Nikos is also shirtless, which... woof."

"Oh?" The foreign man flexed his arms, his biceps displaying in a way that made Scott's throat go completely dry. "You like what you see, Pretty Actor?"

"Very much," Scott agreed without a shred of shame. "To describe them further, Shelby, Nikos is a large man with long, brown hair, a beard of the same color, and hazel eyes. He has earrings in each ear and a scar across his nose. He is, again, shirtless, which allows me to see what looks to be a tattoo of a spiral on his chest, a sun on his right shoulder, and a moon on his left."

The actor turned to the other man. "As for Abolish, he has a leaner build than Nikos, but is still quite muscled. He has short, ginger-brown hair and orange eyes. He's very pretty, but looks like he could snap you in half."

Abolish raised a brow at that, but didn't disagree which made Scott's heart flutter faster.

"Ooooh, yeah, they sound incredibly hot," Shelby agreed. She laughed, holding her hands up. "Not that I'm interested, of course. I'm engaged."

Scott's playful demeanor immediately dimmed, his jaw tightening reflexively.

"An affliction that should be remedied," Scott muttered beneath his breath.

Hmm, a bit too much wine perhaps, Scott thought, frowning inwardly at how loose-tongue he was. To be fair, I didn't expect anyone but Shelby and I tonight. Oh well, I spoke rather quietly, so maybe our guests didn't hear me properly?

However, it was clear that Abolish had heard Scott clearly. The retired gladiator's brow furrowed, studying Scott carefully.

"And why should her engagement be 'remedied'? Seems like an... odd statement to make."

Scott studied the former gladiator. He noted the way that, even with Nikos' encouragement, Abolish still hadn't eaten or drank anything.

"I'll tell you if you actually eat something and relax," Scott said finally, taking another sip of his wine. His flirtatious smirk came back in full force. "You're making me feel like such a terrible host."

Abolish still didn't move, frowning in contemplation.

"If it'd make you more comfortable..." Scott leaned in closer, giving Abolish a heavy, loaded look. "You could lay your head on my lap, and I could feed you myself? I would be happy to, if you'd like."

Abolish's cheeks lit up with a light pink that immediately drove Scott mad. It was very difficult to keep himself in his seat, fingers flexing to get even closer to the handsome man.

It was easier to distract himself when Nikos let out a booming laugh.

"Do it, my Fiery One!" Nikos said eagerly, nudging Abolish insistently with his elbow. "I will not be jealous, I promise!"

"Yeah, really wasn't worried about that," Abolish muttered, his cheeks still pink, but his expression returning to a controlled, practiced neutral.

Scott pouted. Sometimes it was a shame dealing with others who had experience entertaining and performing for a crowd. It meant that they, like Scott, could control their expressions and make it far more difficult to see what they were actually thinking or feeling.

However, Scott must have done something right because Abolish finally began to snack on some of the chestnuts. And then begrudgingly took a meat skewer that Nikos thrust in his direction. The former gladiator still didn't go anywhere near the wine, but Scott absolutely counted it as a win.

After all, the night was still young.

"Alright, I'm eating," Abolish said, chewing slowly as he looked expectantly at Scott. "Explain your earlier comment."

Scott sighed, his expression turning serious. "I have nothing against marriage. It can be a beautiful thing..."

He glanced towards Shelby.

"...if it's between two equally beautiful people."

Abolish frowned. Scott realized that he probably thought the actor was insulting his friend for being blind.

Nikos, however, took the words in a completely different direction. His surprisingly sharp eyes darted to Shelby. "Her intended... he is ugly of heart?"

"Very ugly," Scott agreed. "The worst."

"He is not!" Shelby protested. "Petros is a great man! He's just... been distant since my accident!"

"If it even was an accident," Scott muttered.

"It was!" Shelby insisted. At the confusion on the other two men's faces, she explained. "I haven't always been blind. It was only half a year ago that I had my... accident."

"Shelby, darling." Scott's voice dropped its theatricality entirely, filling with a familiar frustration and intense worry. "You truly believe that lightning just randomly struck the exact cliff you were standing on? The same isolated cliff that you had been led up to while entirely blindfolded? With no attendants and no guards anywhere nearby?"

"It was a surprise for his proposal!" Shelby protested. "Petros knows how much I get tired of being followed around by attendants, so he wanted to make it just the two of us! It was meant to be super romantic!"

"Maybe," Scott said in a tone that said he didn't believe that at all. Perhaps about some other guy, but not Petros who had been a negligent at best to Shelby since they had first been engaged as kids. "But then it took nearly an entire day for anyone to find you. And it was only because your dear fiancé insisted to the search parties that he didn't know where you were!"

"He was hurt by the lightning as well!" Shelby argued, though her voice lacked conviction. "The lightning hit so suddenly and made him pass out, so it only makes sense Petros would be confused as to what happened when he awoke! For all he knew, I had ran to go get help, but got lost! Not to mention, it was far too dangerous to search the cliffs and forest at night–"

"You nearly died, Shelby!" Scott snapped, voice cracking with the memory of that terrifying night. "You would have died if Owen hadn't– if I hadn't forced my own personal guards and an entire security force to go out there! If your 'lovely' fiancé had actually acted immediately, maybe the physicians could have saved your eyesight! But he didn't. He waited."

Suddenly, Scott remembered that they had an audience.

(Why did he keep forgetting that? It wasn't like him. Even with wine, Scott was ashamed of himself.)

Scott cleared his throat, glancing over to see what the two strangers thought.

Nikos's expression was incredibly dark, but it didn't seem to be directed towards Scott for causing such a disruption. The carefree, laughing man had vanished, replaced by a cold, lethal warrior that made Scott's heart pound.

"The Windy One is right," Nikos said bluntly. "He tried to kill you, Generous One."

Abolish set his food down, a deep frown on his face. "Not that it's our place to say... but absolutely. That Petros guy wanted you gone. Or at least, didn't care what happened to you as long as he was fine."

"What a selfish and unworthy intended," Nikos growled, fists clenching at his side. "Accident or not, and it does not sound like accident, that is no proper partner. A man who leaves his love to die and suffer in the dark is no man at all."

Woof, Scott thought, a heavy shiver running down his spine. The sheer, protective fury radiating off both Nikos and Abolish was even more intoxicating than the wine.

He quickly shook himself out of it and focused back on his friend.

"See, Shelby?" Scott said, voice becoming gentler. It felt nice having others support him in this. Nearly everyone else, besides Drift and their odd group of friends, believed Petros's convenient sob story. "Even these two completely unbiased gentlemen think the exact same thing."

"M-Maybe," Shelby admitted, wilting as her fingers twisted in her skirts. "But you... you know I can't just break the engagement. Our parents arranged it long ago. It's... just what everyone wants to happen."

Besides you, Scott thought darkly.

Abolish crossed his arms over his chest, a thoughtful look on his intense face.

"You could argue that the gods do not want you two to get married," Abolish said finally. "After all, according to your fiancé’s story, a literal lightning bolt was sent down to stop his proposal. If that isn't a 'divine sign', nothing is."

Handsome and clever? Scott's mind reeled. This pretty package keeps getting better and better.

"Exactly!" Scott nodded appreciatively at Abolish. "And even if it was an accident, Petros was already neglecting you as a fiancé for years now, and he's doing it even more so now. I know you've really tried to make it work, but we've known Petros for years. Do you really think being married to him would be enjoyable?"

"Y-Yeah, well..." Shelby fumbled around the table, her hand knocking into a pitcher of wine. "Oooh, look! More wine! Let's drink more wine!"

Scott let out a heavy sigh, running a hand through his fluffy hair. He knew this was a really difficult topic for her, so he would stop pushing.

For now.

Reaching over to grab a honey-covered meat skewer, Scott noticed the way Nikos was looking back and forth between Scott and Shelby. His eyes were narrowed in thought, as if trying to read the invisible lines of their relationship.

"You two... are you together?"

"Oh heavens now," Scott answered immediately, his surprise laugh breaking the tension as Shelby laughed as well. "Just friends. Siblings almost, since we have been close since we were children. Despite what rumors you may hear, it is completely platonic between us."

"Absolutely," Shelby said in agreement. "I love Scott, but I could never see him like that." She giggled. "If I could see at all, that is."

Abolish snorted, covering his mouth subtly.

Nikos did nothing of the sort, letting out a booming laugh. "I thought so! I did not get the feeling of lovers between you, but I wanted to make sure."

"Oh?" Scott raised an eyebrow, a wicked grin returning to his face as he leaned towards the massive warrior. "Interested in my love life, are we?"

Nikos closed that distance instantly, eyes smoldering with heat.

"Very interested, Pretty Actor."

Shelby snorted, wiping off her hands and reaching for her walking stick.

"Should I go?" She stood without waiting for an answer, reaching over to give Scott a quick hug. "Cause it sounds like you're wanting to have a more... private party."

"You're the best," Scott said in a singsong voice.

Shelby giggled. "And don't you forget it! I'll see you tomorrow. You wanted to practice your lines for the new show, right?"

"It would be greatly appreciated, yes!" Scott called out. "Also, you're going to be visiting Cleo and Nobody in the forest with Drift to gather herbs, right? Bring some lotus flowers back with you!"

Shelby grinned. "You don't have to tell me twice!"

The noblewoman made her way to the door. But when she opened it, Scott could see his favorite guard and friend, Pyro, standing very closely outside of it.

Pyro, who had clearly been listening in, raised a single, unimpressed eyebrow. His gaze shifted past Shelby to the two strangers sitting inside at the table – strangers who definitely hadn't been in the room during his last check-in.

Scott just winked, waving flirtatiously at the guard. "Nothing to see here, Pyro."

"Clearly," Pyro remarked in a dry tone. His eyes locked onto Nikos and Abolish, who had subtly tensed at the guard's presence. "I thought that the outer wall was too smooth and tall to scale, so I guess I should thank you two for proving that it's not? Not entirely sure how I'll make it more secure, but suppose I'll have to think of something."

"Sausage would probably have some good ideas," Scott offered helpfully, though he kept a mischievous glint in his eyes. "Given his... various unique skills."

Pyro gave a low hum of agreement. Their friend Sausage, despite being ashamed of his past as a thief, was undoubtedly a very talented individual when it came to break into places he should not go.

In fact, that was how Scott and Sausage had first met a few months ago, with the latter having broken into the estate of a corrupt official that Scott had the misfortune of being summoned to entertain.

Scott had been taking a very needed break from the stifling party and the suffocating two-faced nobility that even he was tiring of entertaining. Wandering aimlessly, the actor had gotten entirely lost in the sprawling estate until he accidentally stumbled into the official's personal study.

There, in the middle of collecting paperwork and a few pretty trinkets, was a man that Scott would one day known as Sausage.

The elite actor and thief had both frozen, simply staring at each other for a few moments.

Then, Scott raised the cup of wine that he'd taken with him on his break.

"Want some wine?" Scott asked sympathetically, studying the thief's stressed brow and nervous disposition. "You look like you could use it more than me,"

"...no thank you," Sausage politely declined after a few moments. He cleared his throat. "I appreciate it though."

The thief paused, looking awkward.

"Do... do you mind not telling anyone I'm here?"

Scott mimicked zipping his lips before taking another casual sip of his drink.

"What?" Scot said playfully, glancing around dramatically. "Is someone there? I must have drank far too much tonight. Mistaking a shadow for a person... easy error to make and all."

Sausage had offered a fleeting, grateful look before disappearing out the open window like a ghost.

Later, Scott learned that the break-in had been a calculated mission ordered by Apokuna - an infamous revolutionary leader - to collect blackmail and damning evidence on official – intelligence that ultimately proved instrumental in that official's spectacular downfall later.

Scott had kept his word and never spoke a syllable about what he saw, though it took some serious convincing to make Apo believe him when she later cornered the actor with sharp threats and sharper talons to ensure his silence.

However, that encounter had also led to Pyro personally vouching for Scott. Apparently, Pyro was also part of Apo's revolution and even a member of her inner circle. The Feather Holders, they called themselves.  

Apo had wanted to kill Scott and ensure his silence, but Pyro had argued that Scott, despite being one of the wealthy elite, wasn't an enemy. Which was true. Despite how often Scott mingled with nobility and government officials, he was not a fan of some of... many of their policies.

The king, in particular, could absolutely go.

Scott would even toast to it.

Then Owen had vouched for Scott and, well, that was that.

Apo had been wary to discuss anything with Scott at first, but the two found that they shared a lot of similar ideals and ideas for a reformed government. And while Scott wasn't a fan of some of Apo's more violent methods, he could see that her heart was in the right place. She just wanted to protect her flock, and create a world they could all live a bit more equally.

Or, at least, a world where individuals like Sausage wouldn't have to steal just to avoid starving with his little brother and individuals like Owen wouldn't be kicked and spat at just for existing.

As a result of Scott's belief, and to help reassure Apo that he didn't need to suddenly have his throat cut in the middle of the night, Scott had been secretly helping to fund their revolutionary operations for quite some time.

Shelby, too, had been a fervent supporter to Apo's goals as well. While Apo didn't like the noble born woman, the way Shelby and Owen bonded over being blind and how they were treated by others, as well as Shelby's naturally kind personality that easily made friends, had helped soothed some ruffled feathers. 

How it worked was that Shelby would funnel her funds to Scott who would then secretly give them to Pyro or Sausage for pick-up. Shelby had always been a fervent donor to Scott before, and Scott could easily lean into his public persona as a clueless, airheaded actor who loved luxury and extravagance – which was absolutely true, of course. However, this long-made persona also made it so that it was very easy to excuse any extra spending or missing wealth.

Apo still acted as though she completely hated Scott and Shelby's guts. But the fact that she allowed them to be alone with her Feather Holders spoke volumes of how far Apo's reluctant trust in them had grown.

It wasn't quite a conventional friendship, per se, and Scott wouldn’t be entirely surprised if he suddenly woke up to Apo stabbing him in the chest, but overall, it was a surprisingly fulfilling relationship.

Just more people to lie to, that familiar voice whispered in Scott's head. You can pretend to be a good and saintly person all you want, but you know the truth... you are nothing but empty.

Good thing I have more wine to fill me up, Scott thought, taking a long sip.

At the door, Pyro sighed when it became even more obvious that Scott had no intention of having him escort the strangers out.

"Call me if you're being brutally murdered," Pyro said dryly, closing the door behind him and a giggling Shelby.

"I may scream," Scott called out, "but it probably won't be because of that!"

Scott could only imagine Pyro's groan behind the door and Shelby's giggling, but he was cut off by Nikos's booming laughter.

"You are full of surprises, Little Cloud!" Nikos said, looking even more pleased. "I am very glad that I decided to seek you out after your show!"

"Oh, right." Scott paused, realizing that he may have neglected to ask some questions he probably should have. "I should've asked earlier, why did you sneak into my home?"

"Wanted to congratulate you!" Nikos said with a booming laugh. "You was very impressive on stage." He suddenly smirked, glancing over to his partner with a look. "My Fiery One was particularly observant, if you know what I mean, no?"

"Oh?" Scott's pulsed quickened as he turned to the blacksmith. "Do tell."

Abolish huffed, looking flustered again.

"I know a thing or two about entertaining a crowd and..." His burning eyes caught Scott's, making the actor still. "Let's say, I was very entertained."

Scott swallowed, taking another sip of wine to try and soothe his suddenly parched throat. It did very little to help, but he didn't expect it to.

"Well, while I prefer fans to not break into my home, I suppose I can forgive you just this once." Scott winked. "Though I would appreciate it if you can... make it up to me in other ways too."

Abolish stared at him, a puzzled expression filing his face once more.  

"You'd really be okay with that?" Abolish asked, his voice becoming serious. "I suppose I could see you letting us have a meal, which I appreciate since Nikos eats like a bear–"

"Good food should not be wasted!" Nikos complained.

"–but allowing anything else?" Abolish frowned. "It's one thing to consider us attractive, but going further... it seems stupid. And you don't seem stupid."

Scott paused, feelings mixing on Abolish's quick assessment of him.

A part of him was genuinely surprised and flattered, but the rest of him... was cautious.

Most people didn't look beyond the mask, especially since it was ever-changing depending on the situation. The majority of people who dealt with Scott wrote him off as a pretty airheaded doll that they could order around, play with, and manipulate however they pleased. It was often a necessary evil for his work, and convenient for doing a lot of manipulations of his own, so Scott didn't do much to dissuade that idea.

But Abolish... and perhaps even Nikos with the way he wasn't disagreeing with anything the blacksmith said, had seen through Scott's surface mask so easily.

It made Scott think of how the four of them – Scott, Shelby, Nikos, and Abolish – had started almost immediately bantering upon meeting. And then sharing details on Shelby's accident and issues with her fiancé. It had been... oddly natural. As if they had known each other for far longer than they had.

(Or, perhaps, that they were meant to know each other.)

It was similar to the very strange connection Scott had felt upon meeting Pyro, Sausage, Apo, and Owen. As well as when meeting other friends like Drift, Pearl, Cleo, and Nobody (though the latter two forest-dwellers were far more wary about calling the others their friends).

I wonder what Owen would think of these two, Scott mused silently, taking a sip of his wine. I know Owen has those... visions, which allows him to know things about Shelby and I that we didn't tell him, or at least didn't tell him 'yet'. But he has also implied that there are twelve of us who are 'connected in both life and death'. Since we only have ten of us in our group thus far...

Perhaps these two fine gentleman are the final members of that supposed twelve?

Maybe there weren't and it was just the wine making Scott overthink it.

But then again... there was that conversation he'd had with Owen...

Scott and Shelby had been visiting the Feather Holder's base, having been able to sneak away from their attendants under the excuse of 'shopping' with Pyro as their guard. Even if Pyro was only one person, there was no denying his fighting prowess and fearsome reputation. Even Shelby's protective family had begrudgingly agreed.

"Why so secretive, darling?" Scott had asked playfully. "You've already shared quite a bit of your visions, why not share some more?"  

He was holding Owen's hand gently, his fingers steady as he carefully filed the other man's nails. The nails were in rough condition, which was completely understandable given Owen's previous homeless state. Scott had made it his personal mission to repair and beautify them whenever possible during their visits.

Owen, despite being blind, did get visions of what his nails would look like with Scott's efforts, and thus had been a willing and grateful participant. He also said that the way Scott did his nails would prevent future hangnails and chipping, which was also greatly appreciated.

From a perch in the corner of the room, Apo watched them like a hawk. She didn't seem to think (anymore) that Scott would potentially harm Owen or the others, but you would never get her to admit that. Not to mention, she seemed to thoroughly enjoy trying to psyche out Scott and the other 'interlopers' with her intense, unblinking glare.

Scott merely concealed a snort and continued with his meticulous work.   

"If twelve of us really are connected to each other as your visions say..." Scott continued, lightly brushing a coat of clear base over Owen's thumb. "Then wouldn't it be nice to meet each other earlier? Oh, and would you like your nail polish color to match Apo's feathers again? Or, perhaps, I could do a bright statement color, and then paint an image of her feathers upon each nail?" 

"Some things must happen in the time they are meant to," Owen said, shaking his head. The slight movement caught the light, making his necklace with Apo's feather on it gleam. He then paused, a shy smile touching his lips. "And... I would like the latter design, please. I-If you don't mind, of course. It must be a lot of work–"

"No work at all!" Scott beamed, already shifting his focus to select the perfect shade. "You wouldn't believe how many times I've had to redo my makeup in a last minute, pre-show rush. Not to boast, but I truly am an expert."

Apo snorted mockingly, but kept her eyes on Scott as his hands searched his case of nail polishes.  

He kept his fingers moving purposefully until he caught the subtle, approving twitch of Apo's wingers in the corner. Matching her silent endorsement, he plucked the corresponding vial from his kit. Apo scowled, obviously aware that Scott had been watching her reaction, but she didn't object.

"We're friends, Owen," Scott continued, shaking the vial before opening it carefully. "I know it hasn't been long in the grand scheme of things, but I... truly enjoy the company of you and the others. All of us are from such different walks of life, but there's an odd..."

"Kinship," Shelby called out from where she was playing, and winning, chess against Sausage at a table across from them. "A connection."

Pyro and Pearl were spectating the chess game with amusement, though Scott was pretty sure the latter was stealing and swapping pieces on Sausage's side. Not because she thought Shelby needed the help, but because it was admittedly very amusing to see Sausage struggle to find a way to win the game with Pearl blatantly swiping and rearranging the pieces at random.

Scott is pretty sure he'd heard Shelby call this 'version' of the game 'even more fun than usual' and was encouraging Pearl to swap and steal out her pieces too.

(He could only imagine how Nobody, who could be a bit serious and delightfully wound up at times, would be losing his head in outrage if he was here. Especially since Pearl would undoubtedly goad Nobody into playing against her despite the fact that it rarely turned out well for the male hunter.)

"Kinship and connection, yes," Scott nodded, finished with the first coat of polish on Owen's nails. He blew on them, which did a surprisingly good job of drying them near instantly. His breathing exercises must have been paying off. "Which is why I'm particularly eager to know who the 'final members' of our cast of twelve are."

"Maybe you won't be the ones to meet them," Apo called out, her wings fluttering in approval as Scott began to carefully depict an image of her feathers on Owen's nails. "We already have enough of you wealthy elite in our ranks. We don't need more."

Scott snorted. "You can never have too much money."

"The king does," Apo said flatly. "I look forward to burning his treasury to the ground."

"Hear hear!" Sausage called out from the corner, before gasping in outrage as Pearl stole his king piece. "Hey, I need that!"

Pearl sneered playfully. "I thought you didn't want a king?"

"In real life, not the game!"

"This is the game of life, Sausage! Get good!"

To the surprise of all of them, Owen suddenly started chuckling. They all looked at the blind man, staring at the unusual – but warming – sight of the man looking amused. He was usually always so stressed, worried, or lost in thought (and visions), so it was nice to see him smiling with such a relaxed air.

"They aren't nobles," Owen said to Apo's unspoken question. "Though you may be... similarly unfond of them. Especially one in particular. At first, at least."

Owen paused, seeming to think over his words carefully. Even if he couldn’t visibly see, he could tell that everyone in the room was listening intently. Most of their strange group had been convinced of his supernatural abilities and knowledge after spending some time in his presence (even the suspicious and skeptical Nobody), so they knew that ignoring Owen's words would only be detrimental to themselves.  

"You already know that the paths Chronos displays for me aren't in a straight line," Owen said finally. "I see hundreds of diverging roads, alternate timelines that can or cannot be. In the beginning, the majority of the visions I received were from a world and future that no longer exist for us."

Owen paused, a hint of tragedy in his expression. "That world... that arena... even if it is the origin of our bond, I am selfishly relieved that we do not exist there, and never will. However, it does not mean that our bonds or futures in this life will be any less complex. Or dangerous. We must all work together in order to ensure those tragedies and more are not repeated. However..."

It was then that Owen gave Scott a surprisingly sly smirk.

It was very rare to see the blind former beggar treat Scott so casually, even with his visions that had apparently foretold of their friendship even before the two had met. Scott knew it wasn't a personal dislike for the actor in particular. It was just reflexive after how long Owen had spent being mistreated, insulted, and degraded by others his entire life – especially those of Scott's wealth status.

But for the first time, Owen seemed to be treating Scott as a comfortable companion he could playfully tease.

"You, my friend..." Owen chuckled to himself. "I can assure you that you will be very pleased when you do meet the final two of our group."

Scott paused, the brush hovering just above Owen's nail.

The seer's words felt... very different from his usual cryptic self. Some visions were too painful or too detrimental to reveal, but the way Owen was talking now... it sounded like he was keeping Scott in suspense for the sheer fun of it.

"What do you mean?"

Owen only continued to smirk, wiggling his newly painted fingers.

"You will see."

"Windy One?" Nikos asked, bringing Scott from his thoughts. "Get lost in your thoughts?"

"Probably too much wine," Abolish said, though he was watching Scott closely.

"Apologies," Scott said, bringing himself firmly back to the present. How could keep being so rude as to ignore such lovely men? Perhaps he did have too much wine.

No such thing, Scott thought a moment later. 

"As to answer your previous question, Abolish..." Scott said, regaining his train of thought from before. "Let's just say that I have a very good feeling about you two." Scott winked. "Feelings that I wouldn't mind exploring in the future, even. And the present, of course. I promise to give you many things to enjoy if you’re willing to indulge me."

Nikos laughed. "I look forward to it, Pretty Actor! And speaking of things to look forward to..."

The warrior moved around the table, practically boxing Scott into his spot. Not that the actor minded the view, nor did he mind what was sure to come next.

"I believe Fiery One and I would look forward to seeing your bed." Nikos leaned closer, his hot breath tickling Scott's ear. "With you in it." 

Scott giggled, swiftly darting from beneath Nikos's frame before the warrior could grab him. He could tell Nikos was impressed with how fast and nimble the actor was. Training with Pearl and the others had done wonders for developing his personal skills.

"I suppose I could," Scott said with a dramatic sigh. "I wouldn't be a very good host if I didn't give you any place to rest, now would I?"

To the side, Abolish snorted, but he also stood up. His eyes resembled the flames of a forge as he studied Scott intently.  

"Lead the way," he said in a low, heated murmur that made Scott's heart skip a beat.

Scott swallowed, feeling oddly excited. And nervous in a way that he couldn't recall since his very first days on the stage.

He wasn't sure if these two were the final two cast members from Owen's visions, but Scott knew that as long as these two men were around... he was in for a very good show.