Lord of Entertainment C37 How is your career?

The representatives from Harmony Records were practically salivating at the prospect of signing me, their eyes gleaming with the promise of profit and prestige.

Liam, the youngest and most enthusiastic, leaned in eagerly. "We could really help make your 'grunge' style a global sensation. As the creator of this new genre, you'd be revered worldwide."

Elena nodded vigorously, her polished exterior barely containing her excitement. "You could be the next Lucas Hades," she added, her voice filled with awe at the mere mention of the name. "Imagine having fans across every continent, selling out concerts in countries you've never even visited."

I chuckled inwardly at their transparent attempt to tempt me. The comparison to Lucas Hades was both flattering and amusing. While becoming the "new Lucas Hades" was certainly possible, it was far from guaranteed.

"That's quite a comparison," I said, my tone measured. "Lucas Hades was a once-in-a-generation talent."

Garrett nodded sagely. "Indeed he was. But we believe you have that same spark, that ability to transcend cultural boundaries with your music."

As they continued their pitch, my mind wandered to the legend of Lucas Hades. He was indeed iconic, loved by elves, dwarves, and humans alike. Even demons, despite their outward indifference, couldn't resist the allure of his music. I'd noticed his songs playing in the demon realm more often than anyone cared to admit.

Lucas's story was one of dedication and perseverance.

His story was one of pure dedication - a poor boy who lived and breathed music, grinding out his fame from nothing. Lucas had devoted his entire life to his craft, a commitment that had paid off in ways no one could have anticipated.

What truly set Lucas apart, however, was the magical quality of his music. It wasn't just emotionally moving; it was literally magical. His songs had the power to influence the moods of his listeners, inducing calm, happiness, sadness, or even anger at will.

This extraordinary gift, I knew, was the result of a blessing from Lunaria, the elven goddess. Somehow, Lucas's unwavering dedication to his art had caught the attention of a deity, resulting in a fusion of music and magic that was unprecedented in this world.

If Lucas were alive today, there's no telling how powerful he might have become. His mysterious death 20 years ago had only added to his legend, leaving behind a legacy that loomed large over the music industry.

I was certain that my "grunge" style could match or even surpass Lucas's songs in terms of catchiness and charm. The raw energy and emotional honesty of grunge had a power all its own, one that resonated deeply with audiences.

However, I harbored no illusions about competing with the literal magic that Lunaria had bestowed upon Lucas. I couldn't replicate the divine touch that had made his music truly otherworldly.

Despite the allure of their offer, I knew better than to jump in headfirst. There were countless factors to consider, potential pitfalls to avoid. I took a moment, carefully crafting my response.

"Well, it's not that I'm not tempted by your offer," I began, pausing to glance briefly at Rocky, a subtle reminder of my existing commitments. "But there's so much to consider... I think I may need some time to think it over carefully."

The three executives exchanged knowing glances, their smiles never wavering. Garrett, ever the smooth talker, nodded understandingly. "Of course, we completely understand. You're right, there is indeed much to consider."

I returned their smile, deciding to show a bit more of my hand. "Yes... For instance, the contract. I'd likely need a lawyer to review it, to ensure my interests are protected."

Elena's eyebrows rose slightly, an amused glint in her eye. "Not as naive as you look, are you?" she quipped, her tone light but assessing.

We all shared a laugh, the tension in the room easing slightly. "Indeed," I replied, my voice tinged with false modesty. "I know a little about these things."

Liam chuckled, shooting a look at Elena. "And here we thought we'd be able to tempt you like an evil demon," he joked, oblivious to the irony of his words.

I had to stifle a genuine laugh at that comment. If only they knew. "Well," I said, allowing a hint of mischief to color my tone, "you might need to practice your temptation skills. A real demon would do a much better job of ensnaring someone."

The executives laughed heartily, clearly appreciating what they thought was just clever banter. Little did they know they were trading quips with an actual demon prince.

"Well, Mr. Whitlock," Garrett said, still chuckling, "you've certainly given us a run for our money. We'll leave you to consider our offer. Please, take your time – but not too much time," he added with a wink. "The music industry waits for no one, not even the Demon King."

As they prepared to leave, Elena handed me a sleek business card. "Our contact details are here. We look forward to hearing from you soon."

I accepted the card with a nod. "Thank you. I'll be in touch once I've had time to consider everything thoroughly."

After a few more pleasantries, the Harmony Records team finally took their leave. As the door closed behind them, I turned to find Rocky staring at me, his expression a mix of awe and concern.

"That was... something else," he said, shaking his head in disbelief. "You handled them like a pro, kid."

I shrugged, allowing a small smile. "Just being cautious. In this business, you have to be."

Rocky nodded slowly. "You're not wrong there. But listen, whatever you decide... just know that you'll always have a home here at the Rockwell."

His sincerity caught me off guard, and for a moment, I felt a twinge of guilt about my deception. But I pushed it aside, focusing instead on the task at hand.

"I appreciate that, Rocky. Really," I said, meaning it more than I cared to admit. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a lot to think about."

As I gathered my things to leave, my mind was already racing, plotting out the potential ramifications of this new development.

As I exited the theatre, my eyes fell on a sleek black car parked nearby. Alejandro, the Whitlock family's trusted butler, stepped out and nodded in my direction. It seemed my "family" was keeping tabs on me after all.

I approached Alejandro, my mind quickly formulating a plan. "I'd like to rest at my new apartment," I said, keeping my tone casual. "It would be a shame to waste the month's rent I've already paid."

Alejandro chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Well, sir, you are the heir to the Whitlock fortune. A little expenditure shouldn't concern you overmuch."

I returned his laugh, playing along. "I suppose you're right." As Alejandro opened the car door for me, I added, "Old habits die hard, I guess."

The drive to the Whitlock mansion was filled with a comfortable silence, giving me time to prepare for the next act in my ongoing performance. As we pulled up to the house, I spotted Ark and Mariana waiting at the entrance. The scene was almost comical – I felt like a child returning from his first day of school.

Mariana's face lit up as I approached. "How was your day?" she asked, her voice warm with genuine interest.

I offered her a smile, carefully crafted to be both grateful and slightly tired. "It went well. I was able to perform to my usual standard."

As we made our way to the dining room, I took in the scene before me. The entire family was already seated, a tableau of barely concealed tensions and unspoken words. Mariana guided me to a seat beside her, her presence both comforting and stifling.

An uncomfortable silence settled over the table as we began to eat. I could feel the weight of unspoken questions and thinly veiled curiosity. My half-siblings, in particular, seemed to be making a concerted effort to ignore my presence, their greetings earlier having been perfunctory at best.

It was Ark who finally broke the silence, his voice cutting through the quiet like a knife. "Speaking of which, Arthur, how is your career progressing?"

I paused, fork midway to my mouth, considering my response carefully. This was more than just small talk – it was a test, a probe for information.

"It's going quite well, actually," I replied, injecting a note of modest pride into my voice. "The audiences at the Rockwell Theatre have been very receptive to my music. In fact," I added, deciding to play my hand, "I was approached by representatives from Harmony Records today."