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Chapter Text

The Past.

The night was quiet, the sea holding its breath.

A soft glow shone between two chests—a red magical bond, pulsing like a heartbeat between them.

Prince Xavier of Philos stood tall, his expression calm, even as his life neared its end.

"I command as the Sea God's most loyal follower... and lover,"   Xavier whispered,
"the Sea God shall take this heart... and awaken the Lemurian slumber."

The words echoed like prophecy.

Rafayel's eyes widened, horror written across his face. But the bond answered the call.
His hand moved on its own. A divine dagger formed in his palm—light humming, sharp and shimmering.

Rafayel breathed, but it was too late.

"No..." 

Xavier stepped closer, gently taking Rafayel's hand in both of his.

Their eyes locked.
He leaned forward, placed one final kiss on Rafayel's lips—cool, soft, and final.

Then, guided by the bond, Rafayel's hand moved. The dagger pierced Xavier's heart.
 Rafayel cried, choking on his voice.

"Xavier!! I don't want this heart—not like this!"

But Xavier was already fading.

His form dissolved into shimmering light, vanishing into the sea breeze, leaving behind only a faint warmth on Rafayel's cheek—his last touch.

Rafayel dropped to his knees.

His tears hit the ocean. The waves stilled.
The sea fell silent.

From deep within the ocean, Lemurian power awakened, swirling in brilliant light.
Rafayel's godhood returned. His strength fully awakened.

But there was no joy. No triumph.
Only silence... and grief.

For days, Rafayel stood alone, staring out at the sea—
Where love had died. Where the prophecy had won, and where a god began to hate what he had become.

Present days after a few centuries

Centuries had passed since that day at the sea.

Now, Rafayel lived quietly among humans, disguised as one of them. To fill the endless silence of immortality, he occasionally gave art lectures at the prestigious Philos Academy. Not because he wanted to but simply because it wasted time.

He rarely spoke more than needed. Cold. Distant. Untouchable.
But he was still a mystery people whispered about.

With pinkish-blue eyes that looked like light underwater, and features too beautiful to belong to a normal man, Rafayel had unintentionally become a legend among students.
Yet no one ever got close.

Meanwhile, outside the academy, chaos stirred.

Top hunter Xavier and his partner Jeremiah were in hot pursuit of a dangerous evolver—a mutant who killed on sight, unpredictable and wild.

As they sprinted through the city, Xavier scowled.

"He just had to choose the academies,"  he muttered, annoyance sharp in his voice.

Jeremiah was panting behind him.

"What now? Do we stop?"

The evolver jumped, launching into the sky—smashing through a glass lecture hall window.
Xavier didn't hesitate.

"No,"  he said coldly.  "Chase till the end."

His body shimmered with light evol energy as he leapt through the air, sleek and fast. Jeremiah followed behind, teleporting in a flicker of distortion.

"THE STUDENTS AND LECTURER ARE GONNA FAINT SEEING THIS!"

Inside the hall, students screamed. Papers flew. Desks toppled over. The evolver landed in the middle of the classroom—wild, dangerous, ready to attack.

Rafayel's eyes narrowed. He stood calmly at the front of the room, his long coat fluttering from the shockwave, his expression unreadable.

Then, Xavier burst in—a streak of light crashing through the broken window. With swift, fluid movements, he attacked the evolver mid-air, forcing him back.

Students were too stunned to react. But Xavier's eyes shifted—just briefly. In the middle of battle, something pulled his gaze.

The professor.

Rafayel stood still in the storm of chaos, the only thing unmoving in the room. And for a split second, Xavier's breath caught.

His step faltered. That face. Those eyes. That presence.
But he forced himself back into focus, slashing at the evolver again.

Rafayel, however, had already gone still.
His heart pounded loudly in his chest—too loud.

His eyes widened, and in his mind, the name slipped through, whispered only to himself.

"Xavier...?"

In a blur of light, Xavier moved.

His body radiated power as his light evol surged—blinding the evolver, catching him off guard. In one smooth motion, he slammed the attacker hard against the classroom board—right beside Rafayel.

The room shook.
Rafayel's eyes widened slightly, not just at the impact but at him.

That presence. That light. That face.

Xavier...

Before Rafayel could think further, a voice cut through the chaos.
Jeremiah's voice rang out, cool and commanding.

"All students—out! Urgent! We're catching a criminal!"

Panic turned to obedience as the students scrambled out of the room. Jeremiah stepped back, casually closing the lecture hall door behind them. He blinked in confusion as he noticed the professor hadn't moved—just stood there, calm, watching.

Odd.

The evolver made one final move but Xavier was faster.
With no hesitation, he drove his blade into the man chest—clean, efficient, fatal.

"Jeremiah. Call the hunters. We caught it."

Jeremiah nodded, already on his comms.
Meanwhile, Rafayel stood still, his face composed... but his heart racing violently inside.

Xavier wiped his blade with a swift motion. Blood scattered and glistened under the classroom lights.

"I'm sorry, Professor,"   Xavier said flatly, glancing at him.   "We'll explain this to the academy. It was an urgent matter."

Rafayel simply shook his head lightly. And then—he smiled.

A small one. Faint. But genuine. Something he hadn't done in a very long time.

Xavier's heart skipped.

He took a step forward, hand moving instinctively toward Rafayel's face—something in him compelled to touch.

But—

Jeremiah cleared his throat loudly. 

"Er-hem! That's a professor. You're in school. Not outside."

Rafayel blinked, eyes slightly wide at Xavier's boldness, before recomposing himself smoothly.
 Rafayel said calmly.

"I'll take my leave. I'll explain things to the academy."

But as he turned, Xavier caught his hand.

Rafayel froze. His eyes widened at the contact.
Warm. Familiar. Dangerous.

"My name is Xavier,"   the hunter said, voice smooth, cool.   "Solo hunter. Today, I had a partner. Jeremiah. He was nearby."

He held Rafayel's hand a second too long.

Rafayel's lips trembled—barely—but he quickly masked it and replied quietly: 

"Rafayel."

Still, Xavier didn't let go.
Rafayel had to speak again, voice composed, firm:

"Your hand."

Xavier looked down, smiled faintly, and finally released him.

"I'll see you around... Mr. Rafayel."

Rafayel turned and walked off, cloak swaying behind him. His steps were steady.
But inside?

His heart was not.

He's still the same,  he thought. Even after all these centuries.

Xavier stared at the empty spot where Rafayel had been.

"He's... unique,"  he murmured.  "Didn't even flinch through all that."

Jeremiah folded his arms lazily, eyeing his friend.

"But he definitely flinched when you held his hand. What's up with you? You're never like that."

Xavier spoke coolly, eyes still on the door.

"I'm not sure. But he caught my interest."

Jeremiah's jaw dropped.

"Coming from you? You serious? You're the next Philos king. You can't just randomly pick someone!"

Xavier turned to him, gaze sharp and cold.

"If you hadn't interrupted, I might've touched his face."

Jeremiah blinked.

Chapter Text

The days moved on.

Rafayel returned to his usual routine—standing before a class, pointer in hand, speaking on brush techniques, light theory, and color harmony.

He didn't care much for teaching. But it kept the silence away, even if just for a little while.
His voice was even, his posture perfect, as he moved through a digital display of painted works.

"Coloring contrast has different aspect—"

He stopped mid-sentence. His breath hitched.
His eyes caught someone in the crowd.

A student.
Or at least—someone dressed as one.

Xavier.

Seated among the rows, wearing a casual university jacket, completely out of place. But his posture? Too straight. His stare? Too focused. His presence? Undeniably him.

Rafayel's fingers tensed slightly around the pointer.

Why is he here?

He quickly looked away and continued speaking as if nothing had happened.

The lecture ended. Students packed up and trickled out, chatting among themselves.
Rafayel gathered his things swiftly. He didn't linger. He never did.

But just as he turned toward the exit—

"Professor."

That voice again. Calm. Low. Xavier.
Rafayel turned around slowly, face smooth and unreadable.

"Why are you disguising as a university student?"

Xavier approached, hands in his jacket pockets. His expression was casual, but there was something unreadable behind his eyes.

"Follow-up," he said simply. "Wanted to make sure the school's fine after... the incident. We explained everything to the faculty. They seem satisfied."

Rafayel arched a brow.

Of course they were satisfied. It didn't matter how roughly Xavier had crashed in. The academy would never challenge Philos's next king, especially when he was also the strongest solo hunter alive.

He had authority. And presence. And yet, he was standing here... in disguise... watching him.
Rafayel gave a short, polite nod.

"Then there's no reason for you to return."

He turned again to leave.

The lecture hall was nearly empty now. Only a few students remained, lazily shuffling their bags or chatting in hushed voices.

Rafayel gathered his materials silently, trying to leave without another word. But then—Xavier spoke, voice cool and steady, cutting through the quiet like a blade.

"I want to know you more."

Rafayel froze.
His eyes widened slightly, shoulders tensing. He turned halfway, gaze guarded.

"Why?"

Xavier stood firm, hands still in his jacket pockets, face unreadable.

"No reason," he said plainly. "I want to."

Simple. Honest. Direct. Just like always.

Rafayel turned fully now, expression still calm but his eyes, for a moment, flickered with something else. Bitterness. Sadness. Memory. But it vanished as quickly as it came.

"I don't like hanging out," he replied, voice cool. "I have things to do."

But Xavier didn't move. Didn't back away.
Didn't let go.

"Then I'll escort you home."

Rafayel's lips parted—caught off guard.

How absurd.

He stared at him, stunned speechless.
Because despite everything... despite centuries... Xavier hadn't changed.

And suddenly, without warning—
Memories returned.

After a sparring match in the Philos royal courtyard, Prince Xavier wiped sweat from his brow, smiling coolly.

"Let's go drink milk tea," he said calmly

Rafayel,tired, sighed dramatically.

"I don't want to."

Xavier pouted.

"I'm lonely. You're not gonna accompany me? Is this how you treat your lover?"

Rafayel's eyes widened, laughing.

"I should be the one sad—I lost! Why are you making yourself sound more pitiful than me?"

But Xavier only chuckled and gently grabbed his wrist, tugging him along like it was the most natural thing in the world.

"Let's go. A prince doesn't drink milk tea alone."

"Milk tea," he said firmly, "must be shared with partners."

Rafayel laughed again, light and free—back when love didn't come with sacrifice.

Now back to Present

Rafayel exhaled slowly and turned away, thought quietly.

..You're still the same.

Rafayel stepped into his car quietly. With a sigh, he removed his glasses and placed them neatly on the dashboard.

He glanced to the side.
Xavier was already seated in the passenger seat—calm, composed, as if this was routine.

Rafayel raised an eyebrow, his voice cool and steady.

"Are you seriously going to escort me home? I drive, you know."

Xavier turned his head slightly, gaze direct, expression unreadable.

"I did tell you I wanted to know you more. Escorting you is just an excuse."

Rafayel's heart gave a small, unexpected thump.

But he said nothing.
He simply started the engine and pulled out of the parking lot.

Instead of heading home, he drove toward a familiar street lined with food stalls. The neon lights reflected softly against the windshield. And slowly, Xavier's brow rose in amusement.

"So now... are we having a date to eat instead of going home?"

Rafayel didn't flinch, eyes focused on the road—his voice calm as ever.

"Consider it a thank you... for trying so hard to escort me. Hotpot is fine?"

Xavier gave a small, knowing smile.

"As long as there's meat."

Rafayel allowed the tiniest smile to escape his lips as he parked the car.

Centuries years ago.

Back then, Rafayel had hidden his divine identity, disguising himself as a regular human to walk the streets with Prince Xavier.

They stood side by side in the marketplace, stars above and oil lanterns flickering around them.

"The meat stall we usually go to is closed," Rafayel said, glancing at the shuttered shop. "Should we try somewhere else?"

Xavier sighed dramatically.

"If there's no meat, I'm not eating anything else."

Rafayel laughed softly.

"Then why not summon your royal cook?"

Xavier shook his head, firm.

"No. We're having hotpot. That's final."

He grabbed Rafayel's wrist without waiting, pulling him down the street with playful stubbornness.

"We can't miss hotpot night. Let's look around."

Rafayel could only laugh again, letting himself be dragged.

"Your meat obsession is strong."

Back to Present

Steam rose from the tabletop. The deluxe meat hotpot arrived, plate after plate of fresh-cut beef, pork, and more.

Rafayel calmly laid out the utensils.

"I ordered a lot of meat. It should be enough."

Xavier, seated across from him, gave a satisfied nod.

"Perfect."

Then, a pause.
The table was quiet, save for the bubbling broth. Xavier's eyes flicked up.

"What's your favorite food?"

Rafayel answered without thinking.

"Seafood."

The word slipped out smoothly but his heart tightened a little.

The broth bubbled quietly between them, steam rising in gentle curls. The scent of rich meat and spice filled the small booth, and for a moment, the world outside faded into background noise.

Xavier dipped a slice of beef into the pot with practiced ease, his expression relaxed, voice low and calm.

"Can you order seafood as well?"

Across the table, Rafayel raised an eyebrow, composed and unreadable.

"Why?"

Xavier looked up slightly, his answer as direct as ever.

"I want you to enjoy your favorite food too."

Rafayel's breath caught for just a second.

He didn't respond. His fingers twitched slightly in his lap, then curled into a tight fist beneath the table—his heart thudding loud and steady.

Without waiting for a reply, Xavier leaned to the side, flagging down a nearby server.

"Excuse me—four plates of mixed seafood. Fresh, please. Thank you."

Just like that. As if it were normal. But to Rafayel, it wasn't.

The quiet warmth in Xavier's voice. The ease. The way he just knew. He bit the inside of his cheek to steady himself.

Xavier turned back to the pot, still cool and casual, and asked while swishing another piece of meat into the soup.

"You're quite new to the Philos Academy, I presume? I studied there before. Didn't see you teaching... not until that day."

Rafayel's eyes lowered. He didn't mean to answer. But something about Xavier—his tone, the honesty—disarmed him.

So he replied, eyes watching the meat sink into the broth.

"I've only been lecturing a year," he said softly. "Before that, I was a well-known artist in Linkon. Got bored. Teaching passes the time."

Xavier smiled faintly at that.

"Then I should've joined while you were teaching. Too bad... wrong year."

Rafayel's heart thumped again.
Xavier. Always so honest. Always so straightforward.

There was no hesitation in his words. No games. Just pure, simple intention. And that—more than anything—made Rafayel tremble inside.

He looked away for a moment, pretending to focus on the hotpot.

But Xavier's voice, his presence, they were starting to unravel something Rafayel had buried for far too long.

Chapter Text

The ride back was silent after the dinner.

Rafayel kept his eyes on the road, saying little. Beside him, Xavier sat calm and relaxed, completely unaffected by the quiet tension lingering in the car.

No matter how many times Rafayel insisted, Xavier refused to be dropped off elsewhere.
Xavier had repeated, cool and sure.

"I said I'd escort you home. Doesn't matter who's driving."

Rafayel sighed internally. He had no choice.

The car came to a smooth stop in front of a sleek, architecturally modern art house nestled along Whitesand Bay. The private gates slid open with a soft hum, and Rafayel parked in the underground space beneath the tall glass-paneled structure.

Xavier stepped out first, eyes scanning the area with calm curiosity.

"Impressive,"   he said casually.   "Go on in. Once you're inside, I'll leave."

Rafayel raised an eyebrow, arms folded across his chest.

"You want me to send you back instead? I have a car."

Xavier chuckled, soft but amused.

"That would defeat the purpose of escorting you. Besides... I can teleport. Light speed. Strong hunter, remember?"

Rafayel stared at him for a moment longer before sighing, turning toward the entrance.

"Then be safe."

Xavier paused and looked back, voice still calm.

"Are you having a lecture tomorrow?"

Rafayel answered smoothly.

"No. I don't lecture every day. Usually two or three times a week. I'm painting tomorrow—for my next piece."

Xavier nodded, starting to walk off.

"See you tomorrow."

Rafayel frowned, confused.

"No. What are you saying? I'm not opening the gate again tomorrow."

Xavier only raised his hand casually, waving.

"Then I'll teleport in."

And just like that—he disappeared.

Silence.

Rafayel stood there, staring at the empty street where Xavier had just been.
His lips parted slightly. His hands trembled, then clenched at his sides.

"Why do you still keep appearing in my life...? I thought... watching silently was enough."

Flashback to centuries ago.

What no one knew—what even the Lemurian elders had tried to stop—was that Rafayel had changed the prophecy.

After Xavier's sacrifice, the divine bond between Sea God and lover was supposed to vanish, broken by death. But Rafayel... refused.

He had spilled his own blood within the sacred Tomb of the Sea God, using ancient power to alter the divine law.

"Let the bond remain. Let it stretch beyond lifetimes. If the lover sacrifices his heart, the bond shall remain—forever."

The elders had called it absurd. Dangerous. Selfish. But he didn't care.
He couldn't bear the idea of losing the bond. Even if Xavier never remembered him.

For years, Rafayel watched.
When Xavier was reborn, not as royalty, but as an ordinary human, Rafayel was there.

Watching.
From the shadows. From a distance.

Xavier grew strong again—his evol powers awakening naturally. He rose without a crown but carried the presence of one.

And when the royal evolvers declared him the next Philos king, Rafayel stepped back.
Stopped watching. Stopped interfering.

Because Xavier had finally reached where he was meant to be.

And Rafayel?
He remained a shadow—silent, hidden... until fate forced their paths to cross again.

Now, after centuries of quiet observation, after all the restraint—Xavier was back in his life. Talking. Smiling. Eating hotpot.

It started with a habit.

Every few days, Xavier would appear outside Rafayel's art house—never inside, never uninvited. He would teleport in with ease, his light evol ability allowing him to arrive soundlessly, just past the gate, standing quietly by the front door.

And every time, Rafayel would open the door.

Never surprised. Never pleased either.
Just... accepting.

It became a strange routine. At first, Rafayel thought Xavier would grow bored.

He wasn't a talkative host. He didn't entertain.
He barely spoke at all.

Sometimes, he would spend hours painting in silence, not even glancing up, fully immersed in brush strokes and shadows. Sometimes, he would play soft instrumentals in the background. Most of the time, he'd pretend Xavier wasn't there.

But Xavier?

He stayed.
On the couch. By the window. Reading a book. Watching quietly. Drinking tea. Occasionally helping clean the brushes when Rafayel was done.

He didn't ask for conversation. He didn't demand attention.

He just... kept coming back.
Weeks turned to months.

And still, Rafayel never told him to leave.

He didn't know why he allowed it. Maybe because Xavier never forced his way in.
Maybe because his presence was warm, calm... painfully familiar.

Maybe because—deep down, he still loved him.

But he couldn't show it.
Not again. Not after losing him once.

He was terrified—terrified—of opening his heart only to watch it break all over again.

So he said little. Smiled less.
Stayed composed, cold, distant.

And Xavier?

He never stopped visiting. A pattern neither of them spoke about, yet neither of them broke.

Some days, Xavier watched him paint for hours.

He would sit cross-legged on the rug like a student, staring at the way Rafayel moved—a stroke of blue here, a splash of gold there. There was a depth to him Xavier couldn't explain. A sadness behind those pinkish-blue eyes that kept pulling him in.

He's not normal.  Xavier often thought. No ordinary artist carries that kind of silence."

But he didn't ask.
Not yet.

He wasn't sure what Rafayel was hiding.
Only that—whatever it was, he didn't want to lose the chance to find out.

And somewhere between silence and unspoken words, something grew between them.

The palace was quiet that afternoon.

Xavier sat in one of the royal training halls, sharpening his blade with slow, practiced precision. The light from the tall glass windows cast a pale glow across the room, glinting off the clean edge of his sword.

Every movement he made was calm—cold and deliberate. Then came the sound of footsteps.

Jeremiah walked in lazily, tossing his jacket onto a chair after a successful hunt. His posture was relaxed, but his eyes held their usual sharp curiosity.

"Why do you keep visiting that professor?"

Xavier didn't pause. He continued cleaning his blade, tone flat and unfazed.

"Because I like him."

Jeremiah raised a brow, sinking into the chair beside him.

"Yeah, that part's obvious. But does he know that?"

Xavier glanced up for a moment, gaze distant, then back down to inspect the blade's gleam.

"No idea,"  he said coolly. "He's distant. Reserved. For an artist, he barely expresses himself."

He paused, eyes narrowing slightly in thought.

"And something tells me... he's definitely not normal."

Jeremiah leaned back, arms crossed behind his head, watching Xavier.

"I thought the same. He was way too calm when that lecture hall went to hell. Felt like he's dealt with danger before. Maybe even an evolver?"

At that, Xavier's eyes darkened. He looked up sharply—glaring.

"That's none of your business."

Jeremiah raised his hands lazily, standing again with a shrug.

"Geez. Protective much? I was just guessing. No need to glare like you're about to stab me."

He paused at the door, glancing back.

"Why not just confess already?"

Xavier stood, stretching slightly, then swung his sword once through the air—a clean, effortless arc.

"Not yet. He's not ready. I can tell."

Jeremiah sighed.

"You do have time—until the day they shove a crown on your head. After that, they'll force you to choose a queen."

Xavier didn't respond. He simply swung his sword a second time, even smoother than the first.
Then he muttered, voice flat but laced with amusement—

"You talk too much. For once, go back to your flower shop and take care of your damn roses."

Jeremiah chuckled, walking out.

And Xavier returned to his blade—expression calm but thoughts anything but Rafayel.

Chapter Text

It was a rare evening.

Rafayel, the Lemuria Sea God, stood silently at the grand gates of the Royal Opera House, dressed in black, a simple mask hiding half his face. He held an invitation in hand—his presence anonymous, but the seal unquestionable.

He hated crowds. Hated being seen.
But the invitation came from Talia—his aunt, a Lemurian like him, long disguised as a famous human opera singer.

And because it was Talia, he came.
Always discreet. Always in the shadows.

He was let in with a respectful nod from the staff, his identity never questioned. The moment he entered, he slipped to the back row, far from the chandeliers and noble gazes. He took his seat, still and composed, the mask hiding the recognition in his eyes.

From the stage, Talia sang—graceful, radiant, adored by the human audience. But her sharp gaze flicked briefly to the back.

She saw him.
A warm smile curled her lips, never breaking her melody.

She was the only one who could make him sit through a performance.
After the performance, the crowd relaxed. The stage lights dimmed, and the audience began to mingle.

Nobles exchanged pleasantries. Performers bowed and accepted flowers. The chatter was refined, joyful, warm.

Rafayel quietly stood from his seat, ready to leave as always. No one stopped him. No one dared. But as he turned toward the corridor exit, his steps froze.

His eyes caught a man.

Tall, refined, smiling—dressed in the polished gold-trimmed robes of a royal prophecy messenger.

Speaking to Talia casually, as if they had known each other for years. But Rafayel knew that face.

His heart stopped.

Elder Amund. A Sea God elder. A Lemurian.
And he was standing in the middle of human royalty, laughing—in full disguise.

Rafayel's eyes darkened, cold fury flickering behind the mask.
His pace changed. Silent. Controlled.

He walked straight toward them, his presence suddenly sharp enough to cut air.

"Talia."

His voice was low. Dangerous.
Talia turned—eyes wide. She had forgotten. Forgotten that Rafayel had no idea about Amund's disguise.

Forgotten that the Sea God had once decreed:

"No Lemurian shall interfere with human or royal politics. Only harmless artistic roles are permitted. Nothing more."

Amund stiffened.
Even in disguise, he felt the weight of Rafayel's gaze—cold, composed, unrelenting.

The elder bowed slightly, guilt in his expression. But Rafayel didn't look at him.

His voice cut like the edge of a frozen wave.

"Back of the stage. We need to talk."

The backstage room was quiet.

Thick walls muted the echoes of the opera house, and velvet drapes hung heavily around the edges of the space. It was meant for performers, a place of rest.

Not for this.

Talia turned the lock, her hands gentle, nervous.

Inside, Rafayel stood like a storm held in place, mask now removed, eyes blazing cold. He faced Elder Amund, whose disguise had melted away, revealing his Lemurian form—aged, composed, respectful.

But Rafayel's voice held no mercy.

"Which part of the decree I set was unclear?"

His tone was sharp, every word laced in authority—the voice of a god. Then his gaze shifted to Talia, and for the first time, it was not gentle.

It was bitter. Hurt. Betrayed.

"How long has this been going on? How long have you hidden this from me?"

Talia opened her mouth, voice trembling.

"Rafayel, this—"

"Rafayel,"  Elder Amund interrupted, bowing slightly.   "We did this not to oppose you—but to honor what was lost. To repay the only one who gave his heart... and awakened us from slumber."

Rafayel scoffed, his expression darkening into a sneer.

"So it was you."

His voice dropped.

"You're the one who planted the royal prophecy. You made it so that Xavier—the one who died for me—would become the next King of Philos after centuries."

Amund nodded with calm clarity.

"Yes. As Lemurians, we repay our debts. We don't forget. He was meant to be king centuries ago. This lifetime... we simply helped fate along."

A flash of white.
Rafayel moved.

In one swift surge of godhood, he slammed Elder Amund hard against the wall, a hand pressing tight to the elder's collar, eyes burning with fury.

Talia gasped.

"Rafayel!"

Amund didn't resist. His face remained calm, but his body trembled under the Sea God's strength.

Rafayel's voice was low and dangerous.

"You have no right to meddle in human lives. The lover of the Lemuria Sea God is mine, and you—none of you—have the authority to touch what's mine."

Talia placed a gentle hand on Rafayel's shoulder, trying to ground him.

"Rafayel... we just wanted to make your path easier. We didn't want to upset you. We respect your decree. But we... we have hearts too."

Rafayel turned his head slightly, voice colder than ice.

"You don't get to interfere. I will repay Xavier myself. I have already rewritten the bond with my blood. He is bound to me across lifetimes. That is my vow, not yours to fulfill."

His grip on Amund tightened.

"And no matter how many lifetimes pass—I will still hate the prophecies. Don't you dare try to change that."

Talia stepped back, knowing she couldn't stop what was coming.
Rafayel leaned in close, almost snarling.

"It was you. All along. If you hadn't described the next Philos king in the prophecy—'a boy of silver hair, blue eyes, and unmatched light evol'—Xavier wouldn't be where he is now. He would have lived freely. He wouldn't have been dragged back into fate's chains."

Rafayel's hand trembled—half in rage, half in sorrow. His heart was breaking all over again.

The room was silent.

Only the sound of Rafayel's breathing filled the space—heavy, uneven, pulled taut by fury barely held back.

His hand, still trembling, slowly uncurled from Elder Amund's collar. He stepped back.

For a brief second, his eyes—those haunting pinkish-blue depths—held something raw. Not just anger.

But grief.

Something ancient. Unspoken.
Unhealed.

Then, without another word, Rafayel turned.

He walked to the door, each step sharp with restraint. He did not look back at them—at the people who were once his most trusted kin.

Because there was nothing left to say.

Talia stood frozen, lips parted, chest tight. Her hand dropped helplessly from where it had reached for him.

Beside her, Elder Amund lowered his head—no longer calm. Not composed.
Just old. And aching.

They watched as the Sea God of Lemuria, their ruler, their blood, their sorrow—walked out the door.

Outside the opera house, the night wind brushed against Rafayel's face.

He didn't cry. He never did. But inside—the ache returned.

That old speech played again in his mind.

Centuries ago. A vow in the Temple of Promise.

"If fate wishes to take him from me, then I will rewrite the prophecies. If the bond breaks, I will bleed to forge it anew. He gave me a heart I never asked for and I will carry its weight through all lifetimes."

And now, even surrounded by stars, opera lights, and false peace—

Rafayel walked alone. Again.

Chapter Text

The night was heavy with silence when Rafayel returned to his Art House at Whitesand Bay.

The stars were out, but he did not look at them.

He moved through the halls like a shadow, quiet and unblinking, until he stopped before a tall, locked door at the end of a long corridor.

No one else had ever seen this room.
Not even those who visited often.

He slid the key into the lock.
It clicked open with a sound like old memories waking.

The door creaked.

Inside, the room was dim, lit only by soft enchanted orbs hovering in the air. The air smelled faintly of stone, ink, and starlight.

This was a room untouched by time. A room of centuries past.

Rafayel stepped in slowly, like walking into a dream.

To his right: a polished sword rested in a glass case—Xavier's old sparring blade, a simple silver weapon, but at the hilt dangled a tiny, hand-carved star. The same star Rafayel had once given him, laughing, calling him his personal star of light.

To the left: Xavier's black claymore, infused with his powerful light evol, floated mid-air—still glowing faintly as if it waited for his hand to return.

Paintings lined the walls.
Portraits of Prince Xavier, each one done by Rafayel's hand.
Some captured him mid-laugh.
Some mid-duel.
And others... simply looking at Rafayel.

There were also sculptures, carved in stone, preserved in light crystal.

So many versions of the same guy. But at the center of the room—on an obsidian pedestal—stood a gift.

Encased in marble, a small, glowing star hovered gently in the air, floating with a pulse that echoed like a heartbeat.

Rafayel walked toward it, slowly.

This was Xavier's gift to him, long ago—back when gods were still laughing, and love was still untouched by prophecy.

He reached out, fingers brushing the marble.

 Xavier had said, years ago, smiling cool and calm.

"Because you always call me a star. So I made you one that will never go out."

Rafayel stared at the glow, his face unreadable. His hand drifted again—to a worn velvet cloth draped on the wall.

He lifted it.
Beneath it lay a crown. Elegant. Heavy. Unworn.

The crown of Philos—meant for Prince Xavier.

But it had never touched his head.

Rafayel had stolen it, the night after the sacrifice. Taken it not out of rebellion, but out of pain—because it belonged to someone who was no longer there.

The truth had died with Xavier.

Back then, Philos believed Xavier had abandoned the crown.
That the shining prince had vanished into the stars to live a free life, away from royal chains.

No one knew. No one ever suspected. That it had all been planned.

Xavier had written it himself—his "final letter" to Philos.
That he would not become king. That he sought peace, far from the palace, far from power.

But the truth?

He had written it to protect Rafayel. To protect the sacrifice.
To make sure no one questioned why he vanished.

Because in the end— he gave his heart to the Sea God, and left the world believing he had simply walked away.

Rafayel stood there, surrounded by the past.
He didn't cry. He never did.

But his hand lingered over the gift—the floating star—his voice barely a whisper:

"You were always too good at disappearing, Xavier."

The room was silent.

The air shimmered faintly with starlight, floating softly around the enchanted centerpiece.

Rafayel stepped forward, reaching out with trembling fingers to the marble star again that held the glowing star—the gift from centuries ago.

It pulsed gently as he touched it.
Not with magic. But with memory.

He slowly curled his fingers around it, lifting it from its resting place as though it were fragile, sacred.

His voice broke the stillness, quiet and trembling:

"I hate it... when you're too good at playing disappearing."

He swallowed, the words barely leaving his throat.

"Just like you always do. And in the end... I lost you."

He brought the star close to his chest, holding it like a heart that no longer beat.

"The Sea God's lover..."

His shoulders trembled. His jaw clenched.
His eyes—those haunting, divine eyes—filled with tears, glimmering with every ache he refused to speak aloud.

"And now you appear again... like a star,"  he whispered.
"Shining so bright. But... I can no longer grab it."

His voice cracked—just once. And then, as he stood there, holding the star close to him—a single tear slipped down his cheek.

It dropped to the floor without a sound.And where it landed—a pearl formed.

Soft. Round. Glowing.
Another one. Another piece of sorrow crystallized into silence.

Rafayel stood still, unmoving, as his tears began to fall, one by one.

All around the room, pearls lined the floor—tucked along the edges of the display cases, scattered beneath paintings, hidden beneath velvet covers.

They had been dropped over centuries. Quietly. Privately.
Never seen by anyone but him.

This was not just a room of memories.
It was a room of grief.

Of a god who had lived too long. Felt too much.
And loved someone he could never truly hold.

Time passed.

The seasons shifted gently over Whitesand Bay, and with them, a strange rhythm settled into Rafayel's life—one he never asked for, yet somehow couldn't refuse.

Xavier kept coming.

Sometimes, it was to Rafayel's art house. No warning. No permission. Just appearing quietly, sitting nearby while Rafayel painted—saying nothing, simply watching.
Other times, it was escorting him back from Philos Academy after lectures—though Rafayel never asked.
Sometimes, they ate dinner. Together. Quietly. Comfortably.

Rafayel never stopped him. And slowly... he started to speak more.
At first, it was brief nods. Short replies. One or two words.

But as weeks turned into months, he began to say more—not everything, but enough. Enough to keep Xavier close.

There were little moments.

Like when the wind howled during their evening walks, and Xavier would brush the hair from Rafayel's face, bold and uninvited.

Rafayel never flinched. Never pulled away.
His heart only pounded louder.

And then one quiet day, beneath a row of trees in a peaceful park, with the sun sinking behind clouds and the air cool with dusk, Xavier broke the silence.

His voice, as always, was direct. Casual. But steady.

"Are you interested in anyone?"

Rafayel raised a brow, calm as ever.

"No."

But then—he surprised Xavier.

He kept talking.

"But... I once loved someone. Deeply. Too deep."

Xavier's breath caught just slightly. His hand, resting in his coat pocket, clenched tight.
Jealousy burned sharp and fast.

"And what happened now?"  he asked, trying to sound unaffected.

Rafayel kept his eyes ahead, walking with slow, thoughtful steps as the breeze brushed gently past them.

"He left."

Xavier stayed quiet for a moment, then asked—bold, without hesitation:

"Do you still love him?"

Rafayel finally looked at him. His face was unreadable, but his eyes...They told a different story.

"If I say yes... is that a problem?"

Xavier gave a small smile—cool, calm on the outside. But his voice was firm.

"No problem. But I'm not happy about it."

Rafayel blinked... then smiled faintly. And—for the first time in a long time—he laughed. Soft. Short. But real.

Xavier stared at him—stunned. It was the first time he had ever heard that sound from Rafayel.
Rafayel looked up at the swaying trees, his voice gentle.

"Are you jealous?"

Xavier didn't pretend.

"Yes. And I'm not gonna lie. I'm completely unhappy about it. Honestly, I want to punch the guy who left you."

Rafayel's smile faded slightly, a bittersweet look in his eyes. He said nothing, just kept walking, quietly beside him.

And in that moment— Xavier wondered.

Just how much do you love that person...that you have to look at me like that...so sadly?

Chapter Text

The royal palace was quiet, its golden corridors basked in soft afternoon light.

Xavier was lounging, half-slouched in a private courtyard seat, sword resting beside him, a half-empty glass of mineral tonic untouched on the table.

He wasn't thinking about politics. Or duty.
Or the crown that waited for him.

He was thinking—again—about Rafayel. That quiet voice. That sad smile. The way he had said:

"I once loved someone... deeply."

Xavier's brow furrowed slightly. The thought had been haunting him all week.

Who was that person? Why did he leave?

He was mid-thought when a blur of noise crashed into his peace.

Jeremiah burst into the courtyard, half out of breath, hair windblown, looking thoroughly irritated at life.

"Xavier! I need your help!"

Xavier blinked slowly.

"...Are you dying? Make it quick."

"No, worse! And what do you mean make it quick?! That's not very nice! "

Jeremiah huffed, hands on his hips.

"I got an SOS from the UNICORN hunter group. They're stuck on some creepy island called Island of Song—they went there for fun, of all things, and now they're in trouble. The place is a mess of weird evol energies. I need help!"

Xavier yawned lazily, stretching like a mean cat.

"Island of Song? That place is a sanctuary, not a battlefield. What were they doing there?"

"Apparently, it's on some list of 'Top Ten Mystery Places to Visit in Philos' and they thought it'd be a fun trip Now half the team is stuck, the rest are panicking, and I'm not rich enough to fly there. So—can I use your helicopter? Or better—can you teleport me?"

Xavier finally stood, brushing imaginary dust from his coat. His voice was cool and unfazed.

"I can't teleport that far. And you'd get scrambled halfway if I tried. We'll use the helicopter. But—"

Xavier looked over his shoulder

 "you owe me a big one for this."

Jeremiah clapped his hands lazily, grinning.

"Yes, Your Highness. Future king generosity is unmatched. Rich people really are just different."

The helicopter soared above a dense blanket of mist, the Island of Song now visible below—lush, green, and humming with unnatural tension.

But something was wrong.

From above, waves of evol energy pulsed upward, thick and distorted. A heavy killing intent rolled across the wind like thunder. The peaceful sanctuary the island was known to be... had turned into something hostile.

Xavier's eyes glinted bright blue, glowing with his awakened light evol as he stared down.

"This place is supposed to be quiet. A sanctuary. Why does it feel like it wants to kill everything?"

Jeremiah leaned out beside him, eyes narrowing. His hair bristled slightly from the aura flooding the air.

"I don't know. First time I've even been here. But the hunters are down there, so we need to jump. You ready?"

Xavier didn't answer immediately. He turned to the helicopter pilot, who waited for instructions with one hand on the control panel.

"When I signal,"   Xavier said coldly,  "drop the rope. Keep your distance until then."

The pilot gave a sharp nod.

"Roger that."

Without warning, Xavier grabbed Jeremiah by the collar.

"Wha—HEY—!"

And they leapt out of the helicopter.

Mid-air, the wind howled past them, violent and thick with hostility. Jeremiah barely had time to shout before Xavier's light evol surged, teleporting them both just before impact.
They landed with a shockwave on soft soil, the ground beneath humming like a living heart.

Jeremiah coughed violently, stumbling to the side.

"That was sudden!! Ugh, I'd rather waste time on the rope than vomit my guts from your teleport—ugh..."

Xavier didn't wait.
He stepped forward, eyes scanning the thick canopy, the way the very air vibrated with unseen pressure.

They're deeper inside,"  he murmured, voice low and cold.

His boots moved soundlessly over the moss.

"But this island..."

 Xavier narrowed his eyes,

"it's angry. Whatever happened... someone offended something they shouldn't have."

The wind howled across the white sand, thick with evol energy and a pressure that made the air feel like it could snap.

Xavier ran ahead, calm and fast, his light evol subtly pushing back the thick mist. Beside him—or rather, behind him—Jeremiah was struggling to keep up.

"O strong pal! Can you wait for me a little?"  Jeremiah shouted between breaths.
"I know you're strong, but I'm not built like a damn storm cloud!"

Xavier glanced over his shoulder with his usual unimpressed stare—then, without warning, grabbed Jeremiah by the collar and tossed him forward into the mist like a human cannonball.

"ARGHHH—YOU ASSHO—OOMPF!"

Jeremiah crashed through the mist like a rock skipping water—
—and slammed straight into a cluster of trapped hunters inside the dense jungle.

Chaos.

"Who the—FUCK?!"

The trapped UNICORN hunter team scrambled, startled. Some raised their weapons, evols pulsing from instinct.

But then— Xavier walked in.
Calm. Cold. Light evol flaring quietly from his body.

The mist around him dispersed instantly, parting like a curtain of smoke. The pressure eased just enough to see clearly.

They were standing in the middle of massive, ancient stone slabs, half-buried in the ground, arranged in a wide circle like a shrine.

The air still trembled—but now, under Xavier's presence, it stilled.
He drew his sword lazily.

"What happened?"  he asked, voice low.

Silence fell.

The hunters who recognized him paled instantly. A few even bowed slightly, intimidated by his sheer presence. Xavier wasn't just the strongest solo hunter—he was the future King of Philos.

One of them finally spoke.

"O-One of us... accidentally cut ourselves," the hunter stammered.
"The blood dripped on the stone and—suddenly the island turned hostile. The mist surrounded us. We can't leave. Some kind of... energy barrier went up."

Jeremiah rubbed his head from where he landed.

"You guys really are idiots. Just 'cause it's on some Top 10 Mystery Spots to Visit During Holiday Break list doesn't mean it's safe. This place is a sanctuary."

Xavier narrowed his eyes, tone suddenly sharp.

"That's not enough. A single drop of blood wouldn't cause this kind of aggression. You did something else."

The group exchanged nervous glances. One of the younger hunters swallowed hard.

"Hunter Xavier... we—one of us—tried summoning the Sea God. Just to see if the legend was real. We didn't mean anything bad, we just thought..."

He trailed off under Xavier's glare.

Xavier's eyes darkened, steps slow and deliberate as he walked toward them, each footstep making the earth seem quieter.

"This is the Island of Songs,"  he said, voice deep and cold.  "But not for music. Not for tourists. This island is sacred. It's a sanctuary of the Lemuria Sea God. Do you understand what you've done?"

Xavier's voice cut through the thick silence like steel.

"We're leaving,"  he said coldly.  "Follow behind."

His blade lowered just slightly, but his glare remained.
The UNICORN hunters nodded wordlessly, not daring to argue. They trailed behind him like chastised children—fully aware now that they had chosen the wrong place to relax.

But just as they stepped out from the stone circle—

The ground shook.

A deep, thunderous rumble echoed through the trees.
The sea around the island began to rise.

Huge walls of water swelled unnaturally, climbing higher than cliffs, circling the island in shimmering force. Not crashing—but hovering, alive with a menacing hum.

The hunters froze, eyes wide.

"W-What the hell?!"

Jeremiah looked up, groaning and already bracing for chaos.

"Yeah... I don't think the island is happy with us leaving."

He turned to Xavier, whose glowing blue eyes were locked on the towering walls of water. The air was heavy with divine wrath—an energy even stronger than any evol they'd encountered.

Xavier's grip on his sword tightened.

"Then,"  he said, calm and cold, "we're forcing our way out."

The sea roared louder than ever, a divine wave curling like a beast, aiming straight for the hunters.

But Xavier stepped forward, fearless.

His blade glowed brilliantly, the light evol on his body igniting like a star bursting into life. The others shielded their eyes.

The massive sea strike came crashing down, but the moment it touched Xavier's light, it froze—like time itself held its breath.
Water clashed with light, not in destruction, but in resistance.

And then—Xavier's hand reached out, touching the seawater.

And somewhere, far from the island—Rafayel's eyes opened suddenly while painting. A familiar pulse struck his chest, a red bond shown at his chest. The bond stirred.

Chapter Text

The moment Xavier's hand and sword touched the sea—
It stopped.

The waves that had risen like claws froze in place, as if held back by an invisible force.
Then, slowly, silently... they retreated.

The entire island stilled. The mist broke apart and disappeared.
Silence fell.

The hunters behind Xavier stared in shock. Even Jeremiah, who had seen Xavier at his strongest, was wide-eyed.

Xavier's gaze remained calm, unreadable. He lifted his sword high, and with a quick flick, released a sharp arc of blinding light into the sky—a signal.

The helicopter that had been circling above turned back, hovering as a rope dropped toward them.

Xavier turned his head, speaking without emotion.

"Up. You all leave first. I'll stay to make sure the island doesn't strike again during your retreat. Jeremiah, they're yours."

Jeremiah gave a short nod.

"What about you?"

Xavier didn't blink.

"I believe I'll be fine."

The hunters, still shaken, didn't argue. One by one, they climbed the rope, ascending into the safety of the skies.
But just as the last few clung to the rope— the sea began to churn again, preparing to strike.

Before anyone could panic, Xavier stepped forward, his light evol flaring.
He spoke, voice cold and firm.

"Don't. You. Dare. Touch them."

The sea... froze. Not a ripple. Not a wave. It simply stopped.

Jeremiah turned slightly from the rope, eyes narrowed in disbelief.
Xavier, however, didn't react.
He stared at the sea, but his thoughts were spinning.

Why? Why did it listen?

The helicopter lifted, the hunters now safe in the air. Slowly, as if responding to some unspoken command, the waters surrounding the Island of Song calmed once more. The violent winds faded. The mist vanished completely. It was as though the island had never been disturbed.

Xavier stood alone now.
The strongest solo hunter on a sacred island, facing an ocean that obeyed him.

Something isn't right.

Without a word, he turned and walked back toward the ancient stone slabs that stood tall at the island's heart.

And as he stood before them, his palm brushed one of the stones—and a faint glow shimmered beneath his touch.

Xavier stood alone before the ancient stone slabs.

Without hesitation, he lifted his sword and made a shallow cut on his finger. Blood dripped—bright and red—against the weathered surface of the stone. He didn't flinch. He didn't care if the sea struck him again.

I need to know why the sea listened. Why it obeyed me...

The moment his blood touched the stone, the ground shimmered with a warm, soft blue glow. The air vibrated gently. Two small blue sea fishes, formed entirely of ethereal light, emerged from the stone and began to swim in the air around him—graceful, like guardians.

Xavier's eyes widened slightly. Even in his usual calm, this surprised him. He smiled faintly, dry and cool.

"It doesn't seem hostile to me. Quite the opposite."

Then, the slabs around him began to hum. Ancient Lemurian letters glowed softly across their surfaces, flowing like water. He didn't understand the language, but something compelled him to lift his hand. As he brushed the glowing words.

Flashes of voice memory struck him—

"Will you be the most loyal follower of the Lemuria Sea God... and the only lover? Will you offer me your heart in exchange?"

The voice was warm. Familiar. Soft.
Xavier's own voice, from long ago, echoed back, cool and steady.

"Don't need to ask further. I'm willing."

Another voice spoke then, softer, filled with pain.

"Even if you are willing to give me this heart, I won't take it."

Xavier's voice cut through the memory, colder, firmer.

"And I won't let you burn your life for it... just because you don't want my heart."

Suddenly, the voices vanished—interrupted. A real voice cut through the air.

"XAVIER!"

Xavier turned sharply.

Through the mist of sea aura, Rafayel appeared—his short purple hair flutter a little behind him, his chest glowing softly with a red sigil of their ancient bond. His eyes were wide, breath sharp, footsteps fast and desperate.

Xavier blinked once.
Rafayel stood before him, angry and concerned all at once.
Rafayel demanded, voice trembling beneath the cool tone he tried to hold.

"Why are you here?" 


Xavier's eyes widened slightly—not in fear, but in surprise. Of all people, of all moments... it was him.

"Rafayel?"

The name left his lips, calm and composed as always, but his heart was thudding beneath that collected voice.

Rafayel walked straight toward him, fast and cold, but behind the steady steps was something raw—worry, anger, something rare that Xavier had only caught glimpses of before.

Rafayel's voice was low, sharp, threaded with something trembling beneath the surface.

"I'm asking you—why are you here?" 

Xavier smiled, faintly, still keeping his posture cool and unbothered. He slowly pulled his hand back from the glowing aura that surrounded the stone slabs.

"I was requested to help. A few hunters from UNICORN got themselves trapped here. They picked the wrong vacation spot."

He looked straight into Rafayel's eyes.

"They're safe now."

Rafayel didn't relax. His brows furrowed deeper, his voice sterner.

"Then why didn't you leave?"

Xavier's tone stayed calm, but there was quiet intensity behind his words.

"Because the sea... obeyed me."

His gaze didn't waver.

"And I want to know why."

He took a step forward, tilting his head just slightly.

"And why are you here? This island isn't near anything. You couldn't have arrived this fast unless—"

Rafayel suddenly grabbed his wrist—cold, sharp, firm.

"I'm not explaining. But we're leaving. Now."

Xavier stared at the grip on his arm. His voice dropped low, calm but questioning.

"How are we leaving?"  he asked. "This place is surrounded by sea."

Rafayel's expression didn't shift. His eyes stayed cold as he muttered,

"You can teleport."

Xavier shook his head slightly, amused.

"Not that far. I need a landing point. And this island is... nowhere close to anything."

Then his voice dropped even lower, tone cooler, words more piercing.

"But you have a way."

His gaze locked with Rafayel's.

"Don't you? ...A Lemurian."

At that, Rafayel froze.
He turned fully toward Xavier, jaw clenched. He let go of Xavier's wrist, trying to step away—but Xavier caught his hand before it could fall. This time, gently... firmly.

"Don't avoid me."

The wind shifted. The sea stayed still. And for the first time in a long time, the bond between them pulsed faintly, glowing at Rafayel chest.

Xavier didn't loosen his grip. His hand stayed firmly wrapped around Rafayel's.
Cool. Calm. Unwavering.

But the island—alive with hidden magic—responded to him.

A soft current of energy swirled around them, gentle like a tide, yet ancient and knowing. The power flowed instinctively toward Xavier, almost as if drawn to his very feelings.

Then again, the two glowing fishes appeared.
Blue. Ethereal. Floating in the air around their joined hands—like protectors, or witnesses.

Xavier's eyes widened slightly.
He felt it. The connection. The pull. The recognition. It wasn't just the island—it was something deeper.

But Rafayel didn't smile. His face tightened, his lips trembling faintly.
Without looking at Xavier, he spoke. Cold. Sharp.

"Disperse."

The moment the word left his lips, everything vanished.

The fishes dissolved into soft light. The power stilled.
The air fell silent.

No more glow. No warmth. Just a quiet breeze brushing past them, and the silence left behind.

Chapter Text

Xavier didn't loosen his grip. His hand remained tightly wrapped around Rafayel's.
Cool. Calm. Unwavering.

Rafayel's lips parted. His voice was smooth, steady—confidently cold.

"Yes. I'm a Lemurian."

Xavier's fingers tightened at the confession.

"I heard voices when I touched the stone slab,"   he said quietly.   "One was mine... and the other—yours. Soft. Gentle. Familiar."

Rafayel's expression faltered for a second. His lips parted, but no words came.
Then, just as quickly, he masked it all behind indifference.

He said nothing.
Xavier stared at him, those bright blue eyes glowing with quiet knowing.

"You've known me long ago, haven't you?"  he asked.  "You're not just any Lemurian."

But Rafayel's gaze darkened. He yanked his hand away, sharp and decisive.

"I'm just a Lemurian,"  he snapped coolly.  "Whatever you heard... I wouldn't know."

Xavier sighed, voice calm but persistent.

"Then why did you know I was here?"

That question cut deep.

Rafayel looked into Xavier's eyes. Bitterness flickered in his own—but before he could answer, the sound of rotor blades split the tension.
The helicopter had returned.

From above, Jeremiah's voice echoed down with a shout:

"Come up!! I've dropped off the UNICORN hunters—wait... is that...?"

Rafayel stepped back.

"You go,"  he said coldly. "I'll stay."

But Xavier didn't listen. Without hesitation, he scooped Rafayel into his arms, teleporting mid-air with a flash of light.

"Wha—"

Rafayel barely had time to react as the wind rushed past them.

Moments later, they landed in the helicopter. The door slammed shut. The blades spun harder.
Xavier commanded the pilot, cold and focused.

"Back to the palace."

Jeremiah blinked at the unexpected passenger. Then, awkwardly trying to ease the tension, he chuckled.

"Erm... haha, hi?"

Rafayel, composed again, glanced at Jeremiah with the barest nod.

"Hi."

Xavier shot Jeremiah a warning glare, sharp and cold.

"Don't speak."

Jeremiah held up his hands.

"Okay, okay. Just... saying hi. I didn't expect Professor Rafayel in this ride. This is... unexpected."

Rafayel turned his face away, looking out the window.

And the helicopter rose into the sky, carrying two hearts weighed down by centuries— one desperate to understand, the other too afraid to be known again.

The helicopter landed with a gentle thud on the polished platform of the high-tech royal palace. As the blades slowed, Jeremiah stepped out first, stretching his arms lazily as if it had been a casual ride.

"Okay, dear friend,"  he said with a sigh.  "I'll go deal with UNICORN. Thanks for the lift. I owe you one... and, erm—bye, Professor Rafayel."

Rafayel stepped out next, calm and composed, his Purple hair catching the breeze. He gave a small nod, expression unreadable.

Xavier followed right behind, cold and collected as always.

"I'll send you back,"  he said simply.

Rafayel turned to him, coolly raising an eyebrow.

"No. I'll go back myself."

But before he could step away, Xavier gently caught his wrist, turning him back with a quiet insistence.

"I'm escorting you back,"  he said.  "As always."

Rafayel paused. The touch was gentle—almost too familiar. But not rejected.
Inside, Xavier's thoughts stirred restlessly:

If you're going to hide... if you won't let me in... then I'll find my way in myself. I won't let you vanish from me again.

Rafayel opened his mouth to sigh, but Xavier cut in before he could.

"I don't care if you're a Lemurian,"  Xavier said, voice calm but firm.  "I'm not exposing it, but if you're going to keep avoiding me, then I'll keep intruding. I've given you space. I'll keep doing that. But I won't stop trying to understand you."

There was silence between them. Then Rafayel finally exhaled—long and soft.

"Lead me out, then."

Xavier's expression softened. He smiled and gently held Rafayel's hand.
Rafayel didn't pull away.

Even if the distance between them was filled with silence and secrets...
Xavier would stay. Because deep down, he knew— Rafayel was more than a professor, more than a Lemurian. He was connected to the Island. To the voices. To him.

And Xavier would wait...Even if it took a lifetime to hear the truth.

Day by day, things began to shift.

Rafayel, who always kept his distance, began showing up more.
Not dramatically. Not openly. But enough for people to notice—especially Xavier.

And on one particular day, inside the sleek white halls of UNICORN, the elite hunter agency—
Xavier, as usual, sat alone at the back lounge, lazily scanning his hunter watch.

He was quiet. Focused. Cold as ever.
Until the front doors slid open, and all eyes turned.

A figure walked in—composed, calm, wearing a cool suit cool quiet grace.
Rafayel.

He walked to the counter without hesitation.
The receptionist, recognizing him vaguely from past visits, looked up politely.

"Yes, can I help you?"

Rafayel's voice was smooth and low.

"Looking for Hunter Xavier. I know him personally."

Before the receptionist could reply, the elevator behind them chimed. And there, stepping out—was Xavier.

His eyes instantly found Rafayel at the counter. His usual cold composure... cracked just slightly.

He smiled.
Several hunters nearby who'd never seen Xavier smile in the building whispered instantly.

"Did... did he just smile?"
"Wait—Xavier knows that guy?"
"I thought he didn't even like people."

Xavier walked forward with an ease that seemed unfamiliar to those who only knew his aloof side.

"It's rare,"  Xavier said, smiling more clearly now.  "You coming to find me."

Rafayel cleared his throat, calmly—but clearly flustered by the attention.

"Yes. Came to find you. But... somewhere private, if possible?"

Xavier's eyes flickered with interest. But he didn't press.

"Then let's go to my apartment."

Rafayel gave a soft nod and turned to walk out first, cool and fast, as if trying to avoid further stares.

Xavier followed behind quietly, still smiling to himself.
Behind the counter, the receptionist stood frozen.

"He—he just... smiled and followed after him like a puppy. Who is that guy?"

The drive was silent, as always—Rafayel cool behind the wheel, gaze fixed ahead. When they reached the apartment, Xavier calmly guided him in.

Rafayel stepped through the door, eyes calmly scanning the place.

"Why not stay in the palace?"

Xavier walked to the fridge, pulling out two drinks with a soft clink of glass.

"Not a fan of palaces,"  he replied casually.  "Even if it's luxurious or high-tech. When I become king, I still won't live there."

Rafayel sat down on the sofa, taking in the modest surroundings with a small smile. It felt... peaceful here.

Xavier handed him a cold drink, their fingers brushing briefly.

"Thanks,"  Rafayel murmured.

Xavier settled beside him, close—but not too close. His presence always steady. Rafayel's heart beat a little louder, but his face remained composed.

"So,"  Xavier asked directly, as always.  "What made you come find me today?"

Without a word, Rafayel summoned a soft-blue fishtail marker beacon, its curves sleek like a piece of the ocean.
He placed it into Xavier's hand.

"For you."

Xavier raised a brow, smiling.

"A fishtail beacon?"

Before he could say more, Rafayel reached out and clasped both of Xavier's hands around it, his touch cool but firm.

"Channel your evol,"  he said softly.

Xavier blinked at the sudden contact—but smiled. It was rare, but Rafayel was slowly beginning to open up.

A gentle light flickered between their hands—purple and yellow auras intertwining around the beacon. It pulsed softly, alive.

Rafayel gave a faint smile.

"When you do this... I can feel you. It's a communicator. Wherever you are."

Xavier looked at him, amused but serious.

"Then how about the other way around?"

Rafayel tilted his head, curious.

"The other way?"

Xavier leaned a little closer, still holding the beacon between their joined hands.

"So I can feel you too."

Rafayel froze, lips parting slightly. Too direct. Too close.

But instead of retreating, he reached into the space beside him—and manifested a marble sphere, its surface crystalline and elegant, encasing a tiny, floating shining star.

He placed it gently into Xavier's palm.

"This will float and glow if I respond to it. You'll know where I am. I imbued it with my power."

Xavier turned the marble in his hand, watching the star shimmer faintly
Their hands lingered, the objects between them glowing faintly, resonating with unspoken history.

Xavier looked at the marble. Then at Rafayel.

"Then now... we're both connected."

The light between them pulsed once—gentle. Like a heartbeat. Rafayel didn't answer. But he didn't pull away either.

Rafayel secretly created a replica from what Xavier given centuries years ago. Now Xavier staring at it without knowledge but smiling.

Chapter Text

The streets of Philos were bursting with color and chaos.

Decorations hung high above, each block of the city styled after a different ancient tradition—some like old Chinese festivals with lanterns and red ribbons, others in ancient royal grandeur, with golden drapes and intricate floor patterns. Music, laughter, and shouting filled the air. People strolled about in all kinds of ridiculous outfits—dragon heads, royal capes, clowns, even someone awkwardly wobbling around in a giant dumpling suit.

Rafayel stood there, painfully underdressed in his plain black turtleneck.
Casual. Calm. Out of place.

His face was as unreadable as ever, but his grip on his phone was tight.

Earlier that day, he made the mistake of answering a call.

"If you don't come out, I'll keep channeling evol through your fishtail beacon every 3 minutes until you go insane."

Xavier's voice had been calm. Too calm. Too threatening.

"Xavier," Rafayel had sighed over the phone. "You're a grown man."

"And?" came the smug reply. "I'm also bored. It's the Festive Blessing. Everyone in UNICORN is coming. You're not hiding in your art house today."

"I'm not dressing up."

"Just show up. I'll find you."

Now, standing under the archway of glowing phoenix lanterns and watching a man stumble in a tiger onesie, Rafayel wondered if it was too late to go home and block the beacon entirely.

People passed by him in waves, laughing, dancing, enjoying the festival.

Among the sea of laughing festival-goers, colors and lanterns painted the Philos streets in gold and red, and fireworks bloomed like flowers overhead. But for Rafayel, everything began to fade into a soft blur when he felt it— a sudden, familiar surge in his chest.

His step paused.

A quiet breath left his lips as he felt it, where a soft shimmer flickered through his chest—The power was pulsing again within him.

"Xavier."

Rafayel closed his eyes briefly. Then with a subtle twist of his fingers, he returned the signal—his aura flowing gently into the connection.

Meanwhile, across the festival, on one of the upper floors of a high pavilion overlooking the streets—

A floating marble star shimmered suddenly in front of Xavier, rising from his pants pocket like it had a life of its own. It spun softly, glowing with blue and gold light, infused with Rafayel's power.

Xavier smiled faintly, his blue eyes reflecting the light as he stood with Jeremiah and Soren, two of his close companions.

Soren, noticing the star, blinked in surprise.

"Woah... That's really cool. Is that one of your light tricks?"

Xavier, still gazing at the marble, shook his head calmly.

"No."

Jeremiah, leaning lazily on the rail, smirked knowingly.

"Soren, don't ask too much. Trust me."

Xavier didn't reply further. He simply reached out, gently guiding the floating star into his hand like it was the most natural thing in the world. With his other hand, he channeled his evol into the fishtail beacon—activating the bond fully. A glimmer of light trailed behind him as he turned to leave.

"I've got to go," Xavier said calmly. "Someone's calling me."

And with that, he descended the stairs, disappearing into the crowd.

At the same time, Rafayel made his way through the shifting crowd of festival lights and music. His steps were swift, steady. His evol stirred softly in his chest, glowing through the connection. The power led him, and his own aura flowed quietly—responding, reaching.

He's nearby.

The noise around him dulled again.
All that mattered now was the feeling growing stronger with each step.

The pulse in Rafayel's chest grew stronger. Each step through the bustling festival pressed harder against his heart, until it was no longer the music or the laughter guiding him—
but the bond.

At the same time, Xavier's marble star blazed brighter in his palm, the glow of gold and violet light curling like threads of fate around his fingers. The closer he moved, the stronger it pulsed.

And then—across the crowd of lanterns, music, and shifting colors—
he saw him.

Rafayel.

Xavier's lips curved into a calm, quiet smile. His voice carried, low and steady:

"Rafayel."

Rafayel froze. Slowly, he turned. And his eyes widened.

There, striding toward him through the sea of festival-goers, was Xavier—dressed in a prince's outfit for the celebration. Regal fabrics in deep white and silver draped against his tall frame. Lantern light caught in his silver hair, and his blue eyes gleamed as if the stars themselves had taken root inside them.

Between them, the beacon in Xavier hand glowed with intertwining streaks of purple and gold, while above Xavier's palm the marble star floated brighter than ever.

The festival blurred around them. The music quieted.

Time itself seemed to stop.
For Rafayel, the sight cut deeper than he was prepared for.

Because the image before him—the proud figure in princely attire, walking toward him with the bond burning between them— merged with his memory.

The memory of Prince Xavier centuries ago.

The same proud stride. The same calm smile. The same warmth radiating like sunlight.
Alive. Standing before him.

Xavier...

Rafayel's lips parted, but no sound followed. His heart ached, twisting as past and present overlapped. He wanted to look away but he couldn't.

Because this was no illusion. This time... Xavier was truly here.

Xavier stepped closer, calm and cool as always. With a flick of his hand, both the beacon and the floating marble star faded into soft light and vanished—leaving only the air between them, heavy with unspoken memory.

"You really didn't dress up," Xavier said, a quiet tease in his voice. "Was hoping you would."

Rafayel didn't answer immediately. His lips remained slightly parted, eyes still trailing the royal fabrics wrapped around Xavier like they belonged to him.

"You dressed like a prince..." he said at last, softly.

Xavier glanced down at his outfit and gave a casual shrug.

"Well... Jeremiah and Soren said I should. So they raided the royal wardrobe and picked one out. Even though I'm not a prince,"

he added dryly,

"they said it suits my demeanor."

Rafayel's gaze drifted from Xavier's silver-lined boots to the embroidered collar at his neck. The shimmer of royal white, the quiet strength in his eyes—it did suit him. Too much, in fact. It hurt.

And yet, a small smile tugged at Rafayel's lips. A rare one. Soft. Honest.

"You do look like a prince," he said quietly. "Perfectly."

Xavier's expression shifted—slightly surprised, then warm. His usual composed smile softened just a bit more.

"I'll take that as a compliment," he replied. "Shall we walk around?"

Rafayel nodded gently, his heart thudding harder against his chest as he turned beside Xavier, blending into the glowing festival crowd.

He didn't say anything else for now. But every now and then, his eyes would drift sideways—
To glance at Xavier.

As if checking that he was still there. As if trying to convince himself that this wasn't another memory.

That this was real. That Xavier had returned. And this time... he was walking right beside him.

Chapter Text

The festival bloomed all around them—
dancing lights, costumed crowds, drifting laughter echoing off colorful stalls. Children ran past in dragon masks. Performers spun ribbons of fire. Street musicians played soft ancient tunes on bamboo flutes and stringed lyres.

In the middle of it all, Xavier and Rafayel walked side by side.

Xavier kept his pace relaxed, glancing at the swirling celebration around them with a calm, contented smile.
Xavier asked gently, voice barely above the hum of the crowd.

"Do you like the festival? I know you're not a fan of crowded places. But once in a while, going out can be... good. Besides..."

He turned slightly, eyes soft,

"I wanted to celebrate it with you."

Rafayel stepped in rhythm with him, arms casually by his sides, eyes drifting between the passing faces, glowing lanterns, and the way the evening light shone off Xavier's prince outfit.

His heart was thumping again. Quietly. Strongly. But his voice stayed calm.

"It's good, " he said, glancing around.  "Yes... too crowded. But..."

His eyes turned, meeting Xavier's for a moment.

"I won't mind with you."

Xavier's smile grew—not too wide, not too smug. Just soft.
A kind of warmth only Rafayel ever saw.

"That's enough for me,"  he replied, gently.

The bustling festival slowly faded behind them as Rafayel and Xavier made their way down the soft sands near the sea.

The coastline was beautifully adorned—paper lanterns shaped like seashells, long flowing ribbons tied to driftwood posts, and intricate mosaics of Lemurian waves arranged by the Philos citizens. It was part of the Festive Blessing, honoring ancient civilizations, and Lemuria was always one of the most cherished.

Xavier walked beside Rafayel, his royal prince costume catching the glow of nearby lights. People who passed couldn't help but glance his way in awe—his tall figure, graceful gait, and composed demeanor drawing quiet admiration.

But Xavier paid them no mind. His eyes, calm and steady, were drawn to the stalls and gentle performances near the ocean's edge. The sound of waves brushing the shore matched his voice as he spoke.

"Lemuria is... an interesting civilization. I want to know more about them. But there isn't much left behind."

Rafayel turned slightly, watching him with unreadable eyes.

"What do you want to know?"  he asked, his voice quiet.  "I'll let you know."

Xavier paused mid-step, smiling softly as he turned his gaze to Rafayel.

"You're opening up."

Rafayel looked away quickly, his heartbeat picking up. But he said nothing.
Xavier's smile deepened just slightly—warm, but still cool as ever.

"I heard something recently." 

He continued, looking back toward the sea as people released glowing lanterns into the water.

"A rumor. From Royal Messenger Amund. He mentioned it while speaking with the opera singer Talia. Something about... the Sea God's lover. That centuries ago, a runaway prince was his one and only. Do you think it's true?"

At that, Rafayel's steps slowed.
His eyes widened just slightly—betraying the flicker of panic in his chest.

Those idiots... gossiping where Xavier could hear them?

He quickly composed himself, voice steady as ever.

"I wouldn't know,"  Rafayel said calmly.  "It might be true. But I'm just a normal Lemurian. Not all of us know the Sea God's lover's true identity."

He glanced forward again, gaze deep and distant.

"But one thing is true. The Sea God... only had one lover. Ever."

The breeze swept gently across the decorated shore, carrying the sound of distant laughter and the shimmer of waves. Lanterns floated on the sea like drifting stars, and the hum of festival music played softly in the distance.

Rafayel walked beside Xavier, quiet and composed, his hands loosely in his coat pockets. He thought the conversation had ended, that the topic of the ancient Sea God and his long-lost lover would drift away like the tide.

But then Xavier's voice came again—lower, steadier, and more personal.

"How about the guy you said you once loved deeply? Can you forget him?"

Rafayel turned to glance at him, confused.

"What's this about?"  he asked, brow faintly raised. "That's... a bit random."

Xavier didn't look away. His eyes held a rare intensity. His voice, usually calm and cool, held something tighter now—a quiet ache.

"Because I don't like it,"   he said.  "You liking someone who never returned... or someone who left you behind. If he really loved you, he wouldn't have left. If he didn't treasure you, then he didn't deserve it."

Rafayel froze in place. His breath caught in his throat.

"You always have that look..."  Xavier continued softly.  "Like you lost someone... someone who meant the world to you. And honestly— It hurts me. Watching you carry that alone."

Rafayel's lips parted. But no words came. His heart thudded painfully, like it recognized something he didn't want to admit aloud.

Xavier turned toward him fully now, eyes never leaving his.

"I want it to be me."  he said clearly.

Suddenly, the calm between them broke—not by emotion, but by sound.

Cheers and claps echoed from just ahead, where a floating stage sat slightly above the sea, glowing with soft Lemurian blues and gentle lantern light. People gathered near the water's edge, a festive crowd full of laughter and awe.

Xavier looked toward the sound, then glanced at Rafayel, offering a small smile. He shook his head lightly, the weight of his earlier confession not gone—but put aside for now.

"Come on,"  he said gently, tugging Rafayel's hand.  "Let's see what that's about. As for what I said... take your time. I'll wait."

Rafayel stumbled slightly at the pull, caught off guard. His heart thumped. But he let himself be led.

When they reached the bay, a beautiful emcee stood proudly on stage. She wore an elegant Lemurian-inspired outfit, complete with shimmering pearls that danced with every movement. Her voice rang out clear over the sound of the waves.

"As part of this year's Festive Blessing Festival,"  she announced brightly,  "we welcome any couple or pair of friends to come up and reenact a scene inspired by Lemurian history! Be creative, be dramatic, be bold! The best performance will win a trip overseas—sponsored and free!"

Excitement buzzed through the crowd. Some dressed as Lemurian nobles, others as sea spirits, and a few had even brought flutes or props. One pair was acting out the rise of Lemuria's tides; another sang an old song supposedly written by a Lemurian artist.

Rafayel watched, genuinely amused, a rare soft chuckle escaping him.

"Interesting,"  he said, eyes twinkling faintly.  "They really have concepts like that?"

Xavier, standing beside him, smiled knowingly.

"Every year. You just never step out to see them. That's why this is your first."

Rafayel smiled, looking toward the floating stage again.

Before Rafayel could process what was happening, Xavier tugged his wrist, pulling him closer toward the floating stage.

 Xavier said with a cool grin, eyes glinting with quiet excitement. 

"Let's go, I'm taking part in this."

Rafayel stumbled, his expression a mix of shock and disbelief.

"Are you crazy???"

Chapter Text

Rafayel stumbled, his expression a mix of shock and disbelief. Standing at the bridge not going up to the floating bay yet.

"Are you crazy???"

Xavier chuckled lowly, not stopping, walking first towards the floating bay.

"Too late."

The crowd parted slightly as the strong, handsome figure of Hunter Xavier stepped confidently onto the floating stage with the prince outfit cool and calm.

Gasps echoed softly through the spectators.

"Isn't that the strongest solo hunter?"
"He's participating?"

Rafayel, face redder than the festival lanterns, whispered sharply under his breath.

"Xavier I swear—this is humiliating. I didn't even dress up."

The emcee, delighted, gestured toward them.

"What will your act be, brave pair?"

Xavier glanced at Rafayel, a teasing smile on his lips.

"We'll be reenacting a improvised memory... of the Lemuria Sea God and his lost lover."

The crowd oohed, captivated by the bold declaration.
Rafayel stared at him, utterly frozen. Heart thumping.

The sea breeze danced gently through the air as Xavier stood on the floating bay, his light evol glowing softly around him. A golden hue radiated from his figure, and his prince cape fluttered in the wind, giving him an almost otherworldly presence.

Amund did mention something... at the Royal Messenger Hall. The old tale of the heart sacrifice and prophecy.. I guess I'll just improvise that.

With a calm smile, Xavier raised his hand toward the bridge, where Rafayel stood, watching.
 Xavier spoke with clear, confident voice,

"I give this heart, to the only lover and most loyal follower of the Lemuria Sea God... I give it to the Sea God."

The crowd clapped lightly at first, amused by the theatrical flair.
But Rafayel's world froze.

His eyes widened as those words crashed into him like waves—the same words, almost, that echoed from the distant past. Centuries ago, Xavier had said them once before. But back then, it hadn't been a performance. It had been real. And it had ended with Rafayel plunging a blade through Xavier's chest, their sacred bond glowing red.

His hands trembled. His heart thudded painfully in his chest.

Slowly, as if drawn by an invisible force, Rafayel stepped down from the bridge and onto the floating bay. With each step, his form shifted—his true form surfacing like a long-buried memory.

His hair lengthened into soft, flowing strands of violet, catching the glimmers of moonlight. His eyes turned iridescent—a beautiful, haunting shade of pinkish-blue. The very sea around the bay began to shimmer, its surface glowing in waves of color that danced like starlight across water.

The crowd gasped in awe.

"Wow—how did they do that?"
"Is that magic? Some projection?"
"Wait—is this special effects?!"

But Xavier... he stood frozen in place, caught completely off guard. The act had just become real. Too real.

Rafayel stepped onto the bridge.

His footsteps were steady, his form radiant—transformed back into the Sea God of Lemuria.
But inside, his heart wavered. Bitter. Sad.

Each step toward Xavier was heavy with memory.

Xavier stood at the center of the floating bay, smiling—his light evol casting a soft glow, princely cape fluttering.
But Rafayel saw not the smile. He saw the ghost of a moment long ago.
A memory of blood. Of sacrifice. Of a bond that nearly destroyed them.

He came to a stop before Xavier. His voice, soft but strained, cracked slightly as he spoke.

"Even if you're willing to give me this heart...I'm not willing to take it."

Xavier, sensing Rafayel's emotions slipping through the act, responded calmly—still playing along.

"The prophecy has to be to fulfilled and i will do it regardless what."

But Rafayel's eyes shimmered, full of tears he wouldn't let fall.

"Then I would rather not appear in front of you."

With trembling fingers, he gently brushed Xavier's cheek.
His long, purple hair floated around him like silk waves in the wind, touched by divine power.

"Just how much pain do I have to endure... to stop myself from losing you again?"

Xavier's heart lurched at that.

This wasn't just performance anymore. He could feel it.
The heartbreak was real.

And so, breaking from the act, he held Rafayel's hand tightly—the one that touched his face—and said with quiet truth:

"If you're alive...then that's enough."

But Rafayel shook his head softly, floating slightly above the stage now.
His power circled him, graceful and sad.

Then—his chest shimmered.

A glowing red bond appeared, pulsing gently from his heart.
Xavier's breath caught at the sight.

What is that...?

Rafayel looked into his eyes with aching clarity.

"Then the bond will never disappear. I will change the prophecy myself. I won't let it fade."

The red light pulsed brighter. Rafayel floated closer, gently. His eyes never wavered. And then—he leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to Xavier's lips.

A kiss from the Sea God to the one who once gave up everything for him.
A single tear slid down Rafayel's cheek.

"I love you... far too much. So much that it hurts... Seeing you here again... the same... yet different."

Xavier stood frozen, eyes wide.
His chest ached with emotion he didn't yet understand.

Below the floating bay, the crowd fell into silence.

Gasps echoed. Some clapped. Some cried.

To them, it was a breathtaking performance—one that seemed to capture the ancient soul of Lemuria. A tale of devotion, sacrifice, and love... too real to be pretend.

But for Rafayel, it wasn't a performance. And his heart could no longer hide it.

He looked at Xavier one last time. His lips curved into a soft, bitter smile, even as his tears continued to fall. Without another word, he turned and walked away—his long purple hair fluttering like silk in the sea breeze, the glow of his divine form shining more.

He stepped off the floating bay, through the crowd gathered by the sea, and into the streets.

People turned as he passed—stunned by the beauty of his otherworldly presence.
His sorrowful expression. His shimmering hair. His tear-streaked cheeks.

Whispers followed him but he didn't stop.

His steps were fast, shaky, his heart overflowing—trying desperately to suppress the pain that now refused to stay hidden.

Xavier chased after him, weaving through the stunned crowd. His heart raced. Not from the run but from what he had seen. From what he had felt.

Finally, he caught up.

He reached out and gently grabbed Rafayel's wrist, steady and calm, despite the storm in his chest.

"Rafayel."

Rafayel turned, slowly.

His eyes were glassy, tears still falling down his cheeks. But even then, he smiled—softly, brokenly, a smile so full of pain it made Xavier's chest tighten.

For a moment, neither of them moved. Then, Rafayel's form shimmered. And before Xavier could say another word—

Rafayel vanished.

Disappearing in the middle of the crowd, leaving nothing but the echo of his presence behind.

Chapter Text

After the festival, Xavier teleported straight to Rafayel's art house—his heart pounding, mind racing.

This time, he wasn't going to leave without answers. But when he arrived, the house was eerily quiet. Rafayel wasn't there.

The halls of the enormous art house stretched around him like a maze, filled with familiar silence and distant paintings. He moved quickly, searching every room—until he reached a sealed door, far at the end of a hidden corridor. Unlike the others, this one was locked.

Without hesitation, Xavier raised his hand, and his light evol shimmered through his palm. With a soft burst of radiance, the lock broke apart. The door creaked open.

Still wearing the elegant prince outfit from the festival, Xavier stepped inside.

And froze.

A wave of divine energy washed over him—not evol. Something older. Something godlike.
Objects floated gently in the air, untouched by gravity. Papers, crystals, delicate carvings—everything bathed in a quiet, celestial aura.

Then he saw it.

An art sculpture of himself—but older. Wiser. Still him.
One... then another... and another. All of them. All versions of him centuries ago, preserved with care.

Xavier walked slowly toward one of the sculptures, his hand brushing the surface.

"Why are there so many version of me i don't recognise?"

His voice was quiet, almost reverent.

He ventured deeper, past walls of unspoken memories. At the back of the room, a sword rested against a hanger, its hilt adorned with a dangling star charm.

Then, a shift in the air.

He turned—and saw a massive black and golden-yellow claymore. Floating mid-air. Radiating with light evol energy. His evol.

Suddenly, the sword rushed toward him, fast and certain. Startled, Xavier instinctively caught it. The moment he did, the blade's glow pulsed warmly in his hands, resonating.

His breath caught.

"This sword... it reacts to me... Why?"

The weight in his hand felt familiar. Like something once his—but long forgotten. Carefully, he placed the sword back in its place using his light evol. Calm. But deeply confused.

Then something else caught his eye. 
At the very center of the room, floating in a soft beam of light, was a marble star. Almost identical to the one Rafayel had given him.

But this one was older. Worn by time.. And glowing faintly... with a deep golden yellow.
Xavier stepped closer, reaching out his hand.

The floating marble star drifted gently into his palm. It was warm. Familiar. Light evol pulsed softly within it—his own.

His brows furrowed slightly, calm but puzzled.

"This contains... my light evol."

He looked up.

Just above the marble, suspended midair by invisible force, floated a crown. Elegant. Faded with age, yet regal in every detail. Its design unmistakably Philos but ancient.

Xavier's breath caught.

"A Philos crown... but centuries old. How did Rafayel get this?"

His gaze drifted downward, and he noticed them.
Pearls. Dozens of them. Scattered across the floor.

Not ordinary pearls—real Lemurian pearls, glowing faintly with hidden power. He knelt down and picked one up, instinctively channeling his light evol into it.

Suddenly—A rush of warmth, then memories.|
Not his. A moment from the past, seen through someone else's eyes.

Rafayel's eyes.

Centuries ago.
Prince Xavier—confident calm, smiling—handed Rafayel a glowing marble star.

"Because you always call me a star. So I made you one that will never go out."

The vision shifted— Rafayel, in his Lemurian Sea God form, appeared at the royal palace, his tone playful.

"Mr. Star. Sparring again?"

Xavier, sword in hand, the dangling star from its hilt, had smiled.

"Yeah. Wanna join me?"

The memory faded. Xavier blinked, stunned. He dropped the pearl. It rolled away on the polished floor.

He reached for another. This time, the memory came faster, sharper.
Rafayel's voice again—softer now.

"Nice claymore. It's for the next-in-line king?"

 Xavier smiled coolly, swinging the golden-black claymore easily.

"Yeah. Crafted just for me. From my sword instructor."

The vision blurred, fading.
He picked up another pearl. 

This time, there were no words—just emotion.

Rafayel stood alone in a quiet room, carefully sculpting a statue—Xavier. The lines of his face carved with gentle reverence.

Tears brimmed at Rafayel's eyes, but didn't fall. He stood still, silently pouring his heart into the shape of someone no longer there.

Xavier slowly dropped the pearl, his hand lowering gently to the ground.
His chest felt tight. 

He turned his gaze back to the sculpture—the detailed, lifelike sculpture of himself—crafted by Rafayel's hands.

He stepped closer.
The light in the room flickered softly, reflecting against the marble, casting gentle shadows across his sculpted face.

He reached out, fingertips brushing the edge of the sculpture's cheek.
It was delicate. Too delicate. Every curve. Every line. Etched with care, with memory. With love.

His voice came out quiet. Barely a whisper.

"So the one Rafayel... deeply loves..."

He swallowed hard, eyes tracing every silent detail.

"It's me."

His hand rested fully on the sculpture now. The room felt heavier. The silence loud.

"You were all along... the Lemuria Sea God."

Xavier stormed out of the hidden room, his mind heavy with revelation, his heart pounding with clarity.

He didn't hesitate.

With purposeful strides, he headed toward the seaside near Rafayel's art house, the wind tugging lightly at his festival prince cape. The sun had dipped low, casting the sea in hues of deep gold and violet.

He didn't stop at the shore. He walked straight into the water.
Deeper. Further. Until the waves swallowed him whole.

He was going to risk it all.

If I really am the Lemuria Sea God's lover... if what I saw is true—

Then he'd know the moment he dove beneath.

The moment he could breathe underwater.

Xavier inhaled deeply and plunged into the depths. The cold sea wrapped around him, but instead of suffocating—he breathed.

His light evol shimmered across his skin, illuminating the dark waters in soft hues of gold and blue. His eyes opened wide, glowing a brilliant blue in the depths.

Then—A massive whale glided toward him. Majestic. Ancient.
Xavier's lips parted. He spoke and his voice echoed clearly in the sea.

"So my guess is right,"

The whale tilted, acknowledging him.
Xavier floated closer, calm and composed, a soft smirk forming.

"Take me,"  he said,  "to Lemuria. To where the Lemurians stay."

The whale turned. And Xavier climbed onto its back. The great creature surged forward, slicing through the sea with speed and grace.

As the currents swirled around him, Xavier raised his hand, and the fishtail beacon appeared—gleaming in his palm.

He channeled his light evol into it, and the beacon pulsed with energy. His eyes glinted dark and steady.

"You're not running anymore, Rafayel."

Chapter Text

The great whale slowed as it reached the edge of the Lemuria Civilization—a breathtaking city buried beneath the sea. Towering structures of crystal and coral shimmered in blues and purples, their walls adorned with glowing runes. Shoals of luminous fish drifted lazily through wide archways. Some Lemurians swam freely, their robes flowing in the water. Others walked gracefully inside the translucent buildings.

Xavier floated there for a moment, stunned. His cape billowed softly behind him, his light evol gently pulsing.

"So this is the legendary Lemuria..."   he murmured, voice low.  "Beautiful."

He patted the whale once in silent thanks, then dove deeper on his own—his fingers wrapped tightly around the fishtail beacon, the other hand gripping the marble star Rafayel had given him.

But the star didn't glow. Didn't pulse back.

You're still avoiding me...

He swam deeper into the city, past floating lights and drifting kelp gardens, until he spotted a Lemurian passing by. Without hesitation, he swam directly to them.

Startled, the Lemurian jerked back, eyes widening at Xavier's regal appearance and prince outfit, the glowing evol around him.

"Do you know any sacred temple near here?"   Xavier asked, cool and composed.

The Lemurian blinked, confused.

"Um... There are a few temples. But if you mean sacred, then the Temple of Promise. It's only ever entered by the Lemuria Sea God and his lover. No outsider has ever touched its steps. Wait—are you... a human?!"

The Lemurian swam closer, studying him. 

"If you can speak down here, someone must've kissed you. Where's your Lemurian lover then? You're not supposed to—"

But Xavier only smiled, calm and steady.

"I see. So that's how it works... It's not just any Lemurian bond—it must come with a kiss too."

The Lemurian blinked again, clearly more confused.

"Wha—? Well, yeah, I guess. If you've been kissed by a Lemurian with a deep bond, you can breathe here. But anyway, the temple's to the south. Past that tall building there, you'll see the dome—"

But Xavier was already gone, smirking.

Without another word, he dashed forward, swimming with quiet determination. The fishtail beacon still pulsed softly in his hand.

Xavier stood before the Temple of Promise, its gates tall and ancient beneath the sea. He placed a hand on the heavy doors and pushed. They opened slowly, welcoming him without resistance.

The moment he stepped inside, the water around him calmed. His boot touched the marble floor as if gravity existed here. The temple glowed softly with a sacred energy—nothing like evol. This was older, deeper.

It didn't reject him. It recognized his soul—the soul once bound to the Lemuria Sea God.

Xavier looked around the empty temple. There was no sign of Rafayel. He sighed quietly, then summoned his sword.

"If I've come this far,"  he murmured,  "then I need to know... how deep this bond truly goes."

He raised his sword and calmly cut his palm. Blood dripped onto the floor, staining the marble. He spoke again, voice firm.

"In the command of the Lemuria Sea God's lover... return the memories I have left."

The blood shimmered, then disappeared—absorbed by the temple. At once, light bloomed around him. The entire temple responded to his call. Power surged through the air like a heartbeat. Two glowing blue fishes formed, swimming in gentle circles around him.

Then—
the memories returned.

Prince Xavier floated lazily on the sea's surface. He wasn't lost. He was bored.

A voice called out, teasing.
Rafayel, beautiful and bright, with long flowing hair and amused eyes, looked down at him from the rocks.

"What kind of prince gets stranded in the sea?"

Xavier just smirked and swam closer. Then, without warning, he kissed Rafayel. Calm. Confident. Bold.

Rafayel froze—eyes wide, cheeks flushing, caught completely off guard.

Another Memory.

Xavier stood in the Lemuria Sea Hall, arguing with Rafayel.

"If your slumber can only be awakened by the sacrifice of your lover's heart—then I'll do it."

Rafayel protested.

"You're the next Philos king! You can't throw your life away for me."

Xavier turned away, voice low.

"Then I won't be king."

"Xavier!"

Another Memory

In the garden under the sea, Rafayel floated in lazy circles around Xavier.

"How do I use the bond between us?"  Xavier asked.

Rafayel spun around him lazily, playful.

"The Sea God follows the voice of their bonded lover. Whatever you command, I must obey."

"But how do I use it?"

Rafayel smirked.

"I'm not telling."

Xavier chuckled softly.

"Then I guess I'll figure it out myself."

Another memory.

They floated at the Lemuria Sea. Xavier held Rafayel's hand, dressed in his royal outfit. His eyes were soft, but steady.

"I command, as the Sea God's most loyal follower... and lover... the Sea God shall take this heart, and awaken the Lemurian slumber."

The words echoed like a prophecy.
Rafayel's face filled with horror. He tried to resist but the bond obeyed.

A shimmering dagger of light formed in his hand. His body moved on. Light surrounded them.

Rafayel struggled but Xavier gently held his hand still. And the dagger plunged into Xavier's chest.

"Xavier!! I don't want this heart—not like this!"

Xavier smiled gently as his body began to fade into the sea touching Rafayel face one last time.

Back to the present.

Inside the glowing Temple of Promise, Xavier stood alone, bathed in the swirling light of ancient Lemurian energy. His eyes glowed a deep, vivid blue. His light evol shimmered across his body like waves of quiet fire.

He placed a hand over his chest, where a dull ache pulsed beneath the calm smile on his lips.

"So the rumor was real after all,"  he whispered, voice soft and steady. "The prophecy... the sacrifice. Everything Amund said—it wasn't just a story."

His fingers curled slightly.

"All along... I was the one Rafayel loved. Deeply.."

Centuries ago, Xavier had sacrificed his soul—merging it with the sea—to awaken Lemuria through the divine bond. His heart became part of the waters, his essence scattered, forgotten even by himself.

But now, by entering this sacred place and spilling his blood, he had called that sacrifice home. Because Xavier gave his heart to the sea, to the Lemuria Sea God and so the sea remembered.

Meanwhile—

Far away, within the Lemuria Sea Hall, Rafayel stood silently before the great mural of his people. His expression was cold—detached but his heart had never stopped aching.

Then—A sudden pulse.

A familiar surge of energy blazed at his chest. His eyes widened in disbelief as the red bond shimmered violently across his heart, glowing brighter than it had in centuries.

He clutched his chest, gasping softly.

"This feeling..."

His eyes darted toward the south. Toward the one place he never thought Xavier would reach.

"No way... He's here? In Lemuria?"

Without a second thought, Rafayel turned.

His long hair whipped behind him, glowing slightly under the sea's light as he sprinted through the walkways. Lemurians glanced up in surprise, whispering at the sight—Rafayel never ran. Not like this.

But he didn't stop. Not when the bond called. Not when Xavier was waiting at the Temple of Promise.

Chapter Text

Rafayel swam quickly through the grand hallways of the Lemuria Sea Hall. His heart pounded as the red bond on his chest burned brightly, hotter with every second. Something was happening—Xavier was here. He could feel it.

Lemurians bowed respectfully as he passed, but Rafayel didn't stop. He didn't even glance their way. All that mattered now was getting to the Temple of Promise.

He swam south, straight through the sea currents until the tall temple doors appeared before him. Without hesitation, he pushed them open and rushed inside.

The moment he stepped in, Rafayel froze.

His breath caught in his throat.

Standing in the center of the temple was Xavier, glowing softly with the essence of the sea. Blue energy shimmered around him, and the two blue fishes—ancient symbols of Lemuria—swam gently in circles through the water around his body.

And above his hand floated the marble star, pulsing steadily with light.

Xavier turned to face him, calm and composed. His prince outfit fluttered softly in the temple's sacred currents. He looked completely at peace.

"I sensed you coming,"   Xavier said with a small smile.  "The marble was glowing."

Rafayel didn't answer. He didn't know how to. His power was already radiating unconsciously, reacting to Xavier's presence. He was still stunned, unable to believe what he was seeing.

Then Xavier spoke again, this time with quiet determination.

"I command, as the Sea God's lover... that the Sea God will never disappear without telling me ever again."

The words echoed through the temple like a sacred vow.

In that instant, the red sigil on Rafayel's chest flared, glowing bright red, brighter than ever before. The bond answered the command.

Rafayel's breath hitched again. His eyes widened, lips parting slightly as a single thought filled his heart:

He remembered?

Xavier stepped forward, slow and steady. His presence calm, yet heavy with emotion.

"You disappeared,"   he said quietly,  "right after I held your hand. After the performance at the Festive Blessing Festival. I had to find you."

Rafayel stood frozen, the ancient energy of the temple swirling faintly around them. His eyes were wide, his heart aching. He could barely whisper:

"How...?"

Xavier gave a small, knowing smile. His voice remained cool and composed, but his eyes were searching—deep, clear, and serious.

"Your hidden room,"   he said.   "I broke in."

"The pearls... your tears. The crown from Philos. The sword. The claymore. The sculptures—sculptures of me."

He took a quiet breath.

"And I realised something ridiculous." 

He continued, half-smiling to himself. 

"I was jealous. Jealous of someone I thought you loved. Someone you couldn't forget."

Xavier's gaze met Rafayel's.

"But all along, it was me."

The two blue fishes that circled Xavier slowly faded, dissolving into the temple's air like a memory returning to the sea.

"I was the Lemuria Sea God's lover,"   Xavier said gently.  "The one who gave up his heart for you."

He took another step forward. His words struck deeper now—not just as facts, but as feelings long buried, now uncovered.

"How long were you planning to hide from me?"   he asked softly.  "Living as a professor. As an artist. Always behind another mask. Never showing your true self. Was that your plan? To stay hidden... so I'd never find you?"

Rafayel couldn't respond.

His lips trembled, his fists clenched tightly. The pain surged in his chest—the bond glowing faint red, pulsing with every heartbeat.

It was too much. He had waited so long for Xavier to remember. And now that he had... it hurt even more.

Xavier's voice remained steady, though his gaze softened as it rested on Rafayel.

"I knew you were special the first time I saw you... back at the campus,".  he said gently.  "But I never expected you to be the Lemuria Sea God."

Rafayel voice cracked, but he held himself together. Barely.

"I would've wished we'd never met."

Tears shimmered in his eyes but did not fall.

"I never wanted you to sacrifice anything for me. I didn't ask you to. But you always insisted. Always pushing forward, always calm—"

His fists clenched so tightly

"You've always been good at disappearing, Xavier. And that time... you disappeared for good."

He looked up at him, raw emotion in his eyes.

"How am I supposed to face you now? How can I stand in front of you when, this time... I just wanted to watch you from afar? Quietly. Secretly."

His voice shook, barely a whisper now.

"Because I don't know when you'll disappear again. And I can't go through that again."

Xavier's eyes widened at Rafayel's words. His heart throbbed, aching with a pain he hadn't known he could still feel.

"Rafayel..."

But Rafayel continued, voice trembling, yet steady—like a wave that had held back too long.

His power shimmered around him in soft waves, barely contained. Tears clung to his lashes, glowing faintly under the ancient lights of the Temple.

"For centuries..." 

He whispered, 

"I've wandered back to the places we once laughed. Once fought. Once held hands."

"Everywhere I go... your memory haunts it. A smile left in the sea breeze. Footsteps on sand long washed away. The cliffs. The palace steps. The Lemuria Sea—"

He paused, breathing in shakily.

"I stole the crown... the one that was made for you. The king who never got to be."

Rafayel's voice cracked then, and he looked at Xavier with eyes full of longing and sorrow.

"Because the star that was meant to rule... gave up his light for me."

"I stole your claymore sword—the only thing left that held your presence. I kept the star marble you gave me... I clutched it every night like it was the last warmth you left behind. Until i stop when you reborn."

Rafayel's fingers hovered near his chest, just above the red bond burning faintly.

"Even the Lemuria Sea... carries your memory in its waves. I could never forget. Even when I tried."

Rafayel looked down, lips trembling.

"Xavi—"

But before he could finish, Xavier was already moving.

He stepped forward with calm determination, eyes glowing a brilliant, unwavering blue. Without a word, he reached out and gripped the back of Rafayel's neck—firm but gentle—and kissed him.

Rafayel's eyes widened in shock. His body froze.

He couldn't move. The emotions swelled too fast, too much. And then—finally—his tears fell. Silently, one by one, like rain breaking through a stormy sky.

Xavier didn't let go. Even after the kiss ended, his hand remained at Rafayel's nape, grounding him.

He spoke softly, but with complete certainty.

"I never regret what I did. And if you run again..."

 Xavier's gaze stayed locked on him, 

"I'll keep chasing you. I will never stop."

"You said your star left you..."

He leaned closer, resting his forehead gently against Rafayel's.

"Then your star will come back. No matter what."

A breath passed between them. The temple was silent, save for the slow echo of their bond pulsing faintly with light.

"I'm sorry,"   Xavier whispered, closing his eyes.  "I promise... I'll never leave you again."

Rafayel stood there, overwhelmed. Tears fell freely now, streaking his cheeks. His hands trembled at his sides. His heart ached. But for once, it wasn't from loss. It was from having too much to feel.

And finally—not being alone.

Chapter Text

Ever since Xavier had regained his memories, nothing about him really changed.

He was still the same—barging into Rafayel's art house without knocking, showing up outside Philos Academy to fetch him after lectures, and always carrying that calm, unreadable smile like it explained everything.

But Rafayel had changed.

He wasn't distant anymore. He smiled more now. Sometimes even laughed. The pain of centuries was still there, but a bit softer. A bit warmer.

Though Xavier still had a habit of being too much.

Like today.

Rafayel marched straight into Xavier's apartment, clearly annoyed. His short hair fluttered a little, slightly ruffled from the rush. And there he was—Xavier, sprawled lazily on the sofa, casually twirling the fishtail beacon in his hand, as if he hadn't just sent fifteen signals in the last hour.

"Would you stop sending that signal?"

Xavier didn't even sit up. He just looked at Rafayel with that same composed expression, his lips curling slightly.

"You came. So clearly, it's working. I should make good use of it."

Rafayel let out a long sigh, pinching the bridge of his nose.

"Of course I came. If I didn't, you'd just keep going. Honestly, if I kept sending a signal to the marble star every one minute, wouldn't you be fed up too?"

Xavier shrugged coolly, the beacon still glowing faintly in his hand.

"No. In fact, if that ever happened... I'd just move in and stay with you."

Rafayel's heart skipped. He turned his head quickly, trying not to show it. Then pointed a sharp finger at Xavier, scolding.

"You have a throne to take!"

But Xavier only stood up, calm and unbothered, walking over slowly with that same steady confidence.

"Then I'm taking you with me."

One quiet afternoon, Rafayel found himself at the UNICORN headquarters. The receptionist blinked at him in surprise before politely telling him,

"Hunter Xavier is on the solo hunter floor—sixth floor. You can wait for him there if you like."

Rafayel nodded and took the lift up.

The moment he stepped into the sixth floor, the atmosphere shifted. Every hunter in the room looked up, eyes catching on him. Their stares lingered—on his striking eyes, his elegant features, and his calm air that felt strangely out of place among rough hunters.

Rafayel raised an eyebrow, a little confused.

"Erm... hi? I'm looking for Hunter Xavier."

Some of the hunters exchanged knowing looks. A few whispered under their breath.

"Wait... isn't that the guy? The one who makes the cold, strongest UNICORN solo hunter actually smile?"
"Damn. He's even better-looking up close."

Another hunter waved him toward the corner.

"Hunter Xavier's out right now. You can sit at his desk area to wait, if you want."

Rafayel nodded, cool and composed, though he could feel the eyes following him. Then a familiar voice cut through the air.

"Professor?"

Rafayel blinked. Jeremiah was leaning back in his chair, tilting his head curiously at him.
That one word made the others pause.

"Professor?"
"Wait, he's a professor?"
"Woah—that's even more attractive."
"How is he not a model?"
"What's his relationship with Hunter Xavier?"

Rafayel's eyes widened slightly before he quickly composed himself. He walked toward Jeremiah with his usual calmness, though inside he was very aware of the stares.

"Xavier went for hunting?"

Jeremiah shrugged lazily.

"No idea. He's always out alone at random times. You only ever see him with Hunter Soren and me when he asks us. Otherwise, that strong guy never calls for backup."

Jeremiah's gaze sharpened with curiosity. He leaned in and gestured Rafayel closer. Rafayel, curious himself, obliged.

"Professor... are you and Xavier... finally together?"

Rafayel's lips parted, caught off guard. His heart leapt at the question, but reality quickly sobered him. He couldn't just admit it. Not openly. Not when Xavier was the next in line to be Philos's king. If he casually said yes, the whole UNICORN would explode with gossip before the day was over.

So he schooled his face and answered simply,

"Friends."

Jeremiah didn't buy it. He leaned closer, raising a brow.

"Friends? Seriously? But he told me he likes you. No way that guy hasn't confessed. He's way too direct—sometimes I think too direct, like he doesn't even use his brain."

Before Rafayel could react, another voice joined in smoothly.

"And that's exactly why people like him. Too direct, too attractive. No wonder he's the next in line to be king."

Rafayel turned sharply. Soren had appeared out of nowhere, his usual composure unshaken. Jeremiah snorted at his entrance.

Rafayel, though secretly pleased at hearing Xavier praised, kept his expression cool. Inwardly, however, he thought wryly:

"Next in line not because of his charm... but thanks to that idiot elder Amund."

Still, he played along.

"He's very popular around UNICORN, then?"

Soren gave a small smile.

"Of course. Plenty of girls try to talk to him. But he usually answers like a robot. 'No.' 'Mm.' '...' 'So?'"

Jeremiah burst out laughing, clapping his hands.

"Nice imitation."

Rafayel raised an eyebrow, still trying to picture it.

"He acts like that?"

It unsettled him slightly. The Xavier he knew—across centuries—was always direct, but never cold or detached. Around Rafayel, he had always been open, sometimes almost pitiful, always stubbornly clinging. But here, from what he heard, Xavier seemed like an entirely different person in the eyes of others.

And Rafayel had never seen that side for himself.

Jeremiah lowered his voice conspiratorially, leaning closer. Soren followed, tugging Rafayel into their little huddle, ear to ear.

"Xavier acts all pity with you, doesn't he, Professor?"

Rafayel glanced at them, lips twitching, and gave a small, reluctant nod.
Soren smirked knowingly.

"Ahhh~~ what an act. Let me tell you—he's no rabbit. He's a wolf, pretending to be one. When the time is right..."

Jeremiah hushed in, grinning.

"He'll eat yo—"

Before the words could land, Rafayel was yanked back sharply by the collar. A strong hand dragged him away with no hesitation.

At the same time, a sudden flare of light evol burst across the room.

"OIII! My eyes!" Jeremiah yelped, covering his face.
"Warn us next time!" Soren blinked furiously, half-blind.

Rafayel stumbled back, eyes wide, lips parting in shock.

Xavier stood there—cold, fierce, radiating dominance. His grip on Rafayel's collar was firm, unyielding.

"I don't recall a civilian being allowed to get that close to UNICORN hunters."

Rafayel's heart thumped, staring up at him. Xavier's expression was different—no trace of the calm person, no trace of the smile reserved for him. Only ice.

"Pretty close to Jeremiah and Soren, weren't you? Care to explain why you need to whisper ear-to-ear with them?"

The words cut sharp. Rafayel gulped, stunned—especially since only seconds ago the hunters had been joking about Xavier being a wolf under his soft act.

Jeremiah sighed, still rubbing his eyes.

"I swear I almost went blind..."

Soren muttered under his breath, blinking hard.

"You could've given us a warning, you know..."

But Xavier wasn't listening. His glare stayed fixed, cold and merciless.

"Do you two really need to stand that close to the professor?"

Rafayel whispered, still in shock at this side of him.

"Xavier..."

Xavier ignored him, narrowing his eyes at Jeremiah and Soren. The two hunters exchanged a look, then raised their hands in surrender.

"Just chatting. Friends, that's all."

But in unison, both thought the same thing as they eyed Rafayel with sympathy:

Jealousy strong. Poor professor.

Without another word, Xavier tugged Rafayel by the wrist—strong, unrelenting—pulling him away from the group, straight into his desk area deep inside the floor.

Rafayel could only stare, utterly confused, his pulse racing.

Chapter Text

Once Xavier dragged Rafayel into his private desk area, his grip finally loosened but his gaze stayed locked, piercing.

"You seem to like my colleagues a lot,"  he said, voice low, calm but edged.

Rafayel blinked, still catching his breath. He raised an eyebrow, unamused.

"Huh? Do you even know what we were talking about? It was about you. That's what piqued my interest."

Xavier's lips curved, but it wasn't his usual gentle smile. It was something sharper, a little dangerous.

"And yet you needed Jeremiah and Soren to tell you, when the actual person could say it himself."

Rafayel stared at him, taken aback by the shift in his tone. The cool, composed person who usually teased with subtle charm was nowhere in sight. This Xavier was different—jealous, fierce, and not hiding it.

Rafayel sighed, keeping his tone steady and composed.

"Look. I came here today to find you, to spend some time together."

Xavier's lips curved into a smile, but his eyes stayed unreadable.

"Changing the topic? Fine. Since you came, let's go."

Rafayel frowned, caught off guard.

"To... where?"

Without answering, Xavier reached out and clasped Rafayel's hand firmly. His grip was steady, cold, yet softened by a faint smile. He pulled Rafayel along, out of the sixth floor, out of the building, ignoring the curious glances of hunters they passed.

By the time Rafayel realized what was happening, Xavier was already holding his car keys.

"To my apartment,"   Xavier said simply.

And just like that, instead of Rafayel driving his own car as usual, he found himself in the passenger seat of Xavier's. The steering wheel belonged to Xavier, his presence quiet yet suffocating. Rafayel pressed his lips together, not daring to argue—he could still feel it. Beneath Xavier's calm exterior, he wasn't happy. Not at all.

The apartment door shut behind them, silence filling the room. Xavier's gaze was sharp, his voice colder than usual.

"So, what exactly were they saying about me?"

Rafayel smirked, almost relieved they were finally getting to the point. He had no idea just how much jealousy Xavier had been holding back since earlier.

"Now we're on the right topic,"  Rafayel said smoothly.   "Jeremiah and Soren were talking about how you act like a rabbit only in front of me but are actually a wolf. I've known you for centuries, Xavier, and I've never seen you cold to me. Until... well, just now."

Xavier stepped closer, his presence heavy, his words calm but edged.

"So they say I look like a rabbit but inside I'm a wolf? And what if it's true? I've never been cold to the person I love. But jealous..."

His eyes locked onto Rafayel's, burning.

"Jealous I always am. And I don't like it one bit. If that's what you really want to know."

Rafayel's throat tightened. He swallowed, forcing a nervous laugh, backing away slowly.

"Aha... hahaha. Are you really jealous-angry right now, or just acting?"

But Xavier didn't stop. Step by step, he closed the distance, until Rafayel's back pressed against the living room window. The city lights flickered outside, but Rafayel couldn't look away from Xavier's piercing stare.

 Xavier asked, voice low and unwavering.

"Do I look like I would act angry?" 

Rafayel gulped, words catching in his throat.

"I–uh–"

Xavier's hand slammed against the window beside him, the sound sharp and commanding. With a cool expression, he tilted Rafayel's chin upward, forcing his gaze to stay locked. His other hand slid beneath the edge of Rafayel's clothes, a subtle but deliberate threat.

Xavier's voice was low, steady, almost dangerous. 

"How about trying to make me not angry for now? It seems you like Jeremiah's type?"

Rafayel's eyes widened, and he scoffed, almost offended.

"No, I don't! The topic was just about you, Xavier. And I don't even know him that well."

Xavier leaned in closer, his presence overwhelming, the faint heat of his hand sliding higher beneath Rafayel's clothes. Every inch was deliberate, calculated—like a wolf toying with the fish he had finally cornered.

His eyes narrowed, voice cool and steady.

"Is it?"

Before Rafayel could answer, Xavier closed the distance, capturing his lips in a smooth, unhurried kiss. It wasn't rushed, nor gentle—it was a claim, a reminder of who truly held his heart.

Rafayel's breath hitched, his hands instinctively pressing against Xavier's chest, torn between resisting and giving in to the familiar pull.

With a quick, almost careless motion, Xavier tugged Rafayel's pants down. The suddenness left Rafayel wide-eyed, his cheeks burning red. Xavier's hand squeezed his firm backside, cool and deliberate, drawing a startled gasp from him.

Rafayel stammered, breathless,

"I don't understand...how you can look so calm—while doing this?"

Xavier didn't answer. Instead, he swept Rafayel up, strong arms lifting him easily as Rafayel's legs instinctively wrapped around his waist. Xavier's eyes gleamed, his voice low.

"Do I look calm now?"

Before Rafayel could respond, Xavier crushed his lips against his in a hard, consuming kiss.

As Xavier carried Rafayel to the bedroom, his skilled fingers continued their ministrations on Rafayel's sensitive manhood. Rafayel moaned softly into the kiss, his face flushed a deep shade of red. But when they reached the room, Xavier didn't lay him on the bed. Instead, he guided Rafayel to the window, pressing him gently against the glass while his touch grew firmer.

"Do I look like someone who wouldn't get jealous?"   Xavier murmured against Rafayel's neck, his voice low and possessive. He squeezed Rafayel's buttocks firmly, kneading the flesh as he pressed gentle kisses to Rafayel back of the neck.

Rafayel gasped and arched into the touch, his hands pressing against the cool glass of the window.

"hnnghnn..! I just didn't...expect it to be like this," 

Xavier's lips curled into a smirk against his skin.

"Now you know." 

Xavier lifted Rafayel effortlessly, folding Rafayel body so that Rafayel's back pressed flush against the cold windowpane. Rafayel's legs were raised high, draped over Xavier's shoulders, dangling helplessly.

Rafayel gasped sharply as he found himself suspended, held aloft only by Xavier's strong grip on his buttocks.

"hnngnn..! Xavier!"

Then Xavier lowered his mouth, sucking and licking with unbridled enthusiasm of Rafayel manhood.  The sudden heat and wetness made Rafayel cry out, his moan sharp and trembling. His legs quivered against Xavier's shoulders, toes curling as every flick of Xavier's tongue sent shocks through him.

Rafayel's voice rang out, broken by gasps, his body twitching against the window.

"Ahhh—Xavier!!" 

Xavier didn't relent. He devoured every sound Rafayel made, drinking in the taste, sucking harder until precum dripped from Rafayel's manhood to the stomach. Rafayel breath grew ragged.

"hnnnghhnn.! mphmmm..!

Xavier pulled back deliberately, lips glistening, his hand slipping away from Rafayel's dripping manhood just before release. The sudden absence made Rafayel's whole body jolt, his breath hitching sharply.

Back laid against the window, legs still lifted on Xavier's shoulders, Rafayel trembled uncontrollably—so close, yet denied. His body begged for more.

A broken sound escaped him, soft and desperate.

"hnnhnnnngh...!"

Xavier watched, savoring every twitch and whimper. His grip on Rafayel's buttock tightened, a low, satisfied hum vibrating in his throat as he admired the sight of Rafayel arching helplessly, strung between unbearable pleasure and aching need.

Chapter Text

Rafayel whimpers, his manhood and hole twitching badly, wet with need.

"Hnnghnn... Xavier..."

Xavier smiles, carrying Rafayel's limp, panting form to the bed gently.
He spreads Rafayel's legs wide, touching his thigh softly.

 Rafayel moans weakly, dazed with desire.

"Xavier... you asshole..."

Xavier chuckles, spreading Rafayel's legs even wider and removing his last piece of clothing gently.

"Next time, try getting close to anyone ear to ear and you'll end up on the bed again,"  he teases.

Rafayel flushes, weakly trying to punch Xavier but he catches his fist. Instead, Xavier kisses him deeply and enters Rafayel's wet hole smoothly in one thrust with his manhood.
Rafayel's eyes widen, his body arching high as he moans loudly. His manhood pulses and cums instantly.

"MMMHPMMM...!"

Rafayel legs trembling as Xavier spreads him wider, keeping him open and helpless. Rafayel feels everything intensely deeply.

Xavier start trusting slow, making Rafayel ache for more. Hitting the spot smooth and accurate while stroking Rafayel manhood slow and smooth.

Xavier thrusts slowly, hitting Rafayel's spot perfectly while he strokes Rafayel's manhood gently. 
Rafayel trembles and arches.

"Xavier...mmmhmm...!hnnnghnnn..!"

Xavier smiles, kisses him softly.

"I'm still not happy." 

Rafayel stares dazedly at Xavier, confused by his jealousy during their intimate moment.

"We're having sex and you're still jealous?"

With that, Xavier suddenly thrusting hard and deep without care. 
Rafayel screams as he cums instantly. 

"ARGHHHH! XAVIER!"

As Xavier continues thrusting hard, using Rafayel's body mercilessly.

Xavier's hips snap forward relentlessly, his thick length pounding into Rafayel's tight hole. He kisses Rafayel deeply, swallowing his moans and whimpers.

"hnnghnnn..!mmmhmmm..!

Rafayel's body trembles beneath him, his eyes widening as he feels the intense pleasure building inside him.

Rafayel pants urgently, his eyes wide with impending release. With that Rafayel grabs Xavier's chest and pushes him back slightly from the kiss.

"Xavier stop! Something's coming. You need to stop!"

But Xavier just raises an eyebrow calmly and kisses him back harder, pinning Rafayel's thigh wide open with his leg. 

Xavier trusts even harder, bringing Rafayel closer to the edge.

"hnnnghnn...!! mmmhmmm..!"

Xavier suddenly pulls out, leaving Rafayel's hole empty for a brief moment. Just as Rafayel's eyes widen in confusion, Xavier slams back in with full force, burying himself to the hilt.

"MMMMMMHMMM...!!! ARGHHHHH..!!"

Rafayel screams in pleasure, his manhood pulsing and squirting high into the air. His body shakes uncontrollably, tears of ecstasy streaming down his face as he's overwhelmed by the intense orgasm.

Xavier kisses Rafayel's neck softly, watching with satisfaction as Rafayel squirts fully.

"You can talk ear to ear with people again."

He murmurs against Rafayel's skin,

"but I'll make sure you end up like this on the bed next time."

Rafayel can only trembles weakly beneath him, too dazed and overwhelmed to respond coherently. He just moans softly, his body still shaking from the intense orgasm.

Ever since then, Rafayel's image of Xavier had shifted. Occasionally, after their private moments, Rafayel would grumble, cheeks flushed.

"Wolf in rabbit clothing,"  he muttered, half embarrassed, half amused.

Xavier leaned closer, brushing a gentle kiss across Rafayel's temple.

"Want to do it again?"  he asked softly.

Rafayel's face burned red. He quickly turned away, nodding shyly. He couldn't deny it—Xavier had a way of making him feel completely seen, completely desired. And his jealousy... that fiery, possessive streak... was something Rafayel had no idea how to handle. 

The long-awaited day finally arrived—the day Xavier would be crowned King. The streets of the capital glittered with ribbons and lanterns, colors of celebration spilling across every corner. Music echoed, children laughed, and the air buzzed with joy and pride.

Rafayel, with special permission, made his way into the royal palace. Instead of standing among the common crowd outside, he now walked the polished marble halls and entered the great place where the coronation would take place.

The nobles and ministers had already gathered, their attire shimmering with gold and silk. They spoke in hushed voices, anticipation hanging thick in the air. Rafayel blended quietly among them, his calm expression hiding the storm of emotions within. His gaze fixed on the carpet stretching endlessly toward the throne.

Any moment now, Xavier would walk down that path—no longer just a hunter, no longer just the man Rafayel had known for centuries—but the King of Philos.

The great hall fell silent as the doors opened. Xavier strode in with his usual cool composure, dressed in the ceremonial robes of the new king. His presence filled the place, steady and commanding, yet his expression remained calm, as if this grand day was nothing more than another task to finish.

Behind him walked Jeremiah and Soren, clad in white uniforms as his personal guards. The nobles straightened at the sight, whispering among themselves.

Rafayel's eyes widened slightly from his place among the ministers.

So they're not just hunters of UNICORN... but his right hand men? Then why in the world does he get jealous when I so much as whisper to them? This crazy rabbit!

As they advanced up the carpet, Xavier leaned ever so slightly towards Jeremiah and Soren, his voice low enough to escape the crowd's ears.

"Once this is done, I'm leaving."

Jeremiah, walking straight-faced behind him, only sighed.

"Are you seriously abandoning the palace on your coronation day?"

Soren's brow twitched, his tone dry.

"What a king."

At the top of the grand staircase, Xavier stopped before the throne. Royal Messenger Amund was already waiting, hands steady as he lifted the crown. For the eyes of the court, the gesture was regal, solemn, a blessing of the kingdom. But Xavier, sharp-eyed and unshaken, felt the ripple beneath the surface—the subtle hum of the Lemurian blessing hidden inside the ritual.

His eyes narrowed slightly.

This... Amund is a Lemurian?

The nobles and ministers leaned forward in reverence, blind to the truth, seeing only the pageantry. Yet from the crowd, Rafayel's gaze sharpened. His lips pressed together as a thought flickered through him.

Amund... you've repaid what you owed. I only hope you won't meddle with what's mine again.

The crown, heavy with both power and secrets, was lowered onto Xavier's head. He inclined his head just enough to receive it, but his eyes tilted upward, meeting Amund's with a cold, cutting glance.

Amund only smiled faintly, a flicker of something sly, and winked as though sharing a private joke.

Xavier's jaw tightened.

So the king's prophecy was never divine... it was man-made. Crafted by you.

The applause roared through the hall, but beneath it, the three men—king, prophet, and hidden Lemuria Sea God—stood locked in a quiet web of truth that no one else could see.

Chapter Text

Behind the closed doors of the private chamber, Xavier slipped off the heavy coronation robe. His movements were steady, composed, but his eyes carried a quiet edge. Amund stepped forward to assist, folding the garment with a care that seemed almost ceremonial.

Xavier's voice was cool, almost casual, yet heavy with demand.

"Explanation?"

Amund's lips curved in that calm, knowing smile of his.

"I am a Lemurian. Lemuria Elder Amund. You may not recall, but centuries ago I was there—witnessing the ceremony of the bond pact."

His tone carried the patience of one who had waited lifetimes, his hands folding the robe as if it were an ordinary cloth and not a crown's shadow.

He straightened, eyes warm with an old calm.

"I did all this to thank you. For sacrificing your heart to the Lemuria Sea God—and to Lemuria itself. Your act awakened our slumber, restored our power. Without you, we would still be fragments of memory."

Xavier buttoned his casual coat, his expression unreadable, though a flicker of sharpness stirred in his gaze.

"So the royal opera singer... Talia. She's a Lemurian too, isn't she? I remember flashes—her voice, her presence with Rafayel centuries ago."

Amund bowed his head slightly, as if conceding a long-kept truth.

"Yes."

Xavier's composure slipped into something colder, the weight of his voice low and steady.

"Does Rafayel know?"

Amund's smile lingered, faint but unshaken.

"He did. He found out—and was furious. You see, he wished only to watch you from afar this time, to remain unseen. But Lemurians do not take without giving. Gratitude must be repaid. We saw the Sea God's heartache, and we returned what was owed—our apology, and our thanks."

Rafayel lingered outside the palace after the ceremony ended, his lips curving softly. Relief warmed his chest. This time, Xavier had taken the crown. He was truly king.

But his smile faltered when Xavier stepped out. Gone was the heavy coronation robe, replaced by a sleek coat, though the crown still gleamed atop his head. His steps were steady, his presence commanding. Without a word, he reached Rafayel and clasped his wrist firmly.

"Let's go," Xavier said, calm and composed. "I can't leave the palace today—it's the coronation, after all. What a disappointment. Until tomorrow then... I'll be bringing you with me."

Rafayel's eyes widened. Ministers still dispersing nearby froze, watching in disbelief. His voice caught in his throat as he glanced around nervously.

"Xavier...!"

But Xavier didn't pause, didn't care. He pulled Rafayel back into the palace, his grip unrelenting.

Behind them, Amund lingered at the doors, his smile never fading. With a quiet bow to the retreating figures, he whispered to himself, voice gentle as though speaking to the sea.

"May our Sea God be forever blissful now."

Inside the palace, everyone they passed bent low in reverence to Xavier, their new king. His stride was firm, his hand tight around Rafayel's wrist. Rafayel tried to keep his face composed, but inside he was unraveling—his pulse wild, his thoughts racing.

"Xavier," Rafayel muttered, voice calm despite the panic within, "it's your first day as king and you're acting crazy."

Xavier glanced back with that infuriatingly calm smile, sharp and devastating.

"Do you think I would let you sit among the ministers, watch my coronation... and then simply walk away?"

Rafayel's breath hitched.

Xavier pushed open a heavy door and pulled him inside. Darkness enclosed them instantly. The lock clicked into place, sealing them away from the palace outside.

Then Xavier's evol flared to life. Light blossomed, scattering into countless motes that drifted in the air like stars. The room transformed into a private cosmos. Every surface shimmered—shells, pearls, relics from Lemuria. And at the very back, elevated as if sacred, rested the centuries-old crown Rafayel once stole, believing it lost forever.

Rafayel stood frozen, struck dumb. Every step he took sent light rippling across the chamber floor. His eyes widened, locking onto the impossible sight of the ancient crown.

"How...?" His voice shook. "You stole it from my room?"

Xavier set his newly gained crown of kingship onto a nearby table. With unhurried ease, he approached the ancient crown, fingers brushing it as though it were always his. His smile curved cool and sure.

"It isn't stealing," he said, gaze steady on Rafayel. "It's returning what was rightfully meant to be here. You never noticed, because you stopped entering that room. Did you realize that?"

The words cut deep. Rafayel's breath faltered as the truth struck—he had stopped going into that locked room because, for the first time, he was happy after so long. He hadn't needed to cling to those relics of the past anymore.

Xavier strode forward, the old crown cradled in his hands, his gaze steady on Rafayel. When he stopped before him, his voice was calm but carried the weight of centuries.

"Time to fulfill what you were meant to do long ago. To place the crown on that prince—the Lemuria Sea God's lover. The king Philos once wanted. The queen I desired."

Rafayel's breath hitched, chest tightening as the words struck deep. His heart pounded, aching with memories and the truth he had avoided for so long. Slowly, he reached out, taking the crown from Xavier's hands. The metal felt heavy, not only with its age but with everything it represented—loss, longing, and the bond they could never sever.

A soft smile touched Rafayel's lips, gentle and fragile. With trembling hands, he lifted the crown and placed it carefully on Xavier's head.

His vision blurred as tears welled in his eyes, yet he did not look away. Instead, he gazed at Xavier—at the man crowned not just by fate, but by the one who had always been his.

Xavier smiled, his usual coolness softened as he raised his hands to cradle Rafayel's face. His touch was gentle, yet his eyes held a resolve that could not be swayed.

"This time," he whispered, voice steady with promise, "you are going to be my queen. I'll give time before I announce it but for now, I only want you to remember."

He leaned in, pressing a kiss to Rafayel's lips—soft, firm, and filled with the weight of centuries of longing.

"Remember that I'm here. Remember everything. The star that once left you is now standing before you. And if you choose to run... then this star, this time, will chase you to the ends of life."

Rafayel's tears finally spilled, falling hot against his cheeks. He leaned forward, resting his head against Xavier's forehead softly, smiling. In that moment, his form shifted, his true self revealed—the Lemuria Sea God, radiant and divine.

The room glowed brighter, Xavier's light evol weaving through the air, scattering into countless particles that floated like drifting stars. They shimmered around them, wrapping the king and the sea god in a quiet, eternal brilliance.

Rafayel's voice was clear, steady despite the tears still clinging to his lashes. Xavier brushed them away with a gentle hand, smiling as if he held the whole world in his palm. Rafayel's fingers rose to touch the faint red bond glowing at his chest, a vow made flesh.

"I won't run anymore," he whispered, his eyes locked on Xavier's. "I can't, anyway. I'll make sure my star shines bright forever."

He leaned forward, sealing the promise with a kiss—soft, lingering, carrying centuries of ache and devotion.

Rafayel thought, his heart full.

The Lemuria Sea God's lover, forever.

Xavier pulled him close, arms firm and protective, as if to shield him from the world itself. His own vow burned within him, fierce and unshakable.

The Philos King's queen, forever. As long as I draw breath, we are in this together.

Around them, the room shimmered with Xavier's light evol, star-like motes drifting endlessly—silent witnesses to their eternal bond. This time round, no one leaving.

END