Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“All right then, lads and lasses. Who wants to know how babies are made?”

Doctor Holly’s voice rang out—serene, amused, and utterly unbothered by the bomb he’d just dropped into the room. It echoed off the sterile walls of the hospital ward, landing squarely in the middle of the stunned silence that had followed the discovery: a real, live human infant, cradled with impossible tenderness by the lady of the room.

The Ouroboros group stood frozen, minds still reeling, eyes locked on the tiny bundle in that woman's arms. But as Doctor Holly’s words settled into their ears, hands shot into the air like sparks. Every last one of them.

Who wouldn’t be curious?

With the calm efficiency of a seasoned educator—and the faintest glint of mischief in her eye—Doctor Holly launched into an explanation that was as thorough as it was clear. He didn’t just scratch the surface. He waded into biology, anatomy, hormonal cycles, cellular interactions, and gestation timelines, adjusting his tone seamlessly between the wide-eyed novices and the two inquisitive healers who lobbed progressively more advanced queries his way.

He was unflappable. Patient. Precise. Even when the questions turned awkward or deeply personal, he responded with clinical poise.

Eventually, he reached a natural pause. A silence bloomed. Then, he glanced toward Monica. The two locked eyes—an unspoken exchange that carried weight.

“Is there more to it?” Noah asked quietly, sensing it. His brow furrowed in confusion.

“There is,” Monica murmured, eyes never leaving Holly.

Holly gave a small nod, then turned to Noah with a softened expression. “Not here, Major.”

Monica straightened. “Understood.” She gave Holly a curt but respectful nod, then addressed the group. “Thank you, Doctor. I’ll take it from here.”

She turned on her heel.

“Please, all of you—follow me. The next part of the lesson takes place elsewhere.”

Groans and shifting feet followed her words.

“Aw, man, not sure I can cram any more info in this head,” Lanz muttered, trudging after her with a grimace. “My brain’s already leakin' out my ears.”

“Wot brain, you muppet?” Eunie shot back, grinning as she bumped his shoulder with his.

“Oi! You spoon!” Lanz growled.

“Guys!” Noah attempted, his voice pitched with a practiced weariness. But it was no use. The bickering continued like background noise, familiar and chaotic.

Amid the din, Taion walked silently, his expression troubled.

“Is there really more?” he asked, catching up to Monica. “I mean… from a medical standpoint, Doctor Holly covered the full reproductive process. Thoroughly.”

“There’s more,” Monica confirmed, glancing over her shoulder at him. A small, knowing smile curved her lips. “But it’s not something I can explain here. It won’t make sense until you experience it for yourself.”

Taion blinked. Experience it?

That word lodged itself in his mind like a burr. Experience what?

Surely she didn’t mean… actually having a baby? That couldn’t be right. That would be absurd. Preposterous. Unthinkable.

They were soldiers. Until this very afternoon, they hadn't even known what sex was, let alone parenthood. And now they were supposed to experience it?

His gaze flitted nervously toward the others. Who would it even be with?

Unbidden, his eyes landed on Eunie. She was still teasing Lanz with the kind of verbal brutality that made Taion wince. She’d always gotten under his skin—loud, crude, infuriatingly impulsive. But… he had to admit, she was clever. And honest. And one of the few people in the world who managed to keep up with him. He respected her. Maybe even admired her. But imagining her as the mother of his child?

Absolutely not, he told himself, stomach twisting. It was laughable. Terrifying. Inconceivable.

Okay, then… Mio?

Taion’s heart thumped—an involuntary beat of dread and longing. She was warm, empathetic, radiant in a quiet, magnetic way. But she and Noah… the bond between them had only deepened since this strange journey began. They stood side by side now, whispering in low, private tones.

No. That path was closed. It would be selfish even to think it.

Sena, perhaps?

He looked at her next—bright-eyed, full of energy, laughing at Eunie’s off-color joke. She had a kindness about her, a sweetness that soothed even the most volatile personalities. Maybe…

But how did one choose something like that? How did people decide who to trust with something so monumental, so irreversible?

Doctor Holly had explained the process—cells, chromosomes, fertilization. All the pieces of the puzzle laid out in crisp, clinical language.

But the why? The who? The ache of longing and the fear of change? The meaning behind creating life together?

He hadn’t said a word about that.

Was that Monica’s job now?

Taion swallowed hard. Another question rose in his mind—one he hadn’t dared voice in front of the others.

Is it only with women? Is conception even possible between two men?

He didn't know. It seemed unlikely. But in a world where people like them—weaponized, engineered, reborn—had just learned what love was, who could say what was truly possible?

He exhaled slowly, heart pounding in his ears.

Behind him, Lanz and Eunie were still at it—trading barbs with the ease of longtime sparring partners. Mio had drifted closer to Noah, the two sharing soft smiles and hushed conversation. Sena, still giggling from one of Eunie’s jabs, shook her head as if this world would never cease to surprise her.

And Monica?

Monica walked with the purpose of someone who already knew how the story ended. Each step was measured, her expression unreadable, but her eyes gleamed like someone carrying the weight of a truth long kept locked away.

And Taion…

Taion was beginning to realize that everything so far—the biology, the definitions, the delicate balance of cells and hormones—had only been the surface.

The real lesson hadn’t even started.

Unbeknownst to him, they had arrived.

The building before them was massive, stark white against the horizon, humming faintly with energy. Armed guards paced along its perimeter, eyes scanning the landscape with mechanical precision. As Monica approached, they shifted, relaxing ever so slightly at the sight of her.

“Full access to the underground lab,” she told the receptionist as they stepped into the atrium. “Tell Larry I’m here.”

The woman behind the desk nodded crisply and picked up the phone. Monica turned back to the group with a sly smile.

“We’re about to change your lives,” she said.

Noah blinked. “More than they already have?”

Monica chuckled. “Trust me—what you’ve learned so far? That was just the prelude.”

“Prel-what?” Eunie groaned. “Snuffing hell, Monica, that first bit was already enough to melt my brain. You’re tellin’ me there’s more?”

“Oh yes,” Monica said, the smirk never leaving her face. “Much more.”

She led them down a long corridor and into a stairwell. The descent was silent except for the echoing clatter of boots on metal. When they finally emerged, it was into a cold, windowless chamber filled with the low hum of industrial fans and rows of vents that lined the ceiling like watchful eyes.

At the center stood a man in a pristine white lab coat, clipboard in hand.

“Everyone, this is Larry,” Monica introduced. “One of our top researchers. He’s going to help explain what comes next.”

Larry gave a polite bow. “An honor, Ouroboros. It’s not every day we meet cradle-borns. Centuries, in fact.”

Larry gestured to a tray of sterile syringes. “Just a bit of blood from each of you. I promise it’s quick, and painless.”

“Wait—why?” Sena asked, voice tight with concern. “Are we sick or something?”

Larry shook his head, warm and reassuring. “Not at all. We’re just checking your… type. All will be clear soon. Think of this as the foundation for understanding your full selves.”

“Well, I’ve got plenty I’m not usin’. Go ahead,” Lanz muttered, rolling up his sleeve and flopping into a nearby chair.

“You could use some to grow a second brain, maybe,” Eunie shot back as she followed suit.

“Oi! Don’t be jealous ‘cause mine works fine!”

“Enough, you two,” Noah sighed, though his tone held more amusement than reprimand.

Larry, unfazed, moved efficiently from one to the next, collecting each sample with practiced ease, labeling every vial with precision.

“I’ll return in about ten minutes with your results,” he said, tucking the tray carefully under one arm before disappearing through a sliding door.

As the group settled into the sterile quiet, all eyes turned to Monica. She stood still for a moment, hands clasped in front of her like a lecturer preparing for her first sentence.

Then she smiled.

“All right. You’ve just learned the mechanics of life—how it’s created, how it begins. What Doctor Holly shared was accurate and essential. But it was also… incomplete.”

She paused, letting the words hang.

“You see, in our world, there are actually two kinds of sex—not just male or female. That’s the primary sex, the one you recognize from anatomy. But there’s also a secondary sex—one that reveals itself during puberty. That second sex governs not just your reproductive roles, but your biological instincts, your social behaviors, even your emotional patterns.”

“Puberty?” Sena tilted her head. “What’s that again?”

“It’s a transitional phase,” Monica explained patiently. “A period where your body matures. You develop traits that allow you to reproduce—hormones, secondary sexual characteristics, emotional shifts. It’s a passage from childhood into adulthood.”

“So… the first genetic trigger?” Eunie asked, eyebrows furrowed now in genuine thought.

“Exactly,” Monica nodded. “During puberty, your secondary sex asserts itself. It falls into three primary categories—though variations exist, these are the most common:”

She raised one finger.
“Alpha: The dominant type. Strong-willed, often protective, natural leaders. Their bodies are designed to initiate bonding and often command presence, whether they intend to or not.”

A second finger joined the first.
“Beta: Considered the neutral ground. They’re biologically compatible with both Alphas and Omegas, and they don’t experience heat or ruts. They live closer to what you might call the standard human experience.”

Then the third.
“Omega: Gentle, attuned, nurturing. Often emotionally intuitive, they can enter ‘heat’ cycles that allow them to conceive. They’re the emotional balance in any dynamic—peacemakers, harmonizers.”

She lowered her hand. “Now, this is a simplified view. These traits aren’t rules. Not all Alphas are aggressive. Not all Omegas are timid. There’s variation, personality, individuality. But these classifications help explain biological roles and social bonds that arise later.”

Taion had been listening with rapt attention, absorbing every word Monica spoke like a scholar clinging to a lifeline. But as the implications set in, a cold, heavy weight pressed into his chest.

“So the second sex… decides who we can…” He faltered, unable to finish. The words felt too foreign, too vulnerable, like saying them aloud would make everything too real.

Monica met his uncertain gaze with a steady, knowing look.

“Yes,” she said gently. “It determines compatibility—not just in reproduction, but in instinctive, biological bonding. You’ll understand more when you receive your results.”

A shiver ran down his spine, slow and deliberate. He glanced around. Behind him, the usual background noise of bickering had vanished. Eunie and Lanz stood unnaturally quiet, cheeks tinted pink. Mio was frowning in concentration, her arms folded across her chest, while Noah stood completely still, jaw clenched.

And Taion—
Taion wasn’t sure he wanted to hear what came next.

But he couldn’t look away.

Monica continued, her voice steady but compassionate as she began to detail the complexities they had yet to understand.

“Knotting. Pheromones. Imprinting. Scenting.”

Each word dropped like a stone into the silence. Foreign. Biological. Intimate.

As she elaborated—on the way an Alpha’s pheromones could ignite an Omega’s heat, on how scent memory and biological compatibility played a role in the formation of a true bond—the group slowly turned redder than the blood Larry had drawn from them.

Even Eunie and Lanz, usually the loudest in any room, looked thoroughly stunned. Eunie blinked slowly, her mouth parting as though trying to form a sentence, and failing.

“Aw man…” Sena murmured faintly, her voice breathy with disbelief. “That’s… a lot to take in.”

Noah finally lifted a hand to his face, covering it as if to shield himself from the mounting awkwardness.

“Wait, wait—hold on,” he muttered. “You’re saying that apart from the emotional stuff, like attraction and affection… choosing your mate also depends on pheromones?”

Monica nodded, unfazed by the discomfort in the room.

“There’s no shame in this,” she said gently. “It’s not something crude or shameful. It’s simply nature. And yes, Noah. For Alphas and Omegas, your secondary sex carries a whole set of instincts and biological responses. When your pheromones are compatible, it’s like two halves of the same whole clicking into place. That connection—the bond—is deep, often unbreakable. It lasts a lifetime.”

She let the silence hold for a moment before her tone softened further.

“You’ve spent your lives believing you’re only weapons. Soldiers built for war. Living to fight because that’s what Moebius wanted from you. But life… life is so much more than that. You have the right to love. To form bonds. To be loved. To find your soulmate. To want something just for yourself—not because someone ordered you to. That’s why I’m here. To tell you the truth.”

Noah slowly lowered his hand, his eyes drifting instinctively toward Mio. And there she was, already looking at him.

A spark passed between them.

It had always been there—silent glances, the way they moved in sync, the subtle shifts in voice when they spoke only to each other. But now… now the tension between them made sense. That strange, undeniable pull. That desire to be near, to touch, to know each other without explanation.

Monica noticed it too. She smiled faintly, a flicker of satisfaction crossing her face.

Those two had been bonded in spirit long before today’s revelation. They just hadn’t known why.

Taion, still pale, adjusted his glasses with trembling fingers.

“I assume the blood samples Larry collected… were to determine our secondary sex?”

“Correct,” Monica confirmed. “There are three categories, as I said earlier. But here’s something unique about your kind: cradle-borns—true cradle-borns—are nearly always either Alpha or Omega. Beta types were developed here in the city, generations ago, by descendants of the first cradle-borns. Betas now make up the majority of the population. But for you… your secondary sex will fall on one of the two extremes.”

“So… all of us?” Sena asked, trying to catch up. “We’re either Alpha or Omega?”

“Yes,” Monica said. “And given the nature of the Ouroboros link, it’s likely that each pair is one Alpha and one Omega. It makes sense—balance, after all, is part of why the link works the way it does.”

“Brilliant,” Lanz groaned. “Like we weren’t confused enough already.”

Noah, still thoughtful, spoke up again. “You mentioned we should be able to smell the pheromones, but I… I don’t smell anything. Nothing specific.”

“That’s because your sensory receptors were suppressed,” Monica said. “Moebius tampered with the IRIS system—buried the receptors deep to keep you focused on combat, not connection. But now that the Flame Clock’s been broken, those receptors are starting to wake up. Still, reactivating them fully requires guidance, and some of you may need help to feel or recognize the signals.”

“You don’t have to activate them,” she added, her voice gentle again. “This is your choice. You can go on exactly as you are, if that’s what you want. Nothing is forced. You’re free now, remember? You choose the path.”

There was a long pause.

“Did ya know ‘bout that… thingy?” Lanz finally asked, turning to Riku with wide eyes.

Riku blinked, clearly overwhelmed.

“Riku never heard of this strange bonding business!” the Nopon exclaimed. “No one teach Riku any of this in Colony!”

“Join the club,” Eunie muttered. “We’re all just wingin’ it at this point.”

Monica chuckled softly and folded her arms, eyes drifting across the group—battle-hardened warriors now standing awkwardly in the face of their own biology.

“You’ve been reborn into a new kind of battlefield,” Monica said, her voice warm but laced with gravity. “But this one isn’t about war. It’s about choosing the kind of life you want to live.”

Eunie’s lips curled in a smug little smirk, and Taion immediately noticed. He didn’t need their Ouroboros link to know what she was thinking. He could practically see the thought cross her mind the moment Monica had said the word “Omega.” That unmistakable glint in her eyes—triumphant and cocky.

She’d already decided. She was the Alpha.

“I can see you’ve already made your choice,” he muttered dryly, pushing his glasses up his nose. “Of course you’d assume you’re the Alpha.”

“Because I am, Omega,” Eunie quipped, her grin stretching wider.

Taion gave a short, amused exhale through his nose. “I’m going to laugh if it turns out you’re the Omega.”

She grinned. “Keep dreaming, four-eyes!”

Despite the banter, Taion wasn’t as invested in the outcome as he pretended. If anything, he was overwhelmed—flooded with new information, tangled feelings, and concepts he hadn’t even known existed this morning. Unlocking his glands? Experiencing heat or rut? Bonding for life?

The notion of mating—that act, the one Monica had described in such clinical but vivid detail—felt foreign, even absurd. Especially with the realization that what he had always thought of as a mere biological function had the potential for something so… permanent.

And yet, some part of him—a part he hadn’t dared listen to before—was curious.

But he wasn’t ready.

And he didn’t know if he ever would be.

Before he could fall deeper into thought, the door slid open. Larry stepped back into the room, a stack of papers in hand. His face was neutral, though Taion noticed a stiffness in his posture.

He walked directly to Monica and handed her the papers. She flipped through them quickly, her eyes scanning with practiced precision—until she paused.

A soft “Oh…” slipped from her lips.

Then, more quietly, “That’s... unexpected. How accurate is this test?”

Larry swallowed and glanced at the group briefly before replying under his breath, “About 95%."

Taion caught the shift in the air immediately. Something wasn’t right. Larry wasn’t looking at them anymore. He seemed almost… wary.

“Would it be better to rerun the test? Just to be sure?” Monica asked, still reading the pages with narrowed eyes.

Larry hesitated before answering. “We can rerun it. But I doubt the results will change. Statistically, they won’t. That 5%… it’s a formality.” Then he added, “They need to activate. That’ll be the definitive proof.”

Monica hesitated. Her eyes lifted from the papers, sweeping over the group. “If these results are accurate, the risk is...” She trailed off, her expression unreadable. “Well, they won’t enjoy it.”

“There has to be something else,” Larry insisted. “Otherwise—”

“I know,” Monica cut in sharply. Then her tone softened. “Still, rerun the test. I need to be sure.”

“Yes, Major,” Larry said with a nod before stepping away to prepare the new samples.

Taion had the distinct, unpleasant feeling that Larry had glanced directly at him just a moment before. His stomach twisted. Was his test the problematic one? What was so surprising? Maybe he was a Beta?

And yet… as the seconds stretched, a strange, hollow ache opened in his chest. He wanted to know.

“Is everything all right?” Noah asked gently, breaking the tension.

Monica blinked, then smiled. “Yes. Why don’t we proceed with your pair first?”

She lifted the first two sheets and held them out.

“I have a feeling you two might be a matching pair, don’t you?” she added, eyes flicking meaningfully between Noah and Mio.

The pair stiffened.

Mio glanced sideways at Noah—and found him already looking at her. Her fingers found his hand instinctively, and he didn’t hesitate to squeeze hers in return.

They didn’t need a synchronization to know what they wanted. Whatever this bond was—whatever this thing waiting inside them—they already felt it. They had for a long time. And now they had a name for it.

Even without the pheromones. Even without the heat, the rut, or anything Monica had explained. They knew.

Monica smiled softly. “Once your receptors are activated, you’ll be able to sense each other’s pheromones. It can be… overwhelming the first time. That’s why this room is filled with industrial-grade fans. Your glands have been dormant your whole lives, so when they unlock, the pheromone levels will be low—but concentrated. If things escalate too quickly, the fans will trigger automatically and neutralize the effect.”

She stepped closer, placing a hand gently on each of their shoulders.

“Don’t be afraid. If you’re truly bonded, if you really are soulmates, this moment will feel like the world rearranges itself. Everything will fall into place. Like something you’ve been waiting for your entire life finally arriving.”

She stepped back, nodding. “So… are you ready?”

Mio tightened her grip on Noah’s hand and nodded. Noah returned it, visibly trembling. But neither looked uncertain.

Their teammates watched in silence, holding their breath.

“Excellent,” Monica said warmly. She checked the pages in her hands one more time, then announced clearly, “Noah, you’re the Omega. Mio, you’re the Alpha.”

A small breath escaped Noah’s lips. “Oh,” he said, blinking in surprise. Then he looked at Mio, cheeks faintly pink. “Honestly… I’m not surprised.”

Mio smiled gently. “Neither am I.”

“I don’t really feel like an Alpha, though,” she admitted with a quiet laugh. “Not as much as someone else…” Her eyes flicked toward Eunie.

“Oi!” Eunie exclaimed, sticking out her tongue. 

Noah laughed softly, visibly more relaxed now. “Well, against P and Q… you did kind of tear into them.”

“Oh, come on!” Mio shot back, feigning indignation. “Everyone wanted to punch them. I just got there first.”

Monica let the couple settle, then addressed them again, her voice calm but unmistakably firm.

“Now that you understand, you need to know one more thing. Once you unlock your glands, there’s no going back. Your biology will shift. That includes the emergence of your heat or rut cycles. These aren’t just background processes—they’ll become part of your life, and yes, that means learning to manage them, especially in combat situations.”

She paused to let that sink in, then glanced between them. “But again… this is your choice.”

Mio looked to Noah, their fingers still entwined, still grounding each other. For a long moment, she said nothing. Then—

“Will it affect our combat ability?” Noah asked, his voice quieter now, touched with hesitation. The weight of the decision was finally settling on his shoulders. What if they were making a mistake? What if this bond, this biological awakening, pulled them away from their mission?

Monica shook her head without missing a beat.

“Absolutely not. If anything, it may improve it. You may find that your synergy in battle becomes stronger, more instinctive. You’ll have an emotional and biological connection no one else can replicate. That kind of closeness—when managed properly—is powerful. But,” she added, raising a finger, “you will have to coordinate your schedules around your cycles. If either of you enters heat or rut during a mission, it can become… problematic.”

“What if it happened?” Mio asked.

“Suppressants. We can help you find the right one. But suppressants come with side effects—mood swings, nausea, lethargy. They’re typically discouraged unless absolutely necessary.”

Noah exchanged a glance with her again, then looked back at the rest of their group.

“We shouldn’t decide this on our own,” he said, voice firm but uncertain. “we’re part of a team. And this’ll change how we train, how we live, maybe even how we fight. If we go through with this and end up benched for a few days... it affects everyone.”

Mio nodded. “Yeah. This isn’t just about us. We’re Ouroboros. We do this together—or not at all.”

Her voice was clear, unwavering. But her hand clung to Noah’s just a bit tighter.

For a beat, there was silence.

Then all eyes drifted to her—to the faint mark still visible on Mio’s neck. 

Sena stepped forward, nervously twirling a strand of hair. “Oh Mimi… I’m not sure I understand everything,” she said with a bashful blush, “but if it’s something that makes you happy, then… it’s okay with me. And I mean, I guess I’m kinda curious too?”

She glanced at Lanz.

He gave her a lopsided grin and nodded. “Yeah. Makes sense. Muscles need rest to grow, right? And honestly, this whole thing sounds more like training than resting.”

Monica smirked. “Well, the heat and rut can be… intense.”

Taion adjusted his glasses, then looked at Mio with an uncharacteristically soft expression.

“Go ahead,” he said simply. He knew how much this meant to her. She was the first person who made him feel like hebelonged in Gamma. It was his turn to return the favor.

“Manana not fully understanding everything,” the little Nopon piped up, “but will make special healing meals for the ‘bonding days’!” She puffed her chest proudly.

“Riku also has no objections,” Riku added with a nod.

And finally, Eunie folded her arms, tilting her head. “C’mon, love. Don’t keep us all waiting. Poor Noah looks like he’s about to vibrate out of his boots.”

Noah groaned under his breath but didn’t deny it. Instead, he gave Mio a small, grateful smile.

“Thank you, guys,” Mio said sincerely, voice a little shaky with emotion. “This… means the world.”

She gently let go of Noah’s hand, squaring her shoulders as she turned toward Monica.

“All right. Tell us what we need to do.”

Monica clapped her hands together once. “Excellent. Everyone else—listen closely. You’ll each go through this, but one pair at a time.”

She guided Noah and Mio through their IRIS interface, instructing them step by step on how to locate and unlock the suppressed receptor buried deep in their system.

“Now, when you tap ‘Finish,’ your glands will activate. The process is nearly instantaneous. Everyone else, please step back. Give them room—this is a delicate moment.”

The others did as instructed, Monica and Larry moving to the edge of the room as the rest formed a loose semicircle at a distance.

Mio looked at Noah. He gave her a nod. Together, they pressed the final button.

The effect was immediate.

Their eyes locked—and in a breath, their pupils dilated, breath catching as the shift overtook them.

“Oh…” Noah whispered, voice trembling. “It’s like… sweet fruit. Almost like heart peach in spring.”

Mio closed her eyes and inhaled deeply. “And I smell… wood. Pine. Rain. Like walking through the forest after a storm.”

She giggled—light, delighted, almost drunk on the scent. “It’s beautiful.”

Monica’s eyes softened, her heart momentarily swept up in nostalgia. That was how it had been for her. That first time. The wonder. The ache.

“The first step is complete,” she said gently. “Now, try to touch your hands.”

There was no hesitation.

Their hands met, fingers lacing instinctively. Their breath hitched in perfect sync. It was electric. A magnetic pull.

Then their foreheads touched.

And suddenly, the whole world shifted.

The room melted away. Nothing else existed but them. Noah swayed slightly, his legs shaking. Mio’s breath grew shallow, and her hands trembled as she cupped his face.

Monica’s eyes narrowed. “Whoa, whoa—easy now.”

The air changed. She could feel the tension spike—saturation building. 

“Back away!” she ordered, stepping forward quickly. “We’re not having your first bond moment in front of your entire squad!”

She separated them with surprising strength, gently but firmly breaking their connection.

Mio blinked, dazed. Noah stumbled slightly, breath ragged. They both looked like they’d been pulled from a dream.

Mio and Noah laughed weakly, still flushed and dazed, their bodies trembling faintly from the aftershock. But there was no mistaking it—they were glowing. Radiant, almost. Their bond shimmered in the way they looked at each other, as if the rest of the world had been stripped away, and only the two of them remained.

Monica stepped back, giving them space with a warm, approving smile. “Congratulations, you two.” 

“Sparks,” Noah breathed, leaning against the wall behind him. His legs wobbled, his hand pressed over his heart. “That was… I don’t even know what that was…”

Lanz rushed over with a worried frown etched across his face. “Mate, you alright?” he asked, placing a steadying hand on his friend’s shoulder.

Noah nodded, his smile wide and dazed. “I’m fine. Just… wow. It’s strange and intense and—kind of embarrassing, now that I’m back in my head. But incredible. Seriously, you have to try it. I can’t even begin to explain it—it’s like your soul finally finds its voice.”

He glanced across the room, searching. “Mio? You okay?”

“I–yes,” she replied, still slightly breathless as Sena helped her steady herself. “And you?”

“Still breathing,” Noah chuckled, though his hand remained clutched over his racing heart. “Barely.”

“Was it really that good?” Taion asked, brow furrowing in disbelief. “From just… smelling something?”

Mio shook her head softly. “It’s more than smell. It’s… like being wrapped in someone else’s essence. Like their presence seeps into your bones, your heart, your head—it fills you. Like when we synchronize, but deeper. It doesn’t just link your minds… it binds you.”

She looked down at her shaking hands, still tingling with sensation. “It’s overwhelming, but… beautiful.”

Monica nodded in agreement. “That’s the bond,” she said gently. “And it’ll only deepen from here.”

“Larry will walk you through regulating your pheromones,” she added, tilting her head toward the man in the white coat, who stepped forward. “You don’t want to unintentionally trigger another Alpha or Omega nearby. Especially in combat settings.”

Larry gave a brief, respectful nod. “Yes, give me a second.”

Then Larry approached Eunie and Taion.

“While Monica continues with the next test and I finish coaching your teammates,” he began, “I’d like to take another blood sample from the two of you—just to confirm something.”

Taion felt it immediately—there it was again. That vagueness. Carefully worded, like he was hiding something. The confirmation Taion had dreaded but expected.

It’s us, he thought. Something’s wrong with our test.

He didn’t know what—and honestly, he was too exhausted and overloaded to think clearly—but he gave a slow, silent nod. Eunie, perhaps sensing the tension, mimicked his motion without question.

Larry swiftly took the samples, his movements precise, quiet. The vials were labeled meticulously, and then he turned and left the room, taking Mio and Noah with him for further analysis and guidance.

“...And then you click on ‘Finish’,” Monica was saying, guiding Lanz and Sena through the IRIS activation steps.

“So?” Eunie called out, glancing lazily over her shoulder. “Who’s who, then? Alpha? Omega? I got distracted with Lab Coat Larry.”

“I’m the Omega!” Sena said brightly, raising her hand as if volunteering in class.

“I’m the Alpha,” Lanz confirmed, grinning. “Though, honestly, I think she’s tougher than me. You should’ve seen her lift my blade and hers with one hand the other day!”

Sena blushed fiercely. “Shush! You’re strong too!” she giggled—and then suddenly paused. Her body stiffened, then softened again, eyes fluttering slightly. “Oh… I think I can smell you.”

Her cheeks turned a deep shade of red.

“It’s… metallic,” she murmured in wonder. “Like a brand-new Levnis. You know? That clean, polished scent, like when they wheel out a fresh prototype from the castle?”

Lanz gave a hearty laugh. “Yeah, yeah! I know that smell! Wait, I think I got something too—yours is… uh… kinda sweet? Like amethyst vanilla?” He scratched his head and glanced at Monica. “Am I supposed to know what that is? Sounds like something Taion puts in his tea.”

“Yes, I also smell amethyst vanilla,” Monica nodded. 

Taion narrowed his gaze slightly as he watched the pair. “Is it just me, or is their reaction less… intense than Noah and Mio’s?”

“Yeah,” Eunie replied, arms still folded. “Those two were practically about to melt into each other. These two are just…” She tilted her head. “Blushing and sniffing.”

“The amount of pheromones Mio and Noah released was slightly higher than what we’ve just seen from Lanz and Sena,” Monica explained, her voice steady but intrigued. “It was a particularly strong response, but not an unexpected one. Those two were already well on their way to bonding—emotionally and instinctively—even before their glands were activated.”

Eunie tilted her head, frowning. “So, what if… what if their pheromones hadn’t matched? Is that something that can happen?”

Monica nodded. “Yes. It’s not only possible—it’s why we’re doing all this under controlled conditions. If two people’s pheromones are incompatible, especially if the bond tries to force itself, it can trigger something called pheromone shock. In worst-case scenarios, it’s a full-system overload. Nausea, hallucinations, collapsing—and if left untreated, even coma or death.”

“Snuffin’ hell,” Eunie muttered.

“But don’t worry,” Monica continued with a reassuring smile. “As said before, this room is equipped with industrial-grade filtration fans. If a reaction starts, we’ll clear the air in under a minute.”

Taion’s brow furrowed. “Even if they care about each other? I mean… say feelings are involved. Would that not override a mismatch?”

“It’s complicated,” Monica said gently. “There are theories that emotions can influence pheromone compatibility—that maybe the bond grows from love, or at least from connection. But scientifically? Larry and most others agree: if the pheromones don’t match, the bond isn’t sustainable.”

Taion nodded slowly, though his expression remained tense. He glanced at Mio and Noah—they had clicked. Instantly. 

“Can I touch her hand then?” Lanz asked suddenly, his curiosity overtaking any hesitation. “Just… wanna see if anything changes.”

Monica smiled. “Of course. You’re already emitting pheromones, and since no reaction has occurred, you’re safe. The contact will likely enhance your connection. It may heighten the bond, or at least clarify what you’re feeling.”

Sena shyly extended her hand. Lanz reached out, and their fingers met in the middle.

The effect was immediate.

A jolt—not painful, but undeniable—passed between them. Lanz gasped and blinked hard. Sena’s eyes widened, her breath hitching. Their hands clenched instinctively, like neither could bear to let go.

“Whoa,” Lanz laughed nervously, shaking his hand as though it had gone numb. “That’s… sparks. That’s weird.”

Sena didn’t answer. She stepped forward instead, and with a nervous laugh, let him wrap his arms around her. The way she melted into his chest, like it was the most natural place in the world, made something inside Taion twist.

“Wot the spark?” Eunie hissed under her breath, clearly baffled. Her eyes darted between them. “Is that really Lanz? When did he turn into a blubbering mushball?”

Taion said nothing, watching the two entangled figures. Lanz looked… peaceful. That was the strangest part. Not even post-battle in the hot springs had the guy ever looked that content. Like nothing else mattered but the girl in his arms.

It was disconcerting. Disturbing even. Could pheromones really change someone that much?

Taion’s mind raced. Was this going to happen to him? To Eunie? Would they suddenly dissolve into affectionate puddles, unable to focus, to think? Would he lose the sharpness that had defined his every move?

And more than that—if he was an Omega, like Eunie kept teasing, and as some quiet dread in his mind now feared—what would that mean for his body?

Heat cycles. Bonding. Mating.

Intimacy.

With someone. With anyone. And not just emotionally—physically. Viscerally. Exposed. Vulnerable. His instincts on display. No logic to hide behind.

Something inside him growled.

Absolutely not.

No way he was going to be knotted by her.

If anything, he was going to be the one doing the knotting.

The thought struck him like lightning—shocking, intrusive, primal. His breath caught, and his glasses nearly slid off his nose as he hastily adjusted them, pulse racing.

What was that?! Since when did that thought live in his head?

Why did he even care about who knotted whom? It wasn’t going to happen. Simple as that.

He pinched the bridge of his nose beneath his lenses, hard. You’re just tired, Taion. Overstimulated. That’s all it is.

He glanced sideways.

Eunie was still glaring at Lanz and Sena like they'd committed some kind of personal betrayal. Her arms were crossed, one foot tapping against the floor.

“Sparks,” she muttered, quieter this time, a furrow creasing her brow. “I’m not so sure I want to end up like that.”

Taion didn’t need to say a word. His silence was answer enough.

Definitely not.

Across the room, Mio was practically glowing as she leaned closer to Sena with a soft inhale.

“Ooh… that scent again! Amethyst vanilla?” she murmured with dreamy delight. “Is that yours, Sena?”

Sena nodded, her face flushing pink. “I can smell yours too, Mimi! Finally!” she chirped, only half-reluctantly easing out of Lanz’s embrace—though the boy looked like he’d prefer to keep her tucked there forever.

“These pheromones really are something…” Noah murmured from where he leaned against the wall, his voice dazed. “I like yours. Both of you. It’s… calming.”

“That’s actually quite important,” Monica interjected, stepping forward again. “In a tightly knit unit like yours, if one member’s scent clashed with the rest, it could create emotional dissonance—disrupt trust, instinctual alignment, even performance. You’re lucky. Everything we’ve seen so far points to perfect harmony.”

She turned her eyes to Lanz and Sena now, her voice shifting into something a bit more clinical. “You two also show more control than Noah and Mio did. That’s a good thing. Bonds come in different intensities. It doesn’t make one better than the other. Larry will walk you through moderation techniques soon, so you don’t accidentally trigger a response in nearby Alphas or Omegas.”

Then she looked back toward the door. “Larry? Do we have the results?”

The lab coat reappeared, expression tight. He didn’t speak as he approached Monica, just handed her two papers with deliberate care.

She took them.

Skimmed the first. Then the second.

Her face shifted, something unreadable tightening around her mouth.

She blinked.

Then again.

“…Well,” she said softly. “Shit.”

Taion and Eunie both straightened, their eyes narrowing at once.

“What is it?” Taion asked, his voice laced with tension.

Monica didn’t reply immediately. She turned instead to Larry.

“How accurate?” she asked quietly.

“Ninety-five percent,” he replied. “Same as before. But the match is… consistent. Repeating the test won’t change the result.”

Taion’s chest constricted. “There’s something wrong with us. Isn’t there?”

Monica looked up, meeting his eyes.

“Not wrong,” she replied. “But… different.”

Larry stepped beside her, voice lower than before. “They should unlock their glands.”

She glanced at him, then quickly scanned the room—at the others, then back at the two in question. Finally, she handed the results back to Larry and gave him a single, firm nod.

“You know what to do,” she murmured.

“I’ve already informed the support team,” Larry confirmed. “They’re standing by.”

Eunie’s shoulders tensed. “Prepared for what? What’s goin’ on? Are we just… two betas? Is that it? Nothing special?”

“No,” Monica said firmly. “As I told you, cradle-borns are never Betas. You’re either Alpha or Omega. But your results…” She hesitated, then continued carefully, “They don’t match any typical pattern we’ve seen.”

Taion and Eunie exchanged a glance. All the joking confidence from earlier had evaporated.

“C’mon, mate!” Lanz chimed in with a grin, clearly trying to lighten the mood. “Where’s that pompous brain of yours? Don’t ya wanna see if Eunie’s really the Omega?”

“Me?” Eunie barked, rounding on him. “I’ll have you know I’m the one who punches harder!”

“Well, Taion’s got a sharp tongue too,” Mio added, laughing gently. “But I don’t get why you care so much who’s what.”

Monica stepped in. “Taion. Eunie. I promise you, there’s nothing wrong with your results—but they are unusual. That’s why I’m asking: would you be willing to unlock your glands? Just that. We can observe your reactions before drawing any conclusions.”

“Unlock our glands without knowing the outcome?” Taion frowned. “And why, exactly, would we agree to that?”

Monica exhaled through her nose. “Because right now, your results don’t make sense. Not to me, not to Larry, not to anyone. And the only way to determine whether they’re accurate—or whether there’s an anomaly—is through lived data. If your bodies react… we’ll know more than the paper ever could.”

Taion didn't like that.

Not at all.

He could handle equations. Hypotheses. Tactical unknowns.

But this? This was chaos in biology’s clothes.

They both looked at each other—and even without speaking, they knew.

There was no real choice left.

Everyone else had crossed the line, had stepped into this strange, irreversible new world. Noah and Mio were still dazed but glowing, forever changed. Lanz and Sena were tucked in their own private little bubble, gently orbiting one another like two moons locked in the same gravity. The room smelled different now. It felt different now. Like something unspoken had shifted.

And they were the only ones left behind.

All or nothing, Mio had said.

Did they even want to back out now?

Taion's jaw tensed. Eunie glanced at him, the usual spark in her eyes dulled by uncertainty. Neither said anything for a beat, and then—together—they sighed. Resigned. Committed.

They turned to Monica.

“…and then click ‘Finish’,” she said, her voice softer this time, though her eyes flicked to Larry, who was already collecting something from the side of the room—ready to leave.

That caught Taion’s attention.

Why is he leaving now?
Why does he look so tense?
What kind of ‘team’ had to be ready?

The unease simmered in his gut, but he didn’t stop. He followed the instructions, his fingers gliding across the IRIS menu, tapping open the receptor functions. Eunie mirrored him, both of them moving in perfect synch. The moment stretched longer than it should have.

Click.

A soft pulse of heat ran beneath their skin as the final command activated.

And then—
They smelled each other.

Instantly.

No build-up, no subtle shift—boom.

The air was ripped in two.

Eunie’s eyes flared. “Wot the—?!”

Taion’s nostrils twitched sharply, his body locking up. “Oh sparks…”

He hadn’t known what to expect—everyone else’s reactions had been dreamy, dazed, almost blissful. But this?

This was not warmth.

This was war.

Her scent hit him like a gut punch: fortune clover, sharp and biting, earthy and electric all at once. It coiled around his senses like a vice, invasive and aggressive, sinking deep into his skin and testing him. Not beckoning. Not inviting.

Challenging.

Before he even registered it, his body pushed back. Pheromones of his own—biting and bright like heated citrus and scorched pages—flooded from his skin in response. He didn’t notice the others coughing, Monica shouting something in the distance. All he felt was her, and the blaring alarm screaming through his instincts:

She’s trying to dominate you.

Submit. Kneel. Yield.

The hell he would.

He growled—a real, visceral snarl that ripped from his throat like something ancient and untamed.

He barely recognized himself.

"Stop. Immediately," he snapped, teeth bared, voice guttural, trembling with restraint.

"Stop you, ya overgrown bookworm!" Eunie snapped back, eyes wild, posture squared. “Wot’s wrong with ya?! Stop pushin’!”

But then—

Taion felt it. Pressing it down on him like a weight meant to drop him to his knees. To submit. Her scent wasn’t an invitation.

It was a command.

And his instincts roared in defiance.

Another step forward, and the world narrowed to her—the sound of her breath, the flaring of her nostrils, the way she squared her shoulders like she was bracing for a brawl.

He lunged—

And so did she.

Her hand shot out, gripping the edge of his scarf and yanking him down with enough force to snap his balance. His glasses skewed on his face, barely holding. But he was already moving, growling, his hand fisting her jacket and dragging her toward him in return. They collided chest to chest, bristling like two rival wildcats.

Their pheromones spiraled into a full-blown clash—thick in the air, suffocating, overwhelming.

“Monica!” Mio cried out.

But Monica was faster this time.

“Level 3 fans—NOW!”

Larry didn’t wait. His hand slammed down on the control panel, and a massive whir erupted around the room. Fans hidden in the walls and ceilings ignited into life with a deep roar. The scent-heavy air was sucked away in an instant.

Still pressed close, Eunie’s eyes blazed as she hissed, “Why don’tcha drop on your knees, four-eyes?!”

Taion’s jaw clenched. He leaned in, voice dropping to a lethal whisper, lips just inches from her ear.

“Try me, Eunie,” he growled, “and you’ll be the one on your knees… begging me to stop.”

Stop what, exactly?

He didn’t even know.

And it was that not knowing—the intensity of it, the pull and the resistance, the way his thoughts tangled with instincts—that terrified him most of all. That there was a side of himself he hadn’t known existed… and it wanted to answer her challenge.

Not run from it.

Not walk away.

Win it.

They didn’t resist when Mio and Sena pulled Taion back, while Lanz and Noah corralled Eunie on the opposite side of the room. But neither Alpha stopped glaring. Sparks crackled in the air between them, their scents still clashing faintly despite the fan system doing its best to scrub it away. It wasn’t just pheromonal—it was personal now.

“Monica,” Noah muttered, keeping a firm hand on Eunie’s arm as she snarled under her breath, “Mind explaining what the snuff just happened?”

Monica, ever the scientist even in chaos, hummed low and fascinated. “Interesting setup,” she murmured. “A functioning double-Alpha pairing. Theoretically possible, yes. But in practice? Almost never stable.”

“Him? An Alpha?” Eunie barked a bitter laugh. “Don’t make me laugh.”

Taion’s eyes darkened. He didn’t speak, but the growl that curled from his chest said enough.

“Tai…” Mio whispered, reaching for his sleeve.

“Taion, please don’t—” Sena added, biting her lip as she clung to his side.

“So what?!” Taion snapped, cutting past them, his eyes locked on Monica. “We’re not compatible, is that it?! Just throw us out of the equation?”

Monica shook her head calmly. “No, actually… quite the opposite. You didn’t reject each other. You didn’t go into heat shock or collapse. You fought—but not to kill. That’s… meaningful.”

She tilted her head, studying them both like rare specimens. “You might be the first stable double-Alpha pair we’ve ever documented. And that terrifies Larry.”

Across the room, Larry stood stiffly by the door, his jaw clenched and his eyes fixed on them. There was something bitter in his gaze, and something unsettled too—as though what he’d seen had upended a foundational truth.

“Larry, glaring won’t change the results,” Monica said coolly without turning. “The tests were accurate. You smelled them. Unmistakably Alpha.”

He didn’t argue. Didn’t even mutter a response. He simply turned and walked out.

“Why’s he the one pissed off when we’re the ones feelin’ like garbage?” Eunie grumbled, folding her arms tightly across her chest. Her scent—Saffronia, intense and fiery—still lingered around her like a suffocating mist, even as the fans tried to sweep it away.

Monica exhaled slowly, brushing her hands down her coat. “Because Larry had a theory. A belief, really—that the Ouroboros Stone wouldn’t function until we found the perfect Alpha-Omega balance. That the core bond had to be between a dominant Alpha and a receptive Omega. He even went as far as to induce a bond in a pair who weren’t naturally compatible.”

Everyone turned sharply at that.

“I assumed the same when it worked with you,” Monica went on. “That your connection meant one of you had to be Omega. I didn’t expect this. And now… well, now we realize how much time we wasted chasing that assumption.”

A beat of silence passed. Then Noah, frowning, asked, “What happens when two of the same secondary sex interact like that? Do the pheromones always clash?”

“When you're adults? No,” Monica said. “Most mature Alphas can manage their scent around others. But right now, your bodies have just awakened their secondary sex traits. You’re producing raw, unfiltered pheromones. Taion’s weren’t ready to face another Alpha’s push—same with Eunie’s. Their instincts went straight to dominance. It’s a power struggle, and without regulation, that struggle takes over.”

“Does that mean…” Sena glanced nervously between them. “Same-sex relationships aren’t possible?”

Monica paused, then answered carefully. “No, that’s not what it means. Same-sex relationships are possible. The issue is that Alphas don’t usually bond well with other Alphas. Emotionally, maybe, but physically? Not easily. Their instincts reject the idea of submitting to another Alpha. That’s why such pairings are rare. And, to be blunt—Alpha females can’t have children with other Alphas. Only with Betas or Omegas.”

Her gaze slid between Taion and Eunie again, as if waiting to see whether the words would land—or explode.

They didn’t speak. But the silence between them roared.

“...Well, who cares,” Eunie muttered at last, trying to force a laugh that came out flat and cold. “It’s not like I wanted to bond with him anyway.”

But her voice wavered. Just a bit.

And her posture was off—tense in a way that didn’t quite match the bravado. Her fingers clenched and unclenched. Her wings twitched involuntarily, the tips fluttering in agitation. And worst of all, her scent—the same one that had slammed into Taion like a wave—was softening. Not gone. But shifting. From fire… to something almost shy.

That damn scent.

It still lingered in Taion’s nose. Fourtune clover, sharp but sweet now, grounding. Comforting. And it made no sense because it had felt like a threat minutes ago—and now?

Now, it just stayed with him.

Which only made him angrier.

Why had it felt so good and so awful at the same time?

And why did it seem like everyone else got to fall into each other’s arms while he and Eunie had to nearly tear each other apart just to feel something?

The looks from their teammates didn’t help. They weren’t laughing. They weren’t teasing. They just looked at the two of them like—

Pity.

And Taion hated it.

He hated the way Mio clung to Noah with adoration in her eyes. He hated the way Sena blushed every time Lanz looked at her. He hated that Eunie’s scent was still on him.

And most of all, he hated that when he’d grabbed her jacket, when their foreheads were almost touching, a part of him wanted to pull her closer.

He looked away.

So did she.

And for now, that would have to be enough.

“Now, what happened between Eunie and Taion might not be exclusive to them,” Monica began again, her tone turning firm as she addressed the group. “Other Alphas here—Mio, Lanz—might experience similar clashes if you're not careful. This is why controlling your pheromones is no longer optional. You must learn how to manage them if you want to function harmoniously as a team.”

She let that settle in for a moment before continuing. “And then, when it comes to your cycles… you’ll each need to prepare for your rut, just as Omegas must prepare for heat. If the Omegas in your group are already bonded then they’re off-limits. So you’ll need to find someone else. An Omega who is willing to share your rut.”

Monica’s gaze passed over them all, but lingered for a beat longer on Eunie and Taion. “There are locations designed for this. Safe, neutral spaces where Alphas and Omegas meet for exactly this kind of arrangement. I can send you both a list of those options. You should have no trouble finding a suitable partner there.”

Eunie snorted, arms folded across her chest. “Why not just another Alpha then?” she asked, casual—but her voice had an edge. “’Cause of the dominance thing?” She glanced sideways at Taion as if daring him to react.

He did—just barely. His jaw twitched, and a faint flush crept up his neck. He didn’t answer, but the question had already taken root in his thoughts, too. Why not? The reaction earlier was violent, yes, but it had been intense. Deep. Almost intimate in a way he couldn’t explain. Of course, it had nothing to do with Eunie specifically. It was just… curiosity.

Monica looked momentarily surprised, arching a brow at the boldness of the question. For a moment, she seemed to reevaluate Eunie, her eyes flicking between the two of them as if she were seeing something she hadn’t before. Was there something more between them? Doubtful, she thought—but not impossible.

“Yes,” Monica replied eventually, her voice steady. “Dominance is the reason. Their instincts compete too strongly. They rarely find physical equilibrium, let alone emotional trust. That doesn’t mean you can’t—it just means it’s rare.”

That answer seemed to silence Eunie—though she didn’t break eye contact with Monica.

Meanwhile, Lanz scratched the back of his head, glancing at Sena. “And… what happens if an Alpha doesn’t find a partner?” he asked, voice a little too casual to be convincing. The truth was, his thoughts had started drifting since he’d caught her scent. It was like he couldn’t not notice her anymore. Not just as a training buddy, but as something… more.

Monica turned toward him with a calm but clinical look. “Then they isolate. Just like an Omega during heat. A private, sealed room. Locked down until it passes. But it’s painful. Ruts are physically demanding and hormonally intense. Without an outlet, it can become dangerous. That’s why, even now, the recommended method is still what it’s always been: sex.”

A quiet, stunned silence settled over the group.

“From today onward,” Monica added briskly, “you’ll all need to take contraceptives. This is standard practice, whether you’re Alpha or Omega. The moment your secondary sex awakens, pregnancy becomes possible. And while accidental pregnancies aren’t common in controlled units like this, they do happen. If anyone would like to have a baby, you’ll report to Doctor Holly. He’ll remove it. No judgment. It's your choice.”

She straightened, folding her arms. “Larry and his team will go over the details with each of you after this. Tomorrow, I expect every one of you back here at the same time. We’ll finish the pheromone training and begin developing your scent control protocols. Only once I’m confident that you can suppress and regulate your release will we resume combat formations.”

There was a beat of silence, until Noah finally nodded. His voice was firm, grounded. “Of course, Monica. None of this changes the mission. We’re still Ouroboros. We’re still going to stop Z.”

Monica gave a short nod of approval. “Good. Because your bodies may be shifting, but your purpose remains unchanged.”

Then, Larry stepped forward again and called out quietly, “Taion, Eunie. With me, please.”

Neither of them responded at first.

Then, without speaking, they turned to follow him—still tense, still burning under the weight of what had happened and what might still come.

Neither looked at the other.

And yet… neither had stopped thinking about the other either.

****

That night, the rules were strict: no sharing rooms. Not even the bonded pairs. Monica’s voice had been firm, her order backed by Larry and Doctor Holly. With everyone’s glands now unlocked, it wasn’t just a precaution—it was a necessity. The risk of an “incident,” as they diplomatically put it, was too high. Pheromones still wild, instincts raw, and boundaries not yet re-learned… they couldn’t afford to test fate.

Eunie lay on her bed, one arm flung over her face, the sheets twisted around her legs. She hadn’t moved in hours, except to turn, kick the blankets off, pull them back on, then curse them again. Sleep wasn’t coming. It rarely did, not easily, but tonight—tonight was something else entirely.

She wasn’t vibrating with fury exactly, but it was close. Her muscles twitched under her skin, her nerves were hot and jumpy, like her body was anticipating a battle that never arrived. And it wasn’t just the pheromones, though they lingered thick under her skin, her own scent curling faintly into the air no matter how hard she tried to suppress it. It was… him.

“Snuff it,” she muttered, throwing the sheets off one last time. “All of it.”

She dressed quickly, stomping into her boots, pulling a light jacket over her tank top, and stepped out into the corridor, ignoring the flicker of lights above her head as if the base itself was wary of her mood.

The City was still.

Unnaturally so. Usually it hummed with voices, movement, chaos. But now, in the deep hush of night, it was silent. The buildings stood tall and still. The distant glow of the streetlights painted long shadows. Her boots clicked softly against the pavement as she made her way to the upper platforms near the edge—the spot they’d first camped at when they arrived. She leaned her elbows on the cold balustrade and stared out over the empty streets.

The night air cooled her skin, but not her thoughts.

So. She was an Alpha. Big deal, right? Eunie always led. That’s who she was. Loud, proud, never took shit from anyone. She liked being on top of things, in control.

Then why the hell did it sting?

Why did this—this stupid, unchangeable, biological thing—feel like a mistake? Like something had been taken from her, or maybe… revealed about her that she wasn’t ready to face?

She swallowed, hard.

Was it because it had been him? The idea, the hope, deep down that he’d be the Omega? That he’d be the one to submit—not in a weak way, no, but in that soft, yielding, intimate way she had no idea how to name?

She hissed through her teeth and ran a hand through her hair.

He’d stood there, growling at her like he wanted to tear her apart. And gods, she had responded in kind. No holding back. No jokes. No sarcasm. Just fire and dominance and—need.

That look in his eyes… not fear. Not revulsion. Something else. Something feral. Something hot.

He hadn’t been the quiet, calculating strategist then. He hadn’t been the bookworm. He’d been instinct. Raw and sharp and dangerous. And for a moment, a breathless, terrifying heartbeat, Eunie had wanted to push him harder. Or maybe dare him to push her harder.

She let out a frustrated groan and slammed a palm on the railing. “Spark it all to pieces.”

This wasn’t just curiosity anymore. It wasn’t about biology. It wasn’t even about dominance. It was about him. That scent. That voice. The way he grabbed her jacket like he had every right. The way her own fingers had curled into his scarf without thinking.

And now, when she closed her eyes, she saw it. Taion, not kneeling out of submission, but kneeling with control in his eyes. On purpose. Watching her. Wanting her.

Something inside her—low, deep in her gut—twitched at the image.

“…snuff me,” she whispered to herself, horrified.

Not him. She didn’t want him. That was just biology. Stupid instinct stuff, right?

But the tightness in her chest, the heat flushing her cheeks in the cold night air—it wasn’t going away.

And her mind—traitorous, relentless—kept playing that moment again and again.

His voice. His snarl.

Try me, Eunie.

Her fingers clenched into fists, nails biting into her palms. She didn’t notice the sting until the scent of her own blood mingled with the night air—and then her body reacted.

A surge of pheromones erupted from her in an uncontrollable wave, curling outward like smoke from a fire, hot and sharp, primal and raw. It didn’t even feel like hers. It felt like something ancient and coiled inside her bones, now unleashed.

“Sparks!” she spat through gritted teeth, trembling with rage and something she couldn’t quite name.

But a cough behind her broke through the haze.

She spun around instantly, hands still curled and tense, ready to strike—but froze when she saw him.

Taion.

Standing there with his arms crossed, one brow arched, calm and annoyingly composed despite the tension still thick in the air.

“Have you forgotten how to control it already?” he asked, tone caught somewhere between teasing and warning.

Eunie exhaled through her nose sharply. “No, I haven’t, you muppet,” she snapped. “I thought I was alone.”

Still, she recalled Larry’s teachings, forcing herself to center her breath. The pheromones began to retreat, retracting like a wave pulled back to sea.

“Thanks,” he said softly, stepping forward only once her scent had faded to safe levels. He joined her at the railing, mirroring her stance as he looked out over the sleeping City.

Neither of them asked what the other was doing there.

They didn’t need to.

“Do you regret it?” he asked after a long pause, voice low, careful.

Eunie didn’t answer immediately. Her gaze turned upward toward the stars scattered faintly across the dark canopy. For once, her voice didn’t come fast or sharp.

“Yeah,” she admitted finally. “I bloody regret it.”

Taion let out a faint breath. He smiled, but it wasn’t smug—it was sad. Resigned.

“Me too,” he murmured. “But… it’s too late now.”

Silence settled between them again. Thick, heavy, not uncomfortable but complicated. They both wanted to ask why. Why do you regret it? What exactly are you afraid of? But they didn’t dare. Feelings were dangerous. Especially when you were so sure you didn’t have any.

“Wot’s the grand plan, then, Mister Tactician?” Eunie finally asked, trying to lighten the weight with her usual bravado. “We’re in this stupid dance now, right? So I guess we need to dance.”

Taion’s brows lifted slightly. He had, of course, already thought about this. Endlessly. The logical solution, the one Monica had suggested, was to find an Omega. But that wasn’t a simple choice. Not with the dynamics in their group.

Noah was bonded—clearly unavailable.

Sena, technically, wasn’t—but Lanz had practically wrapped himself around her by now, and Taion wasn't looking to start a war.

He couldn’t deny that whenever Lanz looked at her, his pheromones flared. They surged with a possessive edge that was unmistakable. Scent, tone, body language—all of it screamed that Sena was already claimed, even if unofficially. Taion, despite everything, didn’t want to disrupt that. Couldn’t.

“No big plan. I have no intention to engage any... sexual rituals. For me, nothing changed. For the rut, I’m going to isolate myself,” he said plainly. “Until it passes.”

Eunie gave a huff. “Figures. Predictable. Monica said it will be painful.”

“Pain doesn’t frighten me,” he replied, brushing his glasses up his nose. “I’ve handled worse.”

Eunie turned to look at him, her expression unreadable at first. But she noticed the slight dryness in his voice. The way his throat worked harder than usual. The tiny tremble he thought she wouldn’t see.

That made her smile.

Not smug. Not mocking.

Just… human.

“I’ll lock myself up too,” she said with a crooked grin. “Ain’t gonna reduce me to one of those rutting disasters. I’ve got standards.”

Taion nodded once, silent again.

They didn’t move.

For a few long moments, neither of them walked away. The city’s quiet hummed between them.

“It was weird,” Eunie muttered, breaking the silence.

Taion didn’t disagree. “Indeed it was,” he said softly.

More silence.

Then, Taion spoke again—hesitantly this time. “Sorry about your jacket. It wasn’t my intention. I didn’t… mean to grab you like that.”

She turned just enough to glance over her shoulder at him. Her eyes narrowed, but there was no heat behind it.

“Yeah, well, I grabbed your scarf first, didn’t I?” she shrugged. “So, whatever. I guess we both reacted like a couple of feral beasts.”

He huffed a laugh, short and dry. “Not our finest moment.”

“Speak for yourself,” she smirked. “I looked sparkin’ cool.”

He smiled genuinely this time. “You always do.”

She blinked.

Then scoffed and turned away quickly, waving over her shoulder without looking back.

“Get some sleep, four-eyes.”

“You too, Eunie.”

And somehow, with their steps still heavy and their thoughts still tangled, the night didn’t feel quite so unbearable.

Chapter Text

The next day, Monica had them locked inside the training facility from dawn to dusk—no distractions, no excuses. The same building as the day before, though now it felt more like a chamber of secrets than a classroom. Every window was sealed, the ventilation carefully calibrated, and the only escape was through mastering what they’d unleashed the day before: their pheromones.

“This is no longer about discovering who you are,” Monica had said when they arrived. “This is about control. And control is the only thing standing between you and disaster.”

And so, they trained.

Hour after hour, they explored the boundaries of their new instincts. Monica guided them through breathwork, posture, scent redirection, and emotional triggers. Larry monitored them with sensors and IRIS adjustments, documenting every spike and fluctuation. They learned how pheromone output responded to anger, arousal, anxiety—even competitiveness. They practiced releasing it in small, controlled doses, then pulling it back in, until the process became instinctual.

During one of the few breaks, Noah leaned against the wall, sweaty but still full of questions.

“Monica,” he said between gulps of water. “Earlier you mentioned… marks? How can someone tell if a person’s already bound?”

Without hesitation, Monica rolled up her right sleeve. Her arm, strong and scarred from years of battle, bore a deep-black mark etched into her skin—a stylized shield shaped like her Blade crest, crossed diagonally by a long rifle.

Mio’s eyes widened. “Oh wow… What’s that?”

“This,” Monica said, tapping the inked skin, “is what we call a Binding Mark. When two people form a true Alpha/Omega bond—when they complete it—a symbol like this appears. Sometimes it’s a shape like mine, sometimes just a name. Each is unique to the pair, but the effect is always the same.”

“And what’s that effect?” Lanz asked, still stretching nearby.

“Once you’re bound,” Monica continued, “your pheromones stop reacting to others. You won’t attract anyone, and no one else will attract you. If you try to mate with someone else—voluntarily or not—your pheromones will turn against you. You’ll get sick. Painfully sick. Nature’s way of saying: ‘Back off.’”

“So it’s forever,” Sena whispered, touching her own bare forearm.

Monica nodded. “Forever. Which is why you shouldn’t rush into it. That seal is sacred—and final.”

“Right,” Monica clapped her hands once. “Break’s over. Let’s get back to it.”

By the time the sun had vanished behind the horizon, everyone was exhausted. But Monica was satisfied. They had made real progress. All six had learned to control their pheromones under pressure, even while sparring. A few accidents occurred—Lanz accidentally spiked when Mio pinned him during a demonstration, and Eunie nearly set off a second wave when Taion said something sarcastic—but Larry reassured her it was physiological. Expected.

“Well done, everyone,” Monica said as they regrouped. She patted Lanz’s shoulder, making him chuckle through a breathless grin. “Keep practicing. Eventually, it’ll be like breathing. Control first. Then, regulation. And soon? Mastery.”

Taion, adjusting his uniform, took a long breath. “How will we know when… you know… it’s time?”

“Ruts and heats?” Monica arched a brow. “Easy. The IRIS will alert you. Omegas will cycle roughly once a month. Ruts are less predictable but often respond to a nearby Omega’s heat.” She gave a pointed glance toward Noah and Sena, who both blushed furiously.

“Be careful,” she added. “Four Alphas. Two Omegas. That’s a volatile ratio.”

Mio, standing protectively near Noah, tensed subtly. Lanz rubbed the back of his neck, and Taion coughed as he adjusted his glasses again. Eunie merely scoffed.

But both she and Taion exchanged a look.

A loaded one.

They both knew—without speaking—that any attempt to court either Omega, any mistake of timing or intent, would lead to friction. At best. At worst? Chaos.

Taion exhaled sharply, pushing his thoughts away. They were the edge of the balance now. He and Eunie were the ones who could tip this team into disaster. He didn’t like that weight on his shoulders—but it was there, and he had to carry it.

Then, impatient and always quick to refocus the group, Noah turned to Monica again. “So… what’s the next step?”

Monica smirked, folding her arms across her chest.

***

“OK then. Sneaking into Agnus Castle, huh...?” Noah mused, pondering over the strategy Monica had laid out.

“Seems we won't be catching a break any time soon…” Taion remarked, adjusting his glasses with a resigned sigh.

Eunie, looking puzzled, asked, “so this person who knows where the true Queens are... Uhh... Who was it again?”

“You're looking for Ghondor.” Monica responded. She deliberately refrained from mentioning that Ghondor was her daughter, primarily to avoid giving the impression that this was a personal matter. She scrutinized them, wondering if they were truly prepared for such a mission. They had to be ready… they were her only chance to save her. If they failed, she would be killed by the end of the month. Despite the turmoil in her stomach, she kept her gaze steady on the members of Ouroboros in front of her.

And she hoped… she hoped intensely that their plan would succeed, for everyone’s sake, for her daughter’s sake.

****

“Did I not warn you?” N’s voice echoed like thunder, not just in the air but inside their minds—cold, triumphant, unrelenting. “There is no hope. And now… witness the result. Two sideshows—fallen.”

The guards dragged them roughly across the shattered floor, heavy boots echoing against the lifeless walls of the citadel. Blood smeared their armor; some coughed, some groaned—but none of them resisted anymore. The fight was over.

The members of Ouroboros stood frozen—shocked, bruised, powerless. Defeated. Their bodies were upright, but their spirits were buckling under the weight of failure.

Taion’s glasses were cracked, his breath shallow as he processed the outcome like shattered data. Eunie’s fists were clenched, trembling not from fear, but from rage too great to hold in. Mio stood in stunned silence, her face pale, her jaw tight, while Lanz looked from one fallen comrade to the next, unsure whether to scream or cry. Sena held her shoulder, dazed and barely able to process what she was seeing.

And Noah—Noah had collapsed to one knee, still trying to fight against the guards who held him by both arms.

“What…?” he rasped, his voice raw and stunned. “What are you doing to us?”

N turned to him slowly, like a predator with a cornered prey, and smiled—no, grinned—with an expression that didn’t belong to a human anymore.

“I’ve just thought of the most delightful little game,” N said, his voice soft but saturated with menace. He leaned forward and gripped Noah’s jaw, fingers pressing deep into his cheeks. Even through his gloves, his nails found skin, leaving thin red scratches. Noah flinched, his body tensing under the pressure. “Your heat’s almost here, isn’t it? The perfect storm. I can’t wait to watch you break—one of your so-called friends pounding into you while I take your sweet little girl for myself. All while the rest of you watch.”

Noah’s face flushed—not from arousal, but fury. Blinding, soul-burning fury. He roared and yanked free from the guards with a surge of strength that seemed impossible. For a split second, his fist cut through the air toward N’s jaw—

—but it stopped.

Just before impact, his body seized violently. His eyes widened in agony as he dropped like a stone, groaning, clutching at his chest.

A dense, suffocating scent suddenly filled the room—acidic and sharp, like metal left to rot in sunlight. An Alpha’s pheromones, released in a devastating, toxic burst.

Taion and Lanz fell to their knees, choking. Eunie bent over, gasping as if her lungs were on fire. Even Monica’s earlier teachings couldn’t prepare them for this—a raw, unrestrained, weaponized pheromone that tore through the Alphas like a poison.

Noah writhed on the ground, helpless.

But N? N stood tall, untouched, calmly brushing his gloves on his coat as if wiping off dirt.

Eunie screamed, “NOAH!” and lunged forward, but a guard slammed her back with the butt of his rifle. She snarled, baring her teeth, spitting curses that melted into coughs.

Across the battlefield of pain, M stepped forward—her face as unreadable as ever.

“I didn’t need your help,” N spat toward her without even looking. “Save your precious pheromones for me, M. Not for that.”

X let out a mad, barking laugh from behind them, clapping slowly like it was all a theater show. “Aw, come on, M! It was getting fun! Don’t go all noble now.”

M said nothing. Her scent slowly retreated, neutralizing in the air. It was like the pressure in the room finally released.

The guards picked up Noah’s unconscious body like a sack of meat, dragging him behind them. The rest of Ouroboros was forced to follow, one by one. Some limped. Others were dragged.

Back into the darkness of the prison cells.

The doors slammed shut.

The silence that followed was deafening.

Were they broken? Not entirely.

But they were defeated.

And as the iron bars locked behind them, one thought echoed in each of their minds, louder than the grinding metal:

Was there still any hope left… or had it truly ended here?

***

N made his appearance at the entrance of the cell, his presence as intimidating as ever. A sadistic smile played on his face as he observed the members of Ouroboros confined within.

“Surprisingly well-behaved. I half-expected you to have blown a hole in the wall by this point. Or what? Have you resigned yourself wholly to your plight, knowing the extent of my power?” N taunted them. They had been locked up for some time now, and all except Noah had abandoned any attempts to escape. Despite their combined efforts, the metal bars remained unyielding. With their powers sealed, they could do nothing but… wait.

“Did you come to gloat? Where's Mio?” Noah bellowed, reaching for the bars in an attempt to strike N.

“The girl, you'll find...is in the cell beside you,” N responded, unfazed by Noah’s rage.

“Huh?” Noah was taken aback. 

“Call out her name, why don't you? Your voice as your pheromones, at least, should reach. Oh, I see. You still cling to a sliver of hope. You recall...I wanted to stage two little sideshows.” N smirked, licking his lips.

“You expecting applause?” Noah spat, gripping the bars so tightly that his knuckles bled anew.

“It's your heat and then her Homecoming.” N replied, seemingly unperturbed by Noah’s reaction.

“What?!” Noah cried out in disbelief. He quickly checked the IRIS and realized that his first heat would arrive in a maximum of two days. A chill ran down his spine, but before he could process this information, N spoke again.

“Hrmph... I'm glad you catch on quick. In two days, you’ll be crawling on the ground begging your alpha friends to fuck you up. You won’t resist even when you’ll try! You wanted to have your first time with your love, mate with her and bound with her, am I right? Instead, you’ll experience the pain, the humiliation to be fucked so hard from them. And your girl will hear everything, your screams, your moans, everything! Now, isn’t this a wonderful experience to enjoy? You wanted to experience what is the real life? Well, this is how life is supposed to be!

Then with the eclipse...one month from now. The girl will meet her long-awaited end. Why don't we honor it at the Castle? Make it a day to remember? Well?! Does that not please you? What a magnificent sideshow it will be! Muhahahaha! Oh, yes... I almost forgot to tell you something. You are now aware of the cycle of rebirth, yes? There is an exception. Those whose flame is snuffed out during a Homecoming... will not return.”

“You monster!!!” Noah roared, lunging at N in an attempt to land a punch. However, N merely struck him in the stomach with the hilt of his sword, causing Noah to crumple onto the cold floor.

“Hahaha... So weak. Amusingly so. Right now, all of you put together don't have the strength of a single soldier. Not even these flimsy iron bars... yield to your efforts. Try all you like, but you cannot escape. No amount of toil will help you there. You feel the anguish? Crippling despair? That is the hubris. Of fools who cling blindly to their hopes... only to find them dashed on the rocks. Of dreamers, crushed under the sheer weight of reality. Of abject failures.”

“Spark off!” Eunie snarled, helping Noah to his feet. N merely laughed at their reaction before disappearing into thin air.

Silence fell.

Noah, doubled over on the floor, didn’t move. His fists trembled against the cold stone, blood dripping from his palms.

Lanz stepped forward, kneeling beside him. “Mate, are you okay?” he asked, voice hoarse.

“No, Lanz! I’m not okay!” Noah screamed, slamming his fist into the ground hard enough to draw more blood. “She’s in the next room. And I can’t do anything!”

Eunie crouched beside him, placing a hand gently on his shoulder. “Easy, love,” she murmured. “Four-Eyes and I can’t use healing. Our ether’s sealed. You’ll tear yourself apart like this.”

Noah jerked away at her touch, still seething. Eunie only sighed, giving him space.

“Guys…” Sena’s voice trembled as she stared down at her IRIS, the pale blue light casting ghostly shadows across her worried face. “My heat… it’s due in two days too.”

The silence that followed was suffocating.

Taion’s jaw tightened as he processed the words. His mind surged into overdrive, sorting through everything they had learned—theories, data, Monica’s scattered warnings—but the cold truth remained: they didn’t know what the hell was going to happen. Not really.

This was their first cycle. Their bodies were still adapting. And worse—they were locked in a cell, without ether access, with only a handful of untested suppressant pills and nowhere to run.

Sena’s eyes darted between them. “What… what are we going to do?” she whispered, her voice cracking.

Taion cursed himself again. I should’ve accounted for this. We should have had contingencies. This isn’t strategy. This is desperation.

Before he could spiral, Eunie’s voice cut through the fog.

“Don’t,” she said sharply, sitting down beside him with a thud.

He blinked. “Don’t… what?”

She didn’t look at him. Her gaze was fixed somewhere far beyond the cracked stone wall. “Don’t go blamin’ yourself again. Thinkin’ about what we should’ve done won’t help. You can’t plan for every twisted thing life throws at you. Right now, we’ve got two problems: heats, and how the hell we get out of here. So get your big brain back in gear, Taion. That’s what we do have.”

Taion stared at her. As usual, she sounded blunt. Borderline rude. But he heard it—underneath the sharp words was the trust. That silent I believe in you.

“…Right,” he murmured, gathering himself.

He turned toward the group, his tone steadying. “We have a limited supply of suppressants. Monica gave us five doses, just in case. I want Sena and Noah to take them as soon as symptoms begin—if we wait too long, the effectiveness drops drastically.”

Sena gave a shaky nod. Noah was still silent, sitting with his knees pulled up to his chest, eyes vacant.

Taion continued, “The average Omega heat lasts between two and four days. First time might be shorter, especially if suppressed early. Hopefully. But… the pills could have side effects. Hallucinations, nausea, dehydration. We’ll need to monitor both of you constantly.”

“And if one of us—” Lanz hesitated, casting a careful look at Sena, “—goes into rut?”

Taion inhaled slowly. “Then that Alpha needs to take a suppressant too. Immediately. But… we don’t have enough for everyone. Not if more than one goes into rut. The best we can do is try to limit exposure. Keep distance. Focus on keeping your minds grounded.”

“And if it doesn’t work?” Sena asked, her hands tightening in her lap.

“Then we improvise,” Eunie said flatly. “We deal with it minute by minute. Like always.”

They fell into silence again. The weight of it all was crushing. Taion could feel the group fraying at the edges, held together only by routine and the flicker of obligation.

Then—

“Noah?”

Mio’s voice.

It was faint, but unmistakable. Everyone turned.

Noah bolted up and rushed to the bars, his hands gripping the cold metal. “Mio! Mio, is that you?! Are you okay?!”

“I’m here,” her voice replied softly from the neighboring cell. “I’m fine, Noah. Really.”

“Why didn’t you answer before? We thought you—”

“I heard you,” Mio interrupted. “I just… needed time. To think. And now I have. I’ve made peace with it. Even if I never leave this place, I’ve decided I’ll live on through you. Through the others. That’s enough.”

Noah’s entire body trembled. “Don’t say that. Please, don’t just give up on us!”

“I’m not giving up,” she said gently. “I’m accepting what I can’t control. But you—your heat—it’s not your fault, Noah. You don’t have to suffer because of me. You’ll find your mate one day. Someone who loves you, someone who deserves you. It doesn’t have to be me.”

Her voice was so calm. Too calm.

Noah pressed his forehead to the bars. “I don’t want someone else…”

The rest of the team averted their eyes, giving them that sliver of space. No one wanted to intrude.

But it hit them all the same.

This wasn’t just a prison.

It was a battlefield for their bodies, their minds, and their hearts. And the worst part? The enemy was already inside them—pheromones, instinct, biology.

“I’m scared,” Sena whispered after a long pause.

Lanz moved to sit beside her. “Me too,” he said honestly.

Eunie leaned her head back, closing her eyes. “Right. Let’s try not to die of anxiety before the rut even starts, eh?”

Taion remained quiet, adjusting his glasses. But his fingers were trembling slightly.

No one felt truly ready for what was coming.

But time didn’t care.

And it was running out.

***

Two days later, the guards came without warning.

They barged into the cells, dragging Riku and Manana out despite the protests that erupted from the Ouroboros group. The Nopons squealed in resistance, but their small forms were easily overpowered.

"Hey! What the spark do you think you're doing?!" Lanz bellowed, slamming against the bars.

“They didn’t do anything!” Sena shouted.

But the guards remained silent. Cold. Mechanical.

“They’re taking the Nopons away because they aren’t affected by pheromones,” Taion muttered under his breath, watching helplessly. “They could interfere when things get… worse.”

Eunie’s face darkened. “That piece of shit”

But that morning, Noah was already awake.

He hadn’t really slept in the last two nights. Just collapsed into brief moments of half-consciousness, twitching in his nightmares. But tonight was different.

His whole body thrummed with tension. His skin felt too tight, as if his bones were trying to burst free. At first, it was a surge of adrenaline—like the kind that came after battle. His muscles buzzed, his mind wouldn’t stop racing. He lay on the floor, eyes wide open, staring at the ceiling until he noticed Sena shifting beside him. She groaned, caught in a restless sleep. Something was wrong.

And then it hit him.

A wave of heat, crawling up his spine like fire licking at his nerves. His heart pounded erratically. His mouth went dry.

No. Not now. Not here.

He tried to slow his breathing, to clamp down on the sudden spike of pheromones leaking from his body. He could feel them escaping, spiraling into the air like smoke. A familiar burning sensation settled deep in his gut, quickly sliding downward, settling between his legs. His body trembled, and despite his mental protests, it betrayed him.  The burning sensation drifted to the lower region of his body, causing an immediate reaction: his cock throbbed violently and start leaking. He emitted a half-moan, half-groan, a mix of pain and pleasure. Attempting to calm himself, he sat down, but his mind became a jumble of confusion, blending rational thoughts with wilder and more irrational ones. He began to pant, feeling an uncomfortable tightness in his clothes. Hastily, he removed his red jacket, together with the straps for his power frames and yet that did not alleviate the discomfort at all. He wished to strip himself naked. Glancing at his trousers, he realized they were the most bothersome article of clothing he wore. 

Focus. You can fight this. Just breathe. Mio is right there. She’ll hear you if—

But his instincts didn’t care. Rationality blurred at the edges, drowned by a rising tide of need—of ache. It was like drowning in warmth that was too much, too fast.

He bit his lip, hard enough to draw blood.

But the scent—his own scent—was already saturating the cell. It was sweet, heavy, cloying, and primal.

He hated it.

He hated that part of him wanted someone to come closer. To touch him. To ease this fire.

"Noah?" Eunie’s sleepy voice drifted in as she stirred, sitting up and rubbing her eyes. “Issit morning already—? Sparks!”

Her tone sharpened immediately when she caught sight of him. His face was flushed red, sweat rolling down his temple. His jacket was halfway undone, his hands trembling as he clawed at the straps of his clothing.

“What’s happening?” Taion mumbled from across the cell, groggily sitting up.

Then his nose twitched.

A pause.

“Sparks,” he cursed under his breath, scrambling up as the pheromones finally registered. “He’s in heat.”

“Noah—control your breathing,” Taion ordered, kneeling beside him. “Slow, deliberate breaths. You’re losing control of your scent. You’re overwhelming us.”

But Noah didn’t seem to hear. His hands were fisting the fabric of his pants, his chest rising and falling in ragged gasps. Every part of his body was in rebellion.

“I—can’t—” he choked. “It—hurts—!”

Eunie knelt beside him, hands hovering over his shoulders, unsure whether touching him would help or make things worse. Her head was spinning too. The scent was thick in the air now, coating her throat, invading her lungs. She tried to push it away, to stay grounded—but her vision blurred at the edges.

And then, just like Noah, her body began to respond.

No.

Not now.

She gritted her teeth, clenching her fists to resist the growing haze building inside her skull. She couldn’t fall into this. She couldn’t let her instincts take over. She was stronger than this.

“Oi—Noah—look at me!” she barked, forcing her voice to stay firm.

But he wasn’t responding. His body trembled violently, his mind slipping further away.

“Eunie.”
Taion’s voice cut through the thick, sweltering air like a blade. He gripped her arm, firm but not rough. “You need to get some distance. Now.”

But Eunie couldn’t move. Her feet refused to budge.

She wanted to listen. She knew she should back off. But the scent—Noah’s pheromones—was a wildfire already in her lungs. It seeped into her skin, warm and dizzying, tugging at her instincts until she could barely hear her own thoughts.

Her mouth was dry. Her legs were shaking.

And worse, her lower body was reacting in a way that made her want to drag him into the corner of the cell and do to him everything she had learnt a few days ago.

She clenched her fists, nails digging into her palms to anchor herself.

But then—

“L-Lanz…”
Sena’s small voice cracked through the heat. It wasn’t quite a cry. More like a gasp—a plea. A warning wrapped in helplessness.

Taion and Eunie snapped their attention toward her. What they saw drained the color from their faces.

Sena had thrown herself into Lanz’s lap, pressing her body against his chest. Her whole frame trembled like a taut string ready to snap. She clawed at her shirt, trying to remove it, her skin flushed and her pupils wide with the fog of heat. Lanz, equally drenched in sweat, held her shoulders, panicked—but his hands were trembling. His own scent was rising, thick and earthy, vibrating in the air.

“Sena, stop—! You need to stop!” Lanz stammered. But his voice was shaky, and his body betrayed him. The tension between them spiked. His eyes glowed faintly in the dim cell light—Alpha instincts surging up and clawing at the edge of his reason.

“Oh, sparks…” Eunie cursed, backing away from Noah just enough to shout. “Lanz! Don’t let it take over—! She’s not herself!”

“I—I’m trying—!”

“Taion, the pills! Now!” Eunie barked, her voice sharp as glass. But when she turned to him, even Taion was struggling. His usually crisp features were drawn and pale, his glasses slightly fogged. He was gripping the side of his coat, trying to steady his breath while pawing through the secret pocket where the suppressants were hidden.

Eunie’s knees buckled as Noah let out another moan—low, guttural, completely unguarded. He slumped forward and collapsed against her, his head falling directly into her lap.

“Noah—!” she hissed, reaching down to lift him—but then he breathed in. Deep. Instinctively. His nose buried against her tights.

And the scent exploded again.

A shock rippled through her body like a jolt of electricity. She froze. Her mind went blank.

Move.
Get up.
Push him off.

She couldn’t.

Her heart was thundering in her chest, every breath from him making her core clench. Her body had already begun releasing pheromones in response, and now they were both feeding off each other’s instincts like a closed loop. She could barely form a coherent thought. She could clearly feel her pants becoming soaked as her mind began to shut down. She couldn't speak, only gazing down at her friend in her lap, his touch now exploring her legs and his tongue licking between them. She realized that she wanted to grasp him by his hair, pulling his flushed face against that little swollen bundle that was iching between her legs. 

“I... I love this scent... more...” Noah whispered, his voice ragged and trembling as he pressed his face into her black leggings, lips trailing over the fabric in a desperate attempt to soothe the fire consuming him. “Please… I—I’m burning… I need...”

The agony in his eyes was unbearable to witness. His whole body was shivering with overstimulation—flushed skin, a tremor in every breath. He had long since passed the point of rational thought. Even the cold floor offered no relief as he writhed, grinding into the ground as if friction alone could ease the suffocating ache in his core. His voice was hoarse, broken, but it carried the unfiltered truth: he was falling apart.

Eunie stared at him, frozen. Every instinct screamed to back away—but instead, something darker and more dangerous stirred inside her.

Her lips curled into a feral grin. Her eyes wide, glittering—like something primal had taken over. She didn’t think, she acted, grabbing Noah by the hair and yanking him up effortlessly, like he weighed nothing.

She wanted to pin him to the wall. She wanted to bite. To claim.

And then—
Something stopped her.

A sharp, fresh scent lanced through the air like a lifeline.
Saffronia leaves.

It didn’t belong to Noah. It didn’t belong to her.

Taion.

The clarity it brought wasn’t complete—but it was enough.

Eunie froze mid-motion, blinking as if waking from a dream. She felt her heartbeat thunder in her ears, and only then noticed how her fingers had curled around Noah’s collar with white-knuckle force. Her whole body was trembling—not from fear, but from restraint.

“Damn it… sorry, Noah,” she whispered, gently releasing him. He slumped against her, sobbing quietly.

“No, please... no…” he whimpered, weakly clinging to her arm like a child caught in a nightmare. But Eunie backed away, lifting the hem of her jacket to cover her face, forcing herself to breathe through the fabric. Her knees were wobbling.

Across from them, Taion stood with quiet determination. One hand was clenched in a trembling fist—inside, Eunie knew, were the pills. His other hand was covering his mouth and nose, his eyes narrowed and focused.

“Thank you,” she whispered toward him. She could barely keep Noah from lunging again.

Taion didn’t answer. He only gave her a brief nod before kneeling beside them.

“Noah, I know it hurts,” he murmured. “But you need to take this.”

But Noah had stilled, his senses hijacked again—this time by Taion. The scent, so familiar and grounding, was like a lighthouse in a storm. Noah turned, locked onto him like prey to a beacon.

And lunged.

“Noah!” Taion’s voice broke as Noah shoved him down and straddled his lap, pressing his body flush against him. The contact—cock to cock—was nearly too much. Taion gasped, muscles stiffening in a mix of panic and unwanted arousal.

Noah moaned softly. “Please… I need you…”

“Stop,” Taion begged, voice cracking as he gritted his teeth. “Please—take the suppressant. Now.”

Eunie didn’t hesitate. She surged forward, grabbing Noah from behind and yanking him back, pressing him against the cold stone wall. Her strength surprised even herself.

“Why…?” Noah breathed, eyes glazed, tears streaking down his cheeks. “Why won’t you just take me...?”

“You’re not thinking straight,” Taion said, stepping close again, pill in hand. His voice was strained, but steady. “You don’t want your first time like this. Not with us. Not like this.”

“Yeah, mate,” Eunie added, her voice low. “Don’t you wanna wait for Mio?”

The mention of her name shattered something inside Noah.

“She’s gonna die!” he sobbed, every syllable soaked in grief. “What’s the sparking point?! I don’t care anymore! Just—just use me, hurt me, make it stop!”

The silence that followed was painful.

Taion swallowed hard, his own body tense. “I know it hurts,” he whispered. “But don’t give N what he wants. Fight back, Noah. Please.”

“I dunno how much longer I can hold on,” Eunie admitted, her voice cracking. “I feel like I’m gonna break.”

“I know,” Taion said quietly. “Me too.”

Just then, something clicked in Taion’s mind. A last resort. A name.

“Mio!”

He turned toward the wall that divided their cells.

“Mio! Send your pheromones! Strong as you can. They need to reach us!”

Eunie blinked, then nodded. “Good idea! Maybe it’ll snap him out of it!”

A few seconds passed.

Then—

Hearth peaches.

Mio’s scent drifted through the cracks between the cells, delicate at first, then impossibly vivid. It hit Noah like a tidal wave.

He gasped—then crumpled. The heat didn’t vanish, but the despair cracked.

He sobbed harder, but this time there was no wild struggle. Just raw, broken grief.

Taion pressed the pill gently to his lips. Noah didn't fight. He took it in his mouth and let Taion’s fingers linger. Eunie touched his cheek.

“Swallow,” she whispered, releasing a calming pheromone. “Please.”

Noah obeyed. A quiet sigh escaped her lips. “Good lad.”

They barely had time to catch their breath when a groan drew their attention.

Lanz.

Sena was still clinging to him, flushed and needy. “I was about to—sparks, I dunno, tear her clothes off!”

Taion approached, dizzy with exhaustion. His legs barely moved, his own erection painful and unrelenting. The air was thick with Sena’s pheromones now—sugar-sweet and dizzying.

“Oh—Taion~” Sena gasped when she saw him. She reached for his belt. “Can I... see it?”

Lanz’s hand shot down, catching hers. “Hey, hey—don’t get greedy now.”

Taion’s stomach turned. He shoved the reaction away. “Lanz, give her the suppressant. Now.”

“But she—”

“Do it!”

Lanz cursed under his breath, then sighed. “Alright, alright.” He gently placed the pill in Sena’s mouth.

She sucked on it slowly, eyes locked on him. Lanz jolted at the feeling, teeth gritted. “Sparks…”

Taion turned away, forcing himself not to look. He couldn’t handle it. Not now.

Back in the corner, Noah was shaking in Eunie's arms, still crying but no longer overwhelmed by heat. She had wrapped him in her coat and sweater. He curled tightly into her, shivering like a kicked puppy.

Taion sat beside them, silent. Eunie looked up at him.

“Scarf,” she whispered.

He nodded, removing his orange scarf—the one he always wore—and handed it over. She wrapped it gently around Noah’s shoulders.

“Thank you,” she murmured.

Together, the three sat in the dim corner, trembling, exhausted.

Noah clutched the scarf to his chest. The scent of his team, of his pack, surrounded him now.

“I-I’m sorry,” he whispered. “I didn’t mean…”

“We know,” Eunie cut in gently, stroking his hair. “It’s alright now. You fought it off, love. That’s what matters.”

Her voice was soft and warm—comforting, in a way only Eunie could be—but Taion caught the faint tremor beneath it. A single tear had formed at the corner of her eye, clinging stubbornly to her lashes. She blinked it away quickly, but not quickly enough.

She was trying to be brave. For Noah. For all of them. But Taion could see right through it.

It hurt to look at her like this—worn thin from too many hours of tension and heat, from Noah’s breakdown, from the crush of pheromones and emotional whiplash. Her edges were fraying. And the worst part? He had no idea how to help.

He bit his lip, feeling useless. He wanted to say something, anything, that would make her pain ease. But his own thoughts were jumbled, and his body still trembled faintly from his earlier loss of control. So instead, he sighed, leaning his head back against the cold stone wall behind them.

And then—something sparked.

He shifted slightly and extended his hand, palm open, reaching across the small space between them.

Eunie blinked at it, confused.

“…We never actually did the hand-touching test,” he murmured, offering her a tired smile.

Her brows lifted. Then, slowly, her lips curved into a faint grin. “You’re such a softie sometimes,” she teased gently. But the tension in her shoulders eased as she reached out and placed her hand in his.

The contact was instant—raw, electric. Their fingers threaded together, slick with sweat, and she gasped softly at the sensation. His hand was hot, scorching, compared to her own cool skin. But it wasn’t unpleasant. It felt grounding. Alive.

So this was what it was like to touch an Alpha—unfiltered and real. She’d heard about it, how intense it could be for an Omega, how charged. But she hadn’t expected the warmth to travel, to spike up her arm and flutter in her chest like wings.

Taion stiffened, adjusting his glasses nervously. His breath hitched slightly. He was feeling it too.

Unknowingly, they both released small bursts of pheromones—gentle, subtle—but enough to make Noah, resting on her lap, stir with a soft whimper.

“Ah—sorry,” Eunie said quickly, using her free hand to stroke his damp hair, her voice returning to that tender note. “Shhh, it’s alright. You’re safe now.”

Taion swallowed and pulled back just a fraction, focusing on breathing, on regaining control. Noah settled again, though his face remained flushed, tears still streaking his cheeks.

“So?” Eunie asked, a spark of her usual sass returning to her voice. “Did the universe open up for you, lover boy?” She smirked, referencing Monica’s now-infamous phrase.

Taion closed his eyes and smiled faintly. “Not quite. But… it was a welcome distraction.”

They both exhaled quietly, the silence between them no longer oppressive, but shared.

A moment later, Lanz approached and slumped down beside them. He cradled Sena in his arms like she was made of porcelain, her breathing uneven as she curled against his chest. She, like Noah, had drifted into a shaky state between exhaustion and vulnerability.

“How’s he holding up?” Lanz asked, voice rough and tired.

“Same as Sena,” Eunie replied, pulling Noah’s jacket tighter around him. “Worn out. Pheromones. Panic. No sleep.”

Lanz nodded and sighed, brushing Sena’s hair back from her face.

“Do ya think… we’ll actually make it?” he asked quietly. “I mean, I’ve almost lost it more times than I can count today.”

Taion hesitated. His mind offered no good outcome, no perfect solution. Only more doubt.

“I don’t know,” he admitted, finally.

Lanz scoffed. “And these suppressants? They hurt them. Bad. They’re meant to help, but it’s like… like they’re suffering even more.”

Eunie’s head snapped toward him. “Then what, huh? You gonna go full beast mode and screw her in the middle of this cell? Like we’re animals?”

“Oh come off it,” Lanz growled back. “You were the one leaking pheromones like you were standing in a field of Queen’s-bloody-clovers!”

Eunie opened her mouth to retort, but Taion tightened his hold on her hand—not forcefully, just enough.

She exhaled sharply and leaned her head back against the wall again, the fight draining out of her. To Taion’s surprise, she let it go.

After a long pause, Taion spoke, addressing them all—especially the two Omegas.

“We need to rest. All of us.” His voice was soft, but firm. “We don’t know how long we’ll be left alone. And if more heats or ruts hit… we need whatever strength we can salvage.”

He didn’t say it aloud, but he knew.

It was only the first morning of the first day.

And they were already close to breaking.

"How am I s’pposed to rest like this?" Lanz grumbled, shifting uncomfortably and casting a quick glance at the bulge in his pants. "Feels like it's about to burst."
Taion followed his gaze and, despite himself, let out a quiet groan. Adjusting his glasses, he cleared his throat and looked away, the tips of his ears going red.

"Well... you could, um, go to the corner and try to calm yourself down," he offered, voice stiff with discomfort. He knew it wasn’t the most elegant suggestion, but desperate times called for awkward honesty.
Lanz blinked, puzzled for a second—then he got it.

"I dunno, man. Isn’t that... weird? Doing it alone, I mean?" He scratched the back of his neck.

Eunie let out a quiet huff, eyes still closed. "Doctor Holly said it’s perfectly normal. Said it helps relieve tension or whatever."
Lanz stayed quiet for a few seconds, clearly mulling it over, before sighing heavily and rubbing his face.

"You two okay holding onto Sena for a bit?" he asked, looking over at Taion.

"As long as you promise not to make a scene," Taion said with a raised brow.

"Yeah… yeah," Lanz muttered, gently transferring Sena over. Her body tensed for a moment as she was moved, and she whimpered softly. Taion carefully cradled her against his chest, murmuring softly.

"It’s me. Sorry, I know I’m not as comfortable as Lanz, but I’m here," he said, trying to settle her. "I’ve got my jacket, too, if you’re cold."

Sena peeked up at him through bleary, teary eyes. "It hurts..." she whispered. "Everything’s too much… the heat… Mio… it’s all too much."

Without thinking, Taion gently wrapped his arms around her, offering a steady, protective presence.
"We know," Eunie said quietly, reaching over to brush a hand through Sena’s hair. "But we’re gettin’ through it together, alright? Mio’s waiting. You’ve just gotta hold on."

"Do you… really think we’ll see her again?" Sena asked.

Eunie smiled gently. "Absolutely. You just trust us. Trust me."
She glanced toward Noah, curled up beside her. "You hear that, Noah? We’re not givin’ up on you either."

Noah didn’t respond, but he clung tighter to the scarf around him, still trembling.

A loud groan echoed across the cell. "Ah, sparks..." Lanz’s voice made both Taion and Eunie wince.

"He really knows how to kill a moment," Eunie muttered under her breath, cheeks flushed.

Taion said nothing, though he watched Lanz carefully as the large Alpha returned with a much more relaxed expression.

"Feel better?" he asked dryly.

"Yeah. I mean, not perfect, but better. The big guy went down at least."

Taion glanced down at Sena, who had drifted into an uneasy sleep. Then at Noah, who was quiet but still clearly fighting the aftershocks of his episode.

"Maybe... we can... use this masturbation to help them," he commented slowly. "To help us."

"So… what? We just take turns ‘coolin’ off’ in the corner before things get bad?" Eunie asked, raising a skeptical brow.

"It’s awkward," Taion admitted, "but less awkward than what happened earlier. And safer. We need to keep our judgment clear, or N wins."

"And if that’s not enough?" Lanz asked, voice low. "If they get worse again?"

Taion sighed. "We improvise. Use what little we’ve got left. Cover each other. Watch the guards."

Eunie looked at him, then at Noah, then nodded. "Alright. As long as no one starts goin’ all noble idiot on us."

Lanz chuckled and flopped down beside them. "Fine. Deal."

"You know," Eunie smirked tiredly, "never thought I’d hear Mr. Strategist actually plan for us to spurr us to masturbate, y’know."

Taion sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. "Desperate measures."

"Still funny," she teased. 

"Alright, alright, enough," he interrupted. "Rest. We need it."

They all fell into a quiet, uneasy stillness. Exhausted. Worn. But for now—together.

***

Noah and Sena remained locked in a catatonic, feverish haze for most of the day, their bodies overwhelmed, their minds unreachable. It gave the three Alphas the rare opportunity to rest, to breathe, and to reclaim some of the strength stripped from them in the chaos of the last hours.

Lanz was the first to stir.

He blinked slowly, roused not by movement, but by the distinct scent of burning wood—faint but familiar, curling through the air like a warning. He yawned, sluggish and stiff, and shifted slightly beneath the weight on his legs. Noah was draped across him, half-curled, his cheek still pillowed on Eunie's thigh. A glance was enough to see something was wrong.

Noah’s face was flushed, his skin clammy, his breath coming in short, pained pants. Even unconscious, he looked strained, like his body was battling something it couldn’t escape.

“Sparks…” Lanz murmured, his voice thick with sleep and concern. He reached over and gave Taion’s arm a firm nudge. “Oi. Mate. Wake up. The pills—he’s burnin’ up again.”

Taion stirred slowly, blinking the blur from his eyes as he took in the scene. His hand automatically reached for the watch on Nimue’s wrist, calculating. When he registered the time, his expression twisted with frustration and guilt.

“What is it?” Lanz asked, his gut clenching.

“It’s too soon,” Taion muttered, his voice low and tense. “Monica said once every twenty-four hours. We’re not there yet.”

As if confirming the urgency, Noah’s pheromones surged—warm, sweet, and painfully heady. They wrapped around Taion like a vice, and he swallowed hard, his pulse quickening.

It was happening again. Just like that morning.

“What the hell do we do?” Lanz whispered, his voice rough with desperation. Noah’s body shifted, rubbing against his leg with a needy whimper. The Kevesi Alpha’s instincts responded before his mind could catch up, heat flooding through him as his hand reflexively gripped the curve of Noah’s ass.

A groggy voice broke through the haze.

“Wot…” Eunie croaked, blinking awake—only for her breath to catch in a hiss. Noah had shifted again, his head buried between her legs, lips pressed against the fabric of her black pants as he tried to lick through them. Her eyes widened, her body shuddering as her pheromones flared, overtaking the room in an instant.

“N-Noah!” she gasped, her hands tangling in his hair as she instinctively tried to push him away, though her arms trembled with conflicting urges. Her chest heaved. Her pupils dilated.

And then Noah’s hand found Lanz’s, gripping it tightly.

“Eunie… Lanz…” he pleaded, voice cracking. “Please. It’s… unbearable!”

Lanz felt something tighten in his chest. He looked over at Taion, whose jaw clenched as he took in the sight.

They couldn’t leave him like this.

Taion exhaled shakily, then tilted his head toward Sena, whose body had begun to shift as well. Her heat was waking, her pheromones rising in tandem.

“Would you… like to switch?” he asked carefully, eyes flicking to Sena, then back. “She’s waking. It might help… balance things.”

Lanz hesitated, glancing between his hand still clasped in Noah’s, and Sena’s form stirring beside Taion. His mind warred with itself.

Noah needed him. Asked for him. And part of him, the primal, Alpha part, whispered that the identity of the Omega didn’t matter. Only the need. But the rational part—the one that remembered Sena’s quiet restraint, her unspoken affections—knew better.

He couldn’t use her.

With a heavy sigh, he placed a hand on Taion’s shoulder, giving it a small squeeze.

“Nah, mate,” Lanz said with a strained half-smile. “I trust ya. But Noah… he’s my friend. He needs me.”

Taion nodded once in understanding. With a smooth motion, he slipped off his white jacket and draped it around Sena’s shoulders, careful not to expose her to the cool air—or to himself.

“Sena,” he murmured, brushing the hair from her flushed face. “You need to keep this on. All right? No matter what.”

Her eyes fluttered open slowly. She was dazed, pupils blown wide. When she saw him, something in her softened. She curled closer, tucking her head beneath his chin and wrapping her arms around his neck. Her breath came in slow, shaky gasps, drawn directly from the crook of his neck where his scent was strongest. And her body—already warm, already aching—pressed flush against his, hips rocking forward.

Taion stiffened, his body instinctively reacting as he felt the dampness between them. Her pheromones washed over him, sweet and electric, and he struggled to keep control.

“I… I love your scent,” Sena whispered, voice light and dizzy with want. Her eyes fluttered, and a thin line of drool traced the corner of her mouth. “Can you… give me more?”

Something inside Taion snapped—his Alpha instincts roaring to the surface, sweeping aside logic, hesitance, and fear.

He obeyed.

Pheromones spilled from him in waves, thick and enveloping. His hands found her hips, pulling her down against him. She moaned, back arching as she ground against his growing arousal. Her mind was already gone, lost in the bliss of sensation.

“Do you… like mine too?” she asked breathlessly, running trembling fingers across his chest. Even now, there was that familiar flicker of insecurity in her voice.

Taion leaned in, his lips grazing the warm, fragrant skin of her neck. He nibbled gently, drawing a soft whimper from her.

“I do,” he whispered.

Sena’s hands slipped beneath his sweater, her touch feather-light and eager, and Taion let himself sink into the heat of her body and the sweet, addictive pull of her need.

She began rubbing herself against him before moving her hands to caress his member. He hissed at the contact through the fabric but permitted her actions, relishing the sensations she elicited. Her eyes revealed her need; she had to feel it as much as his instinct urged him to bite, embrace, and... take her.

What had he become? Once a disciplined soldier, always loyal to his duties, now utterly enslaved by these wild instincts. His mind was clouded, rational thoughts eclipsed by an overpowering force, as if he were under some kind of powerful ether attack.

"Tai..." she called out to him, releasing another potent wave of pheromones that only intensified his desire. Every scrap of clarity was slipping away: would he be able to stick to his plan? The urge to dominate her grew stronger with each passing moment.

“Yes, Sena?“ He growled softly nibbling gently her neck where her scent was stronger, following what his body was telling him what to do. “Where do you want me to touch you?“

She whined softly and with a trembling hand, she grabbed his and pushed against her pants.

Taion needed no further encouragement. His fingers deftly unfastened her pants, sliding them down just enough to expose her slick heat. He tried his best to remember what Doctor Holly taught them: how to pleasure a woman, an Omega in heat. Her hips bucked slightly, urging him on, and he complied, slipping his fingers beneath the fabric to stroke her wet folds.

Sena's moan was soft but intense, her body trembling with each gentle caress. Taion's own arousal throbbed in response, his pheromones mingling with hers in a dizzying haze.

"Taion," she gasped, as soon as he found her clit. “T-there.“

“Alright,“ he whispered. “Let me help.“

His fingers circled the sensitive nub, applying gentle pressure as he moved in rhythmic patterns, drawing out more of her sweet, desperate sounds. Sena's cried out into his shoulders, her body writhing against his touch, seeking more of the pleasure he offered. He finally understood what Monica had meant about Alphas biting during sex. The instinct was overwhelming—primal. He was trying, really trying, to hold back, pressing only soft, restrained nibbles against her skin, afraid of hurting her. But the urge was growing harder to resist. He needed to mark her, to sink his teeth into her tender flesh and leave something behind.

“M-more,“ Sena whimpered trying to unzipping his pants.

“Sena, wait,“ he growled but she ignored him.

"Taion, please," she begged, her voice a husky whisper that sent shivers down his spine. He could feel his control slipping, the primal urge to claim her throbbing in time with his heartbeat. His cock ached, straining against his pants, seeking the heat of her.

He slipped a finger inside her, her slick walls clamping down on him, drawing him in. She cried out, her body arching against him as he began to move his finger in and out of her, his thumb keeping a steady rhythm on her clit.

That… shattered her.

He could feel her walls clamping, throbbing around his finger.

Was it so easy?

Probably for the heat?

Her orgasm crashed over her like a wave, leaving her breathless and shaking in his arms. Taion watched her, his heart pounding, his body aching with need.

As Sena worked to steady her breathing, he glanced at their other teammates, trying to ignore his cock throbbing violently against his pants and the hands of Sena still on it.

Lanz had draped his heavy jacket over Noah’s lower body and was subtly maneuvering his large hands inside Noah's pants. Meanwhile, Eunie maintained her position with Noah's head nestled between her thighs but had shifted her stance so that if any guards appeared, it would merely look like Noah was resting on her lap. She wore a sly smile, gently grasping his hair to guide his tongue to her most sensitive areas through the fabric.

Then, like a bolt from the blue, Taion realized something significant: her gaze. Her sparkling eyes were indeed clouded with lust just like everyone else's, but there was something more—fierce. She was the one in charge, leading the situation, dominating him.

And then their gazes met. She smirked, clearly intending to rattle him, as she always did. "Enjoying the view, love?" she teased, breathless, pressing Noah's head more firmly against her slit.

Taion's breath hitched as Eunie's words struck him, a mix of embarrassment and arousal coursing through him. He was caught in her gaze, unable to look away from the raw, dominant desire in her eyes. The room was a symphony of scents, sounds, and sensations, all threatening to drown him.

Sena, still panting from her climax, began to tug at his pants more insistently, her need reignited by the pheromones saturating the air. Taion's resolve wavered, his body screaming for release, for completion of the dance they had begun. But Eunie's stare kept him rooted, her smirk a challenge he couldn't ignore.

Noah’s muffled moans filled the air as Lanz carefully stroked him beneath the jacket. Noah’s hips bucked slightly, seeking more friction, more pleasure. Lanz leaned down, his breath hot on Noah's ear. "Easy, mate," he murmured, his voice a low rumble. "I've got you." He timed his strokes to match the rhythm of Eunie's subtle movements.

Eunie, still holding Taion's gaze, bit her lip, a soft moan escaping her as Noah's tongue found a particularly sensitive spot.

For the briefest moment, Taion was consumed by the urge to shove Sena aside and storm across the room—pin her to the wall and erase that smug smirk from her face. And yes, to press his head against her clit. He could do better than Noah. He knew he could. He'd done his research back in the City. He'd read everything.

But before he could move, Lanz—closest to him—started coughing and waved a hand in front of his face.

“Oi, mate! Your pheromones!” he wheezed, squinting at him in irritation. “They’re gettin’ real damn annoying!”

Eunie, on the other hand, looked anything but bothered. If anything, she appeared amused—enthralled even—as she took a deliberate breath, nostrils flaring slightly as she kept her gaze fixed squarely on him.

“What’s going on?” Sena asked, her brow furrowed in concern. “Did I… do something?”

Taion inwardly cursed himself. Brilliant, really. He was supposed to be the composed one, the responsible Alpha. Instead, his control had shattered faster than anyone else’s. He closed his eyes, inhaled deeply, and forced himself to dial back his pheromones, steadying the raging heat inside him.

“No, Sena. It’s not your fault,” he said quietly, drawing her into a gentle hug. “I’m the one who’s sorry.”

She nodded against him, her breath calming.

“I think I feel better now,” she murmured, then tilted her head up, eyes wide and hopeful. “But… could you keep going? Please?”

A soft kiss brushed his cheek—light, but enough to send another jolt down his spine.

Eunie let out a breathy laugh. “Yeah, four-eyes. Don’t leave the poor girl hanging.”

Taion shot her a glare—she was clearly enjoying every second of this, eyes gleaming with mischief and something far more dangerous. She loved watching him unravel. Gritting his teeth, he held her gaze for a beat longer than necessary before lowering his mouth to Sena’s shoulder.

This time, he didn’t just kiss. He bit—softly, but with intent.

Sena gasped, her body tensing briefly before melting into his embrace, a low moan humming in her throat. Taion's bite sent a shockwave through her, igniting something deep and primal within. Her hips rocked against him, seeking more of the exquisite sensation that was finally, blessedly, satisfying the relentless heat inside her.

Meanwhile, Noah's body had begun to tremble, his breath coming in short gasps as Lanz worked him closer to release. Lanz's free hand gripped Noah's hip, steadying him as he felt the younger man's body coil tightly, ready to spring. He leaned down, pressing his forehead against Noah's shoulder, his voice a low growl. "Yeah, Noah. Like that. Y'll feel better, trust me."

The Agnian girl finally succeeded in unzipping his pants and freeing his cock from them. Taion couldn't hide his relief; he was eager for more action. Using his free hand, he assisted her, guiding both of her hands to begin moving it up and down.

“Squeeze it tighter,“ Taion groaned to her, guiding with his free hand her movements. “Yes, like this.“

Sena complied, her grip tightening around him, her strokes becoming more confident, more insistent. Taion's breath hitched, his hips moving in sync with her hands, his body surrendering to the rhythm she set while he kept pressing inside her, trying to find the spot of before. The room was a whirlwind of sensation, the air thick with pheromones, the sounds of pleasure and need echoing off the walls.

Eunie's eyes never left Taion, her gaze a tangible caress, a silent dare. She shifted slightly, allowing Noah more access, her body arching subtly against his mouth. Her breath came in soft pants, her cheeks flushed, her eyes gleaming with a mix of amusement and desire. She was enjoying this—the power, the control, the sheer indulgence of it all.

Lanz felt Noah's body tense, his muscles coiling tightly beneath his hands. He knew he was close. He could feel the exact moment Noah reached his peak, his body convulsing with release. Lanz held him tightly, his hand still moving in steady, firm strokes, drawing out every last wave of pleasure. Noah's muffled cries filled the air, his body shaking with the intensity of his climax.

Across the room, Taion was lost in the rhythm of Sena's hands and the heat of her body. His hips moved in sync with her strokes, his breath coming in ragged gasps. He could feel the pressure building, the need for release growing more urgent with each passing second. Sena's whimpers and moans filled his ears, her body writhing against his as he continued to stroke her from within, his thumb circling her clit with a relentless precision.

Eunie watched them with a hungry gaze. Her body had begun to move more insistently against Noah's mouth.

Her own release was building, a coiled spring ready to snap. She reached down, tangling her fingers in Noah's hair, guiding his movements with more urgency. Her eyes remained locked on Taion, feeding off the raw, unbridled lust written across his face. The room was a symphony of their combined pleasures, a fever dream of gasps, moans, and whispered pleas.

Sena's body began to tremble, her inner walls clamping down on Taion's fingers, her breath hitching as she neared her second peak. Taion could feel her orgasm building, her body tensing around him, her hips moving more erratically against his hand. He leaned in, his teeth grazing her neck, his voice a low growl. "Let go, Sena," he commanded, his voice thick with need.

As if waiting for his permission, Sena cried out, her body convulsing as waves of pleasure crashed over her. Taion felt her release, her body pulsating around his fingers, her screams of ecstasy filling the room. He rode out her orgasm, his own need growing more insistent with each shiver of her body.

Eunie, watching the scene unfold, felt her own climax approaching. Noah's tongue was relentless, his mouth working her with a skill that would have normally sent her over the edge by now. But it was the sight of Taion, his body taut with desire, his eyes wild with lust, that pushed her to the brink. She imagined it was him between her legs, his tongue driving her to the heights of pleasure. Her grip on Noah's hair tightened, her hips grinding against his mouth as she chased her release.

Taion could see Eunie's eyes, locked onto him, her lips parted in a silent cry of pleasure. It was erotic, intoxicating, and it pushed him closer to the edge. Then, the orgasm exploded in him the moment he thought that the hands wrapped around his cock were the one of his interlinking partner.

He growled, sinking his teeth into Sena’s shoulder with a harsh, primal bite as he finally spilled everything onto their bodies.

Sena collapsed against his chest, breathing heavily, her body trembling in the aftermath. Taion slowly withdrew his fingers from her, drawing a soft, involuntary whimper of protest.

“Apologize,” he muttered roughly, though his voice held more warmth than reprimand. He nuzzled her neck, brushing his nose along her skin as he surveyed the red marks he'd left behind. The sight stirred something possessive and deeply satisfied within him. “Sorry about the bites... I’m not sure what came over me.”

Sena giggled, nestling closer beneath his chin.

“They didn’t hurt at all,” she whispered with a smile. “I actually… liked them.” She paused. “Does that make me weird?”

Before Taion could answer, Lanz leaned over and rested his head lightly on Taion’s shoulder, his hand reaching out to cradle Sena’s cheek with a gentleness that made her blush immediately. She leaned into his palm, smiling.

“Yeah, you’re weird,” Lanz said, grinning. “But not because of that.”

“I guess I am,” Sena laughed softly, kissing his hand.

Lanz chuckled, casting a quick glance at Taion, who met his eyes calmly. No jealousy. No tension. Just understanding. They shared a subtle nod before both turned their attention to Noah—who was lying sprawled out on the floor, completely drained.

“We wore him out!” Lanz said with a laugh, though Taion’s smile faded slightly as he looked down. His sweater and Sena’s stomach were both stained, evidence of just how far things had gone.

“We should grab some water,” he said gently, brushing hair from Sena’s forehead. “And clean up before someone walks in and starts asking questions.”

Eventually, both Sena and Noah began to come back to themselves, their bodies still heavy with exhaustion, but the worst of the cycle seemed to have passed. The sharp spike in pheromones had dulled to a faint, lingering trace. They managed to clean up with what they had, passing a water bottle back and forth, wiping skin, sharing quiet glances.

Once satisfied, they collapsed together on the floor—shoulders brushing, breaths finally even. A quiet stillness settled over the room, thick with the aftermath of chaos but finally, mercifully, calm.

“That was... brutally hard,” Lanz groaned, one arm thrown over his eyes. “I really, really wanted to have sex with both of them. And the weird part is—we didn’t even know what sex was before this. But it felt like… the only thing that mattered.”

“Yeah,” Eunie murmured, curled on her side. “It felt… right. Natural. Like breathing.”

“Monica warned us repeatedly how challenging a heat or rut could be,” Taion added, his voice quieter. “But it’s far more intense than I anticipated. We were lucky it was their first cycle—and that we had those pills.”

“Without ‘em?” Lanz muttered. “It would’ve ended way messier.”

No one answered after that. The room fell silent again as the healers sank into their own thoughts, the weight of what had just happened settling in with the slow heaviness of sleep.

Chapter Text

“Spark off,” Mio spat, her voice low and defiant as she glared at the shadow looming in her cell.

She knew exactly what he wanted. She had heard his plan repeated endlessly, every word etched into her memory, each iteration more twisted than the last. And still, she had no intention of playing her part in it. The challenge wasn’t desire—it was survival. One misstep, one poorly timed reaction, and N would see through her, unravel everything she had worked for.

Her mind raced, scrambling for any path that didn’t end in his hands on her body.

“MIO!” Noah’s anguished cry echoed through the facility, his voice raw with terror.

N sniffed dismissively at the sound, clearly unbothered by the pain he was causing. If anything, he seemed to relish it. A slow, cruel smile curled his lips.

“You can pretend to resist,” he sneered, voice icy. “But it won’t matter once my pheromones get to you.”

He stepped closer, and Mio tensed. That smile only widened as he reached out and cupped her face, squeezing her cheeks with a force that bordered on possessive. She recoiled instinctively, bile rising in her throat. She couldn’t see him in this man. This wasn’t the Noah she once loved—the man with ocean-blue eyes full of soul and kindness. All she saw now was a monster draped in his skin: hollow, broken, twisted beyond recognition.

“You’ll be a drooling mess,” he whispered darkly, “begging me to let you fuck me.”

“DON’T YOU DARE! YOU MONSTER!” Noah’s voice cracked with fury from the next room.

N didn’t flinch. He looked entertained, amused even. “You Alphas are all the same. Just brutes enslaved by instinct. It’s laughable how little power you actually have. If only the Omegas knew what they’re capable of... they could rule all of you.”

And with that, he dragged his tongue slowly across Mio’s cheek.

She froze. The cold touch of his saliva, the sick satisfaction in his eyes—it made her skin crawl. Her body screamed to lash out, to release her pheromones in a violent shockwave and force him back. But she held herself still. Doing so might raise too many questions. She wasn’t supposed to have that level of control yet. Not yet.

And so she endured.

Should I let him—? The thought sliced through her like ice. No. Not if she could stop it. That Noah—her Noah—would be broken by it. And despite everything, he was still hers. The father of her child. Her bondmate. Her heart.

N leaned closer, eyes wild with excitement as he drank in her silent panic.

“Oh yes,” he hissed. “That expression! The fear, the desperation—I live for it. Just like that.”

Mio opened her mouth to speak—but the door hissed open, and a new voice cut through the tension.

“What are you doing?”

M’s voice was cold. Flat. Yet powerful enough to make N step back slightly.

“I could ask you the same,” N snapped, straightening but not letting go of Mio entirely. “Why are you here?”

M’s eyes flicked from him to Mio, crumpled in the corner of the cell, then back again. She took a breath.

“You can’t mate with her, N,” she said evenly. “You’re bound to me.”

He laughed bitterly. “Don’t be ridiculous. She is you.”

“She’s not,” M said. Calm. Certain.

“What? Wait—Mio is M?” Sena’s voice floated in from the other cell, laced with confusion and worry. “I mean, they look the same, but—what does that mean?”

Mio exhaled slowly. Not now. Not yet. The time for answers would come—but only if they survived long enough to give them.

“If it’s release you want,” M continued, stepping forward, “then take me. I’m yours, aren’t I?” Her pheromones bloomed in the air like dark perfume. “You’re already breaking them. Can’t you hear them screaming? Their despair is all the welcome she needs.”

Mio’s eyes widened. Was she serious? Was M really offering herself—to him—just to protect her?

N inhaled her scent deeply, shuddering. A sinister smile spread across his face as he released his own pheromones in response. M braced herself, nausea rolling through her as his scent filled her lungs—damp wood, mold, rot. It took everything she had not to retch.

“It’s been a long time since I smelled anything this tempting…” N murmured. “Had I known you’d react like this, I would’ve started sooner.”

Without another word, M disappeared into thin air, her presence gone like smoke. N paused, gaze lingering on Mio one last time. Then, without a word, he vanished as well, following her trail.

“MIO! MIO, ARE YOU OKAY?!” Noah’s frantic voice returned, louder this time. “DID HE—DID HE TOUCH YOU?!”

“I’m fine!” she called back, trying to steady her voice. “Really. He didn’t hurt me.”

There was a pause before she added, more gently, “How are you? You and Sena?”

“We’re... managing,” Noah replied, voice thick with emotion. “We took the suppressants this morning. Lanz, Eunie, and Taion are here… they’re helping us. But I—”

His voice cracked again. “I’m sorry, Mio. I lost control. It was so—so overwhelming. I tried, I really tried, but—”

Mio smiled faintly. Even from here, she could sense the embarrassment in his voice. And she could smell the remnants of the earlier chaos. The pheromones had reached her cell, heavy and unmistakable. The sounds hadn’t gone unnoticed either. 

“Noah,” she said softly, “we all love each other. They’re our friends. If we can’t trust them, who can we trust? There’s nothing wrong. Let them help you. Promise me.”

“But I—”

“Promise me, Noah,” she interrupted firmly.

A long silence followed.

“…I promise.”

Mio leaned her head back against the cold wall, her eyes drifting to the moon glowing through the small window.

Just a little longer, she told herself. Two more weeks.

Then—finally—they would all be free.

***

What Noah had told Mio was true.

That morning, both he and Sena had taken their suppressants without much trouble. Since then, they had only needed the Alphas once—for comfort, for stability, for relief. The worst of it had passed, for now. Though the chill still lingered in their bones and neither of them had much appetite, it was far more manageable than the day before. Except during the heat spikes, their minds remained relatively clear, their lucidity intact.

"You sure you ain't gonna eat?" Lanz asked, his voice soft with concern.

Sena, bundled in his oversized jacket and curled securely against his chest, gave a slight shake of her head. Her face was pale, her eyes glassy with fatigue. Despite the suppressant, her body remained tense, and her stomach twisted with discomfort. Holding back her pheromones was a constant battle, one she felt herself slowly losing each time the suppressant's effect began to wane. Even so, she was surprised by how coherent she felt today—at least outside those feverish waves that had already sent her to Lanz and Taion for help earlier.

“Manana would chew you out for this…” Lanz muttered with a sigh, resting his chin on the top of her head. “You barely touched anythin', Sen.”

She didn’t answer right away. She couldn’t. Her throat was tight, and the rawness of everything pressed too close.

“I… I just want it to be over,” she whispered finally, burying her face deeper into his chest, her voice barely audible.

“Yeah,” Lanz murmured, his arms tightening protectively around her small frame. “I know. I wish I could do more. Sparks, I really do.”

He closed his eyes, breathing in her scent—sweet, sharp, and tinged with heat. Earlier, in desperation, he’d even tried breaking the bars of their cell with his fists, leaving his knuckles bruised and bloodied. It hadn’t helped. Not really. The only thing that had helped was when he held her close, grounded her with his presence, his strength, his scent.

“Come on, Lan.” Sena gave a faint chuckle, lifting her head just enough to meet his gaze. “You already helped plenty.”

He flushed, scratching the back of his neck with one hand, visibly flustered. “Yeah, but I meant… y’know… besides that.”

Her smile widened, playful despite the exhaustion in her eyes. She wrapped her arms around his neck and nestled in closer.

“And I meant besides that, too,” she teased, mimicking his uncertain tone. Her voice was light, but the gesture that followed wasn’t. She pressed her body fully into his, her cheek against his shoulder, her heartbeat syncing with his. Her soft chest met the firmness of his torso, and her fingers curled into his shirt as if anchoring herself to him.

Lanz inhaled sharply. He wanted to say something—he should’ve said something. Her body was warm, delicate, tempting. She was releasing just enough pheromones to stir him, to set his skin tingling and blood rushing south. But before he could act, she stilled completely in his arms. Her breathing slowed. The tension in her muscles faded.

She was asleep.

He let out a slow breath, letting go of the words he didn’t say. Carefully, he adjusted his grip, wrapping his jacket more securely around her and holding her close as she slept. Her small form felt fragile against his, and he stayed perfectly still, willing to be whatever she needed—pillow, shield, heat source, anything.

Time passed unnoticed.

The cell was quiet, save for the low hum of air vents and the occasional shuffle from the others. Lanz had no idea how long they’d sat like this, but he could feel it—Sena was starting to stir again. It began subtly: her breathing grew irregular, her body twitched in restless sleep, and her temperature began to climb. Her scent shifted too—becoming sharper, more potent. He could tell a heat wave was building again.

“Sen…” he murmured, brushing her hair back gently. She didn’t respond with words. Instead, she let out a soft, involuntary moan, her pheromones spiking like a sudden storm. Lanz’s body responded immediately, heat blooming low in his stomach. He groaned under his breath, pressing his forehead to hers.

“Ah, sparks… you’re really driving me crazy,” he whispered.

Sena chuckled drowsily and rubbed her nose against his neck, still half-lost in the haze. Whether it was the comfort of his scent, the warmth of his skin, or simply being wrapped in his arms like a fortress, she didn’t know—but with him, she felt safe. Even if it was an illusion, even if this hell wasn’t over yet… right now, she could pretend.

She sighed and let her hand drift across the taut muscle beneath his shirt, relishing the strength beneath his soft, particular skin. His cheeks were a deep grey, flushed from heat or arousal—maybe both. And his heartbeat thundered under her palm, louder than her own.

Lanz shifted uncomfortably, glancing around the cell.

Taion was lying in the far corner, still and quiet. The slow, even rhythm of his breathing suggested he was asleep—likely from exhaustion. His insomnia often stole the nights from him, so he made up for it whenever he could during the day. Across the room, Noah and Eunie were curled up together in the opposite corner, their bodies tangled in sleep or something close to it. For once, they had something resembling privacy.

It wasn’t perfect. But it was enough—for now.

Lanz sighed and looked back down at Sena, who clung to him like he was the last safe place on earth. He kissed the top of her head gently, brushing his lips against her hair.

Just hold on, he thought. We’ll get through this.

Yet, despite the way his body responded to hers, Lanz couldn’t shake the deep, gnawing wish that all of this could be happening anywhere else. Not here. Not in this cold, sparking cell where the air smelled like damp metal and worn-out desperation. The place itself felt wrong. It was as if something sacred was being tainted by their surroundings.

Maybe that was part of why he’d yielded so quickly the day before when Taion had offered to switch places with him. The storm of emotions, the confusion, the way his instincts and his rational mind constantly clashed—it had been too much. And now, with Sena pressed so snugly against him, her skin warm beneath his touch, Lanz found it harder than ever to untangle what he truly felt.

He still hadn’t worked out why, from the very moment he’d caught her scent, everything had changed. When he suddenly realized that Sena was more than just his gym partner. That holding her, touching her like this—it felt right. As though it had always been meant to be.

Her small, firm body fit so perfectly in his arms, her blue ether channels glowing faintly in the low light, their soft pulse mesmerizing. A low grunt escaped him when he felt the heat of her still-damp shorts pressing against him, the contact sending a jolt through his core. And when her hands began sliding down from his chest toward his waistband, he instinctively caught them, gently stopping her.

“Uh? You don’t want to?” she asked, blinking up at him, her cheeks flushed bright red.

“N-No! I do! I really do,” he stammered, quickly moving his hands to her shoulders to soothe her, his fingers tracing slow circles across her warm skin. “I just… I wanna take it slow.”

Her lips parted in surprise, but she giggled softly, clearly both amused and struggling to keep herself from diving straight back in.

“Oh… okay.” Her grin widened, playful and a little mischievous, but Lanz could tell she was gripping onto her restraint with visible effort. He wondered how much longer either of them could hold on.

His hands drifted from her shoulders, trailing down her arms, then to her sides, following the soft curves he’d admired countless times without really seeing her like this. His palms brushed over her hips, her belly, moving in slow, deliberate motions.

“Ehehe, that tickles!” Sena giggled, closing her eyes as she melted into his touch.

“Yeah?” he murmured, mostly to himself, utterly captivated by the feel of her skin beneath his fingertips. Everything about this felt natural, guided not by reason but by the steady pull of her pheromones that wrapped around him like a haze. His gaze drifted to the marks along her neck—faint bruises left by Taion and Eunie. Something sharp twisted in his chest.

He wanted to be the one to leave a mark.

The thought jolted him. No. Sena was free to choose. She wasn’t his to claim. He had no right to think like that. But no matter how hard he tried to push it away, a primal possessiveness unfurled inside him. His stomach churned, and he accidentally released more pheromones than intended, causing Sena to flinch and pant against his chest.

He paused, watching her face as her body trembled in delight, her breathing quick and shallow. His eyes drifted down to her lips—small, flushed, slightly parted. He hadn’t noticed before how inviting lips could be, but now they looked utterly irresistible.

His hand cupped her cheek almost on instinct.

“Can I kiss you?” he whispered, the question slipping out before he could think.

Her eyes snapped open in surprise. For a heartbeat, she hesitated—then, slowly, her lips curved into a soft, genuine smile, her mind seeming crystal clear for the first time in hours.

“I… I’d love to,” she whispered, leaning closer. “I was sooo curious back in the City…”

Lanz let out a shaky breath, brushing his nose gently against hers, savoring the proximity. It was strange—given everything they’d already done, everything Monica had warned them about—how significant this felt. Like somehow, this was the real beginning.

And when he finally closed the distance and kissed her, everything else disappeared.

Sena whimpered softly into his lips, the sound sending a wave of heat surging through him. Their eyes drifted closed as they lost themselves in the moment—just the two of them, here, now. Her hands clung to him as if she might fall without his support, and his arms pulled her closer, desperate to feel more of her.

His rational thoughts slipped further away when he deepened the kiss, parting his lips and brushing his tongue tentatively against hers. She responded eagerly, her own tongue meeting his in a slow, clumsy rhythm that left them both breathless and dizzy. The taste of her, the warmth, the soft sighs she let out—it was addictive. More intoxicating than any heat-induced madness.

His hands roamed lower, sliding down her back until he cupped her ass, kneading the soft flesh through the fabric. His fingers tightened, pulling her closer, savoring how perfectly she fit against him.

I want to see her—completely.

The thought rose unbidden and insistent. She’d always been beautiful to him, but now? Now, he was starting to notice the specific ways—how her petite frame moved against his, how the curve of her hips fit his hands so perfectly. He’d seen Noah and Eunie naked plenty of times when they bathed together, but somehow this—this—was something else entirely.

Something that was just for them.

And the more he thought about it, the harder it became to remind himself they were still in a cell. Still prisoners. Still waiting for their moment to escape.

But just for now—for this moment—it didn’t feel like they were trapped at all.

"Lan... p-please!" Sena gasped against his mouth, her body aching to be filled. He hissed and bit her lower lip, while one of his hands slipped down the front of her pants. Despite his efforts to be gentle, her shorts were in the way, and damn if she was tight. He couldn't help but wonder how his erection would fit inside her.

He shook his head. Not now, Lanz.

His fingers found their way to her slick folds, and he groaned at the heat and wetness that greeted him. Sena’s breath hitched as he began to explore her, his touch gentle but firm. He circled her sensitive nub, drawing out a soft whimper from her. Her hips bucked against his hand, urging him on.

Lanz could feel her tension building, her body coiling tighter with each stroke. He slipped a finger inside her, and she gasped, her nails digging into his shoulders. He moved slowly at first, then faster, curling his finger to hit the spot that made her cry out. Her moans were muffled against his chest, but he could feel every shiver, every tremble that ran through her.

She finally managed to unzip his pants, and his cock sprung free. Despite her remaining sliver of lucidity, she was momentarily stunned by the sight: it was huge. It matched his tall frame, but in comparison to her own body, it seemed definitely too much. She had previously wondered how Taion's size could fit inside her, but him?! Another level.

Her eyes widened, but she wrapped her hand around his length, her grip tentative at first, then firmer as she began to stroke him. Lanz groaned, his forehead pressing against hers, his breath coming in ragged gasps. He could feel her tension building, her body coiling tighter with each stroke of his fingers. He slipped a second finger inside her, and she gasped, her hips moving in sync with his hand.

"L-Lanz," she panted, her voice barely a whisper. Her body was on fire, every nerve ending sparking with need. She could feel his heartbeat pulsing through his cock, the heat of him in her hand. She stroked him faster, her thumb circling the sensitive tip, spreading the bead of moisture she found there.

He curled his fingers inside her, hitting that spot that made her cry out again and again. Their breaths mingled, their bodies moving in a desperate, synchronised rhythm. Sena's grip on him tightened, her strokes becoming more frantic, more urgent. Lanz matched her pace, his fingers driving into her with precision, his thumb pressing against her clit in firm, relentless circles.

Sena's breath hitched, and she let out a high-pitched whine, her body tensing around his fingers. He could feel her orgasm building, her inner walls fluttering, her grip on him faltering as her pleasure consumed her. She came undone with a soft cry, her body convulsing in waves as he continued to stroke her through it, drawing out every last shudder.

Once he was sure her final waves of pleasure were fading, Lanz leaned in and gently sank his teeth into her neck, claiming her in the heat of his own release.

And honestly? That would have been enough for him. Just that. Just her. And the kiss? By the Queen's wings, that kiss had been perfect—thrilling, electric, something he would never forget.

"You ‘lright?" Lanz murmured, pressing a tender kiss to her hair, his hand still resting on the small of her back.

"Yeah! Better than after a killer workout," Sena beamed, breathless but clearly riding the high. She tilted her head, brushing her lips against his chin—right where his mark was.

"Thanks," she whispered, her smile soft and genuine. "That was… something else."

"Heh," Lanz grinned, the warmth in his chest spreading like wildfire. "Yeah. It really was."

They took their time pulling themselves together, cleaning up as best they could in the confines of the cell. Eventually, with enough coaxing—and a bit of playful persistence—Lanz convinced Sena to eat something, though she wrinkled her nose at the cold prison soup.

Watching her quietly, spoon in hand, Lanz found himself wanting to say so much more. Things that felt too big for words. Things he wasn’t even sure he knew how to say properly.

He wanted to tell her that holding her like that felt… right. That seeing her smile made him feel like maybe—just maybe—they’d get out of this in one piece. But he wasn’t good with words. Talking like Taion or Eunie always seemed to come so naturally to them, while he… well, he just stumbled over his thoughts and hoped for the best.

He sighed, slumping slightly against the wall.

Maybe Eunie was right, he thought with a faint, amused snort. Thinking’s not really my thing.

But right now? In this small window of calm, with Sena sitting close and her hand resting comfortably against his, he didn’t need to say it.

For now, he was happy just like this.

***

That night, Noah found himself curled between Taion and Eunie. It wasn’t exactly planned—it just felt natural, comforting. Sena, meanwhile, had declared without hesitation that Lanz’s chest was the best pillow she could ever ask for, happily snuggling against him as if she belonged there.

But Noah… couldn’t fall asleep.

That irritating heat was creeping over his body again, low and persistent. It wasn’t nearly as unbearable as the day before, but it was still enough to keep him restless. His skin prickled, his pants dampening again in a way that made him groan softly in frustration.

Just as he shifted, Taion mumbled something in his sleep and, half-consciously, pulled Noah’s face tightly against his chest. The movement forced Noah’s nose directly into something firm and unyielding.

"Mmgh—" he groaned softly.

"Huh? What’s wrong?" Taion’s voice was thick with sleep, but tinged with concern as he cracked an eye open.

"Sorry," Noah muttered, his voice muffled against Taion’s jumper. "I just… hit something. What do you have in there?"

He tapped the center of Taion’s chest where his nose had made contact with the hard spot.

"Oh—apologies," Taion mumbled, his voice low and calm. "That’s my core crystal. Like Mio’s."

Noah blinked, suddenly remembering. Of course. Taion always avoided bathing with them.

Silence settled between them for a beat.

Then, another pulse of heat surged low in Noah’s belly, making him tense and let out a quiet, involuntary grunt.

"You need help?" Taion asked gently, no judgment in his voice, just quiet understanding.

Noah hesitated, pulling his jumper over part of his face. He hadn’t done anything with Taion yet, not since the earlier mess with Sena and Lanz. Part of him still struggled with the awkwardness, with feeling unsure. Taion, in contrast, always seemed so steady, so at ease in these moments, like he’d adapted far quicker than Noah had.

Was that because he was an Alpha? Or maybe… just because he was Taion?

"You… you don’t have to," Noah mumbled, his words half-swallowed by his sleeves.

"If you’re not comfortable, or if you simply don’t like me like that, I can wake Eunie instead. She’d be more than happy to help." Taion’s voice was calm, as if he were offering to pass the salt. "Monica stressed the importance of physical compatibility, after all," he added matter-of-factly.

“You don't need to wake me,” Eunie grumbled from the other side, her voice thick with exhaustion but still laced with amusement. “You two are makin' a racket and I’m a light sleeper, unlike those two snorin' logs.” She pointed lazily toward Sena and Lanz, who were sound asleep, completely oblivious.

Taion suppressed a soft laugh and started to loosen his hold on Noah to give him space, but Noah suddenly hugged him tighter.

“No! I like you, Taion. I really do!” Noah blurted out, his voice quick and earnest. “I just… didn’t want to make you uncomfortable.”

Taion’s arms wrapped around him a little more firmly in response, his warmth steady and reassuring.

"Making me uncomfortable would be you forcing me to have sex with Lanz,” he said with a smirk, teasing but honest. He leaned down, brushing his nose gently against Noah’s forehead, then shifted his hips forward just enough to make Noah whimper and feel the growing friction between them. “You’re my friend, Noah. I care about you. Just like I care about the others. If you need help, I’m here. Simple as that.”

“Careful not to choke on that sweetness, you big sap,” Eunie snickered in the dark, her grin practically audible.

“Oh, please,” Taion huffed in her direction, feigning irritation. “Go to sleep and stop eavesdropping.”

Noah chuckled, his tension slowly unwinding. In that moment, wrapped between them, he briefly forgot about everything else—the imprisonment, the countdown to Mio’s homecoming, the weight of the situation pressing down on all of them.

“Maybe…” Noah whispered, reaching his arm back until his hand found Eunie’s. “Could you… also help?”

She didn’t need him to ask twice. She practically jumped over, wrapping herself around him, her body sliding into place behind his.

Noah found himself caught between them now, sandwiched snugly in the warmth of his two friends. His Omega instincts melted instantly, soothed by the closeness of not one, but two Alphas.

“One Alpha’s not enough, huh, Noah?” Eunie teased, her voice low and playfully wicked as she pressed a kiss just below his ear. “You’ve been spoiled rotten by me and Lanz, haven’t ya?”

Heat rushed through Noah, both from embarrassment and the spark of excitement that bloomed in his core. The nearness of his friends—their steady breathing, their hands sliding over him—felt safe in a way he couldn’t explain. Even here, in this cold, locked cell, their touch made him feel anchored. Loved.

“You really lean into this Alpha thing, huh?” Noah teased back, rubbing his head under her chin like a content pup.

“Damn right I do,” she chuckled, slipping her hands beneath his jumper to explore the bare skin of his stomach. Taion wordlessly draped his scarf across their legs to give them a bit of cover, then moved to slowly unzip Noah’s pants.

Eunie hummed as she helped lower them, her breath tickling his ear.

“Well, well…” she whispered slyly. “Bit impatient tonight, huh, Noah? Look at this mess, ma boy.”

Noah groaned softly, burying his face against Taion’s chest, his heart hammering as the warmth of their touch began to fully consume him.

Noah stifled a moan as he felt her fingers teasing his drenched entrance.

“Ahh—Eunie!” Noah moaned, his body trembling. “Sparks!”

Eunie chuckled darkly and tugged his hair back, tilting his head to expose his throat to Taion. The tactician gave a theatrical sigh, feigning mild exasperation, but his touch betrayed him—soft, deliberate—as he leaned in and nibbled the sensitive skin of Noah’s neck. Noah shivered, caught helplessly between Eunie's sharp roughness and Taion's gentle care, utterly consumed by the intoxicating mix of their pheromones.

Taion’s hand slipped into Noah’s pants, finding his soaked cock and beginning to stroke him with a slow, steady rhythm.

“Let me know if anything hurts,” Taion murmured softly, his lips brushing against Noah’s temple as he kissed him again.

Noah was drowning in pleasure—overwhelmed, surrounded, enveloped. Eunie's fingers were already moving inside him, unerringly pressing against that perfect spot that made him twitch and pant. Her other hand teased his nipples, a discovery from their last encounter that she hadn’t forgotten—and one she clearly planned to exploit.

His mind spun. His body burned. His need clawed at him, desperate for more.

With a shaky breath, Noah buried his face into the soft fabric of Taion’s jumper, his body pressing instinctively against the other Alpha's chest. He could feel Taion’s hardness pressing against his thigh, a maddening friction that sent another wave of heat pulsing through him. Almost without thinking, his hands fumbled at Taion’s pants, struggling with the zipper.

“I… I want to… can I? Please…” he panted, his voice pleading, his hands trembling.

Taion paused, glancing briefly at Eunie. She looked down at them, her gaze laced with warmth, mischief, and just a touch of surprise. Their eyes met, and she smiled knowingly.

“You heard the boss,” she teased, her voice low and playful.

It was awkward, sure—but this wasn’t the moment to pull back. Taion, affected by the thick waves of Noah’s pheromones, simply sighed and obliged. He lowered his pants and underwear just enough to grant Noah full access.

A soft groan escaped him when Noah’s hot, eager hand finally touched him.

But it wasn’t enough.

It wasn’t the right angle, wasn’t the right friction. Taion scooted closer, his patience thinning.

“Give me your hand,” he growled quietly, not waiting for Noah to respond. He caught Noah’s smaller hand in his own and guided it, until together they squeezed their cocks side by side in both of his larger hands.

Noah whimpered, lost in sensation—Eunie’s fingers working him open, the weight and heat of Taion pressed firmly against him. Taion’s hands dwarfed his, the contrast between them somehow adding to the thrill. No, Taion wasn’t as big as Lanz—he didn’t have an Aspar between his legs—but Noah still felt his mouth water at the sight and sensation.

It was too much. Too good. His body burned under the assault of their touches, pleasure building so fast he thought he might shatter from it.

And then Eunie’s voice slid against his ear, rough and playful.

“Remember that little game we played?” she growled, biting his neck just above Taion’s mark. “Think about what you want my fingers to be. Think about what you’d like your mouth to be filled with.”

Her words sent a violent shiver down his spine, pulling a desperate moan from his throat. His body arched, every nerve alight. The vivid, filthy fantasy she whispered into him wasn’t lost on Taion either. He could feel his own resolve slipping, his hands tightening around them both.

His gaze flicked up to Eunie’s over Noah’s head, his own desire suddenly spiking, but not for Noah.

Her. He wanted her.

His hands should have been on her thighs. His mouth should have been on her neck. His cock should have been—

Noah’s body seized as he came hard in Taion’s hands, shaking violently, a broken sound tearing from his throat. The rush of it, the sheer intensity, dragged Taion with him. His teeth sank into Noah’s neck—right over Eunie’s earlier mark—hard enough to bruise. Noah gasped at the sharp pain, but the bite only fueled his unraveling. His body arched again, and Eunie pushed another finger inside, rubbing that same perfect spot, driving him into a second orgasm that made him collapse in their arms, a trembling, panting mess.

“Oi, oi,” Eunie huffed, ruffling his hair with her nose. “Almost snapped off my fingers there.”

“S-Sorry…” Noah slurred, his body limp as he slumped heavily against Taion’s chest. “And sorry for the… the mess…”

Taion chuckled softly, cradling him with one arm as if he weighed nothing.

“No worries. I saved some water for… situations like this,” he said with an amused sigh.

“I’ll get it,” Eunie offered, stretching as she rose to fetch the water bottle Taion had set aside earlier.

Noah stayed where he was, his body still buzzing from the aftershocks, his cheek pressed to Taion’s warm skin, the steady beat of his heart in his ear. The air was thick with the mingled scent of their pheromones—heady, intoxicating, oddly comforting.

“Feeling better?” Taion asked, stroking his back with a lazy rhythm. “Think you can sleep now? Or shall we… go another round?”

Noah’s face burned at the question, the faintest flicker of another pulse stirring in his cock—still twitching faintly in Taion’s hands.

“U-Uh… I…” He struggled to find words, but the exhaustion was starting to weigh him down, his eyelids growing heavier despite the lingering heat in his body.

Taion caught the hesitation and smiled faintly.

“Don’t worry about it,” he said, a little bashful himself. “It’ll calm down eventually. Focus on resting.”

“But… it’s not fair…” Noah murmured, half-whining, trying to fight back a yawn. He didn’t want to leave Taion hanging.

Taion sighed, brushing a hand through Noah’s sweat-damp hair.

"We’re not going anywhere,” Taion said quietly, though the weight in his voice betrayed the heavier truth—they were stuck here. Time was the only thing they had, ticking by in this claustrophobic space. “We can pick this up whenever you want. No pressure. Just rest.”

“Heh. Y’know, I almost miss the old Mister Grumpiness,” Eunie piped in, her voice light with teasing, a small grin tugging at her lips as she carefully wiped Noah’s soiled shirt. She’d torn off a strip from the hem of her sweater and dampened it, using it now to scrub away the lingering mess as best she could.

Noah smiled faintly at her playful jab, but his expression soon softened into something more serious, more fragile. His chest tightened as guilt, heavy and persistent, clawed its way back to the surface.

“I really hated myself these days,” he admitted, his voice cracking just slightly. “For dragging you into this mess… I should’ve thought about it more. I rushed in. I let my excitement carry me away, and I didn’t stop to think about what it would mean for all of you.”

His hands fidgeted in his lap, twisting the edge of Taion’s scarf between his fingers.

“When Monica and Doctor Holly explained everything… it just clicked. It made sense. The way I felt about her… that need to be close, to touch her, to—to do everything with her. And I rushed because… because I knew she didn’t have much time left.”

The words tumbled out, thick with regret, and tears stung at the corners of his eyes. He tried to blink them away, but they slipped free, trailing down his cheeks before he could stop them.

Eunie and Taion exchanged glances—sad, knowing looks—and without a word, both of them moved to embrace him, their arms folding tightly around him, cocooning him in their warmth.

“Noah,” Taion said gently, pressing his chin softly to the top of Noah’s head. “None of this was predictable. We all made this choice. Not just for you. Not just for Mio. It was for us, too. For all of us.”

“Yeah,” Eunie murmured against his back, squeezing him tighter. “Don’t be so damn self-centered, you little lump. We didn’t do this just for you and Mio. Sure, that was part of it, but we wanted this too. We wanted to know what it means to really live. To experience all of it—not just the missions, not just fighting. Life.”

Her voice dropped to a soft hum as she rested her cheek against his shoulder. “Y’re not the only one who was curious. Not the only one who wanted to understand.”

Noah sniffled, the knot in his throat slowly loosening as he soaked in their words. The warmth, the closeness—it chipped away at the guilt pressing on his chest.

“That’s… comforting to hear,” he whispered, exhaling a breath he didn’t realize he’d been holding. “I honestly don’t know how I’d be able to handle all this alone.”

“You won’t ever have to,” Taion promised, his voice steady, his arms unmoving. “We’re here. Always.”

“Don’t even think ‘bout it,” Eunie yawned, finally releasing him, her teasing tone slipping back in. “You’re not alone, end of story. Now be a good boy and get some sleep before I knock you out.”

Noah chuckled softly, the weight on his chest lightening just a little. For the first time that day, maybe the first time in a long while, he let himself relax fully into their touch.

“Though…” he added, smirking, “it’d be a lot easier to fall asleep if your hand wasn’t still… y’know, kinda lingering there, Eunie.”

Eunie’s eyebrows lifted. “Huh?”

He tilted his head back just enough to give her a pointed look. “Yeah. I mean, if you really want me to relax, maybe don’t keep your fingers right there?”

There was a beat of silence, then—

“Oops.” She laughed, finally pulling her hand away, though not without a little squeeze for good measure.

“Seriously…” Taion sighed, amused and mildly exasperated.

Noah shook his head, smiling as he let his eyes drift closed. For a few precious moments, he allowed himself to simply be—to breathe, to feel safe, to exist wrapped between two people who had chosen to stay by his side.

Just for now, that was enough.

***

As the night wore on, they all gradually huddled together for warmth and comfort. Under normal circumstances, Taion would have hated such a blatant invasion of his personal space. He’d always preferred his distance, his quiet. But now? Now it felt… soothing. Necessary.

Noah had practically draped himself over him, their legs tangled, his head tucked neatly beneath Taion’s chin, his breathing finally even and slow. For the first time since they’d been imprisoned, Noah was truly sleeping. Not the fitful two or three hours Taion had grown accustomed to monitoring with increasing worry, but deep, restful sleep.

Taion exhaled quietly, a wave of relief settling over him.

In the middle of the night, Eunie was abruptly jolted awake when something shoved hard against her face. Specifically, Lanz’s entire arm. The weight crushed one of her wings flat, sending a bolt of pain through her.

Her fist was already cocked, ready to deliver a punch directly into Lanz’s ribs—until she caught sight of Sena, sound asleep on his chest, illuminated by the soft silver of the moonlight. Eunie froze, her fist hovering mid-air before she sighed and let it fall back to her lap.

Stupid Lanz.

She tried to go back to sleep, but the throbbing in her wing was insistent. Shifting carefully, she ran her fingers over the ruffled feathers, wincing when she touched the knotted clumps. She scowled to herself. It had been days since she last preened properly. She hadn’t even thought about it in the midst of everything else—the imprisonment, the suppressants, the cycles, the heat waves. It just hadn’t crossed her mind.

But now? Now the pain wouldn’t let her ignore it.

Careful not to step on anyone, she pushed herself up and padded quietly to a corner of the cell, positioning herself under the small barred window where the moonlight poured in. Without a mirror, she’d have to rely on touch and muscle memory. Gritting her teeth, she began working through the feathers, slowly untangling the matted clumps.

What should’ve taken fifteen minutes stretched into nearly thirty—filled with muffled hisses, curses, and the occasional groan of frustration when she tugged too hard and plucked out a perfectly good feather by mistake. By the time she was finished, a sad little pile of discarded fluff littered the cold floor at her feet.

It wasn’t perfect. Far from it. But the ache had eased, and that was enough.

She was about to quietly slip back into the tangle of limbs when she heard a soft rustle behind her. She turned and caught sight of Taion sitting up, his tired eyes watching her in the moonlight.

Not surprising. She knew he slept lightly—if he slept at all. If they’d been outside, in their normal lives, he probably would’ve woken her himself and offered to make her tea, as he often did when she couldn’t sleep. But here, in this cold cell, there was no tea, no quiet balconies or fire pits. Just them.

He moved silently to join her in the secluded corner, stepping carefully over Sena and Noah to avoid disturbing the others.

“Can’t sleep?” she asked in a soft whisper.

He shook his head with a long, quiet sigh. “It’s difficult. More than usual.”

“Heh,” she huffed, a wry, tired smile tugging at her lips. “Yeah. Feels weird, doesn’t it? Being so close all the time, but still feeling like you’re not really here.”

They sat in companionable silence for a few moments, listening to the quiet breathing around them.

Eunie glanced back to check on the others and noticed Noah shifting in his sleep, instinctively searching for his missing human pillow. Before Taion could move to return to him, Lanz yawned, half-asleep, and casually wrapped a large arm around Noah, pulling him snugly to his chest. The Kevesi boy settled instantly, Sena still tucked safely against Lanz’s other side.

Taion and Eunie both smothered their laughter.

“He’s replaced ya, huh?” Eunie teased, nudging Taion’s shoulder. “Hope your heart’s not too broken.”

Taion let out a quiet chuckle, adjusting his glasses. “He was squeezing me too tightly. I’m sure my heart will survive.”

He missed this—quiet nighttime talks, when the world outside didn’t matter for a little while. When it felt like they could pretend everything would turn out fine, even when it wouldn’t.

“I thought y’were used to being squeezed while you sleep,” Eunie murmured, leaning lazily against the wall, her voice playful but carrying something thoughtful beneath the words.

She wondered now—after all this, after their second genders had awakened—could they still share those same casual nights? Or would it eventually tear them apart?

“You don’t really hold me tightly,” Taion replied, his gaze steady on hers. “You tend to curl up against my side, especially on colder nights. I definitely prefer this way.”

The words left his mouth before he could stop them, and as soon as they did, he mentally braced for the inevitable teasing.

But to his surprise, she didn’t mock him. She didn’t fire back some snarky line.

Instead, her cheeks warmed ever so slightly, and she gave him a small, soft laugh.

“Ah, man…” She sighed, her voice quieter now. “We’ve really gotten here, huh? You and me, I mean.”

Taion leaned back against the cold stone wall, letting himself smile for real this time as he pushed his glasses up his nose.

“Seems so,” he said simply.

And in that brief, quiet moment, they let themselves believe—just for tonight—that things might still be okay.

Eunie stole a glance at him, quietly studying his profile bathed in the pale moonlight. Even with his disheveled hair, smudged glasses, and the dirt-streaked clothes they’d all been forced to wear, Taion somehow still managed to carry himself with a quiet dignity. She knew how much he cared about his appearance, even if he pretended otherwise. He always straightened his jacket, always smoothed his hair when he thought no one was watching. Being in this state—grimy, exhausted, unable to control even that part of himself—it had to be gnawing at him, whether he showed it or not.

And yet, she liked the way he looked. She always had.

His dark skin, his sharp hazel eyes that sometimes glimmered gold in the right light, the lean muscle he usually kept hidden beneath layers of clothing. Had he always been this tall? Sure, he wasn’t as towering as Lanz, but standing next to him, he felt substantial. Solid. And damn, he had one very well-toned body.

She caught herself. What the hell was she even thinking?

Her jaw tensed as she forced the thought away, mentally kicking herself. They were imprisoned, waiting for a clock to run out on them, and here she was, fantasizing about what it might feel like to be touched by him instead of Noah or Sena. They’d told themselves it was all about helping their friends, nothing more. No ulterior motives. Just necessity.

And yet… she couldn’t stop teasing him. Couldn’t stop looking. Couldn’t stop wanting.

It was stupid. Inappropriate. Arguably cruel. And yet, it was impossible to resist. The way he reacted to her jabs. The way he flushed. The way he looked at her when he thought she wasn’t paying attention. It was… intoxicating.

Feeling ashamed, she looked away, suddenly convinced she was a terrible, selfish person.

Her voice was quieter when she finally spoke. “Do you… do you really think we’ve got a chance to escape?”

Taion didn’t answer right away. His eyes flicked toward her, and for a brief moment, she wondered if he would lie to comfort her. She narrowed her gaze, preempting him. “No lies, Taion.”

A beat of silence. Then, in a low whisper, “No. I don’t.”

His jaw clenched. He bit his lip, frustrated.

“Our Ouroboros power is locked. Our ether flow is blocked. We can’t access our Blades. Even basic tactics are off the table.” He exhaled sharply, staring at his fists as they tightened. “I’ve been combing through the IRIS, trying to find anything useful, but there’s nothing. No weak spots. No exit paths. And in two weeks…”

He couldn’t finish. The words physically caught in his throat, and the rising heat of failure, helplessness, and anger surged in his chest. He wanted to hit something. To smash the stone wall until his knuckles bled.

But then—her hand covered his.

Her touch was soft, light, almost hesitant, but it jolted him back to reality in an instant. His eyes flew open, locking onto hers. The warmth of her skin seeped into his bones, sending a tremble rippling through his entire body. Why now? After everything they’d been through the past two days, after everything they’d already done, why did this feel so impossibly intense?

His heartbeat pounded wildly in his chest.

He hesitated, but slowly, almost unconsciously, he uncurled his fist and allowed her fingers to lace between his. His breathing faltered as she stepped away from the cold wall, still holding his hand, never breaking eye contact.

She moved in—close. Too close. Close enough that her body heat radiated into his, close enough that her scent wrapped around him like a tether. Her face was flushed, her cerulean eyes burning with bold, undeniable intent.

“Eunie…” he whispered, a weak protest that barely passed his lips. He made a clumsy, half-hearted attempt to pull his hand away, but she tightened her grip.

“We’ve got two weeks,” she said quietly, bluntly, like it was simply the truth of the world. “Two weeks before we die. So snuff your sense of duty for once, yeah? I’ve seen the way you’ve been looking at me.”

His throat dried up. “T-that’s not true! You were the one teasing me!”

“Yeah,” she murmured with a slow grin, her voice dropping to a low, dangerous purr, “and you’ve been eatin' it up.”

“Eunie…” His voice cracked as he closed his eyes in frustration. “Do I need to remind you what happened when we unlocked our glands?”

His mind screamed: Don’t release pheromones. Don’t release pheromones. Don’t you dare.

But even without the pheromones, he could feel her everywhere—her heat, her weight, her presence. And when he finally opened his eyes, her face was right there.

Her lips.

Right there.

Claim her.

Take her against the wall.

No—no—no!

“That was just an incident,” Eunie growled, undeterred. “I knew you wouldn’t hurt me.”

Never, his mind screamed, his restraint cracking at the edges.

“And I was never gonna hurt you,” she whispered, the bite in her voice softening. “Just… maybe let you kneel?”

His breath hitched sharply. “I… I felt that,” he panted. “Eunie, please. We can’t.”

But she didn’t stop.

Instead, her grin sharpened as she deliberately released her pheromones—fortune clover, warm and intoxicating, flooding the air between them, laced with possessiveness and Alpha dominance. They coiled around him, wrapping tightly, targeting him with single-minded focus.

“Sparks…” he hissed, his hand flying up to cover his mouth in disbelief.

No. It’s not supposed to work like this.

Her pheromones shouldn’t be affecting him like this. He knew the data. Monica and Larry had made it clear—Alpha pheromones weren’t supposed to trigger each other this way. Their bodies weren’t supposed to react.

And yet—his body betrayed him. His erection throbbed painfully, undeniable, demanding.

And worse—his own pheromones, the ones he’d been so desperately trying to keep bottled up—spilled out in response, flooding the space around them.

Eunie’s pupils dilated as she caught his scent, her breathing quickening, her focus narrowing entirely on him, hungry for his every reaction.

A growl rumbled low in his throat. His restraint snapped. He grabbed the edge of her jacket and yanked her toward him, rougher than he meant to. She hissed softly, but her hands immediately tangled in his hair, pulling their faces closer until only a breath separated their lips.

“Stop, Eunie,” he groaned, his voice strained and desperate. “Stop before this spirals.”

“You sure you want me to stop?” she purred, pressing herself fully against him, grinding just enough to feel exactly how ready he was. “’Cause contrary to what your mouth’s saying, your body—your pheromones—don’t lie, Taion. You want me.”

Yes.

Yes, I do.

His Alpha instincts roared inside him.

Take her. Now.

And then—

“Oi, you two!” Lanz’s groggy voice rumbled across the room, thick with sleep and mild irritation. “I dunno what kinda dreams y’re havin’, but sparks! Knock it off! The whole air’s drenched in your pheromones, and you’re wakin’ Sena and Noah up over here!”

Taion recoiled as if he’d been struck.

What in the sparkwas he thinking? He was the one who kept reminding the team to avoid unnecessary physical escalation. He was supposed to be the calm one, the rational one, the strategist who kept things in control.

And yet—he’d been one heartbeat away from pressing Eunie against the wall and losing himself completely.

Unacceptable. Stupid. Dangerous.

Not just because it was impulsive, but because she was an Alpha too. They both knew the risks. If they lost control, if their instincts overtook them, they could genuinely hurt each other—or worse, spark another uncontrolled heat wave that would throw the entire group into chaos. They weren’t alone. They couldn’t afford to be selfish.

His pulse thundered in his ears. He forced himself to step back, slipping out of her grasp with a rushed, shaky breath.

“S-sorry…” he stammered, his voice unsteady as he quickly turned away, practically retreating to his previous spot. “I—I don’t know what came over me.”

Suppressants, he thought grimly. I need to take one tomorrow. I have to.

Behind him, Eunie scoffed, sharp and bitter, rolling her eyes with a mix of frustration and disbelief. She followed him back, but her movements were slow, heavy with disappointment. Without a word, she laid down beside him, pointedly turning onto her side, her back to him.

“Whatever,” she muttered, the word dragging like sandpaper. She was pissed. No, worse—she was hurt.

What did she even want from him? His mind spun, his body still tense, burning. Did she want to sleep with him? To kiss him? To have what Sena and Lanz had so easily found?

Yes. Bloody yes.
She wanted all of it.

The realization hit her like a punch to the gut. She wanted him, and not just in some teasing, flirtatious way. She wanted him completely—to touch him, to feel him against her, to know what it was like to belong to each other in that way.

And now, she might die with that ache still unsatisfied, with that regret gnawing at her bones.

She clenched her fists tightly, biting back the emotion. No. Not Eunie. Eunie’s tough. Eunie’s the boss. Eunie doesn’t get caught up in this kind of fragility.

Her whole body tensed when she suddenly felt his arm slip around her. Gently, carefully, his hand slid from her back to rest just under her breast, pulling her closer against him.

She didn’t speak. Neither did he.
No words were needed right then.

His breath was warm against her hair as he whispered, “Try to sleep. It will pass.”

Pass? Sparks. That stung.
He really thinks this is something that just fades? Just a wave to endure?

She ground her teeth and tried to pull away, hissing, “You really think it’s just a fleetin' thing? Sparks, snuff you, Taio—”

“I don’t believe that,” he murmured softly, cutting her off. "But I need to tell it to myself or... or it will drive me mad. Please, Eunie. Please."

Silence settled over them, thick and intimate. Her heart thudded violently in her chest, but she didn’t resist when his grip tightened just slightly around her waist.

“Sleep, now,” he whispered, his voice firm, but no longer distant.

His touch lingered—steady, warm, grounding—and his pheromones surrounded her like a quiet promise. Not overpowering. Not claiming. Just there. Just him.

They understood each other perfectly in that moment. They didn’t need to say it aloud. They would carry the weight of it—these desires, these unanswered questions, these impossible cravings—together. Even if the world outside had caged them, here, for tonight, they could hold onto each other in silence.

And maybe that was enough.

***

As soon as N vanished in a flash of ether, M’s mind spiraled into overdrive, frantically scrambling for a solution—any solution—that would allow her to evade his advances. She knew exactly what he expected, and it twisted her stomach into knots. Her thoughts spun so wildly she half-expected smoke to start pouring out of her ears.

Think. There has to be another way. Something else. Something I can use...

She rifled through her memories—hers, and the ones inherited from the woman who came before her—desperate to find a thread, a sliver of strategy that might turn the situation in her favor. Anything to avoid what seemed inevitable.

“So?” N’s voice drawled lazily, pulling her from her thoughts. He sat perched on the edge of the bed, watching her with a predator’s patience. “You seemed quite eager just a moment ago. Where’s all that impatience now?”

His words landed like a stone in her gut.

The moment was here. There was no escaping it now.

Her mouth went dry. The sharp confidence she’d projected moments before was already beginning to crumble under his gaze. She tried to avoid his eyes, pretending to study the pattern of his back instead, as if that would give her the space to think.

One wrong move and the entire plan collapses.

Could it really be that this was her only card? That she had to mate with him—this monster? Even though the body she inhabited wasn’t truly hers, even though she carried the memories of the woman who’d come before—this would still be her first time.

No.

Her jaw tightened. Her fingers dug into her palms.

But then, in the dark recesses of her mind, a faint memory surfaced. A long shot. A risk. But it was all she had.

Please let this work.

She turned sharply to face N, her eyes hardening, her voice dripping with irritation as she hissed, “Why did you try to mate with her?”

N blinked, almost surprised by the question. “Why, you ask? To make them desp—”

“Cut the crap,” she snapped, stepping forward and deliberately releasing a sharp wave of aggressive pheromones. It flooded the room, thick and suffocating. Eunie would’ve been proud of her language.

N’s breath hitched. For a second, he looked genuinely caught off guard, but then he inhaled deeply, his eyes fluttering shut in perverse delight. “Are you angry, M?” he taunted, beginning to remove the top of his Moebius armor. “That’s… new for you.”

“You tried to mate with someone else,” she growled, releasing another surge of her pheromones, heavier this time, almost daring him to choke on it. “You think I wouldn’t be angry?”

His body shuddered. She saw it—the sharp intake of breath, the faint tremble in his hands—but it wasn’t enough. He was too used to her scent. She needed to push harder.

“It wasn’t someone else,” N hissed through gritted teeth. “It was you. You know that. What are you trying to pull, M?”

She didn’t flinch.

Her third release was more calculated, more refined. This time, the weight of it struck true. She saw the change in his body instantly—his breath quickened, his pupils dilated, the evidence of his arousal pressing against the tight fabric of his armor. His face flushed with heat, and for the first time, she felt the balance shift in her favor.

“It’s not me, N,” she whispered, locking eyes with him, forcing herself to take a few measured steps closer despite the rancid, overwhelming scent of his pheromones. She had to fight the urge to gag, to run. Hold your ground. Keep the upper hand.

N’s grin only widened, his eyes gleaming with dangerous curiosity. “What’s this, M? Trying to punish me with your pheromones now?”

Yes. Exactly that.

But she couldn’t say it. She needed him to think he still had control.

“Strip,” she ordered, her voice cold, her presence commanding.

His smirk deepened. “Why don’t you do it?” he teased, spreading his legs wider as if to invite her touch. “It’s been a while since you’ve been this… involved, M.”

She said nothing. Her silence was her weapon now.

“I said—strip,” she growled, her voice vibrating with authority and another pulse of targeted pheromones. She was shocked by her own boldness—she would have never dared to push this far before.

But this time, it worked.

N’s body shuddered as he let out a low moan, his hands quickly moving to peel away the remaining pieces of his clothing until he stood bare before her on the bed, his breath heavy, his skin flushed with need.

When he reached out to her, she slapped his hand away with enough force to make him recoil.

“No hands,” she commanded, her gaze sharp, unwavering. “You said this was punishment, didn’t you?”

His expression twisted into something both amused and aroused, as if he was savoring every moment of her performance.

“Jealous, are we, M?” he drawled, clearly enjoying the game. “Tell me—how do you plan to—ah—”

Her next surge of pheromones slammed into him like a wall, sharp and merciless. His knees buckled slightly, his body straining under the weight of desire she’d forced upon him.

Yes. Finally.

She didn’t need to say it. Her silence told him everything.

She would control this. She would dictate the terms.
And she would never let him have all of her.

This time, M carefully gathered her pheromones, focusing every ounce of them—not in a scattered haze, but as a precise, concentrated assault directed solely at N. If she could target him directly, without flooding the room, the intensity should hit him harder, faster.

And it worked.

N’s body jolted in response, his breath hitching sharply as his muscles seized under the overwhelming force of her scent.

“I absolutely love your pheromones…” he groaned, his head falling back in ecstasy, his voice thick and trembling. “More. Give me more.”

M exhaled slowly, releasing the breath she’d been holding. His eyes were shut—he wasn’t watching her. She allowed herself a fleeting moment of visible relief before slipping right back into her carefully crafted role.

She complied, pressing harder, amplifying the effect, weaving more jealousy, more dominance into her pheromone signature. She had to make it convincing—this wasn’t seduction. This was punishment. And he needed to believe that.

The moment he climaxed, his release splattering messily across the sheets, M recoiled inwardly, watching the scene unfold with a sick mix of disgust and quiet calculation. That much? Even for an Omega, that was excessive. The pheromone overload had clearly pushed his body past its limit.

Good.

The shared high from their pheromone exchange was draining for both Alpha and Omega. It wasn’t something that could be sustained repeatedly in a short span. He should be satisfied with this. At least for a while.

Her voice, when she finally spoke, was cold as ice. “Don’t you dare try to mate with her again,” she hissed, her tone laced with quiet threat. “If you do, I won’t emit even a single pheromone for you next time. You’ll get nothing.”

She let the words hang in the air, let them sink in, before she turned to leave.

“Her homecoming will be more than enough,” she added, a final edge in her voice as she moved towards the door.

Behind her, N chuckled lazily, his breath still ragged. His eyes followed her retreating figure, gleaming with something unreadable.

“Oh, is that so?” he drawled, tilting his head, his gaze narrowing as if peeling back the layers of her performance. “Very well. I’ll do as you wish.”

His smirk was sharp, calculating, but she didn’t flinch. She met his eyes squarely, giving him nothing but cold, flat certainty.

Then she was gone.

The moment the door slid shut behind her, M sagged against the corridor wall, the breath she’d been holding finally escaping in a shaky exhale. Her body trembled, drained, but she forced her legs to move.

Without hesitation, she headed straight for the showers. The moment the icy water struck her skin, she let herself sink to the floor, curling in on herself as the frigid stream soaked her hair and clothes.

She scrubbed her skin raw, desperate to erase the foul remnants of his scent clinging to her, desperate to drown the memory of what had just transpired.

But no amount of water would wash it away completely. She knew that.

She pressed her forehead to the cold tiles, breathing heavily, her mind already spinning, calculating, clawing for the next step.

Just hold on. Hold on, please.

Chapter Text

They were free.

After one agonizing, punishing month trapped in Li Garte, after endless days of planning, fighting, and barely clinging to hope, they had finally escaped.

The members of Ouroboros could scarcely believe it. It felt unreal—like the threads of a dream that hadn’t quite settled into memory. The past few hours had been a blur of desperation and impossible victories: they’d broken free, defeated N and X, and Mio, their Mio, was back.

Freedom.
The word still tasted strange, like something too sweet to trust.

But it was real. They were out. They were alive.

Mio had even severed the bond tethering N to M’s body after M’s homecoming—a moment that had visibly shaken Noah, his relief written across every line of his face. His joy was almost childlike, his arms wrapping around Mio as if he feared she might vanish again.

They were back. All of them.

“Sparks, ya all stink,” Ghondor grunted as soon as they stumbled toward her, wrinkling her nose and waving a hand aggressively in front of her face as if that could drive the stench away. “Help clean up your bloody mess, then get yourselves a sparking bath. Seriously.”

“Well, excuse us for not squeezing in a shower before storming the Queen’s throne room,” Eunie snapped, crossing her arms, though the edge in her voice was dulled by sheer exhaustion. Sena giggled softly behind her.

“Eunie…” Noah sighed, dragging a hand through his sweat-matted hair. He turned to Ghondor, offering an apologetic look. “Sorry. We’ll help. Just tell us what you need.”

The others nodded. They were all bone-tired—barely able to stay upright—but none of them had the energy to argue. Besides, Ghondor was right. They’d trashed half the place during the fight. The least they could do was help with the cleanup.

It took a few more hours before they were finally released from duty. When they returned to the dormitory, they found it completely transformed. Monica, in an unexpected gesture of gratitude, had reserved an entire wing of the building just for them. She’d also gone a step further—booking out the entire City thermal pool center next door for their private use.

It was more than any of them expected. And exactly what they needed.

As they shuffled into the dormitory, shedding their dirtied jackets and stained gear, Mio let out a soft, tired laugh.

“I wouldn’t mind relaxing a bit,” she said, her smile small but genuine. “If you don’t mind, guys.”

“Of course not, love,” Eunie yawned, stretching her arms over her head and arching her back until her joints cracked. “I’m dying for a nice, long bath.”

“Little party in the pool!” Sena cheered, her voice light and full of a joy they hadn’t heard from her in weeks.

Taion and Lanz exchanged weary glances, but even they couldn’t suppress small, grateful smiles. For the first time in a long while, there was no immediate threat hanging over them. No alarms. No prison walls. No ticking clock.

For the first time, they could simply be.

And together, they made their way toward the warm promise of the thermal baths, ready to wash away the blood, the sweat, the memories—and perhaps, if they were lucky, the lingering weight of Li Garte.

***

When the girls arrived, the guys were already waiting in the thermal baths, lounging comfortably in the bathing suits Monica had kindly provided for them. The room was warm, humid, and filled with the calming sound of gently rippling water.

Lanz was already floating lazily on his back in the pool, eyes half-lidded with contentment. Taion had claimed a beach chair nearby, fully dressed in his swim trunks, an hologram book balanced in one hand as if the chaos of the past month had never happened. Noah, still fresh from the showers lining the room, was ruffling his damp hair with a towel.

“Sparks, finally!” Lanz called out, perking up as the door swung open. “Where’ve you—oh.” His voice faltered, his cheeks flushing the moment his gaze landed on them.

“What?” Sena laughed, amused by his reaction. She glanced down at the swimsuit Monica had provided and gestured toward herself and the others. “These strange or something?”

Taion and Noah looked up, their attention immediately drawn to the three of them. And just like Lanz, their faces turned various shades of pink. They were each stunning in their own way—Mio’s quiet elegance, Eunie’s impossible curves that the suit did nothing to hide, and Sena’s distinctive skin patterns, which shimmered faintly under the warm pool lights.

“N-no, they’re not strange,” Lanz mumbled quickly, recovering enough to smile at her. He extended a hand toward Sena, inviting her to join him in the water. He wanted to tell her she was beautiful—he wanted to say so much more—but he could already hear Eunie’s inevitable teasing in his head. So, he simply stayed quiet and savored the moment as Sena took his hand and slid into the pool beside him.

“You… cut your hair,” Noah said, his voice soft as he approached Mio, taking in her slightly shorter hair with a warm, lingering gaze. “It really suits you. Not that it didn’t before! I mean, I—I liked it before, too. I just… I like you no matter what, that’s what I mean.”

Mio laughed, the sound light and melodic. “You’re so sweet, Noah. I wasn’t sure at first, but… you have no idea how hard it is to wash long hair.” She paused, then added playfully, “Although maybe you do. Yours is still longer than mine.”

Before Noah could muster a response, Eunie’s voice cut in, sharp and teasing. “Oi, aren’t ya gonna help me, you muppet?”

“Ya don’t deserve help, feather-brain,” Lanz shot back, still floating effortlessly next to Sena, a smirk pulling at his lips.

“Oi! You dork!” she barked, but her grin betrayed her fondness.

“Oh, how I’ve missed this,” Mio sighed happily, watching the playful squabble unfold. “Honestly, how did you manage to put up with those two in such a tiny cell?”

Noah’s face flushed deep crimson at the memory, and his hand instinctively drifted to his neck, fingertips grazing the lingering bite mark Lanz had left there. He fumbled for words, utterly flustered.

“Uh—I, um—well—”

Mio quickly stepped in, her voice gentle as she tried to save him from his embarrassment. “There’s no need to be embarrassed, Noah. Shall we join the others?”

But Noah hesitated, reaching out to softly take her hand. His thumb traced gentle circles over her skin, his gaze heavy with guilt and uncertainty. “Are you sure…?” he murmured, unable to meet her eyes. “I mean… really sure? Aren’t you… upset? Angry?”

Her heart warmed at his vulnerability. She stepped forward and wrapped her arms around him, pulling him into a firm, heartfelt embrace. His breath caught, and for a brief second, he hugged her back so tightly, as if he feared she might disappear again.

Her pheromones enveloped him—comforting, steady, home.

“Noah,” she whispered, her voice firm but kind. “I understand. I do. Now that I carry M’s memories… I know how unbearable untreated heat can be. You were in pain. You needed help. And they—our friends—helped you.”

She paused, leaning back just enough to look at him directly. “They’re our family, Noah. They’re not strangers. I trust them, and I’m grateful they were there for you.”

She truly meant it. When their secondary genders had first awakened, she’d been so sure that anyone who touched him would not walk away unscathed. Her possessiveness, her primal instincts—it had all felt so overpowering, so irrational.

But with M’s memories, she understood now. She understood how cycles worked, how pheromones could manipulate, cloud, and overwhelm.

And she no longer saw anyone in that room as a threat. Only friends who had cared for him when she couldn’t.

“I know,” Noah whispered, his voice trembling slightly. “But… it’s just… I love them, I really do, but you’re my soulmate, Mio. I knew it before we were ever imprisoned. I’ve known it since the day we met. In our first life.”

Tears prickled at the corners of Mio’s eyes as her chest ached with emotion. She had loved this man in every lifetime. She would always find him. Always choose him.

“And you’re mine,” she whispered, her voice thick with joy. “I missed you, Noah. That month apart felt like an eternity. Not being able to see you, to talk to you, to explain everything…” She pulled him closer, her lips brushing against his ear as she added, her voice low and teasing, “And if you’re really that eager, we could… sneak off. Maybe make an excuse, find one of the bedrooms…”

Noah’s heart skipped violently, heat rushing to his face so fast he was sure his bathing suit might catch fire.

“Mimi, Noah, aren’t you coming in?” Sena called, waving them over from the pool.

“Y-yeah! Just a second!” Noah stammered, still flustered. He turned to Mio, his face blazing. “Uh… maybe later? I don’t think it’d be polite to ditch them now.”

Mio giggled, gently squeezing his hand. “Later then.”

She dove gracefully into the pool, the water sparkling around her, and Noah quickly followed, his chest lighter than it had been in weeks.

For the first time, they weren’t fighting for survival.
For the first time, they could simply enjoy being together.

“You’re not comin' in?” Eunie called out with a grin as she approached, noticing how quickly Taion had snapped the hologram shut the moment he saw her. “Oi, was that Riku’s IRIS? How’d you get your hands on that? ‘Sparks,’ I’m amazed he even let you borrow it. Furrball’s usually super possessive about his stuff.”

Taion flushed lightly, adjusting his glasses in an attempt to refocus on the device in his hands. He’d hoped she wouldn’t have noticed his hurried movement, but of course—of course—Eunie noticed everything.

“Indeed. It’s Riku’s IRIS,” he replied, his voice just a little too formal, as if trying to deflect. “I simply asked politely if I could borrow it. I agreed to compensate for any potential damages, of course. I could have read on my own IRIS, but…” His gaze softened as he ran his fingers thoughtfully along the edge of the projection. “I prefer the feel of hologram books. Riku’s has the old interface I like.”

“Mmm-hmm.” Eunie smirked, folding her arms as she loomed closer. “And wot, exactly, were ya readin’ that was so scandalous you had to switch it off the second I rocked up?”

Before Taion could craft a believable excuse, she suddenly dropped down onto the lounge chair beside him—except it wasn’t really built for two. He stiffened immediately as she pressed up against him, forcing him to awkwardly scoot over.

“H-Hey! This is a one-seater,” he protested, his voice faltering as his body betrayed him, muscles tensing under the soft, teasing weight of her.

“Move yer bum, and it magically becomes a two-seater,” she fired back with a wink, clearly enjoying herself. Without giving him time to react, she sprawled against him, her head settling comfortably on his chest—right above his core crystal, like it was the most natural thing in the world.

Like she belonged there.
Like she knew she belonged there.

His breath hitched. The heat of her body, the faint press of her curves through the thin fabric of her swimsuit, the scent of her freshly washed hair—it was dizzying. He looked down, finding her cerulean eyes already gazing up at him, playful but warm, and it rattled him to his core.

“W-what are you doing?” he scoffed weakly, his hands twitching—wanting to push her away, but instead betraying him, pulling her in even closer.

“Making myself comfortable,” she grinned, her fingers idly drawing small circles on his side, making him groan softly.

“I…” He hesitated, searching for some rational argument to break this dangerous proximity.

Except… he didn’t really want to break it.

Part of him wanted to rip off that bikini and—

Sparks, no. He physically shook his head, willing the thought away.

Eunie’s always been touchy, he reasoned desperately. She’s like this with everyone. I’m just next in line.

Liar, his Alpha whispered darkly inside him, the laugh curling in his gut.

“I can see that,” he finally muttered, attempting to relax, though his body remained taut beneath her.

“So?” she continued, her smirk widening, clearly not letting him off the hook.

“So what?” he asked, feigning innocence—poorly. He prayed to whatever fake Queen might be listening that she would drop it, but he already knew he was doomed.

“What were ya reading?” she teased, her voice dripping with mock sweetness. “Some… steamy novels, maybe? Little bit o’ spice?”

Taion choked on air, nearly falling off the lounge chair in pure panic. His heart hammered against his ribs as she burst into unrestrained laughter.

“Eunie!” he spluttered, rolling his eyes and coughing, his cheeks blazing. “And the correct term would be erotic, but no! Before you go spinning wild theories, I was not reading anything of the sort!”

“Aw, shame,” she cackled, resting her chin on his chest and giving him a teasing grin. “Could’ve shared the good parts.”

He groaned, dragging a hand down his face, but his lips twitched at the edges despite himself.
Why did she always do this to him? And why did he love it so much?

“Honestly…” he muttered, but he made no move to push her away.

Not this time.

“And then what?” Eunie asked, but her playful tone was gone, replaced by something quieter, heavier—serious.

Taion’s throat tightened. His stomach twisted painfully. He could lie. He could brush it off. He could dodge this, knowing full well that if he didn’t tell her now, she’d see it eventually. She’d feel it during their next interlink. His thoughts, his worries, his fear—it would all spill out when their minds connected again.

Maybe that wasn’t so bad. Maybe that would save them this conversation. No miscommunication, no difficult words, no risk of saying the wrong thing.

But no.

That would be the coward’s path. And he had promised himself long ago—he wasn’t going to be that boy anymore. Not the one who kept quiet, who swallowed his voice, who avoided what mattered.

He clenched his fists, feeling the weight of his own expectations pressing on him.

No. Not this time.

He looked up at her again and shifted, making enough space on the chair for her to sit properly beside him. When she moved closer, settling in at his side, he powered the hologram back on.

The softly glowing pages reappeared between them, the text and columns clearly visible now.

Eunie frowned, confused. “Wot’s that? Some… archive?”

“Yes. The City’s marriage archive,” he explained quietly. And without thinking—without stopping himself—he slid his hand over hers.

She blushed, glancing down at their joined hands, but the moment she met his eyes, something in her froze. His expression wasn’t warm, wasn’t teasing. It was tight, distant. Sad.

She started to speak, but no words came out.

Instead, her gaze dropped to the hologram.

Seven columns.

The first two: names.
The next two: primary sex.
The following two: secondary sex.
The final column: notes and remarks.

Line after line, page after page.

Alpha/Omega.
Alpha/Omega.
Alpha/Omega.
Alpha/Omega.
Alpha/Omega.
Endless.

Her jaw clenched, the weight of it pressing down on her chest. There it is again—that feeling. That gnawing, twisting sense that this isn’t right. That we’re not right.

But if it wasn’t right, why—why had she felt what she did in Li Garte?
Why had she wanted him so desperately? Why did she still want him? Why did she still daydream about his hands on her, about his weight pressing her down, about feeling every inch of him against her?

Larry said it wasn’t supposed to happen. Two Alphas shouldn’t crave each other like this. It’s rare. It’s—
Impossible.

And yet.

“This archive only lists Alpha/Omega pairings. Beta matches aren’t recorded here,” Taion explained, his voice carefully flat as he scrolled through the entries. She could tell—he wasn’t reading anymore. He already knew what he’d find. He was searching because he was desperate for answers. Because logic was all he trusted. Because he wanted proof that this wasn’t a mistake.

And because maybe, just maybe, he was starting to doubt whether they could really be together.

Eunie’s heart burned with frustration. She squeezed his hand tightly, then suddenly yanked it away, shutting the IRIS off with a sharp flick.

“Snuff it,” she growled.

For a heartbeat, she actually considered chucking the device across the room. But then she remembered Riku, who would undoubtedly murder them both for damaging it. Instead, she slammed it down on the stand beside them, harder than necessary.

Taion let out a long, resigned sigh. He had anticipated this reaction. It still hurt more than he’d expected.

“Snuff it, Taion…” she repeated, but this time her voice softened, almost pleading.

“It’s not that simple, Eunie,” he said, his tone chillingly distant. “You can’t just say ‘snuff it’ and expect that to be the end of it.” He pulled his hand away, ignoring how much it hurt to do so. “There’s a reason why Alphas are with Omegas. It’s how cycles work. It’s what makes biological sense. And…” his throat tightened, the next words slipping from him like ice, “it’s best for us to… stop.”

The words landed like a dagger between them.

There was no walking that back.

The air around them seemed to drop in temperature, the weight of silence suddenly crushing.

Taion braced to leave, needing to get away, needing distance—he couldn’t stay here, not with her so close—but before he could rise, Eunie grabbed his arm with surprising force.

“Who said that?!” she snapped, her eyes blazing with fury. “Who decided that? Just because we’re both Alphas? Bollocks!”

Her voice shook with frustration, but it wasn’t wild—it was sharp, clear, resolute.

He blinked, completely thrown off by her outburst.

Was she out of her mind? Did she even realize what she was saying? The risks, the complications, the—
Of course she didn’t care. Of course she didn’t.
Because she’s Eunie.

And somewhere inside him, in the carefully constructed part of his heart where logic always reigned supreme, something cracked.

“Science says that!” he shot back, frustration bubbling to the surface. Her infuriating, reckless way of tackling things without thinking it through—it drove him mad. “There’s a biological balance! Alphas and Omegas complement each other! Have you even thought about the rut? What if we both go into rut at the same time?!” His voice trembled. “Do you want us to hurt each other?!”

He swallowed hard, the words cutting him as they left his mouth. “The thought of hurting you is unbearable. And we can’t even bond. So what’s the point of—”

“Bond?” Eunie cut in, blinking like he’d just spoken complete gibberish. “Sparks, Taion! We haven’t even kissed yet and you’re already talking about bonding?! We had plenty of fun with the others, even without a bond—so yeah, screw the bond.”

Her words hit him square in the chest.

“So this is all it is between us? Fun?” he snapped, glaring at her, his voice cold and sharp.

Her smirk faded instantly. She flinched like he’d slapped her.

“No…” she mumbled, suddenly unsure of herself. “No, y’know that’s not what I meant.”

Did he?
Right now, he wasn’t so sure.

Everything still felt too raw, too unstable. The prison, the heat cycles, the nights pressed against each other just to survive—it was all too much, too soon.
Maybe this wasn’t the right time for this conversation. Maybe they weren’t ready.

He dragged a hand through his hair, sighing deeply.

“Even setting the bond aside,” he muttered, forcing himself to find steady ground again, “What about the rut? Monica warned us. She explained what happens when Alphas—” his voice faltered, “—when they knot, when they fight to dominate each other.”

Eunie didn’t even blink.

“Do you have an upcoming rut?” she asked bluntly.

“That’s not the—”

“Do you?” she pressed.

“No,” he grumbled, grinding his teeth. “My calendar is clear.”

“Well then,” she shrugged, “problem solved.”

“This isn’t—Eunie, this isn’t some joke!”

“I know it’s not!” she barked back, standing her ground. “You think I’m not freaked out too? You think I have all this figured out? Sparks, Taion—I’m trying to understand all this, same as you. I’m learning as I go. But here’s the thing—” she took a breath, forcing herself to slow down, to mean every word, “—we’re partners, yeah?”

His eyes softened. “Of course, Eunie.”

“Then we’ll figure it out together. Like we always have.” She grinned, that stubborn spark finally returning to her voice. “Just… don’t push me away, four-eyes. I’m still me. You’re still you.”

Her hand slipped back into his, squeezing it tightly. “One step at a time. Will ya?”

His defenses faltered. All the panic, the calculations, the ‘what ifs’—they thinned in her presence, outmatched by the weight of her stubborn, boundless faith in him.

Taion exhaled, squeezing her hand in return.

“One step at a time,” Taion echoed, a reluctant smile tugging at the corners of his lips. “I can manage that.”

“Good,” Eunie smirked, leaning her head against his shoulder with the absolute certainty that, for her, the matter was settled.

Because to her—it was.

He let out a soft sigh, the last threads of resistance dissolving as he glanced down at her. “Maybe you’re also my… reliable girl?” he mused aloud, his voice tender and amused.

“‘Eunie is as Eunie does,’” she giggled, deliberately ruffling his hair with both hands, making him groan in mock annoyance as he tried to duck away.

“I get your worries, I do,” she continued, her tone light but sincere. “And I know me blabberin’ at ya ain’t gonna magically erase all those anxieties rattling around in that big, overthinking head of yours.” She tapped his temple gently with a smug grin. “So why don’t we just ask the lab guys tomorrow, huh? Y’know—how to deal with this rut business. I’m new to all this same as you. Best we ask the experts instead of twisting ourselves up over it.”

He blinked, a little caught off guard by her simple, practical solution. He’d been spinning himself in circles when the obvious answer was right there.

“And the whole bond thing…” she added, her voice softening as she met his eyes directly. “Since when did you and I need a bond to work? We synced the very first time, when we could barely even stand each other. We didn’t need fancy marks or sappy connections back then. And we don’t need ‘em now.”

She reached up and gently brushed his hair back into place, smiling warmly. “Let those lovey-dovey things be for Noah and Mio. They’re the hopeless romantics. We don’t need that.”

Taion stared at her, momentarily speechless. Her words—so simple, so Eunie—had the uncanny ability to cut straight through his spiraling thoughts, his self-doubt, his over-calculations. She always did that. She always would.

“Well,” he mumbled, clearing his throat. “That was… unexpectedly wise.”

“Oi!” She smacked his shoulder in protest, narrowing her eyes at him. “Wot’s that supposed to mean, huh?!”

He only chuckled and, without warning, pulled her closer, letting his weight fall back against the lounge chair, dragging her with him. One arm snaked around her waist, the other sliding up to gently cradle the back of her head, his fingers sinking into her hair.

“It means,” he whispered against her temple, “that sooner or later, you’ll end up stealing my job as tactician.”

Her breath caught.
Their lips were so close now.
The warmth of her body against his made his heart hammer in his chest.
Her grip on his shoulder tightened instinctively. His fingers dug into her waist just slightly.

A breath away.

Just one breath away.

And then—

“OI! Are you comin’ in, or are you gonna keep flirtin’ like a pair of lovesick idiots?” Lanz’s voice cut through the room like a rock through glass. “Come on, featherbrain! Thought you loved swimming.”

Of course.
It had to be Lanz.
It was always Lanz.

Eunie groaned, snapping her head toward him. “I hate you so much, empty head!” she barked, sitting up but refusing to move off Taion’s lap just yet.

“Why? I just saved your faces from bein’ clawed off by each other’s rutty instincts. Honestly, you should be thankin’ me!” Lanz grinned, completely proud of his ‘heroic’ intervention.

Taion sighed, half-amused, half-defeated. “It’s almost impressive. His timing is… consistently catastrophic.”

“Yeah,” Eunie muttered, casting one last lingering glance at Taion before reluctantly slipping off his lap. She gave his hand a firm tug. “C’mon now. The pool’s waitin’.”

Taion let himself be led, fully aware that the moment they got close enough, she’d push him in.

And, naturally, that’s exactly what she did.

He hit the water with a loud splash.

“You could’ve at least waited for me to take off my glasses,” he groaned as he resurfaced, sputtering and spitting out water.

“Nope,” Eunie grinned, diving in right after him and popping up next to him like she hadn’t just ambushed him.

“Yay! We’re all together again!” Sena cheered, her bright, infectious laugh bouncing off the pool walls. “It feels so good to finally be back.”

“Yeah…” Lanz sighed happily, leaning against the edge of the pool with his head tilted back, soaking in the warmth.

Eunie’s sharp gaze flicked to Noah, who had been unusually quiet, staring down at the ripples in the water.

“Oi, what’s with that face, Noah?” she asked, her voice more curious than teasing.

“Uh? Nothing. I don’t—this is just my regular face,” Noah replied quickly, but the nervous edge in his voice betrayed him.

Mio swam closer, concern softening her expression. “Is something bothering you? You can tell us, Noah.”

Noah glanced around at all of them, his chest tightening a little. He didn’t know why he’d suddenly gotten so self-conscious about it. Maybe now that the adrenaline was gone, the reality of what they'd been through was hitting him differently.

“It’s just… it’s been a really heavy month. In the prison. And…” He coughed, rubbing the back of his neck, cheeks coloring faintly. “A lot happened. I guess—I just hope no one feels weird about, you know… what happened between us.”

The water fell silent. For a moment, no one spoke.

“Why would we?” Lanz finally piped up, his brow furrowed as if Noah had just asked whether breathing was acceptable. “It was like… I dunno, goin’ to the toilet.”

Taion let out an exasperated sigh, rolling his eyes. “Not the most refined analogy, but… I understand the point. It was necessary. There’s no shame in that.”

“Do you feel weird about it, Noah?” Eunie asked, her teasing tone absent now—just genuine curiosity and concern.

“No! Absolutely not!” Noah said quickly, raising both hands. “I mean, sure, sometimes it was embarrassing, but… I’d be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it.”

Eunie gave him a satisfied little nod. “That’s what I thought.”

“And you, Sena?” Taion turned to her, his voice gentle.

“Mmm… same as Noah, I think?” Sena replied, frowning slightly in thought. “Some moments are kinda blurry… but I don’t mind at all that we got more physical. I’m actually really glad we… we got closer.”

Mio reached out and squeezed Sena’s hand, her smile warm and reassuring.

“It’s like there was this invisible wall between us before, and now it’s gone,” Mio said softly. Sena nodded, her smile brightening.

“Aw, isn’t she just the cutest little Pippito?” Eunie cooed, immediately swimming over to engulf Sena in a bear hug that made the girl squeak and laugh.

“Eunie! You’re squashing me!” Sena protested, her voice muffled against Eunie’s chest.

It didn’t seem to bother her too much, though. Sena wasn’t the only one who had grown more comfortable showing affection.

“Hey, hey! I wanna hug her too!” Lanz whined, paddling over like a giant puppy trying to squeeze into the group. Eunie laughed and stuck her foot out, shoving him back with a playful kick while clinging to Sena possessively. Mio got caught in the middle, squished between the chaos, her usual composure slipping into helpless giggles.

“Drink some water, you muppet!” Eunie taunted, splashing Lanz while still holding tightly to Sena.

But then—the air changed.

A soft, sweet scent drifted toward them—vanilla.

Eunie and Mio immediately turned to Sena, their noses twitching.

“Sparks! I’m sorry, I’m sorry!” Sena blurted, flustered. “It’s not a heat! I swear! I—I don’t know why it’s happening… I’ll stop, I promise!”

Her face burned red, mortified at her own body’s betrayal.

Mio reached over, gently patting her head, her smile patient. “Sena, we just agreed—there’s no reason to be ashamed. It’s not wrong. It’s just your body reacting. It’s normal.”

But then Mio froze when she saw the glimmer in Eunie’s eyes—the kind of mischievous glint that meant trouble.

“Queen’s ears… what are you planning now?” Mio muttered warily.

Eunie leaned in close, pulling Mio’s fluffy ear toward her mouth to whisper.

“Why don’t we have a little fun at the boys’ expense?” she whispered, her grin stretching from wing to wing.

“Why would we do that?” Mio whispered back, genuinely puzzled.

Eunie winked. “’Cos it’s fun. And Sena’s dyin’ to be fucked by you.”

Sena's entire face turned scarlet in an instant. “Eunie!”

“Oh, c’mon, tell me I’m wrong,” Eunie giggled, nudging her playfully with her elbow.

Mio covered her face with both hands, groaning. “I swear, you’re insufferable.”

But her ears twitched, and maybe—just maybe—a tiny part of her was considering it.

Mio smiled gently at Sena. "What do you think?"

"I... I'd love to," Sena responded, her smile warm and genuine. Mio's gaze then shifted toward Eunie, a mischievous smirk tugging at her lips.

"Should we include Eunie?" Mio teased.

"Oi! That was my idea!" Eunie protested, startled by the suggestion. Sena giggled, and Eunie, slightly flustered, let herself melt into Mio's embrace. Once there, she turned to the Kevesi girl, adopting a more serious expression.

"I don't know, maybe?" Eunie mumbled, unsure. "Should we?"

"Oh, come on! Don't be such a tease, love!" Eunie feigned desperation, her voice full of playful challenge.

"What on Aionios is going on here?" Lanz asked, his curiosity piqued.

"I don't know, but I’ve got a bad feeling about it," Taion muttered, adjusting his glasses and coughing lightly.

"Just kidding, Eunie," Sena laughed. "Yes, you can join." She stretched out her arms, inviting Eunie closer. Eunie wasted no time, pushing herself into the embrace, now sandwiched between the two Alphas. The atmosphere quickly thickened with the scent of pheromones.

"Got any tricks you inherited from M that you’re willing to share, love?" Eunie grinned, her voice teasing.

"Mmm... maybe," Sena giggled. Then, without warning, her hands slid toward Sena’s chest, causing the Aignian girl to giggle in surprise. "Females are much more sensitive there. More than males."

Lanz gasped, his eyes wide with surprise, mouth agape. "Is... is this what I think it is?"

"A show, indeed," Taion muttered, a faint blush creeping onto his cheeks.

Noah, looking both embarrassed and intrigued, ran a hand through his hair. "I think... we’re not on the guest list," he mumbled, the pheromones filling the room, blending with their scents.

With a swift, fluid motion, Mio pulled herself out of the pool, water cascading from her body as she grabbed a nearby towel and quickly dried off. Moments later, Sena and Eunie followed, their laughter mingling with the soft splash of the water behind them. Sena settled down on the poolside, leaning comfortably against Eunie's chest, her back pressed to the Kevesi girl’s warm skin.

"Just sit back and enjoy the view," Eunie purred into her ear, her lips curling into a sly grin before she trailed her tongue slowly along Sena's neck. Mio, already kneeling in front of them, began to gently glide her hands between Sena's trembling thighs, her touch light and teasing.

"Sparks, they're really going for it," Lanz muttered, running a hand through his damp hair, his gaze fixed on them like a Feris stalking its prey. He shot a quick glance toward Noah and Taion—both clearly just as captivated, their flushed faces betraying their rising arousal.

"Damn, it's getting hot in here," Lanz added under his breath.

"Uh, yeah," Noah groaned, his voice thick with anticipation as his body trembled.

"I... concur," Taion managed, clearing his throat and fumbling to adjust his glasses, though his eyes never left the scene in front of him.

Somewhere along the way, Sena realized her swimsuit had completely vanished—when Mio and Eunie had stripped her, she couldn’t quite recall. It barely registered now. Embarrassment mixed with a heady, dizzying desire as she melted under their touch. Being with girls like this—it was new, overwhelming, but so, so good. Their hands were softer, more patient than she expected, though Eunie’s occasional roughness made her pulse quicken even more. They weren’t rushing. They were savoring her.

And it was driving her mad.

Mio shifted suddenly, lifting one of Sena’s legs and pressing slow, deliberate kisses along her inner thigh. Sena moaned, her breath coming in ragged gasps.

“M-Mio…” she tried to say her name, but her voice faltered when she caught Mio’s molten, focused gaze—descending lower, closer, until Sena could feel the heat of her breath on the most sensitive part of her body. Her heart hammered in her chest.

Before she could beg, Eunie cupped one of her breasts, fingers teasing the peaked bud before biting her shoulder with a playful but firm nip. Sena’s sharp cry echoed in the air as Mio’s tongue finally found her slick folds, sending a bolt of electric pleasure straight through her. It was too much. It was perfect. Her mind blanked as her orgasm tore through her, making her sob with the intensity of it, trembling against Eunie's solid frame.

As Sena’s breathing slowed, still dazed and shivering, Eunie kissed the side of her temple, her voice low and teasing. “How was that, love?”

She didn’t wait for an answer. Instead, she caught Mio’s eye with a wicked grin. “Mind if we switch?”

Mio’s lips glistened as she licked them clean and looked up with a small, satisfied smirk. “Not at all.”

But just as they began to move, the three guys were already closing in on them.

Mio shot her partner a knowing smile. “Changed your mind?”

He chuckled, a soft blush coloring his cheeks as he leaned in to kiss her back—slowly, sweetly—before trailing his mouth lower, pressing against the fabric of her bikini with teasing licks. Nearby, Lanz smirked, mischief practically radiating from him as he casually slipped out of his bathing suit and strode straight toward Eunie.

“Oi, wait your turn!” Eunie snapped, shooting him a sharp glare. But her irritation faltered the moment she caught his grin—and noticed his gaze flick towards Taion.

“Don’t get greedy now,” Lanz teased, but instead of continuing toward her, he abruptly spun around, snatched Eunie by the waist, and with a surprisingly gentle motion, pulled her away from Sena and playfully tossed her backward—right into Taion’s waiting arms.

“You’ve had your turn,” Taion murmured against her ear, his arms wrapping securely around her waist, holding her firmly against him. “How about we pick up where we left off?”

Eunie sat up between his legs, feeling already his cock throbbing against her back, her pulse racing as the noise of the world around them seemed to melt away, leaving just the two of them suspended in this moment.

“You mean it?” she whispered, her voice unusually soft.

Noah’s voice chimed in, breathless but teasing from where he was still lavishing attention on Mio. “Oi, don’t keep the poor guy waiting…” he panted, deliberately echoing the teasing tone Eunie herself had used on him back when they’d been imprisoned.

Eunie’s jaw clenched, fully prepared to fire back at all of them with a string of colorful curses—but Taion’s arms tightened just a fraction, enough to distract her, enough to hold her there.

When she glanced back at him, she found him blushing faintly, his hazel eyes steady, quietly waiting for her answer.

“Yes,” he whispered, his breath ghosting against the sensitive skin of her neck, making her shiver.

His eyes flicked briefly toward the others—a subtle but unmistakable plea: privacy. He wanted this moment to be just theirs, away from prying eyes, from playful interruptions. Just them.

Eunie’s wings fluttered in surprise, heat blooming across her cheeks. It wasn’t often someone caught her this off guard—Taion had managed to do just that.

And she loved it.

A slow, wicked grin curved her lips as she surged to her feet, grabbing his hand and yanking him up in one fluid motion. “Fine,” she called over her shoulder, her smirk sharp and challenging. “Have fun with poor Sena!”

She didn’t wait for a response, dragging Taion behind her as they slipped away from the others, their footsteps echoing softly against the tiled floor. The sounds of the ongoing indulgence behind them faded, replaced by the quiet rush of her own heartbeat.

Eunie didn’t know exactly where he was leading her—or if she was leading him.
Out of the thermal center? Back to the dorms? Or maybe somewhere else entirely? The place didn’t matter. It was the privacy he wanted.

And, yeah… maybe she wanted it too.

Her wings twitched as she slowed and turned, ready to ask him where they were going when—suddenly—Taion tugged her hand hard, catching her off balance and pulling her right into him. She nearly toppled, but his arms steadied her just before he spun her and pinned her gently against the nearby wall.

Her breath caught.

His scent hit her like a tidal wave—saffronia leaves, rich and sweet, curling around her, wrapping her in the heat of it, grounding her and making her legs feel just a little unsteady.

His hands cradled her face, warm and steady, while her claws instinctively dug into his shoulders, holding onto him like he might disappear if she let go.

“Tell me I can kiss you,” he murmured, his voice low and rough, forehead pressing against hers. “If anything feels wrong—just kick me. I’ll stop. I’ll try to keep my phero—”

But he didn’t get to finish.

Eunie didn’t wait—she yanked him down, crashing her mouth to his with desperate hunger. No hesitation, no teasing games this time. Just yes.

His startled grunt dissolved between their lips as his arms instinctively locked around her, clutching her like she was the only thing keeping him from falling apart. He kissed her back with raw intensity, like he’d been holding this back for years—maybe he had.

The world around them faded, shrinking to the friction of their bodies pressed together, the taste of each other’s breath, the weight of his hands roaming her frame.

And for once, Eunie wasn’t thinking about winning, or teasing, or getting the upper hand.

For once, she just wanted him.

Under her fingertips, his muscles trembled—not with weakness, but with restrained power. His skin practically burned beneath her touch, crackling with tension and heat. It was so different from the softness she knew with Noah or Sena. They would melt and tremble under her hands—Taion burned, held, pushed back.
And she loved it.

Maybe it was because she trusted him more than anyone else. Maybe it was because their interlink was a bond beyond words. Or maybe it was because with Taion, she didn’t feel the need to pretend.

She gasped, her breath catching as his hands explored her—sliding over her back, her hips, kneading the curve of her rear, slipping up to graze the edge of her breast. His fingers teased the fabric of her swimsuit, tugging just enough to make her squirm against him.

His forehead dropped to hers, a desperate attempt to cool himself, to stop before things spun too far.

“How’s this step, tactician?” she whispered, flushed and breathless, her lips brushing his. “We haven’t torn each other’s throats.”

“Perfect, sparks,” he panted, his voice as frayed and shaky as hers. “And no… I don’t want to tear your throat.”

His lips brushed hers again, his eyes half-lidded, smirking now, his restraint slipping.
“Only your bikini.”

Claim her. Claim her. Bury yourself in her.

Her pulse thundered at the scent of his pheromones swirling thick around them. Not here.

“Not here,” she growled, even as her body screamed for him.

“I know,” he breathed, but her grip on his hair tightened, dragging him back to her for a searing kiss. She pushed her tongue into his mouth, devouring him as he shoved her harder against the cold wall, his body trembling with the effort to hold back.

Don’t lose control. He reminded himself over and over. Not yet.

But his hand slipped beneath her swimsuit, his fingers parting her folds to find that aching, swollen bundle of nerves. He circled it in slow, maddening strokes, feeling how soaked she was already, how her body clenched around nothing, begging to be filled.

“I-Is this okay?” he groaned against her mouth, his voice breaking, still teasing her, still circling, his self-control fraying at the edges. “My pheromones?”

“Yeah… sparks, yeah… your hands… don’t stop,” she gasped, her hips bucking into his hand. In one sharp motion, she reached down and grabbed him through his swim trunks, her fingers curling around his throbbing erection, making him shudder.

“Yeah, pheromones are more than okay.”

His hips jerked instinctively, and his mouth latched onto her neck, the need to mark her overwhelming him. His bite wasn’t gentle—it was a claim, desperate and raw, as if he needed to leave a trace, something undeniable that said: you’re mine.

Her body quivered against him, but she didn’t pull away. She retaliated by raking her nails down his back, dragging sharp lines over his skin as if to say mine too.

Neither of them was willing to back down.
Not now.
Not ever.

Taion groaned, his breath hitching as her hand worked him with a grip that was—gods, perfect.
Noah’s touch, Sena’s—none of it compared.
This was different.
These hands were made for him.

His chest heaved as he slid a finger inside her, feeling her warmth instantly coat him. She was so tight—insanely so—and it took every ounce of his self-control to bite down on the inside of his cheek to keep from losing it right then and there. He had known Eunie would feel good, but this—this was beyond anything he’d imagined. The way she clamped around his finger, desperate and pulsing, nearly drove him to the edge.
She wasn’t like Sena, who was soft and yielding inside.
No, Eunie held him, gripped him like she never wanted to let him go.

“Sparks…” she growled, her voice low and ragged, genuinely surprised by the intrusion. It was the first time someone had ever entered her.

“Teach me,” he whispered, his lips grazing her ear, before sinking his teeth into her neck again—not hard enough to break the skin, but enough to send a shock of sensation through her. “Guide me.”

Eunie groaned, her body arching instinctively into his. In a rare moment of vulnerability, she surrendered, trusting him, and bit his neck in return, her teeth scraping his skin as if to remind him—you’re mine too.

His hand tangled in her hair, fingers gripping tightly as he focused, carefully curling his finger, searching for it—the place that would undo her. His own arousal throbbed painfully, dangerously close to tipping him over, but he forced himself to hold back, to wait, to find it.

When Eunie arched against him with a sudden cry, sharp and breathless, he knew.

That sound.
That sound was his.
His heart stuttered.
His body almost gave in—just from that sound.

“There!” she moaned, her head spinning, her body tightening even harder around his finger as Taion relentlessly circled that perfect spot inside her, coaxing her toward the edge with every stroke.

His name tumbled from her lips, breathy, needy, breaking apart between gasps. The rush of her climax built quickly, and his pace never faltered. He chased her high like it was the only thing that mattered, matching her trembles, perfectly in sync until they crashed into release together.

Her head lolled back, her eyes half-lidded but burning as they locked with his, silently giving him her answer—bite me again. Claim me.

And Taion didn’t need to be told twice.

His restraint shattered, his mind stripped clean of every thought except her. He bit down on her neck—firm, deep, enough to leave a mark that would brand her as his for days. And Eunie responded in kind, dragging her nails down his back, leaving raw, red lines in her wake as a guttural, possessive growl rumbled from her throat.

Even as the blinding heat of their arousal slowly ebbed, neither of them moved. Taion still held her caged against the cold wall, his body pressing flush to hers, as if he could imprint himself deeper into her skin just by staying close. He didn’t want to let go. Not yet. Maybe not ever.

“Sparks…” he muttered, his forehead dropping to rest against her shoulder as his breathing slowed, though his pulse still hammered in his ears.

It wasn’t enough.
Not even close.
Now that he’d tasted her, now that he’d felt her wrapped around him—he wanted more.
He wanted all of her.
Now.
As Eunie.

And she wasn’t much better. He could feel her body still trembling, still pulsing around his fingers, her hand still fisted tightly in the muscle of his back as if she refused to release him.

“Taion,” she growled softly, her voice low and rough, vibrating against his chest.

“I know,” he breathed, his voice shaking. “I know. But… I don’t want this with the others nearby. I want—” He exhaled heavily, pressing his lips to her shoulder as he forced himself to pull back, though his body screamed not to. “I want it to be just me and you.”

Slowly, reluctantly, he let her go, his hand slipping away, slick and trembling, his throat tightening as he tried not to think about how soaked he had made her.

His hands. His body. His soul.

He wanted her everywhere.

Eunie’s gaze flicked to his neck and shoulders, now covered in the angry, red imprints of her teeth and nails. A part of her—the healer—immediately summoned a small ether circle, a soft glow beginning to pulse in her palm.

But her Alpha snarled.
Leave them.
Those are ours.
Ours.

Taion caught her hand before she could press the ether circle to his skin. “Don’t,” he said, firm but not unkind.

“Shush, lemme,” she huffed, the corner of her mouth twitching like she was trying to brush it off. “One’s bleeding a bit—”

“No,” he cut her off gently, tightening his grip on her wrist. “It doesn’t hurt.”

His hazel eyes searched hers, steady and unflinching. “Do you want me to heal yours?”

No.

Her Alpha’s answer was immediate, sharp, absolute.

“No,” she hissed aloud, almost snapping, her wings fluttering restlessly behind her like they had a will of their own.

“Exactly,” Taion sighed, his hand relaxing as he let hers go, his expression softening. “Leave them.”

Silence settled between them—heavy, charged—but not uncomfortable. They simply existed in that shared space, still feeling each other’s grip, still carrying each other’s scent.

And then Eunie broke it with a triumphant smirk.
“We did it,” she said, grinning. “I mean, not all the way—but foreplay!” She tilted her head like she’d just beaten Z himself. “Told ya we’d get there first.”

Taion let out a soft, breathless chuckle and leaned forward to press a gentle kiss to her forehead.
“Indeed, we did,” he murmured, savoring the warmth of her skin against his lips.

But before he could pull back, she yanked him tight against her again, uncaring of the mess between them—fluids, sweat, pheromones—it didn’t matter. Not to her. Not to him.

Eunie laughed, loud and free, her grin wide and electric.
“Sparks, that felt so good!” she purred, catching his lips again for a quick, searing kiss before trailing lower, leaving teasing pecks along his jaw. “So good, four-eyes.”

Taion’s body immediately betrayed him, his cock twitching, aching with the renewed surge of arousal. He groaned, exasperated.
“Eunie,” he grumbled, trying—and failing—to sound firm. “Please. I’m really struggling here.”

She just grinned, proud and utterly unrepentant, her eyes sparkling with mischief.

“But, well… it was really good for me too,” he whispered, pressing a tender kiss to her cheek. “You felt incredible, Eunie.”

Their gazes locked again, both of them tightening their grips on each other’s bodies like neither wanted to let go. Their chests vibrated with low, rumbling growls—hunger, want, the edge of restraint fraying once more.

But Taion forced himself to step back, gritting his teeth against his own instincts. Eunie groaned in protest, trying to pull him back again.

“Seriously, no,” he huffed, dragging a hand through his hair. “I don’t have that self-control I always bragged about. Not with you. Not now. Let’s go take a long, cold shower. We’re a mess.”

She growled at him, genuinely frustrated, her wings flaring out in protest as she made one last attempt to pull him back—but eventually, with a dramatic groan, she gave in and followed him.

As they walked past Mio, she looked up from where she was helping Noah, who was still flushed, wobbly, and visibly exhausted.

“Everything’s okay?” Mio chirped, her tone light but her knowing grin betraying her curiosity.

“Yup. More than okay,” Eunie shot back, her smirk wicked as ever.

“Who won then?” Lanz called out, grinning lazily from his seat, Sena still sprawled comfortably across his lap.

“Shuddap, empty-head,” Eunie grunted, though her smirk didn’t fade as she glanced at Sena now lying on the ground, completely blissed out, limbs stretched lazily, her body marked with love bites and different sex fluids.

“How are you, love?” Eunie teased.

“You can’t break her that easily,” Mio giggled, adjusting Noah who was still leaning heavily against her.

“Man, I don’t even know how many times I came!” Sena chuckled, stretching like a cat in Lanz’s lap, utterly relaxed.

“Five,” Lanz supplied, his hand gently carding through her damp hair.

“I counted six,” Noah chimed in, his breath still short, his gaze flicking toward Taion and Eunie as they approached. He gulped—they looked like they’d barely survived a bladeless battle with some feral beast. His eyes drifted back to Sena, noticing the faint, scattered marks on her skin—nowhere near as many as the ones the two healers were sporting.

Clearly, they’d played a different kind of game.

“Should we freshen up and call it a night?” Mio suggested with a gentle smile, her tone light but meaningful.

Noah flushed instantly, his mind already drifting to the idea of some long-awaited alone time with her. He loved his friends—truly—but there were moments, like this one, when he craved something quieter, something just for them.

“Do we know which rooms we’ve been assigned?” Taion asked, still steady, still tactician-like even when his shirt was covered from his cum.

“Monica said the whole east wing of the dorm is ours,” Noah explained, his voice soft, but there was a flicker of hope in his chest. “We’ve got multiple rooms to pick from.”

He hoped—desperately—that the others would feel the same way he did: that after everything, they’d want privacy, that they’d all naturally drift apart to spend time with their chosen partners. After what he’d witnessed between Taion and Eunie, he was fairly confident they wouldn’t stick around for much longer.

His gaze wandered to Lanz and Sena, lingering there.

Did they want the same?

His mind flicked back to those long weeks in prison, remembering how fiercely protective Lanz had been of Sena, how he always kept her close. Still, Sena had always seemed... open. Her heart was big enough to hold all of them, but she’d always gravitated toward Mio, hadn’t she? It made sense. He’d seen their memories, shared in their bond. But now—did she want Mio? 
Or was there something else?

“Yup, snuffin’ tired,” Eunie mumbled with a yawn.

“I concur,” he replied. “Shower first. Shall we?”

She smirked, already knowing where this would lead, and accepted his hand.

And he knew that smirk.

“Eunie,” he groaned, exasperated but weak to her pull as he led her toward the showers. “Can you just… wait?”

Her only answer was a bright laugh as he gently pushed her under the cold stream.

“I’m too tired to even move,” Sena hummed from Lanz’s lap, a soft smile on her lips. “Can’t remember the last time a training was this intense.”

“D’ya want me to carry ya?” Lanz offered with a quiet, genuine smile. “You're as light as a feather, and I’ve still got some energy left.”

“Mmm… five minutes,” she giggled, sinking deeper into his warmth, content to be exactly where she was. He sighed happily, his fingers trailing through her hair, still fascinated by the way the ends glowed faintly but never burned him.

Sena’s gaze wandered up, quietly observing Mio as she fussed over Noah’s hair, gently untangling wet strands. Lanz followed her gaze, unsurprised to find her watching—not him—but her.

His stomach flipped.

He bit the inside of his cheek, fighting the urge to release even a hint of pheromones. He couldn’t let his emotions bleed out, not here. He’d spent weeks convincing himself that Sena didn’t need him—not really. She could fight armies, shatter mountains, stand taller than anyone he knew. She didn’t need someone to protect her.

The problem was, he didn’t know if he wanted her to need him.
He just… wanted her.

But he was almost sure it was one-sided.

“I’m happy for them,” Sena broke the silence, her smile genuine, but her voice laced with something more.

“Huh?” Lanz blinked, caught off guard.

“Noah and Mio,” she clarified. “They’re so good together.”

“Yeah,” he mumbled. “Good for them.”

“And Taion and Eunie too,” she added, nodding toward the pair still arguing playfully under the shower.

“Right… yeah.” His voice faltered. His heart felt heavy, like it was dragging him down. He was supposed to feel happy for his friends. He was happy, wasn’t he?
Then why did it feel like jealousy clawed at his ribs?

“What’s with that face, Lan?” Sena asked, her brow creasing in concern.

“It’s just my face, Sen,” he grumbled, pulling his walls back up. She didn’t need to see him like this. It wasn’t her fault he was tangled in his own emotions.

But her hand on his cheek shattered those walls instantly.

Her palm was warm, grounding, and he couldn’t help but lean into it, brushing a soft kiss against her skin.

“Hehe,” she giggled, bright and teasing. “You know, I really prefer you smiling. The grumpy thing doesn’t suit you. Leave that to Taion.”

“He’s gonna turn into an old geezer with all those wrinkles soon,” Lanz laughed, relaxing slightly, feeling lighter just being with her.

Sena slowly sat up, sliding between his legs to face him fully. Her eyes softened, but there was a flicker of resolve behind them.

“I think I know what’s going through your head,” she said carefully. “I had a hunch back in Li Garte, but after we interlinked again… I felt it. I finally understood.”

Panic sparked in his chest, and he opened his mouth to deny it, to retreat—but she pressed a finger to his lips.

“Wait. Let me finish.”

His jaw tensed, but he stayed quiet, letting her speak.

“I’m not an expert on feelings, or love, or any of this. I mean, we’re keeping up with the sex, but the feelings part? That’s harder. That’s scarier.” Her gaze flicked briefly toward Mio, lingering there before returning to him. “When Monica explained everything—about mates, pheromones, bonds—I thought maybe I could label it all. Try to pin down what these heavy emotions were.”

He stayed silent, biting the inside of his cheek until he tasted blood.

Sena’s hands cradled his head, gently forcing him to meet her gaze.

“Don’t give up on me, Lanz,” she whispered, her smile bittersweet. “I get it. I see where you’re standing.”

He covered her hands with his, his heart thudding painfully in his chest.
“I don’t wanna be your second choice, Sen,” he admitted, his voice low and strained. “I wanna be the one you choose. I wanna be the one you fall for. I wanna be the one you—maybe—call your mate someday. I can’t imagine my life with anyone else.”

Sena laughed softly and cupped his cheeks, smacking them lightly, making him yelp.

“Ow! What was that for?”

“Man, I’m the insecure one in the group, but you might actually be worse!” she giggled. “Maybe Eunie’s right—you really are thick-skulled.”

Her hands slid to his shoulders, steady and firm.

“Listen to me. What I’m asking is simple: let me fall for you, Lanz. I’ve already made peace with letting her go. She doesn’t belong to me, and I don’t belong to her. I can see how happy she is with Noah, and I know I couldn’t make her that happy.” She leaned closer, her voice softer now. “But I want to feel that, too. I want someone to choose me, to love me exactly as I am—with all my fears, all my baggage. You’re not my second choice, Lanz.”

She kissed him then—hard and full of certainty—almost knocking him over.

“You’re my future.”

His breath hitched. His whole chest bloomed with warmth, overflowing with joy so bright it almost hurt. He pulled her into a fierce, breath-stealing kiss, holding her like he’d never let her go.

“So… can this future of yours, uh… carry you to the shower and find a nice cozy room to maybe… you know… cuddle?” he asked, his grin hopelessly soft.

“That was so cheesy!” Sena laughed, wrapping her arms around his neck as he lifted her effortlessly.

“Oi, at least appreciate the effort!” he grumbled, but his voice was thick with happiness as he carried her toward the showers.

He was confident now.
He wouldn’t mess this up.
Not for anything in the world.

Chapter Text

After finishing their shower, Noah, Mio, Taion, and Eunie left Lanz and Sena downstairs to enjoy some privacy. As they reached the corridor leading to their rooms, they exchanged uncertain glances.

“Uh…” Noah mumbled, running a hand through his hair and blushing slightly. “Er… Good night, guys?”

Mio giggled and took his arm, leaning against him, which made him blush even more. “I hope you don’t mind if we… take a room just for us,” she said with a smile, causing Noah to cough and almost combust.

“Of course not. See you tomorrow,” Taion replied, clearing his throat and adjusting his glasses.

“Go girl!” Eunie laughed, patting Mio on the shoulder, making both of them roll their eyes in mock exasperation. “Shall we also hit the bed?” she asked her interlinking partner casually.

“Oh,” he responded, looking unexpectedly surprised. “Y-yes, sure.”

Eunie waved her hand before taking his and literally dragging him into one of the rooms. She smirked at them one last time before disappearing inside, followed by a blushing and smiling Taion.

As soon as the door clicked shut, Mio spun around and grabbed Noah by his red jacket. She pinned him against the wall and kissed him fiercely. Noah was caught off guard by her sudden actions and could only follow her lead, panting in response. She smiled against his lips and playfully nipped at them, releasing her pheromones which caused Noah's body to tremble and release his own in return. Mio had been patient for too long, and now she couldn't control her instincts any longer. The idea of claiming Noah right there in the corridor was exhilarating and irresistible. She felt his hands shaking on her hips and his arousal pressing against her lower belly. Finally, she let him catch his breath and ended the kiss with a smile.

"Sparks..." he panted, trying to gather his thoughts but failing as he was still under her spell. "Mio...I... Sparks."

Mio giggled and gave him a light peck on the lips before inhaling deeply, savoring his alluring pheromones. They were so different from N's disgusting ones; Noah's scent was fresh, delicate, and irresistible. Her heart started to race as she realized what was about to happen.

"Let's go inside," she suggested a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Or else I might just end up stripping you here in the corridor, and I have a feeling your winged friend would be triggered."

Noah managed to laugh despite being out of breath and didn't resist when she took his hand and pulled him towards the door behind them.

As soon as they were inside, Mio took the lead once more, following her instincts and the fond memories of M and N before becoming Moebius. They had shared many happy moments together and she was eager to try some new tricks that she inherited from M's memories. However, she also needed to be careful not to hurt him since it was their first time trying these things. She kissed him slowly, letting her pheromones work their magic on him.

"Mio..." he moaned against her lips before she playfully bit them, causing him to whine. She guided his hands to her hips, encouraging him to undress her. After a moment of hesitation, he removed her short white dress and was met with her black tank top and underwear. He couldn't help but gulp at the sight and eagerly continued to undress her until she was completely naked. His excitement was evident in the way his erection twitched and the wetness from his back spread in his underwear. With her approval, he also removed her tank top and bra, leaving him in awe of her body - strong breasts and a crystal core that seemed to shine with anticipation.

"Are you nervous?" Mio asked as she placed a hand on his cheek and gently caressed it.

"Y-yeah... Sorry," he stammered, trying to smile through his nerves.

“Do you really want to stop?” she asked, her smile hiding her desperate hope that he would say no. Her body was already responding to his touch, and she wanted nothing more than to continue.

Noah cleared his throat and shook his head firmly.

“No, I want this,” he said, taking her hands and kissing them. “I just can’t believe it’s finally happening between us.” Mio breathed a sigh of relief inside.

She remembered why she had fallen for him in all of their past lives. She closed the gap between them and rested her head on his chest, hugging him tightly. He relaxed into her embrace, gently kissing the top of her head in between her fluffy ears.

“I’m nervous because I don’t want to mess things up,” he confessed, running his hand through his hair in embarrassment.

“Even with M's memories, it's my first time too,” Mio reassured him with a smile. “And let's be honest, you have more experience in this life than I do!” She teased him playfully as he blushed and tensed up in her arms. Before he could protest, she silenced him with another kiss.

“Let's make up for lost time,” she whispered seductively, nibbling on his ear and causing him to shudder and pant. Slowly, she removed his grey shirt and unzipped his pants until he was left in just his underwear.

A smug smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she saw his dick twitching in his underpants and his body turning a shade of crimson. She couldn't help but feel a rush of arousal at the sight. She leaned in to kiss him again, slowly trailing her hand from his shoulder down to his chest until she found his nipple, which she began to play with using her fingers.

"Ah...Sparks," Noah moaned, feeling waves of pleasure radiating from his sensitive nipple and overwhelming his senses. He remembered Eunie doing the same thing before, but this time, Mio's touch seemed to elicit even more pleasure. He was on the verge of climaxing just from her touch alone. "W-wait!" he protested weakly, trying to stop her without much conviction. Every touch from her felt like pure bliss, something he had never experienced before with anyone else. Was it because of her pheromones that were stimulating him or simply because it was her?

"Oh, you're very sensitive here," Mio whispered against his cheek, trailing kisses down to his neck and gently nipping at his skin, causing him to shiver and squirm. Without waiting for his response, she left a trail of kisses down his neck and chest until she reached the waistband of his underwear. Noah could only manage to place a hand over his ear, wondering what she was going to do next.  He didn't have the time to think about that because Mio grabbed his erection and started to slowly move her hands on it, caressing the shaft with her palm and the head with her thumb. She smiled seeing the twitching of his member, he was already very excited and ready. She lowered his pants and boxers leaving him naked and then, with no warning, she took his cock in her mouth.

The feeling of Mio's tongue caressing his tip and the wetness of her mouth was indescribable, Noah could just moan and groan with her, releasing more pheromones that made Mio’s crotch wetting even more. The masturbation he did with Eunie, Lanz, and Taion, was for sure satisfying but never in his life he thought that he could feel pleasure like this. He could even feel that he was reaching the peak very soon and he didn't know how to stop himself, not that he wanted to.

“M-Mio!” he tried to call her and attempt to stop her to keep sucking gentling his erection “If you keep… aahhhh… doing it, I’ll… ah… MIO!”.

In all her reply, Mio just smirked and kept sucking his tip while massaging his thighs where his fluid also started to spread. She was really going insane: her own arousal increased every second they were passing together. She knew that he was on the verge of orgasm, his entire was throbbing and his dick was leaking so much precum that it was enough to fill her throat. And it was extremely exciting the fact that he was trying, without success, to resist to cum straight away. But she wanted him so bad that she just released another wave of pheromones that just made him flinch, inarching his back and grabbing her hair before letting himself go and surrendering on the waves of pleasure.

Noah couldn’t believe that he could feel something in his life so pleasurable. His entire body was about to collapse on the ground while waves of pleasure kept passing through all his body.

Mio coffed a bit trying to swallow everything he released in her mouth and enjoyed his panting and moans. She finally looked at him in the eyes, smirking and licking the corner of her lips, her eyes filled with lust and desire, while he was gasping and trying to catch his breath.

“How was that?” she asked rising up and kissing and nibbling his skin on the cheek.

“Amazing…” he managed to say, trying to catch his breath while hugging her back. “Give me… just a sec.” Mio seemed to ponder for a moment, then she smiled again and, with a decisive push, sent him backward until he flopped onto the bed.

“Nope,” she giggled, amused. “That was only the beginning.”

“Oh… um,” Noah murmured, gulping seeing her finally removing her underwear and revealing all herself to him, before climbing on the bed between his legs. A soft moan escaped his lips as he once again found himself aroused by the sight of her naked body, dripping and ready for him. As she got closer, he caught a whiff of her intoxicating scent that only added to his arousal. He couldn't resist the urge to taste her, his desire overwhelming. He vaguely remembered a similar experience with Eunie during their heat, but her scent was nothing compared to this. With shaking hands, he grabbed her hips and guided her towards his face, eagerly wanting to please her. Mio grinned happily, glad that he picked up on her subtle hint. She was feeling extremely aroused and struggled to keep her pheromones under control.

Without hesitation, he dived his tongue inside her, tasting her wetness and savouring itNoah didn't wait any further and he started to suck her clit while with his finger he started to massage her opening. Mio's moans and screams were filling the room and they were like music to his ears. The way that she grabbed his head and was pushing inside her was driving him insane. Even without touching his cock, only by licking her, he was again on the verge of the second orgasm and his licking started to be less regular.

“You’re not allowed to cum until I say so.” Mio panted lost in the pleasure.

Noah couldn’t answer anything, still in disbelief on how only with her strong pheromones he was on the verge of another orgasm, without even touch it! He just increased the rhythm to make her come sooner before him. Noah added a second finger and started to fuck her with them, trying to maximize her pleasure. Mio moaned once again before feeling the orgasm finally approaching faster and faster until she finally cum, spreading all her fluids on his face. Again Noah had to put all his will to contain himself to cum: he wasn’t even sure it was possible to do it without hands!

She exhaled heavily, satisfied with her actions as she continued holding onto Noah. Her body was burning with desire, every muscle tensing up as waves of pleasure washed over her, causing her to pant and groan loudly. But instead of decreasing after her orgasm, the itching sensation seemed to intensify. She couldn't control her pheromones anymore, and they were affecting Noah too, making him moan and writhe beneath her. Her mind was dizzy and all she could think about was how much she wanted him. It wasn't normal...she saw that her nails were longer and sharper than usual, digging into his skin.

"Damn it!" she exclaimed, trying to calm herself down and releasing her grip on him.

"What's wrong?" Noah panted. Mio tapped the side of her head while biting nervously on her lip, realizing what was happening. She was going into rut: ever since reuniting with her friends, her hormones had been unstable and now Noah's presence had triggered an early cycle. She needed to take some suppressants, but a large part of her brain was screaming that there was no need for that when a perfect Omega like Noah was already naked before her. As she debated what to do, she felt his hand squeeze her thighs, sending a jolt of desire through her body once again.

“It’s okay,” he reassured her with a gentle voice. "Don't worry, Mio."

"W-what?" she asked, confused and finally releasing her grip on his poor shoulder. She couldn't help but gulp when she saw the marks she had left on his skin; her conscience scolded her for not being more careful, while another wild and dominant part of her enjoyed the view.

"I can sense it in your pheromones," he panted, kissing her legs and looking up at her. "And I want it."

"But..." she weakly protested.

"I'm your Omega. I've been craving to be taken by you," Noah sighed contently with a smile. "So please, can we continue?"

"Sparks, Noah!" she exclaimed before quickly straddling him once again and passionately kissing him, biting his lips and tongue and eliciting moans from him. "You shouldn't say things like that to an Alpha in rut."

"Uh..." he panted. "My bad."

They both caught quickly their breath before Mio turned her head and looked at his throbbing erection. She smiled: as expected. And she needed more. She was feeling empty and wanted something thicker inside her. She didn’t say anything, she just grabbed his cock. She slid with her body back until his erection was on her clit, starting to rub herself against him. Noah was again lost in the pleasure and was hoping that she could just finish this teasing and finally let him be inside her. He tried to call her but as her reply she grabbed his hands and placed them on her breast, inviting him to play with her nipples, to twist and pinch them as she did before. And Noah could only enjoy the sensation of her flesh against his fingertips. He wondered what would happen if instead of his fingers he used his tongue. He rose his torso and he started to gently suck her nipple and used his fingers to pinch the other one.

“Ahh, Noah!” Mio panted and released more pheromones which made him flinch again.

“Mio… please…” he moaned against her breast. She kept rubbing herself against his hard dick and after some moments, she couldn’t hold herself back and obliged happily his request. She moved and positioned herself over his erection, grabbing it and slowing descending letting him penetrate her.

When his cock was all inside her, they both let out a satisfied sigh. Mio stopped for a moment, adjusting to the stretch and planted the nails on his shoulders.

“You… okay?” Noah panted.

“Yeah, I'll get used to it.” She tried to reassure him and avoid telling him that it had been a while since M had last been intimate with N. Lately, M had been avoiding him, especially since the Ouroboros stone had activated as if sensing a change. Noah hugged her tightly and kissed her gently on the cheek.

“I'm here for you,” he whispered, his hands caressing her back in an attempt to relax her. She took a few deep breaths before nodding and grabbing onto Noah's shoulders for support as she started to slowly move on top of him.

"Sparks!" Noah cursed and bit his lower lip, trying to hold himself back.

He could feel her warm and wet pussy squeezing his dick, he could feel her soft breasts against his chest and he could see her perfect body. Noah felt like he was in heaven. Mio increased the rhythm, the sound of their moans and their bodies slapping was filling the room. Noah looked at her face, she looked so beautiful and her moans sounded like music to his ears, and when they made eye contact Mio leaned in and gave him an angry, impatient kiss that made him panting. She then slowly moved on his cheek, thrusting him, until she arrived with her lips on her neck. She inhaled his scent, inebriated by his pheromones and soft skin.

Noah trembled as he struggled to keep up with her rhythm. When she nibbled on his skin with her sharp teeth, he couldn't help but moan in pleasure. He desired for her to leave a mark on him, to claim him as her own. In response, he released another wave of pheromones, hoping to induce her to do so. Mio grinned at his request and complied, biting him hard enough to draw blood. The sensation sent Noah into a powerful orgasm, leaving him dizzy and consumed by pleasure. Mio continued thrusting and biting until she too succumbed to the pleasure and leaned back against his chest. The two of them stayed like that for a few minutes, sweating and breathless, before either of them could speak.

"Queen's wings," Noah murmured, his arms sprawled on the bed while Mio remained inside him. "That was...fantastic." Was this what it felt like with your soulmate? With a trembling hand, he reached up to gently touch her cheek, enjoying the contact.

"Yes, that was a nice beginning," Mio exclaimed happily, still rubbing against him.

“Yes! Now I fee… wait… beginning?!” Noah was taken aback by Mio's dangerous words. She smirked and she just started licking his hand, pressing her wetness against him while releasing a strong wave of pheromones. He couldn't help but be affected by her desires, and he found himself moaning and stirring with pleasure. Her scent mixed with his own was intoxicating, but he could feel the fatigue from their previous activities setting in. Despite this, his body seemed to move on its own accord, driven by her powerful pheromones.

Mio smirked as she pressed down on his hips, almost suffocating him with her weight. She couldn't resist eagerly licking her lips as she noticed the sheet beneath him completely drenched in his fluids. A jolt ran through her body, awakening her muscles and causing her ears to twitch in excitement.

With a swift movement, she finally released him and positioned herself between his legs, urging him to open them. Noah struggled to speak, trying to call out Mio's name, but she didn't respond. As he lifted his head to get a better look at her, he saw that her eyes were glowing in the darkness of the room and her pupils were elongated and slitted. Even in the dim light, he could see and feel her sharp fangs as they grazed his skin.

He couldn't help but pant with arousal as she nibbled on the sensitive skin of his inner thighs. Before he could say anything, he noticed that her ears were larger and pointing backwards than usual. And even though it was dark, he could still make out the sharp points of her canine teeth against his skin. Each bite sent shivers of pleasure down his spine and made him weak with desire for her.

“Sparks!” She exclaimed with a strand of saliva trailing down her mouth as she continued to lick and nibble dangerously close to his manhood. Noah could see the hint of insanity in her eyes, signaling that her rut had officially started. She was consumed by lust and he could feel her desire to mate with him, which turned him on despite the resistance from his cock. “I cannot wait to knot you!”

Before Noah could understand what she meant, her tongue reached for his dick again, licking it all over and causing him to flinch and moan. Instead of sucking like before, she continued to lick his length before moving down to his base and then quickly grabbing his legs, forcing him to bend and expose his butthole fully to her face.

"Wait...ah!" His moans grew louder as he felt her tongue enter his wet entrance, teasing and licking all the dripping juices. If he hadn't already had an orgasm, he knew that this stimulation could easily make him cum again. He melted into the mattress, feeling the heat rising in his body once more and his mind becoming hazy.

As her fingers entered him in not-so-gentle manner, any shy thoughts he may have had were replaced with intense desires. The pleasure was overwhelming and he knew there was enough lubrication from his own juices to make this experience feel like heaven.

He wanted her in him. He wanted her to knot him.

“You’re already so loose” She smirked as she stretched his hole and observed his lovely body's reaction. "Are you getting impatient, Noah?" she teased.

Noah couldn't respond, the pleasure was overwhelming and all he could think about was her. Her being inside him. Fingers were good, but he longed for something more.

"Queen’s ears, Noah. You're squeezing my fingers so hard," she whispered with a mischievous smile, pulling her fingers out of him and eliciting a moan of protest from him.

"Nngg," he protested weakly before she cut him off with a passionate kiss. She then straddled him once again, pressing her breasts against his chest.

And then Noah felt it - there was something poking against his butt. Even in his dizzy state of mind, he looked up at her with confusion, searching for an explanation. Her hands were on his shoulders, and he could feel her grinning against his neck.

What was then?!

"Surprise!" she whispered, lifting herself off of him to slide her hands down to his thighs and urging them to spread wider. And that's when Noah saw it - he couldn't believe his eyes, but it was undeniable. Mio had a throbbing cock pulsing against his buttocks.

"W-what? How...?" he managed to ask, finally comprehending what this meant. His entire body shook with anticipation and a warm fluid spread through the sheets beneath them.

"It's an alpha female trait," she explained with a grin, licking her lips and starting to rub against his skin while gasping in pleasure. "Now just relax."

Noah's protests were cut short as she pushed inside him with more force than he expected. Despite being under the influence of her pheromones, he could still feel the discomfort of being stretched by something much larger than fingers.

"Mio, it hurts!" he cried out, trying to push her away. But his muscles felt weak and her own seemed stronger than usual. "Please, slow down!"

Mio froze, visibly confused. She stopped immediately and looked at him, torn between her hormones and rational thoughts.

Was she really hurting him? No! That was not supposed to happen!

"Does it... hurt?" she asked, panting as if in disbelief. Noah cupped her face in his hands and forced her to look at him, kissing her passionately. She kissed him back while still panting and hissing.

"Slow down, okay?" Noah managed to smile through the discomfort, hoping she would understand. Her long ears twitched and she shook her head.

"I'm sorry..." she murmured, planting kisses on his cheek before lowering to his neck. "I'll be gentle... but can I keep going? Please..."

She seemed desperate and Noah couldn't help but sigh. He could relate to her situation - during heat, he was just as desperate for release.

“Yeah.” He held her close and felt her ears twitch in happiness. He released more pheromones and tried to guide her movements, but he wasn't sure if she could perceive them over the saturated scent of hers in the air. Mio took a deep breath and gently bit his neck as she slowly pushed inside him.

Noah panted and guided her pace, showing her how he wanted her to move. The pain subsided quickly, replaced by a feeling of fullness as his insides twitched against her cock. After a while, he started moving with her, feeling pleasure building up once again. As he moaned louder, he hugged her tightly around the neck and lifted his legs to wrap around her back, urging her to thrust even deeper.

Mio's wild instincts took over again, causing her to thrust deeper and deeper into him. She could only think about how perfect he was, moaning and squirming beneath her. As she felt his insides tightening around her, she hissed and reached for his cock, stroking it to bring him to climax.

Just before the orgasm hit him, Noah pulled her close and kissed her gently. "I love you," he whispered against her lips. Hearing those words made Mio slow down and look at him with a smile as she kissed him back.

"I love you too, Noah," she murmured between kisses. "Can I...?"

Noah smiled and nodded, his mind reeling as the orgasm hit him and Mio moaned in his ear. But with pleasure came pain, as he felt her member swelling inside him, threatening to tear him apart.

"Sparks!" He cried out, trying to stifle any sounds with his hands over his mouth.

Her fluids filled him, causing his lower belly to feel uncomfortably full. Yet despite the discomfort, he was happy. This was the best experience of his life, and it made him feel complete.

Did they even bond?

Exhausted, Mio collapsed on top of Noah and panted heavily, trying to catch her breath. Eventually, she managed to knot him and her mind began to clear.

"Sorry..." She whispered, kissing his cheek. "It'll take a while for it to go down."

Noah held her close and giggled.

"It's okay. Painful, but okay." He replied, rubbing her back. "Feeling better?"

"You have no idea..." She sighed. "Usually after knotting it gets better, but my rut can last for a while longer."

Noah remained silent for a moment; he was exhausted and wasn't sure if he could keep going.

"I'll take a suppressant once I can pull out." She murmured lowering her ears.

"No," Noah said firmly. "When I said I love you, I meant everything about you. Even when you're in this state. I know how suppressants work and I won't let you take one for anything in the world. I'm just a little tired, that's all. If I rest now, I can keep going."

Mio smiled warmly and nuzzled her head under his chin.

"Remember these words when my rut is over."

****

Taion brushed his teeth with such force that his gums began to bleed, but he paid no attention to the pain. His mind was racing and he struggled to calm his nerves. Why was he so anxious? The answer was simple: Eunie was lying on the bed, waiting for him. Thousands of thoughts flooded his mind - worries and desires all jumbled together. He could still feel the texture of her skin under his fingertips, and the thought of what was to come made him even more nervous. In fact, he briefly considered sleeping on the bathroom floor rather than facing her. 

"Is everthin’ alright?" Her voice startled him, causing him to nearly lose his balance. He swallowed involuntarily the blood, toothpaste, and saliva in his mouth but ended up coughing violently and spitting it out into the sink.

 "Y-yes," he managed to say, trying to act normal and ignore the discomfort of his confined erection. He looked at his reflection in the mirror, noticing that his dark circles were worse than usual. The marks and scratches from their previous encounter were still visible on his skin, as well as hers. He appeared disheveled and worn out but with good reason. They had been imprisoned for a month, and now he couldn't hide the physical toll it had taken on him, on them. He groaned and tried to shake off his blathering on his appearance before leaving the bathroom. After taking a few deep breaths to calm himself down, he walked out of the bathroom only to be surprised by Eunie lying on the bed, fast asleep. She was wearing one of his t-shirts and black underwear, which made him blush slightly at the sight of her toned legs. But he quickly pushed away any impure thoughts and approached her gently. He covered her with a blanket to keep her warm and settled next to her on the bed. Uncertain of what to do, he relaxed when she snuggled into his chest and wrapped her arms around him. He smiled: even when she was sleeping, she knew exactly what to do. Without speaking, he kissed her forehead and drifted off into a peaceful sleep for the first time in his life, free from his usual nightmares.

***

Eunie slowly opened her eyes as a gentle sunray touched her forehead. She yawned loudly and stretched her legs, realizing she had fallen asleep under the blanket. She remembered waiting for him, but he had taken ages in the bathroom. The moment she closed her eyes from exhaustion, she had drifted off.

Turning her head, she smiled at the sight of him still asleep, his arm draped over her hip. She couldn’t recall ever seeing him sleep so peacefully; usually, he was restless at night, waking at the slightest movement. Was he even snoring slightly?

She giggled softly and carefully turned to avoid waking him. A quick glance at the IRIS showed it was nine in the morning. It was later than usual; when they traveled, they always woke up at six or even earlier.

In the dim light of the room, she observed his face, the sunray highlighting the freckles scattered across his nose and cheeks. She watched him with a silly smile on her face, noticing how the sunlight revealed his hair to be a reddish hue once lightened. Unable to resist, she bit her lip and reached out to caress his hair, which was soft, thick, and wavy. He hummed at her touch.

“Hey, 'morning sleepyhead,” she whispered as his eyes slowly opened. He smiled and nuzzled against her hand.

“Good morning,” he replied softly, a warm smile spreading across his face.

“Did ya sleep well?” she asked, kissing him gently on the forehead.

“Mmmh, definitely,” he mumbled. “I don’t remember ever sleeping this long in my entire life.” He smiled back at her and placed a hand on her cheek, caressing it.

“So, shall we go to the lab guy?” Eunie asked, unable to hide the impatience in her voice. “Let’s get it over with once and for all.”

Taion nodded distractedly and stretched his arms before sitting on the bed, followed by her. As the fogginess of the unusually long rest began to lift, his mind started racing again.

What if…? What if…? What if…?

“Taion…” she called softly, sitting between his legs and noticing the change in his expression.

He shook his head. There was no point in voicing all his doubts and concerns just to make her feel as miserable as he did. He was really dense, wasn’t he? Shouldn’t he have enough proof by now that everything was going to be alright? Nothing catastrophic happened yesterday, so why should anything happen now?

“Can’t really stop that big brain of yours from overthinking, can ya?” she sighed with a dry smile. He sighed too and reached for his glasses on the nightstand, but his hand stopped mid-air. He turned to her with a look of disbelief, only to see her wearing a teasing grin.

“Wot?” she asked, feigning innocence.

“Eunie…” he groaned, tilting his head back and running a hand over his face to hide the evident blush spreading across his cheeks as well as the heat on his body. He didn’t notice the grin that appeared on her face as she thought of the best idea ever.

Fourtune clover.

“I’m just helping to let you not overthink.” She smiled coming closer to his face while looking down between his legs “And you were already hard.”

Damn it, she could be the real tactician of the group sometimes.

“That’s because…” He tried to finish his sentence, but she silenced him with a kiss. Smirking against his lips, she wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her body against his. She expected him to resist or at least protest, but to her surprise, he responded eagerly, matching her intensity and emitting strong pheromones that signaled his desire for her. She let herself give in to his embrace and tightened her grip on his neck as she felt the familiar sensation of excitement spreading through her muscles wherever he touched. The heat between them grew and she broke the kiss, panting for air while they both had a string of saliva connecting their mouths.

To her surprise once again, he asked for her permission before sliding his hands under her/his t-shirt. She saw the longing in his eyes and couldn't help but smile as she nodded, giving him the go-ahead. Despite the intense arousal she was feeling, her heart raced not only from physical sensations but also because she knew what was about to happen and it was going to happen with him. She sighed as his pheromones seeped into her senses once again while he removed her shirt, revealing her breasts bouncing softly as he teased her already hard nipples with one hand. She gasped with pleasure, biting her lip as a new wave of wetness flooded her underwear. She loved how big his hands were and how perfectly they cupped her breasts. Her entire body trembled as she reciprocated by removing his shirt as well, needing to feel the warmth of his skin under her fingertips. She ran her hands over his chest, causing him to subtly hiss in pleasure. She could see how much he was struggling to hold back his urges, squeezing and releasing her flesh repeatedly while exploring every inch of her body with eager hands.

“Taion…” she purred his name, a teasing smile playing on her lips as her hand slid down to the growing bulge pressing against his shorts.

“Hmm?” he murmured, torn between caressing the curve of her ass and tugging gently at the hem of her underwear. Eunie leaned in, capturing his mouth with hers in a deep, hungry kiss. Their tongues danced in a heated rhythm, breath mingling as their hearts thundered in sync. But then she pulled back just enough to whisper against his ear, “Y’re holding back.”

He didn’t answer, biting his lip nervously, pausing his touch. His gaze flicked to the faint bite marks he’d left on her skin the day before, and a sigh escaped him. Eunie let out a soft, frustrated sound. If she was going to dive into this fully, she wanted everything — no hesitation, no holding back. Words weren’t enough; her actions had to speak louder.

“Y' know I’m not some delicate flower,” she teased, straddling his lap and pulling him into another fierce kiss. She flooded him with her pheromones, thick and intoxicating, making his throat burn and forcing him to bite down hard on his lips. She felt the hard pulse of him pressing into her wet core and couldn’t stop the soft moan that slipped past her lips. Feeling his smirk against hers, she whispered, “I like it when you’re… not so kind.”

A low growl rumbled from Taion’s chest, utterly lost in her scent. His hands gripped her hips firmly, grinding her against him. This time, it was Eunie who moaned softly into the kiss, feeling his satisfied smirk deepen.

“I wanted to take it slow,” he breathed, trailing kisses down her neck and nibbling at her earlobe. Eunie shivered under his touch, her body trembling with anticipation. “But you’re making it impossible.” Before she could respond, he bit her earlobe, making her arch back and clutch his hair tightly.

A wave of déjà vu swept over them — the memory of yesterday’s fire rekindled in their veins. Taion sank his teeth into her neck, trying to pin her beneath him, but this time Eunie held her ground. She pressed one hand to his chest, massaging the length of him with the other, making him groan with frustration and desire. When he tried to push her away, she released a powerful surge of pheromones, claiming him. Her smirk deepened as she caught the fire in his eyes.

Without a word, she slid off and deftly pulled down his shorts.

Taion froze, overwhelmed as he watched her draw dangerously close to his cock. The thought of her warm, eager mouth on him was enough to send a shudder through his body, his breath hitching in anticipation. He trembled, one hand shaking as it found her head, surrendering to the intoxicating pull of their shared desire.

She wanted him.

He wanted her.

With a slow, deliberate motion, Taion slid his hand from her hair to the soft curve of her cheek, his thumb brushing gently over her flushed skin. He lingered there, then moved lower, tracing the outline of her lips with reverence. His heart pounded violently in his chest, the anticipation nearly unbearable, and then—he pressed two fingers between those lips.

Eunie didn’t hesitate. A sly, knowing smirk touched her mouth just before she closed it around him, her tongue working skillfully, teasing and swirling. He gasped, his breath hitching as arousal tore through him like wildfire. Her mouth was hot and wet, each flick of her tongue sending shivers through his spine.

“Sparks, Eunie…” he groaned, his voice ragged, grinning despite himself.

She opened her mouth slightly to let him see, her mischievous eyes locked on his as her tongue danced around his fingers in slow, deliberate circles. The sight made him flinch with need. He withdrew his fingers carefully, the loss of her warmth already aching.

Then he let her take the lead—though in truth, he already knew exactly what she had in mind.

Her hand slid back to his chest, fingers brushing over the radiant crystal embedded there, its glow pulsing in sync with his heartbeat. Her other hand wrapped around his length, and he twitched at the contact, already throbbing with want. Before he could even gasp, he felt the wet heat of her tongue against the tip.

“Ah—” The sound escaped him as a breathless moan, his head tilting back while she dragged her tongue slowly along his length, savoring every inch. His breathing grew erratic, and he reached down, brushing his fingers along the delicate feathers of her wings. She grinned against him in response, and with another languid lick, she lowered her mouth fully to the head, her lips stretching as far as they could.

She tried to take more of him in, her jaw already straining, but he was thick—far thicker than she remembered. A chill ran down her spine as the realization hit her: *How the hell am I supposed to take all of him without breaking apart?*

Before she could dwell on the thought, a fresh wave of pheromones poured over her. It hit like a storm—sharp, potent, and impossible to ignore. She flinched slightly, looking up at him while still sucking, only to find his expression utterly undone. That raw, helpless hunger… it made her feel powerful.

He’s mine, she thought, a surge of pride swelling inside her. My Alpha. My property.

The temptation to mark him with her teeth flashed through her mind, but she held back, knowing how sensitive he was. Instead, she let her hand follow the rhythm of her mouth, stroking him as her lips moved in tandem, gliding and sucking with increasing intensity. His moans deepened, his grip on her head tightening.

“Sparks—keep going, don’t stop,” he growled, barely able to breathe. His hips bucked slightly, the pressure too much for him to control as he pushed himself a little deeper into her mouth. The stretch of him made her eyes water, her throat resisting, but she held firm.

Even with her mouth full, Eunie managed to smirk. His trembling hand guided her gently—though he was trying not to force her. She swallowed as much as she could, letting the bitter taste settle on her tongue, only spurring her on. Her own arousal throbbed between her thighs. She wanted more. She wanted everything.

And then it happened.

His entire body tensed beneath her hands. His muscles locked tight, and with a loud, guttural moan, he spilled into her mouth. She tried to keep up, swallowing quickly, but it was too much, and some of it spilled past her lips. Still, she didn’t stop until the very last pulse had passed, until he finally loosened his grip and she pulled away, gasping for air.

Slowly, Eunie lifted her head and looked up at him, her lips glistening, her tongue sliding out to catch what little remained. The sight made Taion swallow hard, his chest heaving, sweat beading on his brow. Even as he basked in the afterglow, a new wave of desire coiled in his gut.

“Was that…” she grinned, licking her lips slowly, “…enough?”

Enough? He almost laughed. Not even close.

With a growl of renewed hunger, he pushed her back onto the bed, climbing over her and pinning her down. She let him, laughing breathlessly, her arms and legs wrapping tightly around him. Their bare bodies pressed together, skin to skin, heart to racing heart. Goosebumps bloomed beneath her fingertips as she felt the pounding of his heartbeat against hers.

“I…” Taion started, pausing as though unsure of the words. Then he leaned in, forehead resting against hers, voice barely a whisper. “I don’t think I’ll ever get enough of you.”

“Aw, how romantic,” Eunie giggled, stealing a quick kiss before he could roll his eyes in mock annoyance. He did anyway, huffing dramatically as if put-upon—but the way he pulled her closer told a different story.

She nuzzled into his neck, leaving a soft kiss there, then whispered against his skin, “Y' know… I’m not going anywhere.”

"You already slipped past my Mondo," he whispered, pulling her close again, his voice low with something between mischief and hunger. "You're not getting away from me too."

Eunie gave a breathless laugh, though her body tensed the moment his lips found her neck again—hot, possessive, and not at all gentle. A sharp hiss escaped her when his hand cupped her breast, and a quiet moan slipped out before she could catch it. Her fingers tangled instinctively in the back of his hair and dug into his shoulder, grounding herself.

"I think Mio was right," she breathed, legs wrapping tighter around his waist. "It's... sensitive there."

"I see," Taion said with a chuckle, thoroughly entertained. "I wonder what would happen if I…" His mouth moved lower, trailing kisses down her skin until he reached her other breast.

“Wot—?” Eunie blinked, confused by the sudden shift—until she felt the soft brush of his lips and let out a startled moan. Her eyes widened. One hand flew up to cover her mouth, her cheeks flushed a brilliant red as she looked away.

"Oh?" Taion lifted his head slightly, eyes twinkling with delight. He couldn’t help the smug grin curling on his lips—this side of Eunie, so vulnerable and surprised, was rare. And impossibly alluring.

He leaned forward again, gently taking her hand and moving it away from her mouth. "Don't hide that," he said with a wicked glint in his eyes. "I want to hear everything."

"Snuff you, four-eyes!" she growled, but her tone was more flustered than angry.

Before she could say more, he returned to sucking and nibling her full breast, lavishing her skin with a kind of fire that made her breath hitch. His body pressed flush against hers, heat radiating through every point of contact. She writhed beneath him, aching with anticipation.

“Stop teasing,” she panted, her voice unsteady, one hand pushing weakly against his shoulder, trying to guide him lower.

“Why?” he whispered against her skin, voice teasing and velvety. “It’s obvious you like it.”

Her breath hitched again as he helped her remove the last barrier between them. She shifted to accommodate him, her heart thudding wildly in her chest as she felt him move lower—slow, deliberate, maddening.

“Taion…” she warned, gripping the back of his head, her fingers tightening in his hair. 

He smirked and finally lowered himself until his head was between her thighs. 

“You’re dripping,” he observed softly, eyes gleaming with admiration—and anticipation. 

“I said,” she growled through a grin, tugging his hair down, “stop teasing and use that tongue of yours!”

He didn’t need to be told again.

He slid out his tongue and finally tasted her, savoring every inch of her folds, finding the little bundle of nerves, swollen and ready for him. Eunie gasped, her back arching, toes curling at the contact. She whimpered when he lingered, mapping her every response like a tactician gathering data.

And he thought she was delicious.

He pulled back slightly, murmuring, “Teach me.”

“Little higher,” she panted. “There. Sparks—that’s it.”

Her whole body tensed. She was falling apart beneath him, and he was savoring every second of it—her trembling thighs, the way her breath caught, the way she couldn’t hold back anymore. Her pheromones bloomed, strong and sweet, and it stirred something raw and possessive in him.

When she came undone, it was with a choked cry and her legs wrapped tight around his shoulders, riding the waves of pleasure as they overtook her. He stayed close, gently easing her down with kisses and careful touches, watching the way her body trembled in the aftermath.

"You have no idea how long I’ve wanted to do that," he murmured, wiping his mouth with the back of his arm before lying beside her, chest rising and falling rapidly.

Eunie didn’t answer with words. Instead, she pulled him down, wrapped her arms around his neck, and nestled her face against him.

"Oh, I know," she murmured after a beat, voice teasing. "Saw the way you looked at Noah back in Li Garte."

Taion froze.

A full-body jolt of discomfort ran through him, and she felt it. She grinned.

"Correct," he muttered after a pause, but there was a sharpness in his eyes—one that didn’t match the playfulness in hers.

Eunie arched a brow, teasing, “Our tactician, jealous?”

He didn’t answer with words—he didn’t have to. His gaze darkened, and the air between them shifted, thick with the unmistakable weight of possessive pheromones. She felt them wrap around her like a second skin.

Yes. He was.

“So… Sena was alright then?” she added, fingers sliding down to his waist, her nails grazing lightly over his skin. His breath hitched when she pulled him closer, guiding their hips to align. She knew exactly what she was doing—and he knew it too.

“No,” he hissed, his voice tight as he buried his face in her neck. His control wavered, teetering. Her presence, her scent, the fire in her touch—it all pushed him to the edge.

“Innit?” she whispered, her words shaky as her heartbeat raced.

“Eunie…” he groaned, desperate and struggling not to lose himself completely. The pressure between them was unbearable. His every instinct screamed to move, to claim, to lose control—but still, he waited.

Then her hands rose to cradle his head, her lips brushing his in a tender, reassuring kiss.

That was all the permission he needed.

He moved carefully, slowly—until her breath caught sharply and her body tensed. A jolt of discomfort crossed her face, and her hands clenched at his shoulders. He froze.

The expected pleasure hadn’t come. Instead, she winced, hiding her face in his neck with a hiss. "Sparks," she muttered, biting down a cry.

She remembered Doctor Holly’s warnings—that the first time could hurt. She’d thought herself ready. She was strong, prepared. But this… this wasn’t what she anticipated.

Her thoughts spiraled.

Was it supposed to feel like this?

Did this mean something was wrong?

Would he feel rejected if she told him to stop?

She fought the instinct to push him away, her breath coming in shallow waves.

Breathe, Eunie. Just breathe.

He felt it. Felt her pheromones shift—uncertain, defensive. His heart clenched with guilt.

“Eunie…” he murmured softly, halting completely. The knot in his stomach twisted tighter. “I’ll stop.” His hand moved to her cheek as he kissed her temple gently, preparing to pull back.

But her arms tightened around him.

Before he could retreat, she brought her hands to his face and tilted his gaze toward hers. Despite the pain, her eyes were clear, full of determination and trust.

“Kiss me,” she whispered. “’Cos I’m not letting ya go. We’re not quitters, got it? Just… give me a second.”

He wanted to argue—to insist that her comfort came first—but the fire in her eyes rooted him in place. He nodded, leaning down to kiss her, slower this time, cradling her face as if it were made of glass. He let his own pheromones shift, calming and soothing, wrapping around her like a balm. She closed her eyes and leaned into the warmth of him.

For a while, they didn’t move. He held her, kissing her gently, whispering apologies and quiet nothings into her skin. Her fingers traced circles on his back while her breathing slowly steadied.

Then, as she began to relax again, he kissed the corner of her mouth and smiled softly. “You know,” she said, voice still breathy, “it’d probably be easier with an Omega.”

He pulled back just enough to meet her eyes, his expression suddenly serious. “Don’t even joke about that,” he said firmly. “I told you before—and I’ll say it again, clearly this time. It’s you, Eunie. It’s always been you.”

She blinked, surprised by the honesty in his tone. Before she could say anything clever in return, he leaned down and kissed her again—deeper this time, slower. When he broke the kiss, he guided her hand to his lips and kissed her fingers.

“Especially after the mess we started with... I never expected this. But I’m glad it’s with you.”

Her cheeks flushed as she looked away, only for him to gently pull her back with another kiss. And as his lips brushed hers again, she felt her body soften, the pain starting to ebb under the warmth of his touch and the sincerity in his eyes.

When he started to move again, it was with extreme care—watching her closely, never rushing, his every motion a silent question. Her grip on him remained steady, and though the discomfort hadn’t fully faded, she didn’t ask him to stop.

He pressed his forehead to hers, panting softly. “We’re almost there,” he murmured, trying to keep himself grounded. “You’re doing amazing.”

She winced but managed a strained laugh. “Would be easier if you weren’t big like that!”

He chuckled and pressed a soft kiss to her forehead. “I’ll try to be as gentle as I can.”

Eventually, they fit—not perfectly, he couldn't go any deeper. And for today, it was enough. The tension in her body melted into something else: fullness, connection, a strange sense of rightness she hadn’t expected.

“Sparks…” she breathed, clinging to him. “I feel… so full.”

He smiled, eyes glazed with emotion. “Is it too much?”

“No,” she murmured, brushing his cheek with her knuckles. “Just don’t let go yet.”

Their mouths met again in a slow, searing kiss, and he brought a hand to her chest, touching her with reverence. The intimacy of the moment held them both still—hearts thudding, breaths mingling, bodies warm and trembling.

Whatever storm they’d weathered to get here, it felt like it had led to this.

And neither of them was letting go anytime soon.

He felt her start to loosen around him, the tension melting away with each breath she took. Her body softened, growing wetter, more yielding—until she sighed and bit down gently on his shoulder. Then, with a smirk, she tapped his lower back with her foot.

A clear signal.

He lifted his head and kissed her, slow and deep, a silent question—and the answer came in the form of her hands gripping his arms and her wings giving a small, fluttering twitch. He began to move.

Slowly at first. Carefully. His hips rolled forward, retreating and returning with measured rhythm, responding to every shift of her breath and every flutter of her pulse. Eunie's back arched instinctively, a soft gasp escaping her lips as her wings brushed against the sheets. The sharp edge of discomfort had dulled, replaced by a warmth that rippled through her nerves in delicate waves. Each thrust built upon the last, steady and sure.

And yet—he was holding back.

Her sighs deepened, shifting into low, drawn-out hisses, the heat of her body drawing out his own. She arched into him, her skin flushing with blooming color, pheromones growing thicker and sweeter in the air. He could barely think. She was intoxicating.

“Tai… ah! Damn it!” she shuddered when he bit down on her neck, sending a jolt of pleasure through her core. She gritted her teeth and pulled at his hair. “Harder.”

He faltered, voice low and hoarse. “Are you sure? Because Sparks, I don’t know how much longer I can—”

“I said harder,” she growled, her eyes blazing as she bit his neck in return. “Test said you’re an Alpha, no? Then be one.”

That was all it took.

Something primal surged in him, breaking past his restraint. His hips slammed into hers with a raw intensity that made her cry out in ecstasy. He marked her again and again, a trail of claiming kisses and shallow bites painting her throat and collar. They moved like wildfire—untamed, unyielding, devouring each other.

It wasn’t tender. It wasn’t what he’d once imagined with dreamy talks of love under stars. This was different. This was real.

It was fierce and messy and theirs.

The rhythm grew faster, rougher. Her fingers raked down his back. His hands gripped her hips like lifelines. Her moans rose higher, more urgent, vibrating with desperation and delight. Their pheromones mingled in a storm that made thinking impossible.

He felt her walls clench around him, tight and trembling. Her whole body tensed beneath him, and he caught her face in both hands, kissed her hard—silencing her moans with his mouth as she shattered beneath him. Her cries echoed in his throat as he held her through it.

She fell back, boneless and dazed, gasping. He followed her over the edge seconds later, body shaking as he released, biting into her shoulder with a muffled groan as his climax overwhelmed him.

And then—silence.

Not awkward. Not heavy.

Just… stillness.

Their breath mingled as he stayed close, adjusting his weight so he wouldn’t crush her. She curled against him, her fingers absentmindedly tracing the curve of his jaw. They didn’t speak, not at first. They just… breathed.

Until he kissed her forehead and murmured, “I’m glad you didn’t let me go.”

She smirked sleepily, still catching her breath. “Never. We’re Ouroboros partners, ain’t we?”

He chuckled softly and rolled onto his side, carefully easing out of her. A warm flush lingered on her skin, and a small, slick pool formed between her thighs, but she didn’t seem bothered. If anything, she looked at him with gentle curiosity.

“Oi,” she said, poking his cheek. “Y’re thinking too hard. Don’t tell me you’re panickin' now that you’ve slept with the one and only Eunie, best healer in all Keves and Mondo-evader extraordinaire?”

His brow arched, and then, to her delight, he laughed—openly, freely, without restraint.

“I must be mad,” he teased, pulling her close again, “but what a beautiful mistake.”

She wrapped her arms around him with a grin. “Mushy,” she murmured into his chest. Then, quieter: “So… no regrets?”

He looked down at her, brushing a lock of hair from her face. “No. None. It was… more than I imagined. I can’t even explain it.”

There was a pause before he added, more softly, “Now I understand why people in the City would risk everything for this.”

Her smile faltered slightly at the seriousness in his voice. “Yeah. It’s powerful, huh?”

He nodded, thoughtful. “But also fragile.”

She tilted her head, watching him carefully. “You’re thinking again.”

“I am,” he said with a small smile. “I was just thinking about what it really means to be partners. And… I think I want to be more than just an Ouroboros partner with you.”

Eunie grinned as she rolled onto him, straddling his waist with the easy confidence of someone who knew exactly the kind of reaction she was provoking. Taion's breath caught in his throat the moment her weight settled fully on top of him. His hands grabbed her waist instinctively. She was so warm. So close. And if he shifted—just a little—he could already feel the head of his arousal nudging right where he wanted to be.

And yes, he wanted to be inside her again.

“Getting a little greedy there, four-eyes?” she teased, her voice velvet-soft but laced with mischief. She leaned forward, hands pinning his shoulders to the mattress, and tilted her head with a smug little smile. The subtle release of her pheromones hit him like a pulse through the air—sharp and sweet and utterly impossible to ignore.

A low growl rumbled from his chest as his fingers found her hips, his thumbs pressing gently into the curves there as he pulled her closer, easing the maddening pressure building inside him once more.

“Maybe…” he finally admitted, breath hitching as he tried to steady his voice. “But you’re the one making me this way.”

Eunie let out a breathless laugh, one that trembled with anticipation despite her effort to play it cool. Her hands slid down his chest, feeling his rapid heartbeat, the tension thrumming beneath his skin. Then, with practiced boldness, she reached between them, guiding him into her with a soft, low moan. He stretched her again, just enough to make her body shiver—but now the sensation was more welcome than jarring. It was heat, connection, a pull that reached beyond skin and muscle and into something far deeper.

The second he felt her surround him again, Taion’s head tilted back against the pillow, a sharp hiss escaping his lips. “Oh… Sparks…”

She was watching him. Every flicker in his expression, every twitch of pleasure that overtook his features, she took in like a prized reward. Riding him like this—having the control, the rhythm, the view—it was exhilarating. She could feel his eyes on her, feel the way his hands roamed her sides, thumbs brushing the sweat-slick curve of her waist. And he made no effort to take over.

He should. Some part of him, new and freshly awakened, whispered that he was meant to dominate. To roll her over. To take.

But he didn’t. He didn’t want to.

Because it was her.

And gods, the view.

The way her body moved with slow, purposeful control. The curve of her spine. Her wings twitching with pleasure. Her mouth parted in soft gasps. He was utterly mesmerized, too stunned to think straight, too far gone to want anything else but this.

Let her claim him.

He welcomed it.

He marveled at the way she took him—no hesitation, no fear. She owned every motion, every breath, every slick sound between them. And something ancient, something primal deep inside him stirred with realization.

Mate. Mate. Mate.

It wasn’t just the rush of pleasure, or the tightening ache of climax building again. It was her. His instincts, now sharpened to a blade's edge, knew it even before his mind caught up.

Alpha or not. Kevesi or Agnian. None of that mattered.

It had always been her.

He reached up, cupping her face, drawing her down until their foreheads touched, their breaths mingling in the space between. “What have you done to me?” he whispered, eyes searching hers like she held the answer to something sacred.

Eunie softened at the question, even as her hips kept moving in a slow, steady rhythm. She smiled—smug, yes, but fond too. “That’s just the effect Eunie has,” she said with a wink, her voice low and teasing.

She kissed him then—hot and hungry and impossibly sweet—and began to ride him in earnest, her movements growing bolder as the pleasure unfurled inside her again. Their bodies moved together in perfect sync, like they were written in the same language.

And as the first morning light peeked through the curtains, washing their tangled bodies in soft golden hues, Taion knew with certainty—

This wasn’t just a moment.

It was the beginning of something more.

And judging by the glint in Eunie's eyes, it was going to be a very long—and delightful—morning.

Chapter Text

That day, none of the Ouroboros members seemed particularly eager to focus on duty. After a month locked away in prison, and all the strain and recovery that followed, the group had silently agreed to take a much-needed breather. The tension of their mission had lifted, if only temporarily, and everyone was content to just be.

Mio had left a short message on the IRIS: "Spending my rut with Noah. Don’t call unless it’s the end of the world." She’d also made sure the staff knew not to disturb them, leaving instructions to simply drop off snacks and water outside the room. No interruptions. Just rest, bonding, and... well, the obvious.

In the quiet communal kitchen, only Eunie and Taion lingered. The soft clink of teacups and the distant hum of the facility were the only sounds, peaceful and oddly domestic after everything they’d endured. Both of them looked freshly showered, their hair still a bit damp and their skin glowing with the aftereffects of steam—and other, more intimate exertions.

“Heh. Isn’t it a little late for breakfast?” Eunie mused, lifting the cup of tea he’d made her. She blew on it before taking a sip. “It’s past noon.”

“Whose fault is that, exactly?” Taion asked without looking up, the corner of his mouth tugging into a knowing smirk.

“Oh right, forgot how much convincin’ ya needed,” she fired back with a wink. “Especially in the shower. You’re way more of a perv than you let on, y’know. All quiet and proper… but I’ve seen the truth now.”

Taion flushed a shade too pink for his dignity as the memories came rushing back—heated skin, fogged glass, and the sound of her name on his lips more times than he could count. He cleared his throat and adjusted his glasses, trying to compose himself.

That composure lasted all of three seconds.

Because suddenly, he felt her bare foot slide up his leg under the table—light, teasing, wicked. She knew exactly what she was doing. When her toes traced higher, grazing the inside of his thigh with maddening precision, he stiffened—in more ways than one.

“Am I the pervert here?” he asked, trying to sound indignant but failing miserably. His voice wavered as she gently pressed against his already hard cock.

“You’re the one blushin’,” Eunie pointed out, her grin full of mischief as she sipped her tea again like nothing was happening. “Bit unfair, really. I thought you Agnian were better at composure.”

“Eunie…” he groaned, flustered and half-laughing.

“Wot, four-eyes?” she purred, eyes dancing with amusement as she felt him twitch beneath her touch.

“We’re in a public kitchen,” he whispered through gritted teeth, though he still hadn’t made a single move to stop her. “What if someone walks in?”

“Oh no, how scandalous,” she said with mock horror, drawing out the word dramatically. “Guess we’ll just have to explain that the tactician was ambushed by his charming, leggy teammate.”

Taion nearly choked on his tea.

But then her teasing stopped. She withdrew her foot and nudged her chair closer, resting her elbows on the table, her playful expression softening slightly.

“So…” she said, voice gentler now. “Do ya still wanna go to that lab guy?”

Taion blinked. For a moment, he’d genuinely forgotten about the appointment they’d discussed—checking in with one of the City's doctors to make sure their heat-and-rut pairing hadn’t left any lingering issues or unexpected consequences.

He straightened, regaining some semblance of control, and reached out to take her hand.

“What do you think?” he asked quietly.

Eunie didn’t hesitate. She squeezed his hand back with a smile. “Let’s go, four-eyes. So you can stop fryin’ your own circuits over it. I mean, we know what happened. We know how we feel. But if hearing it from a lab coat helps calm that brilliant brain of yours… then yeah. I’m in.”

His expression softened. He brought her hand to his lips and pressed a kiss to her knuckles, causing her cheeks to pinken.

“It’s just for peace of mind,” he admitted. “I know we’re okay—I do. I just want to make sure, medically, we’re not missing anything important. Especially with… well, future ruts.”

Eunie’s lips quirked into a sly smile. She reached over and tugged on his jumper until he leaned in closer. “Future ruts, huh?” she whispered, her breath brushing his ear. “You plannin’ on makin’ this a habit, four-eyes?”

Before he could answer, she nibbled on his earlobe and whispered, “Wanna give me more data to work with?”

Taion hissed sharply at the sensation, his restraint fraying yet again. Without a word, he stood abruptly and pulled her up with him, guiding her close until their bodies were flush.

“I wouldn’t mind more samples,” he murmured, before capturing her lips in a kiss that was far too heated for the kitchen.

When they finally broke apart, she was breathless—and grinning like she’d just won a game no one else knew they were playing.

“That’s my boy,” she whispered, looping her arms around his neck.

***

Both of them were nervous.

Taion couldn’t stop adjusting his glasses—over and over again, as if it would somehow reset his focus. Eunie’s wings were more chaotic than usual, flapping at odd intervals and scattering pale feathers across the office floor like bits of storm cloud.

Larry was still finishing up a prior appointment, so the receptionist had invited them to wait inside. Fortunately, Monica had made it clear: any Ouroboros member requesting help with their new biology—mental, physical, or both—was to be given priority.

They sat beside each other on the office chairs, quiet, uncertain, and oddly formal despite everything they’d already shared.

Taion glanced at Eunie. She was jittering, her boot tapping a fast rhythm against the floor, her hands fidgeting in her lap. Funny—he’d assumed he’d be the nervous one. But now, watching her try not to bounce out of her skin, he realized just how much this meant to her too.

Reaching out, he took her hand. The moment their fingers touched, she jumped slightly, as if the contact startled her.

“You’re a bundle of nerves,” he murmured, offering a small, warm smile.

“Yeah,” she admitted softly, gripping his hand back. “I mean, we were fine this mornin’. More than fine. But…” She trailed off. It was hard to voice what they were both thinking.

The rut would amplify everything—every desire, every fear, every instinct. Were they really ready for that?

The door creaked open behind them, and they immediately sprang apart.

Larry entered, scanning the room. “Good morn—oh,” he said, stopping short as he took them in.

Eunie crossed her arms beneath her chest, leveling him with a look sharp enough to cut. “Good morn-oh to you too,” she grumbled.

“Eunie,” Taion warned softly, shooting her a glance. Then, turning to Larry with a polite nod, “Apologies for dropping in. We know your time’s valuable. Monica said you’d be the one to talk to… about a particular concern.”

“I’ll do my best,” Larry replied evenly, taking a seat behind his desk. His eyes briefly lingered on the two of them—too perceptive for Taion’s liking. “So, what brings you in today?”

Taion hesitated. He glanced at Eunie, who remained silent, letting him take the lead.

“We’d like to understand more about rut,” he began, clearing his throat and sitting straighter. “Specifically… what happens when an Alpha experiences it. And what might happen if…” Another pause. His cheeks flushed, but he pressed on. “If it’s shared with another Alpha.”

He heard Eunie inhale sharply beside him, felt the slight tremble in her fingers where they rested near his.

Larry didn’t answer right away. He leaned back in his chair, tilting it slightly. “If you’re having difficulty finding an Omega to spend your rut with,” he said at last, “I can provide contacts. Safe, confidential arrangements.”

Taion blinked in surprise. That wasn’t what he expected.

“That’s not what I meant,” he replied quickly, aware of the angry noise Eunie made in her throat beside him. “We’re not looking for a third party. We intend to… experience the rut together.”

Larry gave a long, unreadable pause, then slowly nodded. “I see. You’re in a romantic relationship.”

That sentence hit harder than either of them expected.

They froze.

“I—we never really…” Taion stumbled, face flushing, but then he looked at her, and in that quiet second, something settled in him. “Yes. We are.”

Eunie turned to him, blinking in surprise. Her cheeks burned. But she couldn’t stop the smile from forming.

“Yeah,” she echoed, softly. “We are.”

Larry studied them, this time with something softer in his eyes. Curiosity, yes, but maybe not malice.

“From a biological standpoint,” he began, “there’s nothing preventing two Alphas from engaging sexually. Physically, it’s possible. You’ve clearly already proven that.”

They both let out a small breath—relief, maybe.

“But that’s not the point,” Larry continued. “The issue is genetic behavior. Rut is not just a heightened sex drive. It’s a deeply instinctive need to dominate, to claim, to mate. Two Alphas are both wired to lead, to win the bond. What happens when you both go into rut, and neither is willing—or able—to yield?”

Eunie bristled, but Taion held her hand tightly. “We’ve already mated,” he pointed out. “Without conflict. Without rejection.”

Larry nodded. “Impressive, yes. But it was outside the rut window. Which makes all the difference. Have either of you ever been with an Omega during heat?”

They both shook their heads.

“Then I need to ask,” he continued. “What if what you’re feeling right now is just… chemical curiosity? Unfulfilled instinct? You might change your mind once you experience a full pheromonal bond with an Omega.”

Taion’s stomach twisted. Is that true? Was this some elaborate trick of biology—something temporary?

“Snuff that,” Eunie said flatly.

Larry blinked.

She stood. “Lemme get this straight. You think we’re only together because all the Omegas are taken? That none of this—none of what we feel—matters? That it’s just convenience? Because we’re outta options?”

“I didn’t say that—”

Eunie leaned in, eyes burning. “We know what we feel. Monica said our pheromones adapted faster than she’s ever seen—and that’s s'pposed to not be possible. And yet, here we are.” She gestured between them. “So maybe the impossible’s just what we do.”

Taion, still seated, finally found his voice again.

“I didn’t come here for approval. I came here for information. Because we want to prepare. We want to be ready.”

Larry let out a breath, then leaned forward, folding his hands again.

“I’m not saying you don’t have feelings. But if you both enter rut and try to bond, you’ll be fighting your own instincts. It could end in conflict, injury… or worse.”

“Then we’ll try again,” Taion said, rising to stand beside Eunie. “And again. Until we get it right. We’ve faced worse odds.”

Without waiting for permission, he took Eunie's hand.

Larry called after them as they walked out. “If your bond fails during rut—it could destroy more than your relationship. You’re Ouroboros. You have a duty to the world.”

“And we’ll protect it,” Taion said calmly. “Together.”

They stepped into the open air, and for the first time all morning, Eunie let out a long breath.

“Snuffin’ arsehole,” she growled. “Don’t let that crap into your head, 'kay?”

To her surprise, he smiled.

“You’re charming when you’re furious,” he said lightly, brushing his knuckles against hers.

“Don’t change the topic. You alright?”

“I am. Actually…” he looked down at his hand, where his mark pulsed faintly. “We don’t know how much time we have left. Whether we experience the rut or not. But I want to spend it with you. That hasn’t changed.”

Eunie’s expression softened, then morphed into a playful smirk. “This new bold side of you is kinda hot.”

He blushed, and pulled up his IRIS.

“Wot’re you doin’?” she asked.

“Planning our next step.” He tapped through screens. “Relationships aren’t just about sex. So I looked up couple activities.”

She raised an eyebrow. “Is there more than sex?”

He grinned. “Yes.”

He held her gaze.

“Do you trust me?”

“Four-eyes, that’s a dumb questi-,” she said, just before the teleport activated and they vanished together into the light.

***

“Were those Eunie and Taion?” Sena asked, pausing mid-step as she and Lanz made their way through the City streets.

“Uh? Where?” Lanz asked, blinking in confusion as he looked toward where she was staring—but saw nothing.

“They just teleported,” she said, squinting at the fading shimmer in the air. “I think… Eunie looked kinda upset?”

Lanz chuckled, shaking his head. “Eunie? Upset? That’s just her natural state. She’s a walking spark plug.”

Sena giggled softly, but her eyes lingered on the spot a moment longer. Something about the way they vanished—it didn’t feel like a casual jump. Still, she nodded and allowed herself to be tugged back into step as they continued toward the training arena. The open courtyard where the Lost Numbers trained felt like the perfect place to shake off the past few days.

After all, they’d only just escaped Li Garte. A month in prison could wear on even the toughest minds—and theirs weren’t exceptions.

They’d spent the previous night curled up on one of the couches in the common room, laughing about dumb things and sharing silence in the comforting way only they could. And when morning came, they slipped out early to avoid the intense mix of Alpha pheromones radiating from the dorm rooms. Sena had started to tremble when they passed the hall near Eunie and Taion’s room.

Lanz noticed, of course.

Without a word, he’d taken her hand, led her outside, and suggested some light sparring at the arena. Her eyes had lit up like someone had handed her a golden blade, and she'd offered—demanded, really—to make him a protein-packed breakfast in return.

Their walk was peaceful for the most part, filled with the usual bickering and banter, until—

“Hey, girl!”

Sena blinked and turned her head, startled by the voice. She spotted a pair of City residents leaning against a low wall—a man and a woman, both holding cans of something fizzy. They were dressed casually, but their expressions weren’t friendly.

“Hey, beauty!” the man called again, raising his drink in her direction.

Sena looked around, puzzled. She glanced at Lanz beside her, who was in the middle of telling a story about lifting 150 kilograms when he was still in his fourth term. Maybe they were talking to someone else?

“You, with the funny hair!” the woman chimed in, a toothy grin spreading across her face as she stepped forward.

Nope. Definitely me.

Sena instinctively straightened her posture and stepped a little closer to Lanz. Something about the way they were looking at her made her skin crawl. Not just the words—but the tone, the glint in their eyes.

“Whaddya say, sweetheart?” the man drawled. “How about spendin’ some time with real Alphas?”

The words hit her like a slap. Heat rushed to her cheeks—not from embarrassment, but discomfort. Her chest tightened.

And then—the smell.

Her nose filled with the cloying sweetness of concentrated pheromones. Forced, and sharp like needles piercing into her senses. Her body flinched violently, and her vision blurred for a second. Her knees buckled just slightly before she caught herself. Her mind didn’t know whether to run or scream.

But then—

A familiar warmth enveloped her.

Lanz.

The foreign pheromones vanished like smoke chased away by fire. His scent—so grounding, so safe—wrapped around her like armor. She didn’t have to look to know he was beside her now, his large frame blocking her from view. She could hear the restrained anger in his breathing.

“You got a problem?” Lanz asked, voice low, dangerous.

The two strangers froze. The woman immediately raised her hand to her nose, as if she were trying to suppress the reaction to Lanz’s presence. The man visibly gulped.

“She’s… already bound?” the woman whispered harshly.

“You idiot!” she growled to her partner. “She’s marked! Did you even check?”

“S-sorry!” the man stammered, grinning awkwardly at Lanz. “Didn’t know she was already yours, mate. Honest mistake!”

That did it.

Sena’s entire body flared with anger. Yours? Like she was an object?

“I’m right here, y’know!” she snapped, stepping out from behind Lanz with her fists clenched. “And I’m not anyone’s property, you—!”

She paused, unsure what word to use. She’d never sworn at anyone before, and her tongue stumbled.

“Muppets,” Lanz muttered helpfully. “Dorks. Arseholes. Pick one.”

“Y-yeah! Muppets!” she shouted, her cheeks flushed with emotion. “You should treat people with respect! And forcing your pheromones on someone—what’s wrong with you?!”

The woman hissed and backed up another step.

“I’d listen to her if I were you,” Lanz added with a wicked grin. “This girl right here? Strongest member of Ouroboros. She could crush you with one hand.”

Sena’s cheeks lit up again, but she crossed her arms, puffing her chest out proudly. The stunned look on the strangers’ faces was… satisfying.

“Y-yeah! I mean—maybe not just one hand. I kind of need the other one for the Blade, but still!”

“Shh,” Lanz whispered. “Let ‘em believe the myth.”

The woman shot the man a death glare. “This is what you get for being an idiot. Didn’t even recognize the Ouroboros!”

And with that, she turned and fled, dragging her partner with her.

“I’m soooo sorry!” he shouted, stumbling after her.

Sena and Lanz watched them go for a moment—then burst into laughter, doubling over and wiping tears from their eyes.

“Thanks,” Sena breathed, giggling as she leaned against him for balance.

“Anytime,” Lanz said, nudging her shoulder. “Partner, right?”

She beamed and raised her hand for a high five. He slapped it with a satisfying smack.

“Yep!” she said brightly. Then her fingers drifted to her hair, brushing it back a little self-consciously. “Hey… do you think my hair looks weird?”

Lanz looked at her, really looked, and then reached out to gently ruffle her head.

“Nah. It’s awesome, Sen,” he said with a grin. “Like you.”

She laughed and swatted his hand away, but the blush on her cheeks stayed.

“Now,” he added, jerking his head toward the arena, “shall we go beat the rust off?”

“You’re on!” she replied, jogging a few steps ahead before spinning around with a grin. “But I’m not holding back!”

“You better not,” Lanz called after her, smiling wide.

And with that, the two dashed off toward the arena, their laughter echoing through the City corridors—loud, bright, and free.

***

“Ah, damnit!” Lanz hissed as he found himself on the ground once more, courtesy of Sena. Again. Was he really one of the best defenders of the Kevesi?

“You okay?” Sena asked, extending a hand to help him up. “Shall we change class?”

He took her hand and got to his feet. “Nah, Zeon’s class is fine. I wanna try it again,” he grunted, then added with a smirk, “Don’t tell me y’re tired, Sen!”

“I didn’t even break a sweat!” she replied with a teasing smile, punching her gloves together. She really loved this new class! She tapped her toes, signaling that she was more than ready for another round. The arena echoed with the sound of clashing metal and heavy breaths. Lanz stood firm, his sword and shield at the ready, while Sena bounced lightly on her feet, her gloves poised for action.

“Ready for this?” Lanz teased, a confident grin on his face.

“Always,” Sena shot back, her eyes sparkling with determination.

With a swift movement, Lanz lunged forward, his sword aiming for a quick strike. Sena dodged effortlessly, her agility allowing her to weave around his attacks. She countered with a powerful punch, her glove connecting with his shield, sending a reverberating thud through the arena.

“C’mon, Sen!,” Lanz exclaimed, stepping back to regain his balance. “Y’ll have to do better than that.”

Sena smirked, her heart pounding not just from the exertion but from something else she couldn’t quite place. She launched a series of rapid punches, each one testing Lanz’s defenses. He parried with some difficulties but managed to push her back to the corner of the arena.

As the sparring continued, Sena found herself mesmerized by Lanz’s focus and strength. She admired the way he moved, the determination in his red eyes, and the way he never underestimated her. When she threw another jab that he managed to parr, she looked him in the eyes.

Lanz was always there for her. Wasn’t he?

“Lanz,” she called out, her voice softer than usual.

He paused, lowering his sword and shield slightly. “Uh?”

For a moment, Sena hesitated, her heart racing. “I… I just wanted to say… you’re an amazing partner. I… I really meant it.”

Lanz blinked and flushed slightly, taken aback by her sudden confession, happy as ever. “Thanks, Sen! Y’re pretty incredible yourself!”

With renewed energy, Sena resumed the sparring and then again, after a few minutes, she managed to get past his defense and knocked him down.

Again.

“Gaah! I really thought I could do it!” He groaned still on the ground “I need to ask furrball for an additional power frame…”

Sena curled up next to him, smiling. “Well, this time I did break a sweat. You’re improving a lot! I’m sure next time you’ll win!”

“Nah, I highly doubt it,” he laughed, then glanced at her. “But thanks for the support.”

“Anytime!” she offered him a hand to help him up. He took it and then noticed a group of three cadets, judging by their uniforms, approaching them.

“Hi, sorry to interrupt. We’ve been watching you for quite some time,” one guy introduced himself with a warm smile. “My name is Lucas, I’m a last-year cadet of the Lost number. It’s a pleasure to meet you Ouroboros!”

“Oh!” Sena chuckled. “Hi, nice to meet you, Lucas! I’m Sena and this is Lanz.”

“ ‘Sup, mate?” Lanz grinned, shaking his hand vigorously. “Can we help ya?”

“Yeah, actually we were wondering if you have some time to… y’know, spar a little with us,” the second guy stepped in. “I’m Marcus, by the way.”

Lanz noticed the third guy had a gloomy expression and definitely didn’t have the same good vibes as the first two. He kept looking at them with a disrespectful face, much to Lanz’s annoyance. Sena didn’t seem to notice or mind; she kept smiling brightly at them.

“Yeah, sure! Would love to!” Sena exclaimed happily, then looked at Lanz. “We can help!”

“What an honor…” the third guy spoke with a malevolent smirk on his face.

“Kai, shut up!” Marcus hissed before Lanz could intervene. “If you’re not interested, just go back to training with the Coach!”

“He won’t; he still has to complete the run around the City,” Lucas groaned, then looked at them again. “Sorry, just ignore him. So, can we start?”

“Sure! Why don’t we have a small match? Just show us everything you’ve got!” Sena exclaimed, proceeding to the center of the arena, followed immediately by Lucas and Marcus, and slowly after by Kai.

Lanz trailed the third guy and immediately caught a whiff of threatening pheromones. Alpha pheromones. His entire body tensed up: the amount was really low as he was trying to keep them under control but without much success. He didn’t like the situation at all and sped up his pace until he was next to her again. 

“Are we really sure that we want to spare with two Ouroboros members?” Lucas asked concerned to Marcus.

“Oh, don’t worry! If you feel better, you can just spare with me and then with Lanz later!” Sena explained.

“Still…” Lucas tried to wash off his embarrassment.

“Oh, c’mon Lucas! Don’t be a buzzkill!” Marcus seemed delighted from this situation “Can you believe that we can spare with one of the Ouroboros?! Neither of the other cadets will believe us!”

“Idiots…” Kai coffed not so subtly causing Lanz to growl at his direction.

“Let’s make it a little bit easier for you,” Sena smiled and then took one of her arms behind her back “I’ll fight only with one arm. Sounds fair?”

“Woha,” Lucas exclaimed “Ma’am are you sure?”

“Yes, if one of you managed to hit me then you win,” Sena kept smiling and assumed her usual fight position and glancing one last time to Lanz. Lanz was about to tell her of the danger of Kai, afraid of what happened just a few hours before but when he saw her expression, her smile so warm, all his anxious melt away.

“Don’t worry, Lan,” she smiled “Just enjoy the show and catch a break. We can keep going later!”

“Leave some piece for me, ‘right babe?” he grinned while walking away from them. He knew that he liked when she was calling her like that. She blushed heavily while giggling and nodded.

The training ground buzzed with anticipation as Sena stepped into the ring, her right arm tied behind her back.

“Ready?” Sena called out, and the cadets nodded, summoning their blades.

She took a deep breath, her left fist clenched and ready. “Let’s do this,” she said, her eyes locking onto her opponents.

Kai was the first to charge, his Blade, a short sword, swinging wildly. Sena dodged his initial attack with ease, her movements fluid and precise almost seeming that she was dancing. She countered with a swift uppercut, catching Kai off guard and sending him sprawling to the ground. Sena could hear him cursing her, but she didn’t get distracted and focused immediately on the other two.

“One down,” Sena muttered, her gaze shifting to Marcus and Lucas.

Marcus and Lucas exchanged a quick glance before attacking simultaneously. Marcus aimed for her midsection while Lucas went for her head. Sena ducked under Lucas’s sword and sidestepped Marcus’s shot, her agility keeping her one step ahead.

With a powerful left hook, she struck Marcus in the jaw, the impact sending him staggering backward. Before he could recover, Sena delivered a spinning kick to his chest, knocking the wind out of him. He fell to the ground, gasping for air, unable to continue.

“Two down,” Sena said, her focus now solely on Lucas.

Lucas hesitated for a moment, clearly shaken by the swift defeat of his teammates. He steeled himself and lunged at Sena, his fists flying. Sena parried his attacks with her left arm much to his surprise. She saw an opening and delivered a crushing blow to his ribs, followed by a quick jab to his temple. Lucas’s eyes rolled back, and he crumpled to the ground, unconscious.

“Three down,” Sena declared, breathing heavily but victorious, wearing her best smile.

"Wohoooooo!!!" Marcus laughed, still on the ground. "Did you see that?!"

"More than see, I felt it," Lucas murmured, trying to get up. "Ma’am, that was... incredibly fast!"

"And incredibly strong!" Marcus laughed, rising and wiping the blood off his face.

"Sorry!" Sena immediately said, coming closer to them. "Was it too much? Should I switch class? I can heal you!"

"Nah, just a scratch," Marcus laughed. "Lucas loves being dramatic."

"Shut up," his teammate grumbled with a smile. Sena left them bickering and focused her attention on Kai, who was sitting on the ground with blood on his face and an insane glare. Sena slowly approached him.

"Do you need... any help?" she asked with a smile, offering him a hand to help him up. He slapped her hand away and rose, towering over her.

"Don’t even try to touch me with your filthy hand, you shitty Aignian..." he hissed angrily.

Even Lanz, who was a few meters away, could smell his pheromones: he was trying to dominate Sena, to make her bend to his will. As soon as he stepped forward, Sena turned her head to him.

The smile completely disappeared from her face, replaced by a serious expression. Through her intense gaze, Lanz understood. An inevitable smirk crossed his face as he reminded himself: she doesn’t need his protection. She needed him to be by her side.

"I don’t make the same mistake twice," Sena sighed to his interlinking partner with a small smile, then turned her attention back to Kai. "What exactly is your problem, Kai?"

"Kai, drop it!" Marcus hissed, trying to stop his friend. "You can’t keep going with this story..."

"Shut the hell up!" Kai shouted pushing his teammate to the ground and then taking a step closer to her. "Do you know Kryto?!"

Kryto? Yes, Sena knew exactly who he was: one of the chosen Ouroboros members, if she wasn’t mistaken. She looked at Kai and realized something: he shared a lot of similarities with Kryto.

"Yeah, I’m his brother!" Kai hissed angrily. "So now, explain to me why you, a sparking Aignian, had to become an Ouroboros member! Do you know how many sacrifices my brother had to endure?!"

Sena was about to reply but realized that talking to him in that state wouldn't help. She closed her mouth and focused on shielding herself from his pheromones. If she lost control even for a second, Alpha would trigger her body. She wasn't going to give him that satisfaction.

"He even underwent so many problems when they induced the bond with Nissick! He already had a fated mate, but since he wasn't a candidate, he had to give up and bond with a complete stranger! And now his pheromone glands aren't functioning anymore!" Kai shouted, summoning his blade once again. Sena sighed, recalling how Monica had explained that they were so convinced the key to the Ouroboros stone was to create the perfect Alpha/Omega pair that they even forced a couple to bond who weren't meant to be together. This couple was Kryto and Nissick. Sena felt sorry for them, unable to fully grasp the pain they went through, especially if they already had feelings for someone else. However, she also understood that this didn't justify Kai treating her so poorly. A new strong wave of pheromones surrounded her, and her body slightly trembled as goosebumps arose all over.

"Yeah, Omegas... so pathetically weak..." he grinned triumphantly, stepping even closer and raising his sword above her head, ready to strike.

"Okay, enough of this..." Sena groaned. In a flash, she jabbed his nose so quickly that he didn't even notice he was flying to the other side of the arena. "I’m against unjustified violence, but man... you were being really impolite!"

"Uh-uh! That’s my partner!" Lanz laughed, walking towards her.

"I’m sorry, ma’am..." Lucas ran towards them. "We shouldn’t have brought him along..."

"Well, he deserved it," Marcus grinned. "Using pheromones to intimidate an Omega is a crime. We need to report this to the coach. I’m sick and tired of his attitude. I’m sorry for his brother, but that doesn’t justify his behavior."

"How did you manage to shield yourself from them?" Lucas asked. "Even as a Beta, I could smell them. They had to be pretty strong."

"Well... I’m not entirely sure," Sena murmured, lost in thought. "I think my body reacted on its own and shielded me from them." She then looked at Lanz next to her. "I also still feel Lanz’s pheromones on me. I think they acted like a... push?" Lanz smiled, trying to hide his blush.

"Ah, like a booster!" Marcus added. "Yeah, it can happen even if you’re not bonded."

"Anyway, sorry for the trouble, but thanks a million for the spar. We’d love to continue, but..." Lucas sighed, looking at his teammate still on the ground. "We better take him to the infirmary."

"Are you sure you don’t want us to heal him?" Sena asked.

"Imma not going to heal that muppet," Lanz snorted, then glanced at her. "Ya shouldn’t either."

"But..." she was about to protest when Marcus stepped in.

"He’s right. He doesn’t deserve any ether from you. Some bandages and he’ll be as good as new."

"Unfortunately," Lucas sighed, making them giggle. "If you pass by the arena again and want an easy win, just call us!"

"Sure, take care, guys!" Sena waved as they went to retrieve Kai and dragged him out of the arena.

When they were alone again, Sena looked at Lanz with a smile. "Thanks, Lan." She smiled, taking his hand in hers.

"I didn’t do anything, Sen," he replied blushing a bit.

"You know what for," she sighed. "Man, I’m starving! Shall we go get some Torpedo wraps?"

"That sounds good!"

"And... I told you I need at least one hand to fight!"

***

"Wot the spark! At least warn me, you dork!" she loudly protested as soon as they arrived in a place she didn’t immediately recognize. She looked around and saw the magnificent Saffronia trees adorning the cave walls, growing majestically towards the sky. Were they in the Lost Colony? She was sure of it, but unsure of their exact location within the colony. They were on a high protrusion directly above the lake, and she could see the Colony tents around it.

"Sparks, pretty high..." she murmured, immediately retracting from the edge of the protrusion before vertigo set in. But she had to admit, the view was glorious. Everything around them was bathed in violet and orange hues due to the light refraction in the Saffronia leaves, and the water below scattered the light, creating beautiful patterns. The light sea breeze mixed with the scent of Saffronia blossoms filled her nose, and she couldn’t help but smile. She couldn’t distinguish between the natural scent and the one from his pheromones.

Taion watched her as she smiled and inhaled deeply. He could see she was calmer than before, her body relaxed, and her typical grin back on her face. He removed his jacket and scarf, placed them on the grass, and waited for her to finish admiring the view. She finally turned back. 

“It feels like being in a room full of Taions!” she laughed.

“In a what?” he asked, furrowing his brow.

“The scent,” she explained, removing her jacket and sweater to lay next to him. “It’s your pheromones.”

Right, he couldn’t smell his own pheromones. He took a deep breath: so that was what she felt all the time when he released them.

“How did ya find this place? It’s gorgeous,” she asked, turning to him.

“Nimue told me. I come here from time to time when I need some space to reflect,” he explained, offering her a hand to sit next to him and admire the beauty of the place. Eunie took it, sat next to him, and laid her head on his shoulder.

“So… after sex, ya take your partner to see somethin’ beautiful?” she chuckled.

“Well, there are different things you can do on a date,” he smiled, sliding his arm around her hip and pulling her closer. “Visiting a nice place is one option among many.”

“Oh, so thissit a date?” she poked him with a grin.

“You know I like doing things properly,” he coughed, adjusting his glasses. “Since we are a romantic couple, this is a date. Our first, to be precise.” Eunie giggled at his pompous attitude but didn’t contradict him. As he said before, they didn’t have much time left anyway; worst-case scenario, Moebius could cut it even shorter. And she was damned if she wasn’t loving spending the remaining time with him, finally enjoying life to the fullest.

After a while of simply enjoying each other’s company and admiring the view, surrounded by the scent of Saffronia, Eunie broke the silence.

“Do y’think…” she mumbled, glancing sideways at him. “That we can go back?” Taion raised an eyebrow, waiting for her to elaborate. “I mean if that guy was right ‘bout it being dangerous. Like, really dangerous. Like one of us tries to hurt the other or somethin’ like that? That maybe it was just a coincidence that we were fine this morning.”

“Well, how many times did we do it this morning?” he joked, causing her to grin.

“Sex four times,” she smirked, turning to face him fully. “But as for orgasms? I lost count after six or seven!” He chuckled, but then grew serious and let out a sigh.

“No, I don’t think we can go back to how things were before,” He exaggerated the sigh mocking desperation. She poked his ribs in response.

"But remember what you said before we went to see him?" he continued. "Unless he had very convincing evidence, which he didn't, I was already sure about my decision."

"Geez, dare to use my own words against me?" she chuckled with a mocking expression, leaning into his side. He laughed and held onto her tighter.

“Yes, I dare,” he admitted with a mischievous smile. “Just like I dared to start a relationship with a stubborn, foul-mouthed girl from Keves.” He teased and moved his hand to the back of her head, turning her and kissing her deeply.

“Heh,” she whispered with a smirk against his lips. “Pretty bold for our tactician. Just be careful not to get burned, love.”

Taion didn't need to smell her pheromones to understand what she wanted. He leaned in and kissed her, gently pushing her onto his jacket as they continued their passionate embrace. She wrapped her arms around his head and ran her fingers through his hair, pulling him closer to her.

“You’re driving me crazy Eunie,” he whispered, nipping at her earlobe which he knew drove her wild. As he brushed against her leggings, they both knew the clothes were only getting in the way.; no matter how many times they made love in the morning, every touch of skin still sent tingling sensations throughout their bodies. She could feel herself getting warmer from his alluring pheromones, intensifying the desire between them.

"Forget that Grebel guy," she hissed as he brushed his hard throbbing shaft against her leggings. "He doesn't know a shit ‘bout us. I know how ya make me feel, and neither Noah nor Sena even come close."

"I agree," Taion murmured, trailing kisses down to her neck. The marks from their previous encounters were almost faded now, but he couldn't resist wanting to leave more. Everyone needed to know she was already taken. "And it's the same for me; I can't go back either."

Eunie kissed him with such intensity that it left him breathless, their tongues dancing together.

"And y’ know..." she whispered teasingly into his ear, making him shiver with anticipation. She wasn't the only one enjoying teasing that particular area. " ‘bout all this talk about dominance?" She pushed her legs against his waist, causing his shaft to rub harder against her clit and making him groan in response. "Maybe I'm broken," she continued, "But I don't give a damn. If it's you, then I'm... actually okay with that." She slid her hands under his jumper, feeling his warm skin and causing goosebumps to form where she touched him. He panted in her ear as he continued to rub against her desperately, seeking some relief. "I like it when ya try to dominate me," she admitted, "Just as much as I dominate ya. Kinda like a little game between us."

Taion took a few seconds to process her words. That was exactly how he felt with her all the time! He knew exactly what drew him to her, more than any other Omega. He loved the way she took control in the mornings, pinning him down on the bed and riding him, guiding his hands exactly where she wanted them.

"Then I'm just as broken as you," he sighed. "Because I absolutely adore when you have control and push me to my limits." He kissed her again. "Maybe I'm not a reak Alpha, but I couldn't care less."

"Nah, you're an Alpha," Eunie smirked before pushing him over so that she could straddle his lap. She pressed her hips against his hard shaft and pinned him to the ground once again. "Y're my sparkin’ Alpha."

Taion looked at her, feeling arousal surge through him as he understood the meaning behind her words. There was something about them that triggered his instincts once again. He needed to claim her again, to be inside of her.

"Now I know what it feels like to want to rip your clothes off..." he groaned, sliding his hands up her tank straps. "Sparks, Eunie..."

"Oh-ho," she grinned while slowly unzipping his jumper. "Wanna do it here? Outside?" It was a rhetorical question; she already knew the answer and was completely on board with it. But teasing him was part of the fun.

"There's no one around, and I have two Mondos guarding the entrance who will alert us if anything happens or anyone approaches," he explained absentmindedly, not picking up on her playful tone. "Don't make me beg."

"Actually, that was my plan," she smirked while running her hands down his chest and lowering herself enough to kiss his neck. "Now be a good boy and stay still." She quickly grabbed his hands and pinned them above his head, using her pheromones to keep him in place.

"Damn it..." he growled, tilting his head back. He didn't want to give in so easily, nor did he want to make things too easy for her.

He attempted to release more pheromones, but the only reaction he received was her tightening grip on his wrists as she removed his jumper and revealed his bare chest. She grinned, amused by his apparent frustration and resistance.

"If you don't stay still," she playfully threatened while licking her lips in anticipation, "I'll have to punish you."

Taion's eyes sparked with a mischievous glint and a smirk spread across his face as he felt his last inhibitors come off. His manhood pulsed against the fabric of his trousers, begging to be freed. His body twitched with anticipation when he felt her warm breath on his skin and she quickly straddled him, maintaining her firm grip.

"Punish me?" He challenged, biting his lip seductively. "I'm curious to see what kind of punishment.... ah!" His head tilted back as he watched and felt her hand wrap around his erection, slowly stroking him. She decided to leave his trousers and underwear on for now, wanting to tease him and give him just a taste of what she had in store.

"Eunie!" He groaned out, panting as that familiar heat enveloped him once again and her pheromones kept him pinned down while simultaneously arousing every erogenous zone on his body. He couldn't help but growl in response.

"Ya also do really make nice sounds, love," she purred, kissing and nibbling at his cheek while giving him another slow stroke.

"If your intention is..." Taion struggled to suppress another moan as she squeezed his shaft a little harder and pressed her thumb against the wet tip. "Oh sparks..." He groaned before glaring at her with determination. "I won't beg!"

With a mischievous grin, she finally released his hands but positioned herself quickly between his legs and placed her lips on the tip of his cock.

"Are you sure?" she teased, licking the precum that had leaked from it. "I ain’t need to be an expert to know that if I bite you here...well, it won't be pleasant. Am I right?" And to prove her point, she gently bit the base of his cock, causing him to whine. She chuckled, enjoying his reaction before he gave her another glare.

He huffed loudly and tilted his head back, keeping his arms above his head.

"That's a good boy," she smirked with satisfaction as she stroked his throbbing cock. Despite his glaring, she knew he was enjoying everything. His pheromones didn't lie, and neither did the desire in his hazel eyes or his pulsing and twitching cock.

How far could she push him? The thought of him begging her was tempting, and she had an idea of how to make it happen. She continued stroking him slowly while licking the tip of his cock. She heard him panting and saw him biting his lip as she picked up the pace. He started groaning and moaning her name under his breath. When she felt he was close to climaxing, she stopped abruptly and rubbed her cheek against the length of his shaft.

"W-what?!" Taion managed to say, looking at her who had a mischievous grin on her face. She smirked and licked his throbbing cock again, teasing it until it begged for more

“Wot’s wrong, four-eyes?” she asked, her tongue licking the tip of his penis and slurping up the precum dripping from it. She could feel his frustrated gaze piercing into her skull. He understood her plan and Eunie was sure he was trying to find a way to turn the tables. But before he could do anything, she took him into her mouth and picked up where she left off.

This time, he reached the peak quicker than before, but once again she stopped before he could release.

"Eunie!" he growled in frustration, on the verge of orgasm as her teasing tongue continued its work. "I swear... I... aaahhh!"

"Beg me," she whispered, running her tongue from the tip to the base and massaging his balls. "Beg me and maybe I'll let you come." She knew he was at his limit and that she could keep him under her control with just her pheromones.

Taion glared at her stubbornly, but as she continued to lick and tease him, he felt like he was going insane.

"Please..." he hissed through clenched teeth.

Her wings flapped in excitement and her smirk grew even wider. It wasn't so difficult after all, was it?

"What a good boy," she purred, finally resuming her previous actions. Once again, she felt his cock grow harder and twitch in anticipation. But just as he was about to reach climax, Taion quickly grabbed her head with both hands and thrust it against the back of her throat, almost choking her, finally releasing everything inside of her. The orgasm was not only powerful because of their two previous stops, but also because of the intense glare she gave him.

He smirked, out of breath and setting her free from his grip. He expected her to explode in anger, but instead, she licked her lips, gathering the last remnants of his ejaculate. "Did I ruin your perfect plan?" he taunted.

"Actually, my plan was to make you beg," she retorted while pushing him down and straddling him. "And ya did just that. Maybe I should take over as tactician for our group."

Taion smiled and held her close, burying his face in her shoulder. His hands traveled down her back and over her perfect curves, giving them a gentle squeeze.

"Or..." he mumbled, pulling her closer and removing her black leggings. "Maybe it was all part of my plan."

Just as Eunie was about to make a snarky comment and kick off her leggings, Taion pulled her again and made her sit astride him on his chest.

"Wot...?" she asked in confusion, looking at him from head to toe. He couldn't help but lick his lips at the sight of her soaked underwear - she had been enjoying their little game before. He grabbed her ass once more and pushed her towards his face.

"W-wait! Whatcha doing?!" Eunie asked with wide eyes, trying not to lose her balance as he continued to push against her. She knew what he wanted, but it definitely didn't seem safe!

"You like being on top," Taion commented with a mischievous grin. "Come on then."

"Yeah, on your dick, not on your face!" Eunie squirmed as she tried to stay still under his insistent pushes. "I'm too heavy!"

“You’re not,” Taion only chuckled at her reaction. "What's the difference between my lower half and my upper half?"

"It's just..." Eunie didn't finish before his pheromones hit her, making her entire body shudder and her insides even more wet. If she wasn't wearing underwear, her thighs would probably be soaked too. She glared at him, knowing he was already well aware of how she would react.

" ‘lright!" she reluctantly gave in, moving closer to his face. "Maybe I can finally shut you up."

He chuckled as he guided her movements, making sure they were perfectly in sync. Once she was in position, he moved her soaked panties aside and began to slowly lick her drenched entrance. The position they were in, with her essentially sitting on his face, gave him lustful goosebumps all over his body.

"Damnit!" she whimpered, almost losing her balance and grabbing onto his hair. He continued to gently lick the little bundle of nerves between her legs, using just the right amount of pressure to make her pleasure explode throughout her body. She couldn't believe how good he was at it already! It felt like he had known her body for years, not just since this morning. And she was pretty sure he hadn't used his mouth like this with Sena or Noah. How was it possible that he could make her shiver, flinch, and pant so hard that she knew she wouldn't last much longer? But she didn't want to climax so soon!

"W-wait!" she managed to call out, but it came out more as a moan without any real meaning. Her mind was consumed by the pleasure and his pheromones, causing her to moan and pant uncontrollably every time his tongue ran along her sensitive area.

"Ahhh..." she moaned, tilting her head back. "Taion..."

Just as she finished saying his name, she felt him becoming rigid beneath her and squeezing even harder on her buttocks. Then, unexpectedly, he started sucking on her clit. It was too much for her to handle; she squeezed his head between her thighs and pulled on his hair as she rode his face, trying to maximize the pleasure.

If he hadn't been holding her up, she would have collapsed the moment her final waves of pleasure subsided. With his assistance, she disengaged from his face, needing a moment to lay down and catch her breath.

"I must admit..." she panted with a smile, glancing at him as he looked back at her with a satisfied grin. "That was amazin’."

He smiled and kissed her forehead before smoothly placing himself between her legs, removing her damp underwear, and settling on top of her, teasing his erect member against her entrance.

"For someone who claims not to exercise, ya sure have quite impressive stamina," Eunie remarked, wrapping her arms around his neck with a smile.

"I'm also surprised by myself," he replied, kissing her cheeks. "I think it's all thanks to pheromones."

"Only the pheromones?" she playfully retorted, pushing against his hips with her legs so that he could slowly enter her, carefully watching for any signs of discomfort. She tightened her hold on his neck and buried her face in his shoulder. It wasn't as painful as the first time, but she still needed some time to accommodate his size and stretch herself again. Taion found himself missing that sensation more than he cared to admit; even though they had had sex only a few hours ago, it felt like ages since he had felt this way with her. Again, he bit his lip in an effort to control himself and followed her lead, starting off slowly and gradually increasing the pace as she relaxed under him. Almost immediately, he could feel her inner muscles twitching around him.

"Mostly, yes," he smirked, adjusting himself to ensure he was hitting the right spot inside her.

"Wot a damn good liar," she panted, grabbing his hair and tilting his head back so she could have access to his neck. She bit down, causing him to moan as he thrust into her roughly, much to her pleasure. Her moans grew louder and louder as he slid a hand under her tank top, teasing her hard nipples.

"Shh, be quiet," he murmured with a smile as she continued to get louder. "The entire colony will hear you."

"Snuff you," she panted, digging her nails into his back. "Don't be so damn good if y’ain’t wanna hear me!"

"Heh..." he sighed, kissing her deeply in an attempt to muffle her sounds. "What a terrible person I am for trying to make you feel good." Before she could snap back another retort, Taion thrust even harder and grabbed her chin, kissing her again and pushing his tongue against hers. He could tell she was close; her throat trembled, her insides tightened around him, and her whole body whimpered. He was also close; the thrill of being outside and trying to keep their noise levels down only intensified his lust. When the air thickened with pheromones, they both reached climax simultaneously. Their furious kiss turned softer as the waves of orgasm slowly left their bodies. Her nails released from his shoulder, and she turned to hug him around the neck, her face flushed and breathing heavy. Taion smiled, still in disbelief that they were doing what they were doing. But damn if it wasn't the best thing that had ever happened in his life. Having her all over him, feeling inside of her, was beyond words. He gently kissed her forehead, and then her cheek before resting on her shoulder.

“Y’ know…” she murmured, after catching her breath, "I was so… afraid when we entered that building." Taion didn't need to ask why; he could feel how tightly she held onto him, her legs wrapped around his waist and her arms on his neck. He knew how difficult it was for her to admit to being afraid because she had a golden rule of never showing weakness to anyone. Except for him. He felt privileged to have seen this side of her even before the City. For some reason, she had chosen to open up a bit to him, and that made him want to do the same with her.

"I'm sorry," he sighed hugging her back wishing that he could do more to make her feel better, to apologize even more and screaming out loud that it was only because he was so insecure, that he was not strong like her “It’s just…”

"Oi, oi! Don't apologize," she cut him off firmly. "It's okay."

Taion understood what she meant and knew she wouldn't open up anymore. He didn't need her to because he knew her well.

"I'm here, Eunie," he whispered, kissing her softly on the neck where he had left one of his marks.

“Never dare to leave me.”

Chapter Text

Mio’s rut had lasted a grueling four days—longer than anyone expected. But on the morning of the fifth, as sunlight filtered into the dorms, six IRIS devices pinged in perfect synchrony, chiming softly with a group message.

Noah: Mio’s rut is over. Meeting in the kitchen in half an hour.

Mio: Sorry guys! It lasted longer than we thought. Thanks for being patient.

Sena: Mimi! Noah! Yay!! Can’t wait to see you both!

Manana: Manana will prepare feast worthy of post-rut celebration! With many biscuits, all delicious!

Mio: You’re a lifesaver, Manana. That sounds exactly like what we need.

Taion: Would you like some tea as well? I tried a new blend yesterday—it pairs nicely with the nut-butter biscuits Manana prepared.

Riku: Correction: Manana and Riku prepared them. Precision is important, Friend Taion.

Lanz: Yeah, four-eyes! Be precise, or risk the wrath of the fuzzball!

Riku: Riku objects to phrasing but supports sentiment.

Eunie: Hiya, lovebirds. Me and four-eyes were startin’ to wonder if your room imploded. Been suspiciously quiet this morning…

Mio: Eunie, you do realize our rooms are adjacent, right? We could also hear your “team matches” crystal clear. For all four days.

Lanz: Wrestling, you mean. I’m pretty sure even Zeon in Colony 9 heard ‘em.

Eunie: Shaddup, spoon-head!

Noah: Missed you too. See you all in thirty.

Across the room, Taion chuckled softly as he read the thread, his fingers still curled around a warm mug of tea. He leaned back against the windowsill, a book balanced on his knee. Outside, the City was waking up slowly—glowing rooftops, soft mechanical hums, the occasional glide of City airships overhead.

From behind him, Eunie muttered curses under her breath. He turned just slightly to see her sitting at the edge of the bed, brushing out her wings and smoothing her hair with a determination that could rival a field medic preparing for war.

“These sparkin’ muppets,” she growled, cheeks pink with embarrassment. “Am I really that loud?”

He arched a brow and took a thoughtful sip of his tea. “Generally or during sex?”

She narrowed her eyes.

“Yes,” he added smugly. “In both cases.”

The pillow came flying instantly. Fortunately, his twin Mondo zipped into action mid-air, intercepting it before it could knock over his tea. He calmly set the mug aside and shot her a knowing smile.

“But,” he continued, his voice softening as he set his book down, “I like it. Your voice. The way you… feel things so fully.”

Her scowl faltered, then disappeared entirely. She stood up and stepped toward him, hair still damp from their post-shower tussle. They hadn’t even bothered with full clothes—just a loosely draped towel around his waist and one of her old shirts hugging her curves. She wrapped her arms around him, nestling against his chest as he welcomed the contact.

Then she leaned up, her lips brushing the shell of his ear.

“Y’know, I noticed somethin’.” Her voice was low and wicked. “Every time I say your name in bed, you get rock hard. I wonder what’d happen if I screamed it. Loud. When I come.”

Taion's entire body seized like she had activated a trap card. Heat surged up his spine as he stared at nothing, brain stalling like a fried circuit.

That had happened once, her breathy voice trembling around his name—and the memory alone had nearly driven him feral. Now it wasn’t a memory. It was an idea. A goal. One she had planted deliberately.

He blinked.

She was already pulling on her leggings.

He reached to stop her—too late.

“I suggest waitin’ a few minutes,” she chirped, flashing him a grin as she headed for the door. “The big guy’s a bit... visible. See ya in the kitchen, four-eyes!”

She did that on purpose!

Taion groaned and dragged a hand down his face, adjusting his glasses as if that would help him think straight. But it didn’t. His mind was now flooded with every possible scenario where he could make her scream his name until she couldn’t say anything else.

This woman. This brilliant, infuriating, glorious Alpha was going to drive him completely insane—and he wouldn't have it any other way.

He sighed, casting one last glance at the window before grabbing his clothes and muttering to himself.

“…Maybe I am the pervert in this relationship.”

***

When Mio and Noah finally stepped into the kitchen, the change in atmosphere was almost immediate. Their presence was like sunlight breaking through storm clouds—warm, radiant, and utterly contagious. Both were glowing, not just from the aftermath of their time together, but with a kind of peace, a quiet contentment that hadn’t been there before.

“Look who finally decided to show up!” Lanz bellowed with a grin, striding over before either of them could say a word. He scooped Noah into a bear hug that left the poor guy wheezing.

“Hey—Lanz—good to see you too—can't breathe—!”

Lanz only squeezed tighter, laughing. “Did ya treat our girl right?”

“I… I think so?” Noah managed to wheeze out, glancing sidelong at Mio for confirmation.

“Like a queen,” Mio said with a soft, amused giggle just as Sena threw her arms around her in a bone-crushing hug of her own. 

“Oh! Sorry, sorry!” Sena quickly stepped back, eyes wide. “But… your pheromones… they feel a bit different?”

Mio blinked, then turned to Noah, who had just been released from Lanz’s death grip only to be ambushed by Eunie—who ruffled his hair like he was a kid who’d just won a spelling bee.

“Y’re right!” Eunie said, sniffing subtly. “They’re… I dunno. Lighter?”

“Interesting,” Taion murmured thoughtfully, stepping closer. “That would suggest… you bonded?”

Noah, brushing his hair back into place, simply reached for Mio’s hand. She laced her fingers with his instinctively, and they both gave the smallest of nods. A pause followed, then:

“Whoa,” Lanz said, eyes wide. “Like… the real deal? Fully bonded? I mean… congrats, I guess?!”

“Yes,” Taion offered more gently, setting down two steaming mugs in front of them. “Congratulations are absolutely in order. I’m truly happy for you.”

“Treat Mimi right, yeah?” Sena added, elbowing Noah playfully, though her smile held a touch of seriousness. Noah glanced at her—then at Lanz, who was watching closely—and felt a quiet warmth bloom in his chest. No sadness in her scent, no wistfulness in her eyes. She was genuinely happy for them. And he knew, without needing to ask, that Lanz had something to do with that.

“I will,” Noah promised, nodding. “And if I don’t, you have my full permission to smash me with that hammer of yours.”

“Nice way to go out,” Lanz said with a crooked grin. “Messy, but poetic.”

“Same goes for you, love,” Eunie said, fixing Mio with a smirk. “Treat our boy right. I won’t smash ya—too messy—but I will kick your arse.”

Mio giggled, blushing as she squeezed Noah’s hand. “I will. Promise.”

“Wait,” Sena suddenly asked, curiosity flaring. “Do you guys have a mark? Like Monica does?”

“Oh, yeah!” Eunie chimed in. “Where’s it at? Is it cool? Does it glow?”

“We do,” Mio replied, smiling. “It’s on our backs.”

Silence.

Six pairs of eyes locked on them with a level of intensity that made Mio laugh under her breath.

“I think they want to see it,” Noah muttered, already pulling off his jacket.

“Yup,” Mio confirmed.

With a soft sigh of surrender, Noah tugged off his shirt, turning so the others could see. The moment he did, there was a collective gasp.

“Whoa…” Eunie breathed, stepping closer.

“That’s bananas,” she added with reverence. “And pretty sparkly cool.”

“Also big,” Sena noted, her voice almost hushed. “It covers your whole back…”

“It’s almost like armor,” Lanz added. “But also like… something alive.”

The mark was bold and intricate—etched in dark ink-like lines across the canvas of Noah’s back. A great beast, not unlike a legendary creature from an old folktale, was poised in a crouch. Massive shoulders, plated limbs covered in segmented armor. Gripped in its snarling mouth was a long, curved sword that bore a striking resemblance to Noah’s Blade. The image pulsed faintly as if it had a life of its own.

“Feris?” Eunie guessed, tilting her head.

“No… Feris don’t have that kind of striping,” Sena replied, her fingers twitching as if wanting to sketch it.

“Riku agree. Also, Ferishas horns,” Riku added.

“I don’t recall any known beast matching it,” Taion murmured, fascinated. “There’s something… regal about it.”

“Mio,” Lanz asked, “yours is the same?”

She nodded, her cheeks pink. “Exactly the same.”

Sena leaned her chin on her hands, eyes shining. “I wonder what kind of mark me and Logan would have,” she mused aloud before realizing what she’d just said. “Oh! Wait—I mean, hypothetically—I was just—!”

Everyone turned to look at her. Lanz nearly inhaled his tea.

“Oh, spark, I didn’t mean like that!” she squeaked, face going scarlet. “I was curious, not proposing anything—!”

“Suuuuure,” Eunie drawled, smirking over her mug.

“I’m just—! I mean, it’s not like we’ve—! I was talking about marks in general!”

“Sena, breathe,” Taion advised gently.

Lanz coughed, thumping his chest. “S-so, uh! Breakfast! Yeah! Let’s get that started!”

Sena sent Logan a silent thanks. The others didn’t question it, just fell naturally into the familiar rhythm of friendship as they all gathered around the table. For the first time in days, Mio and Noah could finally enjoy something that wasn’t an energy bar or nutrient gel. Between bites of warm food and cups of tea passed around by Taion and Manana, light chatter filled the air.

But it didn’t take long before Mio gently cleared her throat. The table quieted.

“There’s… somewhere I need to go,” she began. “Other than Cloudkeep, I mean.”

The tone of her voice made everyone look up. Calm, but serious. Weighted.

“Need to?” Taion asked gently, his brow furrowed with both concern and curiosity. “Is it really that important? You seem… unsettled.”

Mio nodded slowly. “It’s Colony Omega.”

Sena dropped her fork. “Omega?! Wait—seriously?! That place still exists?!”

“Funny name,” Eunie blinked. 

“Does it have something to do with… you know, the second gender?” Noah asked, frowning in confusion.

“As far as I know, not. It is the Colony I lived in with Miyabi... It was under the control of Moebius Y. I learned something important from the other me. Miyabi's...still alive.” Mio clutched her hands to her chest pensively.

“This Miyabi... She clearly means a lot to you, then.” Noah hummed looking at her and remembering to have seen her during the interlink. Mio nodded.

“I'm happy to leave the decision to you. Of course, we can head for the keep first. This is something personal for me.”

“Right, I hear you. OK. To Omega. If Mio's saying she has to go there, then we will. We'll make it high priority.” Noah decided looking the others that gave them a nod of approval.

“Thanks guys!”

She shared the location of the colony via the IRIS, and Taion immediately pulled it up, already calculating the most efficient path.

“…Never would’ve imagined there’d be a colony there,” he muttered, narrowing his eyes at the map. “It's remote, hard to access, no natural resource advantage…”

A few minutes later, a notification pinged across everyone’s IRIS, showing the route he’d mapped.

“Three to five days’ journey,” Taion announced. “Depending on terrain and the number of high-level monsters we encounter.”

“Hold on…” Sena flicked through her IRIS data. “Okay, next cycle in nine days. Should be fine.”

“Same,” Noah said, checking his. “Twelve days. No issue.”

Mio looked around the table. “Anyone’s rut coming up?”

Lanz and Eunie both shook their heads without hesitation. But Taion…

He paused.

Everyone turned toward him—especially Eunie. Her eyes sharpened, wings twitching slightly behind her.

“Taion?” Mio asked, gaze flicking between him and Eunie.

“No,” he said calmly, offering Eunie a small smile. “No upcoming rut.”

“Then why the dramatic pause?!” Eunie snapped, her voice a bit too high-pitched. “Sparks, ya scared the crap outta me!”

“I apologize,” he replied with maddening calm. “I was double-checking the travel route—just making sure I hadn’t missed anything.”

Eunie narrowed her eyes and stared him down. He met her gaze without flinching, and after a moment of silence, she finally rolled her eyes.

“Fine, whatever. But next time, warn a girl before ya make her heart jump out her mouth.”

Noah stood up, his tone now shifting to business. “Alright. We leave at dawn tomorrow. Everyone, get your gear sorted tonight.”

“Why always dawn?” Eunie groaned as she followed suit.

“Because early start means early arrival, and less monster activity on the road,” Taion replied smoothly.

“Manana need two volunteers for grocery and meal prep!” the Nopon called out from the counter.

“I’m in!” Sena chimed immediately.

“Guess I’m in too,” Eunie shrugged, following her with a playful nudge.

“Noah and I will prep the tents and bedding,” Lanz said, already pulling Noah by the sleeve. “You two,” he nodded at Mio and Taion, “help Riku with the power frame.”

Both Taion and Mio blinked at the unexpected assignment. Wouldn’t it be more logical for them to help Riku?

“Yeah. Have fun with furball!” Lanz snickered, dragging Noah out by the elbow before either of them could protest.

“…They just dumped us, didn’t they?” Mio muttered.

“I suspect so,” Taion murmured, pushing his glasses up his nose.

“Riku don’t care about drama. Work now,” the grumpy Nopon declared. “Power frame not build itself.”

Mio and Taion exchanged a long look before trailing after the small but bossy fluffball. Just before they exited the kitchen, Mio touched Taion’s arm.

He stopped. The look on her face made his chest tighten.

“If you’re going into rut,” she said quietly, “you need to tell us. You need to tell her.”

Taion didn’t respond right away. She could see him mentally weighing every word, every possible outcome.

“I’m not,” he finally said. “I wasn’t lying.”

“Then why did you hesitate?”

“I told you. I was reviewing the path.”

She frowned. He wasn’t lying—but he was hiding something. And she knew him well enough to tell the difference.

“So, no rut. At all?”

“For the third time—no. I’m fine. If that changes, I’ll tell the team. I promise.”

Riku’s impatient squawk echoed down the hall. Mio released his arm reluctantly.

“Alright. I believe you,” she said softly. “But if something’s wrong—anything—you know you can come to me, right?”

“I know,” he replied, voice warm but guarded. “Thanks, Mio. Truly.”

They stepped out together.

But as soon as she was out of sight, chatting with Riku and checking the IRIS map, Taion lingered by the doorway. He turned his back to the hall, took a breath, and reopened his IRIS.

He hadn’t lied.

But he hadn’t told the full truth either.

His eyes locked onto the flashing warning on the screen:

> ALERT: Pheromone levels approaching rut-state threshold.
Estimated time: 1 day.

Taion blinked.

At first, the words didn’t register. He stared at the warning suspended in front of him in the IRIS display, his brain sluggish to grasp its implications. It wasn’t until the red highlight flickered a second time that he felt the sharp snap of awareness tear through his focus.

Rut threshold.

He stood motionless for a beat too long, surrounded by the fading noise of footsteps and Mio’s voice further ahead with Riku. Neither of them turned to look at him, thankfully. He tried to breathe. Forced himself to.

No reaction. No panic.

He tapped the side of the IRIS, the display shrinking slightly as he opened the search bar with mechanical precision. His fingers moved fast, but his thoughts lagged behind, locked in place by a strange sense of detachment. He ran the search quietly, glancing sideways every few seconds to ensure no one was watching his expression—that unreadable, too-neutral mask he was trying desperately to keep in place.

What does it mean? Pheromone spike? Could it be wrong? Could it be—just a glitch?

He found the protocol entry after scrolling a few moments. A medical entry embedded in the Alpha physiology manual. His eyes narrowed, scanning the text.

When an Alpha’s pheromone levels are projected to exceed rut threshold, the biological response may escalate into a rut state. This alert signals a high probability, though not certainty, of rut development. Upon receiving this notice, the subject should prepare accordingly: avoid triggering situations, refrain from intimate or aggressive contact, contact a medical professional, and consider suppressant use. Inform your superior or employer in advance, as rut states may impair normal function.

Taion’s breath hitched.

The words were clinical. Calm. Detached. But his chest constricted as if he’d been shoved underwater, the pressure in his lungs unbearable. His fingers tensed, the IRIS trembling slightly in his hand. He barely registered the rest of the entry—until a memory cut in, unbidden.

Larry’s voice.

The issue is genetic behavior. Rut is not just a heightened sex drive. It’s a deeply instinctive need to dominate, to claim, to mate. Two Alphas are both wired to lead, to win the bond. What happens when you both go into rut, and neither is willing—or able—to yield?

His vision blurred for a second, not from tears—but from a sudden, rising wave of nausea. He imagined himself pinning Eunie down, not with care or affection, but driven by instincts he couldn’t suppress. Her struggling beneath him. The wildness. The heat. Her voice twisted in pain or hatred.

No.

No.

He slammed the thought out of his mind with force. That’s not how it had to go. It wasn’t even certain. The message was a possibility, not a sentence. And he wasn’t helpless. He was never helpless.

Frantically, he scrolled through the entry, searching for solutions. There—beneath the initial summary, buried in a block of medical notes.

While preventing a rut entirely is uncommon, some strategies may reduce its severity or delay its onset. The Alpha should:
— Avoid intimate or sexual contact with bonded or unbonded partners.
— Limit exposure to Omega pheromones, especially those in heat.
— Avoid confrontations with other Alphas.
— Consult a physician for suppressants.
— Reduce physical or emotional stress.

Note: The rut is a natural biological cycle. Suppression is possible but not recommended unless medically necessary. In bonded pairs, communication and preparation are essential.

He swallowed. His mouth was dry.

It wasn’t hopeless.

“Perfect,” he thought under his breath, just above a whisper. “Not likely, but not impossible either.”

There was no mention of exposure to an Alpha’s pheromones—his partner’s. Still, even with his limited knowledge, he knew: any form of intimate exposure with Eunie right now could push him over the edge.

He closed the IRIS.

His heart was pounding.

The moment he stepped into motion again, trailing behind Mio and Riku, it felt like walking with a weight tied to his chest. He focused on matching their pace without drawing attention, his mind replaying the warning in a relentless loop.

Should I tell her?

He didn’t know.

A part of him—the quiet, loyal part—insisted yes. Of course, he should. No secrets. She deserved to know. She deserved the chance to prepare.

But the rest of him—the part knotted in quiet fear—whispered no. What if it didn’t happen? What if this was just a fluctuation? Wouldn’t he just burden her with pointless worry? She’d be tense the whole trip, watching him like he was a ticking bomb. And what if she pulled away?

What if she was afraid?

He clenched his jaw. Sparking coward. That’s what he called himself in his own mind. He hated that it might be true. He’d promised he’d never be that again. Not with her.

And yet…

Despite her teasing smiles, her confident wit, the way she brushed off everything with a grin—he knew she was scared too. Scared for him. For what this could do to them.

He exhaled.

No. Not yet.

He would follow the instructions. Avoid triggers. Maintain distance. If necessary, take a suppressant. He would control this. He would not become a danger.

He could handle it.

He had to.

He glanced ahead at Eunie’s silhouette just visible down the corridor. The flutter of her wings. The bounce in her step.

He’d keep her safe.

Even if it meant lying to her for now. Even if it meant lying to himself.

***

Avoiding Eunie was far harder than Taion had anticipated.

He’d thought—naively—that keeping his distance would be a simple matter of walking faster, sticking close to Mio and Riku, and volunteering for solitary tasks. But the journey to Colony Omega had thrown him into a cruel paradox: the cold was harsher than expected, especially in the elevated paths surrounding the region, and while the Agnian half of the group managed reasonably well, the Kevesi were struggling.

And Eunie… suffered the most.

The low temperatures had crept into her bones, paralyzing her legs with an aching stiffness that made every step feel like a mountain. Her wings—usually so expressive and energetic—were stiff and glistening with frost, the tips weighed down by ice. She trailed behind the others despite her best efforts, and Taion could see it in every strained motion she made.

He’d lost count of how many times he wanted to go back for her.

To shrug off whatever fragile self-control he had left, pull her close, and wrap her in his arms. To carry her. He knew it was wishful thinking—he wouldn’t have made it more than a dozen steps before collapsing under the effort—but the instinct was there. The urge to protect. The longing to be near her, even if his own scent might trigger the very thing he was so desperately trying to avoid.

So instead, he kept his distance. He bit down hard on his lip when her pace slowed. He scanned over his shoulder every few minutes, heart tightening when she stumbled or fell behind. And when he did offer encouragement—just a few words tossed over the wind—it earned him a barrage of the most creative, colorful, and downright savage insults he had ever heard in his life.

He didn’t even blame her.

From her perspective, he must have seemed like an insufferable bastard. Leading the group at full speed, while she slogged through the snow, wings dragging like broken flags. Even Noah and Mio, usually front-runners, had moved back to help the others. But Taion pushed on, silent and grim, eyes fixed ahead.

He didn’t dare fall behind.

Eunie, on the other hand, was baffled.

She couldn’t understand why Taion—her Taion, the one who usually hovered near her side with gentle warnings and biting sarcasm—was marching at the front like a drill sergeant. Sure, he was always good with directions and tactics, but today? Today he was... different. Distant. Cold.

And she hadn’t exactly been sweet in return.

Every time he shouted something like "Just a bit further!" or "Come on, Eunie!", she had snapped back with something loud, offensive, and usually anatomically impossible. She regretted it immediately afterward—okay, maybe not immediately—but she’d planned to apologize once they made camp. The first night was always the easiest time to mend things.

But when they reached the clearing for the tents, she was surprised to find him already speaking quietly with Noah, voice low and careful, just out of earshot.

“You sure about taking both first and second watch?” Noah asked, scratching the back of his neck, visibly hesitant.

“Yes,” Taion said simply. “You and the others need rest. The Kevesi clearly suffer more from the temperature. It’s likely a difference in body temperature regulation. As a healer, I advise maximizing your sleep cycle.”

“Still... two shifts back-to-back?” Noah frowned. “It’s cold, and you’re not immune either.”

Taion adjusted his scarf and gave a quiet sigh. “With my insomnia, I wouldn’t sleep even if I tried. Whether I stay awake in the sleeping bag or out here makes no difference to me. But it can make a difference for the rest of you.”

Noah let out a breath, then nodded slowly, though his gaze drifted to where Eunie stood, arms crossed and glaring daggers at the both of them. “If you’re sure…”

“I am. Just ask Manana to bring something hot during my second shift,” Taion said, turning before Noah could protest again. He didn’t wait for a reply—just walked off toward the watch post without looking back.

Noah lingered a moment, then turned and crossed paths with Eunie.

She didn’t say a word, just narrowed her eyes at him.

He paused and raised an eyebrow. “Something on your mind?”

“I thought his insomnia was improving,” she said tightly, her tone half-accusation, half-concern.

Noah exhaled and rubbed his temple. “You know how he is.” He gave her a sidelong glance. “When he decides something, he doesn’t back down. He’ll be fine.”

She didn’t answer.

Because she wasn’t entirely worried.

She was furious.

The day had been miserable enough. She was exhausted, frozen to her bones, and now Taion—the person she most wanted to sit beside at the fire—was choosing to isolate himself. Again. Not even bothering to explain himself. It felt like a slap. Like old Taion, before they got close. Before the teasing and the touches and the way he softened whenever he looked at her. She slowly followed Noah and sat next to him in front the campfire, trying to melt the ice in her bones.

And maybe… maybe it was the cold making her overreact. She couldn’t tell. But she knew one thing with painful clarity:

She missed him.

The real him.

And she had no idea what the hell had happened to make him disappear behind that mask again.

Pathetic, she thought bitterly, groaning and burying her face into her knees. She never used to be like this. This clingy, lovesick mess. She was turning into one of them, wasn’t she? Noah and Mio with their lingering stares. Lanz and Sena and their breakfast flirting. And now, she—Queen’s sakes—she was longing to lie beside Taion, to curl into his warmth and feel his fingers brushing her wings.

Now that she thought about it... last night… he hadn’t come back.

He claimed he had something to do for the mission. When she asked where he’d gone, Noah mumbled that he found him asleep at the kitchen table, slumped over a half-opened manual Riku had supposedly lent him about the power frame structure. Something about learning how to repair one in case they needed it during the trip.

Eunie hadn’t questioned it in front of the others. But she knew something was off.

He was hiding something.

And now, today, he'd kept his distance the entire march, barking tactical directions like a stranger. It was old Taion. Pre-OuroborosTaion. Unsufferable, arrogant, cold and totally disconnected. She hadn't seen that version of him in months.

Was he… avoiding her?

The idea struck her like a physical blow, her feathers bristling with the sudden surge of emotion. But why would he? They hadn’t fought. They’d teased, sure, but that was always their thing. Even their last interlink was… fine. Normal. 

And now? He was acting like she had the damn plague.

She downed the rest of her soup in one gulp, wiped her mouth, and stood with a frustrated groan. Screw this. She was not going to sit around and stew in confusion. That wasn’t her style. If there was a problem, she would drag it out of him—kicking and screaming if she had to.

With her wings tucked tightly and her jaw set, she stormed off toward the watch post. It wasn’t hard to find him—his absurdly long scarf flapping like a warning flag in the wind.

Taion didn’t even turn when she approached. “Eunie,” he said flatly. “You shouldn’t be out here. Go back to camp. You’ll freeze.”

The neutrality in his voice lit a fuse inside her.

“Oh, go spark yourself,” she growled, closing the distance. She reached to grab his shoulder and spin him toward her—but he recoiled instantly, like she’d burned him. He turned away sharply, backing up as though she were dangerous.

Her hand hung in the air, stunned. “W-wot…?”

Taion clenched his fists, forcing his breathing to remain steady. Every part of him hated this. Hurting her. Making her feel rejected. But the memory—that nightmare—flashed again in his mind: Eunie beneath him, her voice twisted with pain, her eyes filled with hate. The fear gripped him like a vice.

“Go back,” he said, voice steady but colder now. “You’ll catch a cold. We can’t afford to lose our main attacker. These mountains are crawling with elites.”

“Oh, how reckless of me,” she snapped, stepping closer. “Wanting to check on my own sparking partner.”

He flinched. Her voice, her scent—angry and sharp—were like knives to his resolve. He backed up again, and Eunie saw it. Her expression shifted from fury to something more fragile.

“Did you—” she paused, voice cracking slightly, “Did you suddenly become allergic to me?”

“I…” He caught another wave of her scent and stumbled further back, throat dry. “It’s nothing. We’re on a mission. I’m… keeping things professional.”

“Professional?!” she roared, wings trembling with barely contained rage. “Where was your professionalism when you were buried between my legs? Or when you made me scream loud enough to wake the whole damn camp?!” She stormed closer. “What about when you pounded me into the spa wall with everyone ten feet away? Was that professionalism, Mr. Tactician?!”

“Eunie—please,” he whispered, terrified. “It was different. We weren’t on a mission.”

She stopped, chest rising and falling with heavy, angry breaths. A tear formed in the corner of her eye, and the sight gutted him.

He opened his mouth to explain—but he couldn’t. He couldn’t break his resolve, not now. Not when everything was at risk.

“Say, four-eyes,” she whispered, voice bitter and broken, “Do you regret it?”

The silence that followed hurt more than anything he could have said.

“I see,” she said quietly. And then she turned.

Her steps were heavy, shoulders stiff with the effort of holding back whatever emotion trembled behind them. But she paused before leaving his sight and looked back over her shoulder, eyes glistening.

“You’re really sparkin’ good with words,” she said, voice trembling. “All that sweet talk—about us being more than just interlink partners—I almost believed it. Next time, if all you want is sex, just ask. Don’t dress it up.”

A tear slipped down her cheek, illuminated by the moonlight.

Taion reached out instinctively, desperate to stop her, to fix this—but the scent that clung to her, her hurt, her fury—it nearly shattered his control. He clenched his hand into a fist, helpless.

“I’m doing it for us,” he whispered. “I’m doing it for us. I’m doing it for us…”

He repeated it like a mantra, over and over, trying to anchor himself to something as his stomach churned and the world blurred.

When he could move again, he opened his IRIS, hands trembling.

ALERT: Pheromone levels exceeding critical threshold.
Rut-State Imminent.
Time Estimate: / – progression unstable.

 

He checked the graph. The high plateau of pheromone concentration would hold for at least four more days. If it didn’t tip into a full rut before then, it might recede on the fifth.

If.

He dropped his hand and stared up at the sky, the stars smeared by tears he hadn’t realized were falling. The cold wind howled in his ears, but it wasn’t enough to drown out the ache in his chest.

He looked in the direction Eunie had gone, her presence still vivid in the air.

Please, he begged silently. Please let this be worth it.

***

Eunie returned to camp in silence.

Her shoulders were squared like armor, her eyes shadowed, and her expression alone was enough to quiet any questions that might have risen in the group's throats. One glance at her was all it took—whatever had happened, it had left her bitter, cold, and wounded.

Without sparing a word, she crawled into her sleeping bag and curled tightly into herself, facing away from the fire and the others. Her wings twitched slightly before she pulled them in, pressing her knees to her chest in a tight cocoon of down and fabric. She didn’t want to talk. She didn’t want to feel. She just wanted warmth. Solace. Maybe sleep. But even that didn’t come.

The rest of the team began settling down quietly for the night. They joined their sleeping bags in pairs—Noah and Mio close together, Riku and Manana nested snugly near the supplies. But every few moments, Sena’s eyes kept drifting toward the lumpy shape curled near the edge of the firelight.

Eunie’s shivering was hard to miss. The way her shoulders twitched. The sound of her teeth faintly chattering.

“Hey, Lan,” Sena whispered softly, her voice barely louder than the crackle of the fire.

“Mm?” Lanz mumbled groggily, his arm draped protectively over her waist.

“She’s freezing and keeps cursing to the world,” Sena said, tipping her chin toward their friend. “I’ve learned so many swear words today. Seriously, you Kevesi are impressive.”

Lanz snorted, his eyes flicking open as he looked in Eunie's direction. “Yeah… she’s loud even when her face is frozen stiff.” But his smile faded a little, replaced by something more thoughtful. Sena glanced at him, brow raised.

“You’re thinking it too, aren’t you?” she asked gently.

He nodded. “Yeah. She’s miserable. And too stubborn to ask for help.”

Sena giggled softly. “Well, lucky for her, she’s got us.”

She leaned up and whispered, “My hair's still lava-warm. And you’re a walking wall. Could melt a glacier with our combined body heat.”

With a grunt, Lanz sat up and unzipped his sleeping bag. “Open the sleepy bag,” he said, already rising to his feet.

“What are you—?”

“Just open it.”

Sena obeyed, cracking hers open and scooting back a bit to make space. She watched as Lanz stomped over to Eunie’s sleeping bag, reached down, and grabbed it—Eunie included—as if it weighed nothing.

“Oi! What the spark?!” she shouted, writhing inside the fabric as she was hoisted into the air. “Don’t you dare drop me, you big Gogol!”

“Oh, I might,” Lanz huffed, a grin tugging at his lips. “Just for fun.”

“LANZ!”

“Y’re louder than the monsters out 'ere,” he grumbled as he trudged back to their shared spot. “Y’ll thank me later.”

With exaggerated care, he dumped the entire bundle—Eunie still trapped in her bag—right into the space between him and Sena. She landed with an “oof!” and a muffled, “Ow! My arse, you spoon!”

Sena barely held back a laugh as she reached over and unzipped Eunie’s sleeping bag just enough to pull her free and into the warmth. The Agnian immediately wrapped her arms around her, pressing their bodies together as Eunie's wing twitched in surprise.

“You’re gonna me burn with those burning hair of yours,” Eunie muttered, but her voice had lost most of its bite.

“Shhh,” Sena whispered, nuzzling her cheek. “My hair doesn’t actually burn, you know. It’s just… cozy.”

Eunie sighed deeply, her shoulders slumping as some of the tension began to leave her body. Lanz lay down behind her, adding another layer of heat and muscle to the equation.

“I’ll try not to crush you,” he said dryly. “But no promises if I roll in my sleep.”

“Don’t worry,” Sena chimed sweetly, “I’ll punch him right in the kidneys.”

Eunie let out a short, shaky laugh. “Please do.”

The warmth of their bodies seeped into her, melting the ache in her chest and soothing the numbness in her limbs.

“You okay, feather-brain?” Lanz asked after a beat, gently poking her cheek with his finger.

She closed her eyes, curling her hand into Sena’s, letting her thumb stroke the soft skin there.

“Yeah…” she whispered. “Don’t worry about me.”

Sena glanced at Lanz again, her brows furrowed with concern. He met her look and gave a subtle shake of his head.

They both knew she wasn’t okay—not really. But that was Eunie: tough, proud, and private. She’d rather freeze her feathers off than admit she was hurting. Just like Taion would rather burn inside than talk. That was what bound their odd little family together—layers of armor over hearts too tender to bare.

“Taion’s being a jerk,” Lanz muttered, closing his eyes.

Eunie said nothing for a moment. Then, quietly, “Yeah.”

She rested her head against Sena’s chest and let the warmth wrap around her like a shield. Her lashes fluttered closed, and her breathing evened out. The cold, the heartbreak, the confusion—all of it dulled under the comfort of their presence.

Within moments, she was asleep, her hand still tucked into Sena’s.

Sena pressed a soft kiss to her forehead, humming happily.

And in the quiet of the dark, that was enough.

***

Over the next few days, Eunie and Taion seemed to revert to their old rhythm—but not the good kind. The kind filled with tension, sarcasm, and barely-veiled frustration. They avoided each other like polar ends of a magnet, only breaking the silence to argue, which usually ended with Eunie flinging a fresh round of creative insults, and Taion quietly walking away before her temper fully detonated.

“It’s like we’re back in those cursed first months…” Noah muttered, watching the two bicker from a distance as the group trudged through snowdrifts. Day four of their trek to Colony Omega, and spirits were wearing thin. Tomorrow, they’d finally arrive—assuming no more delays—but the path had been rougher than expected. The carefully planned shortcut Taion mapped out had proven treacherous, with avalanche-prone slopes burying their intended trails in heavy snow, forcing them into longer, more erratic detours.

Tensions ran high. And the two healers had become the weakest link. Every attempt to reconcile them had backfired spectacularly, so the group had, by unspoken agreement, decided to let them work it out themselves.

Or not.

“Something’s up with them,” Mio whispered to Noah as she watched the latest exchange, Eunie practically growling at Taion as she refused to initiate their interlink synch.

“I tried to talk to him before we left,” she added softly. “He said everything was fine.”

“Lanz tried, too. Got a face full of sarcasm for his trouble,” Noah sighed. “They’re both shutting down. Should we step in? I mean… it’s not exactly our place to—”

“If you ask Taion, definitely not,” Mio smirked.

“‘Busybodies,’” Noah said, attempting a deadpan impression of Taion’s prim tone.

Mio burst out laughing.

“I say we wait and see,” she said once she calmed. “If it starts to impact combat, then yeah, they’re getting a full lecture.”

Noah nodded in agreement. “Deal.”

The sun was dipping behind the snow-covered peaks, painting the slopes in hues of dusky blue and violet. The wind picked up again, sharp and merciless, slicing through their clothes like knives.

“I’m sparkin’ going to die,” Eunie muttered, clenching her teeth and rubbing her arms furiously in a futile attempt to stay warm.

“Should we take a breather?” Mio proposed, looking around for a safe and sheltered spot to camp.

“Sounds good…” Noah sighed, exhausted.

“The cold of the highlands is no joke. It would definitely be a good idea to rest up,” Taion added.

“How about that spot over there?” Mio asked, pointing to a good spot next to the mountain wall and inside a half-cavity, providing some shelter from the freezing wind.

“Yeah, that sounds good. Let’s go,” Noah agreed, following Mio.

By the time the camp was set and the fire crackled to life, Taion had, once again, excused himself from the group, volunteering to take first watch alone. He didn't linger, didn’t eat, didn’t so much as glance in Eunie’s direction as he walked off into the darkness.

“Friend not eat again?” Manana asked, ladling soup into wooden bowls.

“Monster threats high in this region,” Riku said with a shrug. “Friend guardopon.”

“Meh, meh. Monsters less dangerous than Riku think,” Manana mumbled, clearly unconvinced.

“Well, thanks to Mimi and Noah,” Sena said brightly, looking across the fire. “Your interlink’s gotten super fast!”

Mio and Noah blushed at the praise.

“Yeah!” Lanz added, nodding. “Could barely keep track of your movements today. You two are sparking terrifying!”

“It’s the bond,” Mio said with a small smile. “It strengthened our synch. We barely need a second now.”

“Just a glance,” Noah agreed. “The affinity builds almost instantly. It’s… different now.”

Eunie’s hand froze around her spoon.

Her grip tightened.

Her stomach twisted.

She tried to swallow another mouthful of soup, but the warmth turned to lead in her throat. Her hands trembled just slightly, and for a moment, she thought she might actually throw up. The chatter, the laughter, the casualness of it all—it cut deeper than she could explain. They didn’t know, of course. No one knew. She’d spent the entire day trying not to think about him. About his words, his distance. The cold was one thing. The emptiness was another.

She carefully lowered her spoon back into the bowl.

“But… bowl still full,” Manana said softly, blinking up at her. “Soup not good?”

“No, no! It’s amazing, Manana. Promise,” Eunie smiled quickly, too wide, too bright. “Just… stomach’s a bit off, that’s all. Probably the cold.”

“Manana has special tummy soup for bad tummypon!”

“Ah, don’t fuss, sweetheart.” Eunie reached out to squeeze the Nopon’s arm affectionately. “I think I’ll just sleep it off.”

“But—”

“Really. G’night, guys.”

Before anyone could argue, she was already on her feet, grabbing her sleeping bag and moving toward the farthest edge of the sheltered area. She curled up with her back to them all, cocooning herself tightly, hoping sleep would drown out everything she was feeling.

Sena watched her go, her expression softening.

“I’ll be right back,” she said, already unzipping her bag.

Lanz gave her a short nod. “Tell her to stop freezing herself out of spite.”

“I’ll try.”

Sena padded quietly across the snow-packed ground and knelt beside Eunie’s curled-up form. Without asking, she attached their sleeping bags together, ignoring the half-hearted protest muttered from within.

“Go away.”

“No.”

“I said I wanna be alone—”

“Oh, I didn't hear you,” Sena whispered as she slid in and wrapped her arms around her. 

Eunie groaned.

As soon as Sena’s warmth sank in, as soon as her body pressed close, Eunie let out a shaky breath and turned just enough to bury her face in her friend’s shoulder. No words. No explanations. Just the quiet, trembling relief of not being alone.

“Thanks,” Eunie murmured into her hair.

Sena smiled and held her tighter.

“Hehe, my pleasure!”

And just like that, Eunie’s walls crumbled, exhaustion tugging her into sleep at last. Not peaceful. Not whole. But held—quietly, gently, and without question.

Lanz observed the campfire scene from a distance, arms crossed, his eyes tracking Sena as she gave a triumphant thumbs-up from within her sleeping bag. Her face practically glowed with satisfaction, as if she’d just completed a heroic side quest. He chuckled, lifted his own thumb in return—Good job, babe—before his expression shifted back to something more serious.

“I’m getting real tired of this,” he muttered, jerking his chin toward the watch point where Taion had disappeared moments earlier. “Someone’s gotta talk to four-eyes. But it ain’t gonna be me.”

“I’ve already tried,” Mio sighed, curling her legs under her blanket and rubbing her hands for warmth. “Didn’t get anywhere.”

“Riku too busy,” the Nopon declared with zero conviction, hopping off his log seat. “Help Manana wash dishes. Very important task.” And with that, he scurried off, clearly dodging any involvement.

Mio and Lanz both turned toward the only other candidate sitting nearby.

“…Me?” Noah asked, startled by the attention.

“Y’ two are all chummy now, right?” Lanz said, raising an eyebrow and crossing his arms again. “Look, I’m not sayin’ I don’t care about Eunie—I mean, I don’t hate her…” His voice trailed off, the closest he’d ever come to an admission of genuine concern. “But this can’t go on. Something happened. And it’s not small.”

Noah hesitated, his brow furrowed in thought. “Even so… do we have the right to interfere? I mean, yeah, I hate seeing them like this too, but they’ve fought before. They always bounce back.”

“This time’s different,” Lanz said flatly. “Pretty sure Eunie cried.”

Noah’s head snapped toward him. “What?”

“Couldn’t tell for certain—her face was all red and puffed, but I think I saw her eye tearing up that first night.” He paused, rubbing the back of his neck. “She didn’t say anything, of course. But… you know how she is. Cryin’ isn’t her thing.”

The memory hit Noah like a punch to the chest. The last time he and Lanz had heard Eunie cry, she'd locked herself in the bathroom after Joran's death. The thought that things had gotten that bad between her and Taion…

“Alright,” Noah said, pushing to his feet. He gave Mio a quick kiss on the top of her head, making her ears twitch in surprise and delight. “I’ll go. Don’t wait up.”

“Knowing Taion, you’ll be back before I’ve even warmed up your side of the bed,” Mio teased, wrapping herself more tightly in her blanket. “Good luck.”

The moment Noah stepped outside the sheltered ring of warmth, he regretted it. Snow had begun to fall again, and the frigid wind bit at his face and fingers like needles. He trudged through the soft white blanket, scanning the darkness for that obnoxiously bright scarf Taion always wore—but visibility was poor. Too poor.

Luckily, he didn’t need his eyes.

He felt it.

Taion’s pheromones lingered in the air like a stormfront. Dense. Heavy. Possessive. Angry. They radiated outward in waves, pulsing with a low-level aggression that would have sent most Alphas into high alert. But Noah, being Omega, wasn’t affected that way—his body simply recognized the tension and responded automatically.

He let out a long breath, and instinctively released a subtle thread of calming pheromones—nothing overwhelming, just enough to try and bring Taion back down to neutral.

It had the opposite effect.

Taion jolted upright like he’d been burned, his eyes wide with panic. His fists clenched in the snow, and his shoulders drew tight as he whipped around, staggering back.

“Noah! Don’t come closer!” he barked, arm raised like a shield.

Noah froze mid-step. “What the hell—? I was just trying to—”

“Shut off your pheromones! Now!” Taion gasped, his hand now pressed over his nose and mouth as he backed up further. His whole body was rigid, like he was trying to hold something back by force.

Noah blinked in disbelief, then did as asked, pulling his pheromone levels down to zero. For a moment, the air felt strangely empty—vacuumed of everything but the frigid night and the echo of Taion’s heaving breath.

Eventually, Taion’s trembling subsided. His breathing returned to something resembling normal. His voice, when it finally came, was quiet but strained.

“…Thanks. And sorry. You startled me. I didn’t mean to… snap like that.” He wasn’t looking Noah in the eye. He seemed more preoccupied with scanning his IRIS panel, checking something with growing anxiety.

ALERT: Pheromone levels exceeding critical threshold.
Rut-State Imminent.
Time Estimate: / – progression unstable.

The IRIS warning remained unchanged.

Same warning. A strangled groan of relief escaped Taion’s lips, shoulders slumping as if a weight had temporarily been lifted.

“Taion?” Noah’s voice cut through the snow-laden silence again, tentative but concerned. “Are you perhaps…?”

“NO!” The answer came too fast, too loud—panic cracking through the cold air like a whip. Taion’s voice echoed off the mountainside, and he immediately winced. He coughed hard, trying to smother the rising panic and smooth out his tone. “No, I’m not entering rut,” he added more calmly, though the strain was obvious. Not yet. He lowered his pheromone levels with effort, his body resisting every ounce of discipline.

“I’m sorry,” he continued, trying to collect himself. “I was… lost in thought.”

“Yeah, no kidding,” Noah muttered, his brow still furrowed in concern. He took a careful step forward, watching Taion as if he were trying to decipher a puzzle with missing pieces. “You… okay?”

“Yes,” Taion replied far too quickly again. His hand twitched at his side, his fingers curling into the snow. “I just—reacted strongly to your pheromones. Some kind of temporary over-sensitivity, nothing more.”

Noah raised an eyebrow, unconvinced. “You sure? ‘Cause earlier, I thought I was accidentally pumping out ‘Alpha Challenge Me’ pheromones or something.”

“They were strong,” Taion admitted, straightening slightly, though his tone was still tight. "Sorry, again. I didn't mean to startle you."

Noah didn’t look entirely convinced. “Does Eunie know about this… ‘extra-sensitivity’ of yours?”

Taion looked away, his expression hardening.

“No,” he said quietly. “And I’d prefer to keep it that way. There’s no need to worry her about something that will—hopefully—pass in a matter of days.”

“Is that a hope or a plan?” Noah asked gently.

“…Both,” Taion muttered. “Please, Noah. Go back to camp. We don’t know what awaits us in Colony Omega. You need rest. You all do.”

“As our tactician,” Noah replied, still looking at him as he went back to sit in the spot where he found him. “I’m not a healer, Taion, but you can’t sleep only two hours per night. You must be exhausted.”

“You’d be surprised how many days Isurd and I can go without sleeping at all,” he replied with a smile. The dark circles under their eyes were pretty self-explanatory. Noah bit his lip nervously and decided to play his last card.

“Eunie’s upset,” he said softly. “And worried. She won’t say it, but we can all see it.”

That landed like a stone.

Taion’s posture stiffened instantly. His head snapped toward Noah, and though his voice was level, his eyes turned sharp.

“Noah… please,” he warned.

“She’s my friend, Taion,” Noah pressed on. “My close friend. If something’s wrong, I want to help both of you.”

Taion looked away, lips pressed into a thin line.

“You want to help?” he asked quietly.

“Of course I do.”

“Then go back to camp. Sleep. Tomorrow, when we reach Colony Omega, we’ll need everyone at their best. Including you.”

Noah hesitated. The conversation felt unfinished. Like a door had been opened just an inch, only to be slammed shut again.

“You know,” he murmured, “you say it’ll be over soon. But what if you wait too long, and it’s not over? What if it’s too late to explain anything?”

Taion didn’t answer. He merely turned and sat back down in the snow, arms curled around his knees, eyes fixed blankly on the horizon. The storm had eased slightly, but the cold still pressed down like iron. He didn’t even seem to feel it anymore.

Noah watched him for a moment longer. He wanted to say something else—wanted to break through—but he knew that tone, that wall, that stubbornness. He’d seen it in Eunie too.

So instead, he nodded.

“I’ll say goodnight to the others for you.”

Noah turned and trudged away, his figure fading into the snowy gloom.

Behind him, Taion lowered himself back onto the cold stone, his body still trembling. The sky above was thick with clouds, the stars hidden—but he stared up anyway, whispering something voiceless into the dark.

One more day.

Just one more.

Then he’d tell her everything.

***

It was going well.

Almost too well.

Taion hadn’t expected the mission to proceed so smoothly—especially not after the past few days of tension, emotional disarray, and his pheromone levels riding just beneath the threshold like a ticking time bomb. But somehow, everything was holding together.

Well… almost everything.

He winced slightly as Eunie clicked her tongue at him before the ambush. It was sharp and deliberate, meant to cut—one more expression of the quiet rage still simmering between them. Her words had been few, but loaded.

He hadn’t argued. He simply pointed out the facts. “Possible or not, it’s what we’ve got to deal with right now. We’ll just have to adapt.”

She hadn’t replied. She didn’t need to. Her silence was loud enough.

Still, she held her head high and faced the battle like the soldier she was—fury and all. She didn’t so much as glance at him as they entered the fray.

When Consul Y appeared with that twisted grin and those horrific machines, all bets were off. The moment demanded their focus, not their feelings.

And somehow, when the time came, they interlinked flawlessly.

No hesitation. No friction. Their bodies moved as one, instincts aligned. He let Eunie take the physical lead while he directed the flow of energy, supporting her movements, locking down Consul Y’s grotesque, writhing frame. Their Ouroboros form shone like a beacon of brutal precision, long enough for Noah and Mio to cut through the Flame Clock and sever its grip on the colony.

They didn’t speak through the link.

They didn’t need to.

In those few minutes, there was only motion, unity, the deep and wordless connection forged in battle. He wondered bitterly if that was the only place their hearts could still meet—on the battlefield, where everything else fell away.

As the final blow was dealt and Consul Y’s body crumbled in on itself, the colony's systems flickered offline and silence fell over the devastated facility. Taion dropped to one knee, gasping. His head swam with fatigue, but the warning in his IRIS hadn’t escalated. The pheromones were high, yes—but stable.

For the first time in days, he felt the faintest sense of relief.

He was going to make it.

The exhaustion, ironically, was saving him. It dulled the sharpness of his urges, quieted the storm inside. The desperate instincts that had plagued him since the alert first triggered had receded just enough to give him breathing room. If he could hold out until nightfall, his pheromone levels were projected to dip back beneath the rut threshold.

He just had to endure.

He staggered back to his feet, eyes scanning the field. A few meters away, he spotted Mio throwing herself into Miyabi’s arms, and Sena clinging to them both. Noah followed with a grin and opened his arms wide, pulling all three into a warm, slightly awkward group hug. Even Sena’s tail quivered in excitement.

Taion allowed himself a small smile at the sight. Miyabi was safe. Alive. Free. There would be so much to explain, of course. Mio had already told her she could choose her path now—return to the City, come with them for a while, experience life without the shackles of a Flame Clock. Miyabi had eagerly accepted the invitation to travel, and it warmed something in his chest to see that choice reflected in her eyes.

He watched Mio activate Miyabi’s class and twirl briefly in the newly inherited attire, her hands brushing the fabric like it was made of starlight. Miyabi laughed and pulled her into another hug.

Taion sighed softly.

“You look terrible,” Lanz’s voice broke through his moment of reflection.

Taion turned his head slowly and gave the big man a flat stare. “Difficult to keep the clothes in order when one’s been fighting for their life,” he muttered, adjusting his scarf with a tired flick of his fingers.

“No, I meant you look terrible,” Lanz clarified, his bluntness uncharacteristically softened by concern.

Taion narrowed his eyes, then groaned and turned away, too drained to pick a fight. “Yes, thank you, Lanz. Your bedside manner continues to astonish.”

“Y’re welcome,” Lanz replied, undeterred, crossing his arms as he watched him with a thoughtful frown. “Y’ve looked like a kicked Feronis for days now. Just sayin’.”

Taion ignored him, pressing a palm to his temple for a moment. The post-adrenaline crash was starting to hit hard.

“Let’s just get back to the others,” he muttered. “We need to decide what to do with Cammuravi and the remnants of the colony now that the Flame Clock’s destroyed.”

“Yeah,” Lanz sighed. “And figure out what the hell was going on in this place.”

They turned toward the group just as Noah waved them over, and Mio’s voice called out something about regrouping. Taion walked forward with deliberate calm, but each step felt heavier than the last. His mind was already moving ahead—calculating, assessing, planning for whatever the fallout might be.

But beneath it all, one thought kept whispering in the back of his mind, over and over, like a mantra clinging to hope:

Just a few more hours. Just a little longer. Then I can tell her.

***

It had been a long day.

A brutal, bone-deep, nerve-fraying kind of day. The kind of day that left not just the body, but the soul, aching.

Taion stood just outside the camp’s glow, a cold breeze tugging at his scarf and hair as he quietly accessed his IRIS. His gaze locked onto the pheromone tracker—the same warning still blinking in the corner of his vision like a cursed metronome. But now, finally, after days of torment and suppression, the levels were starting to dip. Slowly. Painfully slowly. But they were dipping.

If the current trend held, in just a couple more hours, he’d be free of it. No more cloying territorial spikes. No more irrational, possessive fury every time Eunie laughed at someone else’s joke. No more walking a razored tightrope of self-restraint.

Just a few more hours, he repeated silently. Almost there.

He turned, ready to report in and offer to take watch duty—his default since the cold march had begun—but the moment he opened his mouth, Noah cut him off.

“Don’t even think about it, Taion.”

Noah's voice carried that familiar blend of quiet command and brotherly concern, the kind that usually got even Lanz to listen. Taion blinked, caught off-guard.

“I don’t see why not…” he murmured, arching a brow, trying to hide the tremble of fatigue creeping into his spine.

“Because you’re done, mate,” Noah said, his tone leaving no room for argument. “You’ve been running on fumes for days. Everyone sees it. Hell, I see it—and I’m barely functioning myself. Don’t even try the ‘I trained under Isurd’ excuse, either. I’m not buying it.”

“I wasn’t going to say that,” Taion said, a little too quickly, then paused and sighed. “Alright. Maybe I was. But I can manage.”

“If you don’t go lie down,” Noah replied, pinching the bridge of his nose, “I will switch to Dark Banner and knock you out cold. Don’t test me.”

Taion gave him a sharp look, but after a beat, it softened into something more resigned. “You know you shouldn’t threaten a tactician,” he muttered.

“Yeah, and you shouldn’t lie to a teammate,” Noah shot back with a tired smirk. “But here we are.”

The two stood in silence for a moment, the snow crackling gently beneath their boots. The firelight from camp flickered in the distance.

“Besides,” Noah added more softly, “Eunie’s already mad enough that you’ve been dodging her. If you don’t sleep near camp tonight, she’s going to march over here and scream you into unconsciousness herself.”

Taion blinked. “Did she say that?”

Noah shrugged. “Not in so many words. But she did say, and I quote, ‘If four-eyes drops dead before apologizing, I’ll kick his arse.’” He smiled when he saw Taion flinch. “So yeah. She doesn’t hate you quite enough to want you dead. Not today, at least.”

To Noah’s quiet relief, Taion cracked a small smile—a real one, worn but genuine. “Good to know,” he muttered, letting out a long, weary breath. “I’ll talk to her. Just… not tonight. She deserves more than half-formed sentences from an exhausted wreck.”

“Fair,” Noah said with a nod. 

They walked together toward the camp, boots crunching in the snow. The quiet between them was a companionable one now, less tense.

“Anyway, I need you for class setups tomorrow,” Noah continued. “Mio’s dying to try out the Troubadour class, and I’ve maxed out the Stalker. Thinking of switching to something more support-oriented for a bit.”

Taion opened his IRIS again, flipping through the affinity charts. The data calmed him—something structured and predictable at last.

“You haven’t tested Strategos yet,” he commented. “Ether fields aren't quite as effective as Eunie’s, but it makes up for it in speed and fluidity. Good mobility. Strong synergy with Mio’s current class, too.”

Noah nodded, then tapped the command to equip Isurd’s class. “Stylish, too.”

“Yes,” Taion said, almost fondly. “Commander Isurd had a surprisingly keen eye for design. Practical and fashionable.”

They stepped into the firelight, and the warm flicker of orange and gold lit up their faces.

“Oh look, the lost member returns!” Lanz called out with his usual grin, waving a hand dramatically toward Taion. “Finally back in the land of the living, huh? Or just remembered we exist?”

Taion didn’t take the bait. He rolled his eyes with deliberate slowness and strode toward the circle, settling beside Mio and Miyabi with a calm that bordered on theatrical. His scarf fluttered behind him like he’d planned the entrance.

“Well, now that our strategist has decided to grace us with his presence,” Noah said, smirking, “let’s get down to business. Manana’s cooking—so we’ve got about ten minutes before we’re too full to think. Class rotations. Mio and I are switching to support roles, as you probably noticed from the new outfits.”

Mio adjusted her sleek new top with a small flourish, and Miyabi let out an approving hum beside her. “That fabric actually suits you,” she said, brushing Mio’s arm with a light touch. “Good color palette.”

“Taion?” Noah prompted.

Taion opened his IRIS with a flick of his fingers. The graphs and data spun into view, and he studied the affinity curves before speaking. “I unlocked Cammuravi’s class after today’s battle, so I’ll be switching to a vanguard attacker role. I’ll need a bit of sparring to get used to the new rhythm, but it’ll work.”

“Lanz, you’re up for a change too,” Taion added, without glancing up. “Your current class is maxed, and your last stint was as a healer. Let’s put your fists to work again.”

“Since Sena gave me a week-long lecture about how sparkin’ incredible Martial Artist is,” Lanz drawled with a teasing glance at her, “I think I’ll try that one. Happy now?”

Sena turned beet red. “I did not give you a lecture!” she sputtered, making Mio and Miyabi giggle. “I just said it was cool! Which it is!”

“Anyway,” Taion continued, as dry as ever, “Sena and Eunie, I’m assigning you both to defense roles for now. Balance is key, and I want at least one experienced defender active at all times.”

Eunie didn’t reply. She sat on the far side of the group with her IRIS already active, her expression a perfect mask of annoyance. When Taion’s eyes met hers briefly, she shot him a glare sharp enough to cut through rock. He looked down again. Of course. The last available class with decent synergy for her… was Zephyr.

He knew she hated that one. Low affinity, awkward movement mechanics—it never clicked with her. He hesitated before offering:

“We can switch, if you prefer. I can take—”

“It’s fine,” Eunie snapped, cutting him off coldly. Her fingers tapped her IRIS, and she switched into Mio’s class instead, equipping the outfit with a single motion. Then she turned toward Sena and Lanz with a smile that was a little too sharp.

“One of my sleeping buddies got some energy left?” she said, voice chipper but strained. “I need to practice before I start tripping over my own sparkin’ feet.”

“A defender needs a solid attacker for sparring,” Lanz grinned. “I volunteer as tribute, feather-brain.”

“Fine by me, empty-head,” Eunie shot back with a grin of her own.

“NO TRAINING NOW!” Manana’s voice cracked through the night air like thunder. “Is food time! Friends eat stew first, then help Manana clean dishes. Then training!”

“Y-yes, ma’am!” Lanz saluted with a laugh, quickly plopping down as Manana started ladling stew into bowls with uncharacteristic severity.

Taion accepted his portion with a small nod and quietly settled in. For the first time in what felt like weeks, he allowed himself to relax. The scent of the stew, the low murmur of voices, the dim warmth of the fire—they wrapped around him like a protective veil. His eyes flicked to his IRIS once again.

No warning.

He blinked, then refreshed the display just to be sure.

Warning cleared.

The pheromone levels were officially under control, dipping below the threshold. The projected curve didn’t spike again. No rut. No overload. He had done it. Against all odds, against every voice in his head, he’d made it through.

He exhaled softly—half a laugh, half a disbelieving sigh. It’s over.

Not the problem, not the distance between him and Eunie, not the things left unsaid. But the danger of losing himself? That part, at least, was over.

Mio leaned over, watching his expression with quiet curiosity. “You seem… strangely peaceful,” she noted. “Did someone spike your stew with calming herbs?”

“Not that I noticed,” Taion said, lips curling into a faint smile. “Perhaps I’m simply too exhausted to feel anything else.”

“Hmm… don’t be annoying with me, Taion. Or I'll start calling you four-eyes, as well.”

He gave her a sideways glance. “You wouldn’t dare.”

“Oh, I would,” she grinned, nudging him. “You’re lucky I’m in a good mood.”

They both turned their attention toward the others as the firelight cast dancing shadows across the rock wall. A few meters away, Eunie and Lanz were warming up, stretching and rolling their shoulders like they hadn’t just spent the entire day in life-threatening combat.

“Ready?” Lanz called out, summoning his Blade with a flash of light.

“Yeah, yeah. Come at me, big guy,” Eunie said with a grin, her ring weapons glowing as she shifted into a stance. Her eyes gleamed with fire again—not anger this time, but focus. Strength. Resolve.

Taion had been watching Eunie from the edge of the firelight, his back pressed against the cold stone wall. The warmth of the flames reached him only faintly, but it was enough to keep the numbness at bay. His body was sore, his thoughts still sluggish with exhaustion—but his gaze remained fixed on her.

That was when he noticed Mio’s ears twitching beside him. She narrowed her eyes, studying the sparring match with growing concern.

“Something wrong?” Taion asked, shifting slightly to glance at her.

“Her arms are too high,” Mio muttered, mostly to herself. “And she’s stiff—way too stiff.” She didn’t need to explain further. Class affinity wasn’t just a matter of skill—it was instinct, alignment. When the match wasn’t right, even the simplest movement could turn awkward, dangerous.

Before Taion could comment, Lanz made the first move. He charged with his blade in a wide arc, forcing Eunie to block with her twin rings. She did—but only barely. The impact knocked her off balance, sending her stumbling backward. Lanz didn’t let up. He closed the gap with a quick jab, and although she raised her arm to deflect it, she took the hit full-on and hissed through her teeth.

“C’mon, Eunie! Don’t hold back!” Lanz called, a grin tugging at his lips.

“Shaddap, you muppet!” she snapped. Her blood was boiling, not just from the fight. She hadn’t been in the mood to face him—not him—not tonight, not after everything. Seeing Taion sit and eat beside them earlier had been like taking a blade to the ribs. It had taken all her focus to pretend he didn’t exist. The interlink earlier hadn’t helped; if anything, it had left her more confused. She’d felt his emotions, the edge of desperation, the tight-lipped restraint—but she still didn’t understand him. The memories she glimpsed were fragments, not enough to make sense of why he’d shut her out.

And the silence—the way he acted like nothing happened, like she hadn’t happened—it was driving her insane.

Lanz’s blade came down again, and she twisted, only half-parrying it. Her shoulder screamed in protest, and blood trickled from one nostril, but she refused to yield. Her body ached, her vision blurred slightly, but she was clearer in that moment than she had been in days. The physical pain anchored her—it cut through the confusion.

She spat to the side and smirked. “Is that all y’ve got?” she taunted, licking the blood from her lip.

Lanz chuckled, gripping his weapon tighter. “Big talk for someone with jelly legs, feather-brain.”

He surged forward for what would be the finishing move—but then something shifted.

“W-wot…?” Eunie blinked, stumbling to a stop.

A hand caught Lanz’s wrist mid-swing, halting it inches from her head.

Taion.

Taion.Managed.To.Block.Lanz.

He stood between them, his body taut with barely restrained force. Lanz blinked, stunned, trying to process the strength of the grip—Taion's fingers digging into his wrist with bruising pressure.

“Taion?” Eunie exclaimed, voice sharp and confused.

“Enough.”

His voice was low. Gravelly. Almost… feral.

And then—his pheromones exploded outward like a shockwave.

Lanz reeled back with a cough, instinctively shielding his face. The scent was wrong—sharp, bitter, aggressive. It wasn’t like any of Taion’s usual signatures. It was suffocating, primal.

“What the spark—Taion!” Lanz barked, trying to yank his arm back. “Let go!”

But Taion didn’t. His grip tightened.

Lanz stared into his eyes—and froze.

They weren’t right.

They shimmered with a reddish glow, like the motes they saw when soldiers returned to the ether. His pupils had thinned, sharpened. And his canines—were they longer?

Lanz blinked. The glow vanished in an instant. Taion looked furious. But human again.

Still, he didn’t release him.

“If you don’t want me to punch your face into the ground,” Lanz growled, teeth bared, “then let. Go.”

Mio had already jumped to her feet, coughing slightly as she reached them. “Taion—stop!”

Noah rushed to Eunie’s side, helping her steady herself. “Calm down! Both of you!”

“Tell him to calm down!” Lanz snarled, eyes locked with Taion’s.

Then—Eunie’s voice, soft but firm. “Taion.”

Everything froze.

Taion’s head turned slowly toward her, as if hearing her name had snapped something in his brain. He blinked, eyes regaining focus. And suddenly, he let go. Lanz stumbled back, clutching his wrist with a wince.

“I… I…” Taion backed away, disoriented. He looked at his hands like they belonged to someone else. “I didn’t mean to— I don’t… what just…”

Everyone stared at him.

He looked around, utterly lost, as if waking from a nightmare. The tension that had surged through the camp was still thick, buzzing in the cold air like static.

Sena moved toward Lanz, concern written across her face. “You okay?”

“Yeah,” Lanz muttered, rotating his wrist, the skin red where Taion had gripped him. “Didn’t know he had it in him.”

“You might’ve strained something,” Miyabi offered gently. “Let me look?”

He nodded, still dazed, letting her examine his arm while Mio watched Taion carefully. He didn’t return to the group. He just… walked away, quiet and pale, toward the edge of camp, vanishing into the shadows.

Eunie watched him go, her jaw clenched tightly.

“…Let’s sleep,” she murmured, still staring at the space where he’d been. “I’ve had enough hits for tonight.”

Eunie walked away first, her steps clipped and heavy with barely-contained fury. The others followed in silence, the atmosphere brittle with the aftermath of what had just happened. She didn’t say a word, didn’t look back. She couldn’t.

She didn’t know what to think anymore. Her mind was a mess of confusion and white-hot rage. Who did he think he was, stepping in like that during her training? As if she wasn’t capable of holding her own. As if she needed saving! That arrogant, idiotic—

Did he think it would impress her? That she’d swoon because he went feral on Lanz? Well, he did impress her, but not in the way he probably hoped. She was more furious now than she had been the last three days combined, and she didn’t even need Sena’s presence to fall asleep tonight. Her blood was boiling hot enough to knock her out cold the moment she hit the sleeping bag.

Taion, on the other hand, didn’t sleep at all.

Mio knew he wouldn’t. She’d seen it building—she knew it. So when he stirred after midnight, his breathing shallow and his movements erratic, she was already awake.

He slipped out of the tent quietly, like a ghost. Mio disentangled herself from Noah’s and Miyabi’s warmth and grabbed a small pouch she had prepared earlier. Then she followed him into the snow-covered night.

The cold bit at her cheeks, but it was mild compared to the past few nights. The skies had cleared, moonlight spilling across the mountains like silver mist. She didn’t need to track him by scent or sound. She just followed the thin trail of footsteps that veered off the cave’s edge—and found him collapsed against the rocky wall, half-curled into himself.

His breathing was labored. One arm was pressed over his lower abdomen, the other draped over his face as if to shield himself from the world.

“I have to admit,” Mio said gently as she stepped closer, “you’re usually better with words, Taion.”

He didn’t look at her. Just let out a humorless laugh.

“I didn’t lie technically,” he murmured, voice low and raw. Then, suddenly, he slammed a fist into the snow beside him, spraying frost. “I was almost there. I thought I could manage it. I was so close… If only—”

His voice cracked, unable to finish.

Mio’s sigh was quiet but full of sympathy. She knelt beside him and opened the small pouch.

“How bad is it?” she asked. “You’ve only got your jumper on, which tells me it’s starting soon.”

He groaned, accepting the blister pack she handed him.

“Temperature’s already rising. Can’t focus, pheromones are all over the place. My eyes feel like they’re on fire, and I’ve got cramps everywhere.”

“You still talk like a textbook,” Mio teased gently, handing him a canteen. “That’s reassuring.”

He gulped down the pill with the water, then chuckled—weakly, but with a flash of that sharp wit she knew so well.

“And I’ve got a painfully stubborn erection,” he said dryly. “That’s not very Taion-like, is it?”

Mio laughed, but her stomach tightened when she saw his eyes.

One was still hazel. The other… blood red, vertical-pupiled, gleaming faintly even in the dark.

His canines had lengthened.

She schooled her expression. “Those suppressants are M’s. They might not be fully effective for you. But they’re better than nothing.” She then lowered her gaze to his pants where she could see his throbbing erection. "I'm afraid there is nothing I can do for that." She gestured his pants.

“I’m sure you’re deeply sorry about not fixing the erection part,” he muttered.

“Oh yes. Totally devastated,” she deadpanned. 

"What happens now?" he asks, closing his eyes.

“Your pheromones will drop, the symptoms will mostly disappear and you will feel terrible.”

"Great, nothing new, then," he groaned.

She didn’t say anything at first, just watched him tremble under the thin layer of clothing and exhaustion.

Then, quietly, she asked, “Taion… You can’t keep avoiding her. You have to talk to her.”

He stiffened.

“Mio, please,” he said, almost begging.

She turned fully toward him—and froze.

Tears.

One eye was back to its usual color. The other still glowed, eerie and unstable. But the expression in both… was terrified.

“I can’t lose her,” he whispered. “I promised myself I wouldn’t lose anyone again. And now I keep seeing it—I keep seeing this image in my head of her beneath me, with that hateful gaze in her eyes because I lost control. I can’t…”

His voice cracked. Hands trembling, he finally let her take them.

“You won’t lose her,” she said firmly. “She’s angry now, yes. But she’s strong. And she cares. This? This will pass.”

He looked at her, desperate, but said nothing. Then his body jerked slightly, his eyes fluttered—and he collapsed sideways into her lap.

“Taion!” she gasped, but when she touched him, she realized—he was out cold. Not unconscious from danger. Just from the suppressant and the days of sleep deprivation catching up to him all at once.

She checked his temperature. Still high, but manageable. Gently, she administered a touch of ether and hoisted his arm over her shoulders. It took her several minutes, but she managed to drag him back to the campfire and tuck him into his sleeping bag. He didn’t stir.

She knelt beside him, watching the flickering shadows across his face.

He’s terrified, she thought. Terrified of ruining what he has with her. Of letting the rut take over and destroying something precious.

She looked across the camp at Eunie, sleeping with her arms tucked beneath her head, peaceful for now.

Mio bit her lip. Should I wake her?

Should she tell her the truth? Bridge the gap between them?

But then she remembered what Taion had said—what he hadn’t said. The sheer fear in his voice.

Even with M’s memories… she couldn’t predict what might happen if two Alphas went through rut together. With Noah, everything had clicked into place. But Eunie? Eunie might fight him. Might reject him. Might say something that broke him beyond repair.

Taion couldn’t handle that—not now.

Mio sighed, rubbing her temples.

She would regret this. She already regretted it.

But she’d protect him for now. Help him hide it. Just until they reached the Cloudkeep. Once they met the Queen and headed back toward the City, she could push for a proper suppressant. Maybe even have him fake an illness to avoid suspicion.

She glanced at Eunie again.

This is your worst plan yet, Taion, she thought.

“Mio?” a sleepy voice murmured. Noah. His eyes half-lidded in the tent’s shadows. "Something happened?"

She slipped back under the sleeping bag beside him.

“No,” she whispered, kissing his lips gently. “Nothing happened. Just making sure everyone was asleep.”

“Oh…” He yawned and nuzzled into her neck. “Okay.”

Miyabi, still half-asleep, wrapped her arms around Mio from behind, sighing contentedly.

Mio let herself sink into their warmth. She wouldn’t sleep easy tonight. And tomorrow, she’d start building the first of many lies to keep a promise that wasn’t even hers to make.

But for now, she held them tight and whispered silently into the darkness: Please hold on, Taion. Just a little longer.

Chapter Text

Taion was certain he had never felt this awful in his entire life. Not even during that brutal infection in his second term—when his wound festered for weeks and left him bedridden with fever and fever dreams. That had been agony. But this?

This was worse.

His body felt like a slab of stone—every movement sent spasms of pain through cramped muscles and aching joints. His head throbbed mercilessly, as if someone were hammering nails into his skull from both temples. His vision was blurry despite his glasses, and there was a low hum in his ears that distorted every sound, stretching time and meaning. His mouth was dry, his skin hot to the touch, and every breath made his chest ache. And yet—Mio was right. At least he wasn’t horny anymore.

The suppressants designed for Alpha ruts were stronger, harsher, and far less forgiving than those used for Omegas. They didn’t just dull the libido. They crushed it. Shut it down entirely. Along with appetite. Will. Joy.

Taion could barely stomach the thought of food, and what little had made it into his bowl that morning ended up discreetly emptied into the snow when no one was watching—especially Manana. He was still holding the mug when a voice pierced his foggy mind.

“Taion?” Sena’s voice was unusually soft. Concerned. “You okay?”

He jolted in place, nearly fumbling the cup in surprise. His heart leapt into his throat—was I caught?

He forced himself to smile, weakly. Too weakly.

“Y-yes!” he blurted. “I was just… um, going to wash my cup.”

Sena stepped closer, frowning. “You’re flushed. And you’re sweating. Do you have a fever?”

Yes, he thought. A pretty severe one, actually. His entire body felt like it was on fire. But he couldn’t say that. Not now.

“Oh,” he said lamely, feigning surprise. “Might be. But it’s nothing to worry about.”

Noah had wandered closer by then and overheard them.

“You don’t look fine,” he said, arms folded across his chest. “Should we head back to the City?”

“NO!” Taion’s voice cracked as he panicked, louder than he intended. He coughed hard, adjusting his glasses to cover his misstep. “I mean… it’s not serious. Just a residual fever, part of my recovery. Meeting the Queen is far more important than a slightly elevated temperature.”

“Bollocks,” Eunie’s voice sliced in from behind, sharp as ever. She stalked over, her expression stormy. “Above average, my arse. Wot kind of quack doctors do you have in Agnus?”

Taion had no energy to argue. Not with her. Not now. Her concern, even buried beneath sarcasm and annoyance, was unmistakable—but it only made it worse.

“I’ll take something for it. It’s manageable,” he said, trying to sound firm. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ll go wash these so we can depart.”

He turned and walked—slowly, each step heavier than the last—toward the water where Mio was cleaning up. Sena followed him, her eyes still filled with worry. Behind them, Noah sighed, rubbing the back of his head in frustration.

Eunie crossed her arms tightly. “I don’t get it,” she muttered, eyes narrowed. “Something’s seriously off.”

“You didn’t see anything while interlinked?” Noah asked, puzzled.

“No,” Eunie answered after a moment, her voice lower, edged with unease. “That’s what bothers me. His mind’s always been complicated—full of annoying, logical layers—but I could always understand him. This time? It was like static. Chaos. I couldn’t even get a hold of a single emotion.”

“Do you think he’s really sick?”

Eunie let out a slow breath, glancing toward the snow, then at Taion’s bowed back. “Dunno. Maybe. But he wouldn’t let me check him even if I tried. And honestly, I don’t even know if I want to. Still pissed off.”

“I know you are,” Noah said gently. “But like you said last night—”

“Yeah, yeah,” she grumbled. “I don’t hate him enough to want him dead.” She hesitated. “Not yet anyway.”

Noah smirked. “You don’t hate him at all.”

“Shadapp, Noah,” she snapped. “Not in the mood for your romantic sermons. Go cuddle your fluffy-eared girlfriend and leave me out of it.”

Without waiting for a reply, she turned and stomped off to pack her things. Noah shook his head, then followed her, a small smile playing at his lips despite the situation.

The journey itself was smoother than the one that had led them to Colony Omega. No sudden route changes. No ambushes. Still, Taion barely managed to keep up. He walked in silence the entire day, grimacing with every step but refusing to slow down or ask for help.

By the time the sun dipped below the horizon, they had made it to the base of the Cloudkeep, just like M’s memories had shown them. Taion felt the crushing weight on his chest begin to ease. Just a little farther. Then I can collapse.

He looked up, hoping for a glimpse of their destination. Noah and Sena were talking at the front, and behind them, Lanz and Eunie were bickering playfully, nudging each other like they hadn’t a care in the world.

His gaze locked on her.

She was laughing—fully laughing—and it stunned him. Her wings fluttered behind her ears, her cheeks flushed from the cold and from whatever joke Lanz had cracked. She flashed her perfect teeth and—

And suddenly, he saw them on his skin. Biting. Marking.

His teeth on her neck, her breast, her back—

Her hands in his hair, pulling, clinging—

Her legs around him—

He blinked, his breath catching. 

Why was she laughing with Lanz like that? Hadn’t she been angry with him? Wasn’t she supposed to be… distant? Upset?

Jealousy surged through him, irrational and ugly. His steps quickened. His nostrils flared. He clenched his jaw tight, trying to suppress the low growl rising in his throat as he glared at Lanz’s back.

Then—

“Taion,” Mio’s voice cut through the haze like a blade. She had been walking beside him all day, close enough to intervene. And now, she did.

She gently grabbed his arm and turned him toward her.

“Uh—?” he mumbled, dazed.

“You’re leaking pheromones again,” she whispered, sharp but calm. Her eyes scanned his face. “And I’d really prefer not to see you pitch a tent while staring at Eunie's arse.”

“I—I wasn’t—” he started, horrified.

“Yes, you were,” she deadpanned. “Also, you were growling at Lanz. Do I need to remind you what happened yesterday?”

His stomach twisted in shame. Was that really what he’d done? Growled? At Lanz? He didn’t even remember.

“Suppressant,” Mio said firmly. “Now. Your irises are starting to tint again.”

He reached for his pocket, startled and clumsy.

"My iris?" he asked confused. Mio tilted her head.

“Yesl,” she reassured him, her voice softening. “Eyes change. Canines might lengthen. Strength increases, too—hence yesterday. But most of all, your brain starts playing tricks on you. Everything’s heightened. Desire. Aggression. Insecurity.”

He took his glasses off and rubbed his eyes, groaning.

“Yes. I noticed.”

“You’re thinking things you wouldn’t normally think,” she said, lowering her voice further. “About her. About Lanz. And none of it is real, not really. Just chemicals and instincts pushing at the edges.”

He pulled out the suppressant and stared at it. He really didn't want to take another one.

“You don’t want to take it,” Mio added, watching him closely. “Every part of you is screaming not to. Because why should you? She’s right there. Your…” she almost said mate, but stopped herself. “Your partner. It feels wrong to suppress something that feels so deeply yours.”

Taion didn’t reply. He simply took the pill, shoved it into his mouth, and downed it with a grimace and a gulp of water.

Mio sighed, shaking her head. “Still the most stubborn person I know.”

He gave her a weak smile.

“Let’s camp here,” she added gently. “You need rest.”

Taion nodded mutely and followed her back toward the group, dragging behind just a little—but still standing.

Still trying.

***

Just minutes earlier, the alarm had gone off, and Taion had woken up feeling somehow worse than he had the day before—which was saying something. His limbs were heavy, drenched in sweat, his skin clammy despite the chill. His head pounded as if someone were driving nails through his temples, and his mouth was dry as ash.

He barely managed to untangle himself from the sleeping bag and stagger outside the cave before his body revolted. He collapsed to his knees in the snow and threw up violently. Nothing solid came out—just a harsh, bitter flood of bile and clear gastric acid. He coughed, gagged, and nearly collapsed face-first into the snow.

Then he saw it.

A glint of white against the icy ground—half of the suppressant pill.

Snuffing perfect.

It was a controlled-release drug, designed to dissolve slowly across several hours. Vomiting up half of it meant the dose was ruined. He cursed under his breath and shakily reached for his pack, pulling out the blister of pills with trembling fingers. He stared at the new one, his vision swimming. Every part of him recoiled at the thought of swallowing anything, but protocol was clear: when you lost half, you took half of a new one.

With great effort, he cracked the pill in two, his hands twitching violently. Just as he prepared to raise it to his lips, his stomach knotted again, and another wave of nausea slammed into him—but this time, he clenched his jaw and forced it back down.

“Wot the spark?!!”

The voice nearly made him drop the pill. He jolted, startled, eyes snapping to the figure sprinting toward him.

Eunie.

Of all the people to find him like this.

Her voice was sharp, tinged with alarm, and though her footsteps were still several meters off, he panicked. Without thinking, he buried the half-pill into the snow beside him and shoved his hand in his coat pocket, trying to look natural—whatever natural looked like after vomiting into the snow before sunrise.

Damnit. Not now. Not her.

He forced himself to his feet, unsteady and pale.

“It’s nothing serious…” he managed to say, locking eyes with her. “Just some nausea. Happens sometimes when—”

Before he could finish, Eunie had closed the distance and planted her hand directly on his forehead.

The contact nearly floored him.

Heat roared through him like fire igniting dry kindling. Her touch was scorching and soothing all at once, and he melted into it despite himself. His body slackened. His knees buckled slightly. His nostrils flared as her scent wrapped around his brain and dulled everything else.

“Sparks, Taion!” she gasped. “Y’re burnin’ up! What the hell, we need to go back. Now.”

She spun around, clearly preparing to call the others or drag him back herself. But he snapped out of his daze just in time and grabbed her wrist.

“No—I’m fine.”

“Cut the crap.” Her voice was flat, no-nonsense. She yanked her wrist free without much effort, her eyes narrowing. “And we’ll talk later, four-eyes.”

Taion swallowed thickly, then tried to compose himself. “Eunie, I appreciate your concern, but we’re nearly at the end. We just have to meet the Queen. That’s all. Then… we can go back. And I promise, when we do… I’ll make sure we talk. Sort things out.”

The sincerity in his voice was real, even if it came through clenched teeth and a fever-glazed face. He didn’t say what he was really thinking—that by the time they returned to the City, this rut would hopefully be over and he could speak to her without all his primal instincts clouding everything.

She studied him carefully, her brow furrowing. He looked awful. Pale, sweaty, trembling. But she also knew he was stubborn enough to walk on a broken leg if it meant finishing a mission.

“…You sure you can hold on till tonight?” she asked slowly.

“Yes.” His voice was thin, but steady.

She sighed, the sound long and begrudging. “Spark’s sake. Fine. Let’s go before the others start askin’ where I buried your cadaver.”

He managed a strained chuckle. “If they do, tell them to check half a kilometer back. Pretty sure there’s a suspicious pile of snow that could hide a body.”

She turned and smirked at him over her shoulder. “Don’t give me good ideas, four-eyes.”

He almost smiled in return—almost—but his hand in his pocket clenched tightly around the pill. The weight of it was unbearable. He couldn’t take it in front of her. She would notice immediately. The packaging wasn’t standard issue. She’d recognize it wasn’t the regular fever meds or painkillers they all carried.

And then she’d ask questions.

Questions he wasn’t ready to answer.

A chill raced down his spine that had nothing to do with the snow.

He had to wait. Just a little longer. The last of the suppressant’s effects were still working through his system—barely. If he timed it right, he could take the remaining dose when no one was paying attention after the Queen’s audience.

He followed her back to camp slowly, silently, trying not to stumble or sway. But despite his best efforts, he caught her glancing back at him more than once.

That worry was still there, simmering just beneath her sarcasm.

He didn’t deserve it. 

But maybe, if he held on just a little longer—he might.

****

“Hey hey hey HEY! Dontcha think you're gettin' carried away there? Urgh, what a loser. You good-for-nothing shit-for-brains!” The creepy voice of D echoed through the Cloudkeep as he tackled Joran to the ground. Before any member of Ouroboros could react, D forcibly interlinked with Joran, who whimpered but ultimately accepted the link. Their combined form materialized in front of them.

“Joran!” Lanz yelled, summoning his blade once again.

“An Interlink...? He's taken him over...!” Taion hissed, watching their interaction and drawing his Cammuravi Blade. Despite feeling the suppressant wearing off, he remained focused on the task at hand. As a well-trained soldier, he knew exactly what needed to be done, especially since they were on the offensive. Adrenaline rushed through him as he prepared to fight back against D.

“Grr… he’s a real piece of work!” Eunie growled beside him, ready to provide backup.

“D…! You scum!” Noah roared, his voice filled with anger.

D seemed amused as ever, stretching his claws and looking at them with particular interest in Eunie.

“Ever...had dreams? Dreams of dying, of being slaughtered...?” he asked in a sinister tone. Eunie gasped and took a step back, her eyes widening in fear. She thought she had put those nightmares behind her, but hearing D's voice brought them back vividly.

“Eunie, it’s okay…” Taion glanced at her before refocusing his attention on the Moebius in front of them . “Focus!”

“Ah, well, most people forget as soon as they wake. No harm done. But tell you what... They're all completely true.” D taunted, gesturing dramatically in the interlink space.

“And so snuffin' wot? Wot if they were? The past is past, and the present is now!” Eunie shouted back, standing her ground beside her interlink partner. She was tired of running away and living in fear. Was she scared? Of course she was, but the thought of finally taking down D gave her the courage to stand tall. She had to do it for herself and for Joran.

“I wasn't finished! Dreams, y'see... They're little traces of intense memories from your past lives, that didn't get purged before rebirth... Little harmless bugs in the system, let's call 'em.” D continued, unfazed by their resistance. “However! Not so with Moebius. Just like the runt said, when you become Moebius, in that very moment, all your past memories come rushing back to you.

To put it mildly...it's... It's transcendent. Before coming here, I went to visit the Ferronis where I keep my collection.”

“Collection, you say?” Taion furrowed his brow in confusion.

D's gaze shifted to Eunie once again and the blood of the tactician boiled again. He was focused on her, determined to get inside her head once again. Taion’s mouth was open and his nostrils flared as adrenaline surged through his body. He would do anything to protect her. This was their chance to defeat him once and for all.

“I’ve killed all of ya at a certain point in one of your pathetic lives but ya, girly” he cackled while staring at her. “I’ve killed ya so many times that I’ve lost the count! Always belonging to some shitty Golden rank Colony.” Eunie bit nervously her lips and just hissed through her teeth, trying to push away from her mind the memories of her previous life. “And after a while, it started to become boring. I really had to start getting creative, y’know?”

Taion hissed through his teeth: that sparking bastard.

“I think I'm gonna hurl...” the kevesi panted, trying to remain calm and not let his words affect her. She knew she had to keep a clear mind during this battle; fear would only hinder her. She had already experienced that during their first fight. It was no different this time.

“Push through it! First, we gotta save Joran...from this shitbag!” Lanz yelled at her.

Right. Joran.

“Yeah Eunie, what Lanz said! This punk needs a whoopin'!” Sena added looking at her with a fierce smile.

She instinctively looked over at Taion, who nodded at her with a gentle smile on his face. He was there, he was there with her.

“All right... OK, will do! We'll thrash this shitbag, save Joran... And get me...some payback!” she growled with all the energy left in her body.

“If you fancy your chances, take your shot. I'll be more than happy to rip your bloody pelts off and add them to my collection!” D taunted them, finding amusement in the situation. He quickly shifted positions and launched himself at them as soon as they summoned their weapons.

Taion and Lanz took the frontline with a synchronized ferocity born of necessity. Despite the tension that had crackled between them these past days, their movements around each other were fluid, seamless—two soldiers bound by instinct and purpose rather than friendship. Taion felt an unfamiliar clarity, his body flowing with swift, graceful precision. The Seraph class coursed through him like wildfire, allowing him to channel all his pent-up frustration and raw rage into every strike.

He tried to keep his temper in check as D’s taunts echoed across the battlefield, aiming at Eunie like poisoned darts. But the suppressant’s grip on him was slipping, and his mind raced, tangled with fury and fear. Together with Lanz, they hammered at the Moebius’s defenses, their combined assaults sharp and relentless—but D was slippery, like liquid shadow. The damage they inflicted seemed barely a scratch, his defenses absorbing their blows as if mocking their effort.

Behind them, Eunie and Sena fought with everything they got to protect their interlink partner. Eunie wasn’t in her ideal class for this fight, yet she gave everything she had. Her rings glowed, clashing against the rapid strikes of the Moebius, blocking and parrying with desperate precision. Sena stayed close to Lanz, guarding him as he pushed forward, ready to leap to his defense at any moment.

Noah, Miyabi, and Mio moved like whispers around the fray, weaving healing magic in tight circles, trying desperately to keep their allies standing. Their hands glowed with soothing light, a lifeline amidst the chaos.

“Taion! You can’t keep slamming at him like that!” Noah warned, sweat glistening on his brow as he conjured another ether circle around the front line. The strain was obvious in his voice.

“It’s Cammuravi class!” Mio snapped, dashing to Eunie’s side and channeling a healing wave with Miyabi. “Powerful, but it drains HP fast!”

Taion barely heard them. Rage surged through his veins like wildfire, numbing every ache and shadow of pain that had plagued him all day. All he could see was red, all he could think was killing D. Protecting her. Two goals, yet the fury tangled them into one blur.

“Damnit, four-eyes! I ain’t want you dead!” Eunie barked as she struggled to parry a vicious strike aimed directly at Taion’s head.

But D had enough. A low, guttural growl slipped from his lips as he unleashed a brutal volley of claws—projectiles flying in every direction, a deadly storm. The Ouroboros were scattered like leaves in a gale. Lanz, Eunie, and Noah were slammed to the ground, knocked out cold. Taion and Sena barely held their footing, backs pressed against the crumbling wall.

From behind the wreckage, Taion caught sight of Mio and Miyabi, scrambling to patch their wounds while taking cover. Dust and chunks of concrete rained down as the arena trembled under the force of the battle.

“Ya little runts,” D hissed, voice thick with venom and impatience. “Why don’tcha just die in silence?!”

As the dust settled, the monstrous Moebius stepped forward, eyes locking coldly onto the sprawled form of Eunie—still semi-conscious and vulnerable on the ground. With terrifying ease, he reached down and grabbed her by the neck, lifting her like a ragdoll.

Taion froze, every nerve screaming in agony. His head pounded with a dull throb, one eye blurred with a thin film of blood from a fresh cut. His legs trembled, refusing to steady him. But pain had become background noise. Over the pounding in his ears, he could hear the sickening click of D’s claws tightening around Eunie's throat.

“I think I’ll start with ya, girly,” D sneered, a cruel smile stretching across his face. His grip constricted, cutting off her air.

Eunie fought with all the strength left in her. Her rings struck the ground with a harsh clang as she struggled to pry his fingers away, her legs kicking wildly. But the world grew dark at the edges; the blood rushing to her head was a burning tide. Panic clouded her vision; her lungs screamed for breath.

Was this how it would end? Would she die again, here, at his hands?

No. Not like this.

Summoning every shred of will, she dug deep, pushing her hands against the cruel claws. But just as the edges of consciousness blurred, the Moebius abruptly froze—sniffing the air, eyes widening in wild surprise.

“Ha! I can’t believe it!” he burst out, maniacal laughter shaking the air. “Y’ve unlocked your glands!”

Taion’s fogged senses snapped sharply into focus. No hesitation. His fingers clenched around the hilt of his blade, muscles igniting with renewed life as sensation surged back into his legs. With every ounce of strength he had left, he lunged forward, Sena close behind him. Lanz was still unconscious, but Taion’s fury burned hotter than ever—pure, desperate fire.

D, caught off guard by the sudden counterattack, loosened his grip just enough for Eunie to gasp sharply, gulping precious air as she stumbled free, wheezing. Taion’s heart pounded in his ears.

But instead of turning his wrath toward Taion, D pivoted abruptly, his eyes narrowing as he zeroed in on Sena. Without mercy, he launched a relentless barrage of strikes at her, forcing Sena to scramble backward, struggling to block each blow while desperately avoiding accidentally striking the still-vulnerable Eunie nearby. The Moebius’s ferocity was overwhelming; Sena’s defenses cracked, and with a final brutal strike, he sent her crashing to the ground, winded and gasping.

Seizing the opportunity, Taion pressed his advantage. His spear found D’s side, piercing through his defenses and drawing dark blood. He sensed now was the moment—if he could free Eunie fully, they could activate their synchronization ability and unleash healing energies to mend their injured allies. The tide of battle could shift in their favor.

Their eyes met briefly—hers wide with terror, his burning with determination and a gnawing guilt. Her fear twisted in his gut, a reminder that she was in danger because he hadn’t been strong enough to protect her sooner.

If only they could sync now. If only the others could be healed. The fight might already be over.

“You little rat,” D spat venomously, locking his gaze on Taion. The tactician barely dodged a vicious swipe and, still lunging forward with his Heatshimmer Spear, saw the Moebius spin with brutal agility. Sena was down, recovering, and Taion’s back was exposed.

Suddenly, claws slammed into his flesh, tearing through fabric and skin alike. A fiery explosion of pain radiated across his back. He gritted his teeth, fighting the urge to collapse, but Moebius wasn’t done—he followed with a savage kick that sent Taion crashing to the ground.

“Why so worked up, runt?” D sneered, looming over him with a cruel smile. “Is it perhaps… your girlfriend? This little slut here?” He tightened his grip on Eunie's throat just as she fought to breathe.

“Eunie!” Taion’s voice cracked with desperation as Mio backed away, cautiously healing him from a distance. Blood seeped through his torn shirt, his legs trembled beneath him, and panic bubbled to the surface when D’s claws constricted anew.

“Oh, she is!” D cackled, eyes gleaming with wicked delight. He fed on the fear reflected in her wide eyes, his grin widening. “Do ya wanna hear ‘bout one of my favorite ways I killed her in the past?”

The air grew thick and heavy—dark, revolting pheromones rolled off D like a toxic fog. Taion and Mio froze, their noses wrinkling at the nauseating scent.

Eunie flailed, struggling desperately for air as the foul pheromones invaded her senses. Her body convulsed uncontrollably, her nose bleeding freely, eyes rolling back, foam bubbling at the corners of her mouth.

No.

This couldn’t be happening.

Taion’s eyes went wide with terror as he coughed violently, panic surging. “Eunie!” he shouted, but she only grew paler, wracked by spasms.

“Yeah, pheromone mismatch was one of my favorites,” D laughed cruelly, shaking her roughly like a ragdoll. “Took some effort to unlock her glands since this bitch wasn’t too cooperative. But seeing her shake like that? Instant orgasm. Real crowd-pleaser.”

Taion’s mind went blank, instincts taking over. His body moved with fierce precision—he rose, summoned his spear, and launched at D with a speed that left no time for claws to land. It was as if Taion could see the attacks unfolding in slow motion, dodging effortlessly. D staggered back, shocked at Taion’s resilience despite his injuries.

But pain and fear were gone, drowned beneath the blazing desire to save Eunie—his mate.

At the last second, Taion spun and thrust his spear forward, gripping it with both hands as he sliced clean through D’s arm like it was made of soft butter. The realization hit him with a shock: with the suppressant off, his strength and power surged far beyond what he’d felt before.

“What the hell?!” D screamed, staring down at the severed limb. It didn’t fully register until he saw them across the room—Taion cradling Eunie gently in his arms. Only then did the horror sink in.

“You little piece of shit! I’ll cut your head off after I kill that bitch!”

“Lanz, now!” Sena’s sharp command cut through the chaos like a blade. Instantly, she activated their synchronization ability, weaving a shimmering protective barrier around Taion and the limp form of Eunie just as D lunged forward with a furious roar.

The coordinated onslaught from Noah and Mio followed without hesitation. Their combined attacks hammered relentlessly on the Moebius, forcing him onto the defensive. Caught in a relentless assault, D couldn’t regenerate his severed arm quickly enough, and their constant pressure kept him off balance and struggling to retaliate.

Amid the storm of battle, Taion held Eunie close, feeling her fragile form against his chest. His hands trembled uncontrollably. She was pale, her skin marred with bruises and blood, unconscious and slipping further away with every shallow breath. Her heartbeat was slowing, fragile like a fading ember.

She was dying.

“Spark! No, no, no! Eunie, stay with me!” Taion’s voice cracked, desperation breaking through his normally steely composure. “It can’t end like this—not after everything… Please, Eunie… please, I can’t lose you.” Panic pressed down on his chest like a crushing weight, suffocating and relentless. "Please, please... you can't... I..."

It was his fault. It had to be.

His eyes darted wildly across the battlefield. The rest of the team was still locked in combat. Noah and Mio remained in their Ouroboros forms, fiercely attacking D. But none of it mattered—his focus was all on her.

His mind spiraled, drowning in a whirlwind of chaotic thoughts. He barely managed to shift back to his original Tactician class, but the raging storm of panic and fury muddled his healing techniques, leaving him ineffective. Every second felt like an eternity as his vision blurred and thoughts tangled.

“Taion,” a gentle voice reached through the haze. Miyabi approached, calm and steady in contrast to his turmoil. For a moment, his foggy mind didn’t register who she was—until she stepped closer to them. Then, almost instinctively, he growled low, tightening his arms around Eunie protectively.

He had to keep her safe.

No one else could come near.

Miyabi seemed momentarily taken aback by his reaction but didn’t retreat. “Taion,” she whispered softly, attempting a reassuring smile, “I can help her… but you have to let me.”

He glared fiercely, unwilling to risk even an inch of space between him and Eunie. Then, something caught his eye—a red mote drifting past, disappearing upward into the darkened sky.

His mind began to clear.

Tears spilled down his cheeks as relief and terror collided. His voice trembled as he cried out, “Sparks… please!” He turned to Miyabi with raw desperation. “I… I tried to heal her, but it’s not working.”

Miyabi knelt beside them immediately, summoning an ether circle that pulsed softly with warm light. Taion’s shaking hands clasped Eunie's cold fingers, pressing gentle kisses to her palm as tears fell freely.

The red motes had ceased rising, but Eunie’s condition stubbornly refused to improve.

Miyabi’s breath grew labored with exertion, her energy draining as she poured everything into the healing circle.

“It’s okay,” Taion whispered hoarsely, stroking Eunie’s hair with trembling fingers. “You’ll be okay… Stay with me, please… I was an idiot. I’m sorry, but don’t leave me—not now…”

Miyabi’s voice was strained but steady. “Her internal organs have stabilized… but something’s… holding her back. Something wrapping around her, blocking the healing.”

“W-wrapping?” Taion stammered, eyes wide in confusion. His senses sharpened; he sniffed the air and caught the unmistakable, sickening scent of D’s pheromones clinging to her like a poisonous shroud.

“Keep healing, Miyabi!” he urged urgently, suddenly aware of how much effort the healer was expending. Guilt surged through him for his earlier harshness. He laid his burning hand over hers, transferring what little ether he could spare. Miyabi gasped in surprise at the sudden infusion.

“You’ve got a lot to give,” she remarked, rejuvenated by the flow. With renewed strength, she intensified the healing circle’s glow.

Taion smiled faintly, the fog in his mind finally clearing enough to see that Miyabi was their ally—not a threat.

In the distance, an explosion echoed through the ruins, and he glimpsed that D was nowhere to be found. But none of that mattered anymore. His world had shrunk to the fragile form in his arms.

He took a shaky breath and fought to control the glands raging wildly within him since the fight began. With painstaking focus, he poured his own pheromones toward Eunie—alpha scents weaving through the ether around her. Lost in the haze of his own overwhelming pheromones, he couldn’t tell their precise nature, but he could see the subtle effects: her breathing steadied, and a faint flush returned to her pale cheeks.

“What a lovely scent…” Miyabi murmured without breaking her concentration. “Is that yours?”

Taion barely heard her, his eyes locked on Eunie’s face. She had to wake. She had to come back to him.

He wanted to hold her close and whisper everything he felt.

But what exactly was he feeling?

“Eunie, Taion, Miyabi!” Mio’s urgent voice sliced through the fog of Taion’s spiraling thoughts. Within seconds, the core group had gathered around them, forming a protective circle.

“Stay back,” Mio warned softly, her eyes flicking warily between Taion and the unconscious Eunie.  Taion’s eyes gleamed an unnatural deep ruby, the vertical pupils sharp and unsettling. His sharp fangs peeked from his cracked lips. His hair was wild and tangled, tear tracks stained his cheeks, his glasses broken, and his back was smeared with fresh blood. But it was the raw desperation in his gaze—fixated on the unconscious figure at his feet—that stilled her heart. Eunie lay pale and limp on the ground.

“Damnit!” Lanz cursed under his breath, grinding his teeth. “So I wasn’t imagining things the other day.”

“What do you mean?” Sena asked, brows knitting in confusion.

Lanz glanced down, voice lowered, “I thought it was just some bad dream… but when Taion stopped me, his eyes… they were exactly like that.”

Noah’s gaze flicked to Mio, who said nothing, her gaze still on Eunie.

“Is she going to be okay?” Lanz’s voice trembled as he looked to the group, hope and fear warring in his eyes.

Without hesitation, Sena wrapped her arms around Lanz in a comforting embrace, and he clung to her like a lifeline. “Yeah, Lan… she will,” Sena whispered, burying her face into his chest.

Noah began to tremble as well. Mio reached out, intertwining her fingers with his, and rested her head on his shoulder. “She’s strong, Noah,” she whispered, voice steady despite the fear. “And I trust Miyabi.”

Noah didn’t reply, only leaning into the quiet support, his shoulders shaking.

“You knew about this?” Noah asked, eyes narrowing as he turned to Mio. His voice shook, “Since when?”

“The night I checked on everyone sleeping,” Mio admitted, biting her lip. She hated the secrecy but couldn’t reveal everything yet. “I had a feeling when Taion stopped Lanz. No way that was the Taion we all know—especially twisting your wrist like that.”

"Yeah, no way, four-eyes could do that."

Suddenly, a faint groan broke the heavy silence. Eunie's eyes fluttered open. Taion whined softly, stumbling backward a few steps, caught between relief and terror. He’d hoped to avoid her noticing his state, maybe teleport away unseen. But no matter how far he stepped back, his body refused to retreat further—he needed to make sure she was truly okay.

“EUNIE!!!” Lanz shouted, sprinting toward her, Sena at his heels. Miyabi helped Eunie sit up, steadying her frame, just in time to be toppled over again by them.

“Oof…” Eunie gasped, smiling weakly as tears spilled from Lanz and Sena onto her shoulders.

“Y’re alive!” Lanz shouted into her ear, voice thick with emotion.

“Yeah,” she chuckled softly, wrapping her arms around them both. “And I’d like to keep my hearing intact if you don’t mind!”

“Euniiiieeee!” Sena wailed dramatically into her other ear.

“For spark’s sake,” Eunie groaned playfully, patting their shoulders with a tired smile.

“Give her some space, guys!” Noah interjected gently, rubbing their backs as Mio helped Miyabi to her feet. They finally released Eunie, and Noah stepped forward, offering her a steady hand.

She took it with a grin, but before she could stand fully, he pulled her into a long, tight hug.

“Don’t ever scare us like that again…” he whispered, pressing a soft kiss to her cheek.

Eunie clung to him, burying her face in his shoulder, overwhelmed by the simple joy of being alive.

“I’ll do my best,” she murmured, breathing deeply. “Now tell me you killed that bastard.”

“We did,” Noah said quietly, glancing toward Lanz and Sena, still comforted each other nearby. “But Joran… he sacrificed himself.”

Lanz nodded slowly, swallowing hard before continuing, “He… he didn’t make it.”

“Damnit…” Eunie hissed, wiping her face with shaking hands. The pain of losing their friend settled heavily over the group once again.

“That just gives us more reason to kill that Z-bastard,” Lanz muttered, shoulders squared as the others nodded grimly.

Eunie turned to Miyabi, gratitude softening her fierce gaze.

“Thanks, love,” she said quietly. “You saved my life. I won’t forget it.”

Miyabi smiled gently but shook her head. “Thanks to Taion,” she said, nodding toward him.

Taion stood a few meters away, his back to the group, fists clenched so tightly his knuckles were white. He stared at the ground, nerves and guilt warring within him.

“Without his ether and… his pheromones, I don’t think I could have done it,” Miyabi explained.

“He is…” Mio started, but Eunie cut her off sharply.

“Yeah, I know,” she said, frustration bleeding through her voice. “I’d suspected for a while now, but before I could say anythin'… that bastard showed up.”

Mio nodded knowingly. Eunie was sharp and quick-witted; she’d already pieced together Taion’s secret. But she also sensed his plan wasn’t going to end smoothly.

“He’s injured too,” Miyabi added, glancing toward Taion. “But I’m not sure if he’ll let me heal him…”

Eunie’s patience snapped. Taion was acting like a scared, wounded Bunnit, avoiding her for reasons only his tangled mind could justify. She squared her shoulders and strode over to him, voice sharp and commanding.

“Oi, the party’s over here!” she called out, eyes blazing. “Are y’ coming, or do I have to drag your bum over here myself?”

Taion didn’t move. He glanced briefly at her before dropping his gaze back to the ground, silent and distant.

“Oh, for spark’s sake!” Eunie whispered fiercely as she strode toward him, the others trailing behind at a cautious distance.

Taion didn’t flinch. He met the fury blazing in her eyes—the weight of frustration and worry that had been building for days. When she raised her hand, poised to strike, he didn’t pull away or resist. If she wanted to hit him, he would take it without protest. He deserved it. He understood, even in the haze clouding his mind, that he deserved every ounce of her anger. After all, just seeing her alive was more than he could have hoped for; any punishment was a small price to pay for keeping her safe.

Their gazes locked. In the depths of his blood-red eyes—now with sharp vertical pupils—she saw every worn fragment of him: exhaustion, desperation, and raw, unfiltered fear. He closed his eyes, bracing for the blow, but instead of a strike, she let her hand fall gently on his cheek. Her thumb brushed softly across his skin, wiping away the tears gathering at the corners of his eyes.

He gasped and opened his eyes, confusion mingling with relief. She wasn’t afraid of him—not his appearance, not his broken state. She saw beyond it all.

“You’re an idiot…” she whispered, voice trembling as her own tears began to fall. Their eyes mirrored one another’s, silent communication passing between them—everything left unsaid these past days now unnecessary. That single touch carried the weight of apology, forgiveness, and understanding. If the roles had been reversed, she knew she would have reacted the same way.

Taion’s burning hand rose to cover hers, pressing his cheek tenderly against her palm.

“I know…” he murmured, voice breaking as he finally let himself be pulled into her embrace. The tension coiled tightly inside him melted away, replaced by a fragile warmth that blossomed in his chest. He held her close, unwilling to believe she was truly there, safe and alive, wrapped in his arms once more.

“I… I thought I’d lost you…” he sobbed, burying his face in the soft sweep of her hair and wings, clutching her like a lifeline.

Eunie held him without hesitation, steady and strong, letting his tears soak into her shoulder. His body trembled against her; his pheromones still radiated strongly, but oddly protective rather than seductive. He was broken and raw, struggling to accept that she was here beside him.

Gently, she threaded her fingers through his tangled hair, eliciting another shiver from him.

“I’m here, Taion,” she whispered softly into his ear. “I’m not going anywhere. We’re not quitters—remember?”

He nodded slowly, pressing his head deeper into hers, nuzzling against the familiar warmth of her scarf. Around them, the world faded to silence; the others were distant echoes, barely registering in their shared bubble.

Eunie winced as her hand grazed his back and he flinched in pain.

“Damnit, Taion, you’re bleeding!” she exclaimed, her palm now stained red. She tried to pull away gently to shift classes and heal him, but he tightened his grip, refusing to let go.

“Taion, please,” she pleaded softly, “You need to let me go so I can help you. Okay?”

He groaned low in protest, as if the thought of separation—even for a moment—was unbearable.

“Uh… the suppressant’s probably worn off,” Mio said carefully, stepping nearby but keeping a respectful distance, walking behind him to assess him. “Just… let him stay still. We can heal him from here.”

Eunie rolled her eyes and looked back at Taion, catching his gaze.

“Did you hear that? You need to stay still while they do their work,” she said firmly. “Can you do that?”

He gave a slow, reluctant nod. She gave a subtle signal to Mio and Noah, who began weaving ether into Taion’s battered body. She had never seen him like this before, and the realization settled deep in her: he was shaken to his core by almost losing her.

Her own hands trembled as she recalled the terror of that moment. But Taion squeezed her tighter, burying his face in her collarbone, releasing a soft wave of calming pheromones.

“I’m here…” he murmured, nuzzling her cheek before pressing a gentle kiss there.

Eunie blushed, unaccustomed to such tenderness from him. But in that instant, she welcomed it, resting her head against his scarf and savoring the warmth and safety it promised.

Noah muttered as he eyed Taion’s back, “Healed for now, but those scars… we can’t fix those.”

Mio glanced toward Eunie. “It’s best you check them once his rut calms down.”

“Will do,” Eunie replied over her shoulder with a smirk. “If this clingy crybaby would let me go, I’d already be inspecting.”

“I’m not a crybaby,” Taion grumbled, puffing his cheeks.

“Well, you’re acting like one,” she teased playfully. “A clingy crybaby.”

He huffed but reluctantly released her from the embrace, still clutching her hand tightly. The strength of his grip said it all—letting go wasn’t something he was ready for.

Eunie raised an eyebrow, noticing their intertwined fingers. Taion said nothing, groaning instead. Despite his efforts to appear composed, his pheromones already shimmered with mating notes—a silent but dangerous risk to claim her here, in front of everyone.

They need to leave. Now.

After a long pause, Eunie finally broke the silence, her voice steady but carrying a weight of determination.
“We need to head back to the City.” She looked directly at Taion, who met her gaze nervously, fingers tightening around hers.

“Are you… sure?” he asked quietly, tilting his head, a flicker of uncertainty flashing in his eyes.

“I am,” she replied firmly, her gaze unwavering. That steady confidence made Taion’s chest tighten with a mix of relief and admiration. A smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he fought the rising urge to pull her close again.

Eunie caught the flicker in his expression immediately and, with a warning glance, she emitted a subtle wave of calming pheromones. His tension eased, but he couldn’t help the small huff of frustration that escaped him as he tilted his head in mild annoyance toward the others watching quietly.

Noah stepped forward, offering a practical suggestion.
“We could head back to camp first, gather what we need, then meet you in the dorm.”

Eunie shook her head decisively.
“No. Keep searchin' here at the Cloudkeep. Check the Queen’s chamber again—see if you find anything useful. We’ll send word when we’re done.”

Mio nodded in agreement, her voice gentle but certain.
“Alright, we’ll finish our search here and then make our way back to the City. I’ll call ahead to reserve a room for you in the dorms.”

“Thanks,” Eunie said with a warm smile, then turned back to Taion with a teasing sparkle in her eyes.
“Ready, four-eyes?”

Taion’s heart raced, a storm of emotions churning inside him. He hesitated, fully aware of what lay ahead. Part of him wanted to take her hand and walk away with her—leave this all behind, if only for a little while. But another part of him was gripped by panic, nerves tightening like a noose around his chest.

He glanced around at the others, silently pleading for an out, for someone to step in or offer him an excuse.

Mio leaned closer, her voice a gentle whisper.

“You still have the suppressants, right?” she asks with a smile.

Taion met her calm gaze and gave a slow, reassuring nod. Yes. The suppressants were with him—just in case.

Just then, Lanz’s voice cut through the tension.

“Hey, mate,” he called, crossing his arms and fixing Taion with a serious look.

Taion returned the glare, lips trembling as Eunie squeezed his hand tighter. He bared his teeth slightly in response, but Lanz didn’t waver.  “Treat her well. Gotcha?”

Taion’s expression softened, the weight of responsibility settling firmly on his shoulders. “Yes.”

Eunie turned back to the group, her tone lightening. “Alright. See you in… uh, who knows. A couple of days?”

“Yeah, shouldn’t take longer than a week,” Mio replied, thoughtful. “It started yesterday. From what I gathered in M’s memory, 2-4 days, maybe sooner since it’s his first time.”

Eunie laughed, a breath of amusement escaping her. “2-4 days… nice!”

Taion smirked. “I could fuck you for longer.”

The room instantly turned toward him in surprise. Eunie’s face flushed a bright crimson, as if she might spontaneously combust. Everyone burst into laughter—everyone except her.

“Time to cool this horny Alpha off with a cold shower!” she stammered, cheeks burning as she activated the teleportation device.

“See ya, guys!”

In a flash of light, they disappeared—leaving behind laughter, relief, and the promise of more to come.

********

Hi! It's BelgianPallasCat or BelgianManul (on Pixiv). I'm not an artist but I like to draw from time to time. Hope you enjoy this!

And now some pictures of them in their highlighted state! 

Chapter Text

Eunie and Taion arrived at the teleportation spot just outside the City dormitory. 

Taion’s fingers curled tightly around Eunie's hand as they stood before the massive building, his breath catching. He gently tugged her closer, lowering his gaze to the ground as a heavy sigh escaped him.

“Eunie,” he murmured, voice rough and uncertain. “I’m not sure…”

What he really wanted to say was buried deep beneath layers of fear and desire. Despite the fire building within him—the hunger to claim her then and there on the cold, hard ground—his mind was haunted by a painful image. Her, bruised and bloodied, eyes full of pain and defiance. No matter how hard he tried to banish it, it played over and over whenever he closed his eyes.

Eunie’s hand rose to brush gently against his burning cheek, her touch warm and grounding. “It’s okay,” she whispered softly, her voice steady. “Whatever you wanna do… whatever your body’s tellin' you, I can handle it. Imma not going to run or push you away.”

Taion groaned, a mixture of relief and lingering doubt twisting in his gut, but he let himself be led inside. At the reception, Eunie spoke quietly with the attendant, who handed over a key and a small piece of paper with instructions.

“There’s an emergency button next to the bed,” the woman explained, her gaze flicking briefly toward Taion. “If you need anything, just press it and security will come. Three times a day, we’ll leave water and high-energy food outside your room. Condoms for Alphas and Omegas are in the drawers. If you need more…”

“It won’t be necessary,” Eunie cut in quickly, a faint smirk playing on her lips. One of the few perks of their bond—she couldn’t get pregnant by him.

The woman nodded and handed over the key, asking Eunie to sign for both of them.

Key in hand, Eunie and Taion made their way hand in hand to the top floor, the hum of the building fading behind them. Few people lingered in the hallways at this hour. As they entered their room, Eunie’s eyes widened. It wasn’t a simple dorm room; it resembled a small apartment, complete with a modest kitchen and a spacious bathroom.

Before Taion could say a word, he spun her around, cupping her chin gently and pulling her into a fierce, passionate kiss. His pheromones spilled between them like wildfire, surrounding them in a haze of desire.

Eunie gasped softly as Taion’s pheromones washed over her like a sudden, irresistible storm. Her wings fluttered involuntarily, delicate feathers trembling with the surge of arousal. Her legs felt weak beneath her, barely able to hold her weight as his free hand pressed her body tightly against his—almost painfully so. Every movement radiated his desperation, raw and unfiltered. She could feel his newly elongated canines scrape gently against her lips, a sharp contrast to the heat of his body pressed flush to hers. She felt his erection throbbing against her belly, his entire form radiating a fierce hunger that sent shivers down her spine.

With a careful tug on his tousled hair, she coaxed him to tilt his head back just enough to grant her a moment’s breath.

“The door,” she whispered, nodding toward the slightly ajar entrance behind them.

He groaned softly—a deep, ragged sound—and stepped away just enough to close the door with a gentle click. Without hesitation, he swept back around and pulled her into another tender embrace, his hands careful but eager.

“Slowly, Taion,” she murmured, voice a soothing blend of teasing and sincerity. “My body’s not as flexible or soft as an Omega’s.”

“Sorry,” he breathed, brushing his lips softly over her forehead. “It’s… difficult.”

“I know,” she smiled, her hand rising to caress his cheek, warm and steady. “But I’m not complaining.”

“Sparks, you’re beautiful…” he murmured, lowering his lips to hers once again. This kiss was slow, deliberate, each second savored as if it were their last.

Eunie melted into him, her arms wrapping tightly around his trembling frame. Beneath the veneer of his strength, she felt a fierce vulnerability—fragile, raw, and utterly human.

“I can’t believe you’re alive,” he whispered, voice thick with emotion, lips barely brushing hers.

She smiled softly, cupping his face in her hands. “Alive,” she teased, a glimmer of mischief lighting her eyes, “and ready for my horny tactician. Shall we get started?”

Taion blinked rapidly as if trying to process her words, then crashed his lips on hers again with renewed urgency. His hands moved swiftly, peeling off her Zephyr’s jacket and sliding over the soft fabric of her green sweater. Eunie panted, helping him pull the layers away, breath catching with every touch.

But when his hands reached for her black tank top, he suddenly froze. His gaze locked on her neck, hands still resting lightly on her shoulders. A deep breath shuddered from his chest, and with a heavy sigh, he detached himself from her, stepping back.

“What’s wrong?” she asked, confusion knitting her brow. This wasn’t how she envisioned his rut. Not at all.

“Taion?” she called softly, searching his face.

He shook his head, a trembling hand sweeping across his eyes before clenching into a fist. “How can I…” His voice trailed off, lost in the struggle to regain control over the storm inside him.

Instinctively, Eunie reached up, fingertips tracing the bruises on her neck—the marks left by that bastard. The realization dawned on her: this was what had startled him.

“I’ll take the suppressant,” he whispered between ragged breaths, pain lacing each word. “Don’t come close.”

Eunie rolled her eyes, unmoved by his warning, and calmly stepped toward him.

“Eunie!” he growled, eyes wide with desperation as he took a hesitant step back. “Please… I’m already struggling enough. Could you just not?”

“Nope,” she replied evenly, closing the distance between them with slow certainty. “Y’re not taking the suppressant. I’m here for you. You don’t need it. Miyabi and you infused so much ether into me earlier, I probably gained an extra year of life.”

Taion found himself physically unable to retreat, his body refusing to obey the commands of his frazzled mind. The urge to hold her—to claim her—was overwhelming. With a resigned sigh, he wrapped his arms around her once more, knowing full well that convincing her otherwise was futile. She was like oxygen to him; without her, he might drown in the chaos of his own emotions.

Despite the mounting pressure and his arousal, the memory of her near-death moments held him back. He needed to be sure she was okay before surrendering to instinct.

Then, his eyes landed on the bathtub visible through the open door of the adjoining bathroom. A small smile curled at the edges of his lips as an idea took root.

He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead and effortlessly lifted her into his arms. It felt natural, his strength amplified by the rut coursing through his veins.

Without setting her down, he crossed the room and turned on the faucet, warm water filling the tub. With careful hands, he eased her to her feet beside it, still holding her close.

“In the tub?” she said, a lustful edge in her voice, an eyebrow arching playfully. “Cool—we haven’t tried that before.”

He said nothing, instead eagerly pulling off her sweater and tank top, exposing her smooth skin.

Eunie noticed his heavy panting as she stood before him in just her underwear, his lips biting nervously at his bottom lip. She didn’t understand the hesitation—he seemed to be holding something back—but something inside told her to let him be.

She began to undress him in return, breath catching as he stood naked before her. His muscles were taut and more defined—not as bulky as Lanz's, but as if he had just finished an intense training with Sena. His triangular-shaped crystal core glowed bright red, pulsing rapidly in sync with his racing heartbeat.

Her eyes were drawn downward—and a flush of warmth bloomed through her as she saw the evidence of his cock, pulsing insistently, completely wet around the tip and larger than usual.

Spark. That was going to be... challenging.

A pang of worry twisted inside her, but she pushed it aside. Taion knew her body, rut or not, he knew how to handle her. He knew what he was doing.

Everything between them crackled with electric anticipation.

Smirking, she stepped closer, running her hands down his broad shoulders, feeling him tense under her touch.

Maybe this rut wasn’t so terrible after all—the thought of him claiming her ignited every nerve ending, setting her skin alight.

She knew once they started, he’d try to dominate her—not with cruelty, but with desperation, intensity, and the raw hunger of someone who’d nearly lost everything. And instead of fear, excitement coiled tight and hot in her belly. The thought of him challenging her, pushing her boundaries, proving their bond with every commanding touch and whispered growl—it made her toes curl with anticipation.

Her breath hitched as their eyes met again, and something silent, powerful passed between them: this was just the beginning.

She ran her hands slowly over his torso, tracing the lines of his muscles until her fingers brushed the rough, raised texture of scars along his right shoulder. The sight made her breath catch for an entirely different reason. She’d nearly forgotten about them in the heat of the moment, but now they stood out like ghostly reminders of pain endured alone.

Without thinking, she tried to turn him around. He resisted.

“Turn,” she ordered, firm and unwavering, her brow furrowed with concern. “I wanna see.”

“It doesn’t matter,” he growled under his breath, gaze darkening. “Get in the tub. Now.”

“It matters to me!” she snapped back, fire flaring in her chest. “Turn around, Taion.”

With a guttural noise of frustration, he relented, slowly turning so his back faced her. The moment she saw the scars—thick lines of tissue stretching from his right shoulder down across his back to his left hip—her stomach twisted. She reached out instinctively, her fingers tracing the edges of each scar with reverence. Then she summoned a pulse of gentle healing ether, the light flickering over his skin in a soft, pale green glow.

“They did a decent job closing the wounds,” she muttered, more to herself. “But they didn’t treat you properly. Wait, gimme a sec—”

He spun around suddenly and caught both her wrists in his hands, the grip firm but not painful. His eyes locked onto hers.

“Don’t.” His voice cracked with emotion. “Leave it. I don’t care.”

“Well, I do,” she shot back, refusing to look away. “Stop acting like you’re a walking weapon with no right to be tended to.”

He groaned and, without another word, lifted her up effortlessly by the waist and placed her in the tub despite her protests.

“Oi! Taion! I still have my panties on!” she cried in exasperation, quickly stripping them off under the water while he chuckled darkly behind her.

He climbed in after her, settling behind her in the warm water, pulling her gently against his chest. His arms wrapped around her, firm and possessive. She could feel his erection pressed firmly against her backside and his hands resting just shy of her core. But he made no further move—just breathed hard and unsteadily against her neck.

She shivered as she felt his elongated canines grazing her skin, followed by gentle nuzzling at her scent gland. Her body responded instantly, her own pheromones beginning to release, drawn out by instinct and familiarity. He groaned as they flooded his senses and ran his tongue over her neck, unable to help himself.

Still… he didn’t go further.

“Taion…” she whispered, brushing her fingers along his cheek, her touch grounding him. He exhaled shakily, kissing her palm like it was sacred.

“Why all of this?” she asked quietly. “Your balls are practically screaming, and I already told you—I’m fine. I want you.”

“You almost died,” he said, his voice a broken rasp, his eyes closed as he fought to stay in control. “I felt it. I held you in my arms while your heartbeat slipped away.”

“I know,” she whispered, the weight of that memory flickering behind her eyes. Goosebumps spread across her arms. “But I’m still here. You saved me.”

“I can still smell him on you,” he snarled under his breath, suddenly grabbing the nearby shampoo bottle and squirting a generous amount into his hand. He started working it into her hair and feathers, fingers clumsy but earnest.

She couldn’t help but laugh gently through the mess of lather. “Taion,” she said through a smile, not bothering to stop him. She knew what this was—his way of reclaiming her, protecting her. Not through sex, but through care. And she let him.

He worked the soap into her scalp, muttering under his breath while doing the same to her wings, now soaked and drooping gently around them. His touches were unsteady but affectionate.

But when he reached her thighs, his hand stopped midair.

“Something wrong?” she teased, glancing over her shoulder at him with a raised brow and a smirk.

He gulped audibly, and she felt his pheromones shift from protectiveness to something more primal. Still, he didn’t touch her. His self-control was remarkable—but frustrating.

“Oh, for spark’s sake,” she huffed and grabbed the sponge still in his hand, guiding it to her leg and pressing it down. She rubbed it up her thigh slowly, watching him shudder and his shaft throb.

His eyes locked onto hers, wild and dark with need. He glared, clearly annoyed she’d shattered his control.

Then she reached between her legs and slowly guided his thumb against her clit, applying pressure with a smirk.

That was it.

He growled low in his throat and stood suddenly, towering over her. His lips crashed onto hers in a fierce, hungry kiss, his teeth nipping at her lower lip hard enough to sting. She moaned, body igniting like dry leaves to a flame.

“Wash,” he ordered, grabbing her chin and tilting her head up so their eyes met, his voice deeper, rawer. “I’ve reached my limit.”

“Spark’in finally,” she grinned breathlessly, grabbing the showerhead and rinsing the last of the soap from her body and hair. He copied her movements quickly, hands shaking slightly from restraint.

She wrapped a towel around herself and stepped out, hair dripping and skin tingling from anticipation. The moment she looked back, she caught him clumsily drying his hair, strands sticking up, steam rising off his skin. And something stirred in her chest.

Her heart fluttered—not from lust, but from the depth of what he’d just done for her.

He hadn’t jumped on her. He hadn’t given in to the rut the second they were alone. No—he washed her. Cared for her. Touched her like she mattered beyond instinct.

And in that moment, she realized just how deeply he cared her—even when his body begged him to act otherwise.

She stood in the middle of the room, water dripping from her skin, one towel wrapped snugly around her body while the other she used to shake out the last droplets from her wings. She didn’t flinch when his arms suddenly wrapped around her bare skin, pulling her close with an urgency that made her pulse quicken.

A sudden, overwhelming wave of his mating pheromones flooded the space between them, thick and heavy, pulling at her senses. Their lips met again, slow at first, then with growing hunger. Her whole body tingled, electric and raw, as a fierce heat blossomed deep inside her. She struggled to steady her breath, caught between desire and dizzying sensation.

“Is it too much?” he murmured against her lips, his voice low and rough as one hand slid boldly between her thighs. “This is your final warning, Eunie. My mind’s spinning again. If you want to stop, now’s your chance.”

But she didn’t pull away. Instead, she pressed herself closer, grinding her hips against the rigid hardness beneath him. Her fingers tangled in his messy hair, tugging his head down until it rested on her shoulder. Turning her face, she kissed him again—this time deeper, more challenging.

“Big words, four-eyes,” she teased, lips curling into a smirk. “Let’s see what you’ve got.”

He grinned, wicked and confident, sliding his hand higher along her thigh until his fingers brushed over her soaked entrance and swollen clit. Her breath hitched, a soft pant escaping her lips.

“You won’t be calling me that anymore,” he teased, his fingers slow and deliberate as they traced her folds. “You’ll be screaming my name for days.”

“Yeah?” she tried to answer, cheeks burning with flush, but the intensity of his pheromones overwhelmed her, making her dizzy. She could only follow his lead, balancing on the edge of control, trying not to buckle.

She loved and hated his teasing all at once. Pressing her hips down, she tried to guide his fingers inside her, but he was too quick, grinning at her frustration like a predator enjoying the chase.

“Impatient, huh? My girlfriend’s impatient?” he whispered, sliding his other hand up to cup her breast, squeezing and twisting until a low growl rumbled from her throat and her whole body flinched in anticipation.

“Shouldn’t you be all over me, instead of teasing?” she growled back, voice thick with need. “Are you really in a rut?”

He brushed his nose along her collarbone and down her neck, inhaling her scent with a dark chuckle. “Oh, trust me, I’m dying to ruin you,” he murmured with amusement, licking a slow trail across her skin. Goosebumps erupted beneath his tongue. “Let’s see if you’ve still got energy left when I’m finished.”

Without waiting for a response, he bit down hard on her neck. His fangs pierced the skin just enough to leave a sharp sting—painful but not tearing—marking her with possession. Simultaneously, his fingers slipped inside her, curling expertly while his thumb began circling the sensitive bundle of nerves between her legs.

Her mind went blank, a delicious numbness washing over her as fire ignited everywhere he touched. Her clit throbbed under his skilled thumb, causing a moan to escape before she could stop it. She fought not to collapse, trembling on the edge of overwhelming pleasure.

His pheromones exploded around them—dark, heavy, possessive—wrapping her in a shroud of intoxicating need. Her body seized, a silent cry rising from deep within her throat as waves of ecstasy crashed over her. The orgasm came swiftly, fiercely, before she had time to fully register it.

A curse slipped from her lips, raw and breathless, as he held her steady, fingers slick with her release. His eyes gleamed with satisfaction.

“What were you saying, Eunie?” he purred, a smirk playing on his lips, not letting her catch her breath.

Before she could respond, he grabbed her roughly, pushing her down onto her knees. His cock slapped hard against her face.

"You know what to do, don't you?" he growled. She looked up, raising an eyebrow while still feeling the effects of her orgasm. She smirked, wetting her lips in anticipation of what was to come. With a firm grip on his ass, she thrust him halfway inside her mouth. She almost choked and her jaw protested, but she could feel his precum flowing down her throat. If he thought she would just go along without any enjoyment of her own, he had another thing coming. She planned to make the most of this experience.

"That's it," he groaned, pushing her head closer to his waist and feeling the tip of his cock at the back of her throat. He took hold of her hair and set the pace, not giving her any time to catch a breath. She tried to match his rhythm but he was in control; deciding how fast or slow she would have to pleasure him.

His hips moved in swift, desperate jerks, each thrust pushing him deeper into her mouth. Eunie relaxed her throat, accepting the intrusion, her hands gripping his thighs for support. She could feel the tremors running through his muscles, the coiled tension ready to snap. His groans echoed above her, raw and primal, a sound that sent shivers down her spine.

"Relax your throat," he growled once more.

As if it was easy with such an oversized dick!

"Eunie, sparks, I'm going to—" he murmured, gripping her hair and pressing her head against him even more, feeling his climax rapidly approaching.

His words were cut off by a guttural groan as he came undone, his release pulsing hot and fierce down her throat. Eunie swallowed reflexively, her eyes watering from the intensity, but she never broke her gaze from his. There was a raw, primal satisfaction in watching him unravel like this, knowing that she was the cause.

His grip on her hair slackened, and he slowly withdrew from her mouth, his breath ragged. Eunie wiped at her lips, a smirk playing at the corners of her mouth.

“Still think I’ll be the one screamin' your name?” she taunted, her voice hoarse but triumphant. " 'cos, my name on your lips felt pretty good, four-eyes."

Taion’s eyes flashed with a mix of amusement and renewed hunger. “That was just the warm-up,” he growled, reaching down to help her to her feet.

He lunged forward, picked her up in his arms, and carried her towards the bed. He laid her down then pinned her down and crushed his lips against hers. He was losing control; he growled and started biting at her neck, rubbing his cock against her slick folds while grabbing his wrist and pinning it above her head. His grip tightened so hard that she protested with a hiss. Her own pheromones started shifting into aggression as well, starting to crash against his in a battle of dominance and she could feel her body tensing up.

His eyes flashed with a primal intensity as he felt her resistance, a dark smirk forming on his lips. “Fight me, Eunie,” he rasped, his voice a low growl. “I want you to.”

She bared her teeth, bucking her hips in an attempt to dislodge him, but he was too strong, too heavy. His grip on her wrists tightened, and he lowered his head, capturing one of her nipples between his teeth. He bit down just hard enough to make her gasp, the sensation sending a shockwave of pleasure and pain through her body.

Her free hand raked down his back, nails digging into his skin, drawing a harsh groan from deep within his chest. He released her nipple, trailing kisses and bites down her stomach, marking her with his scent, his claim.

Eunie thrashed beneath him, her body aching with a mix of frustration and desire. She could feel his cock, hard and insistent, pressing against her inner thigh, seeking entrance. But she refused to yield so easily. She wanted him to earn it, to prove his dominance.

"Is this all you've got, tactician?" she snarled, her voice laced with defiance. She knew her words would stoke the fire within him, and she was right. His eyes blazed with renewed determination, and he captured her mouth in a fierce, bruising kiss.

His hands roamed her body, rough and demanding, squeezing her breasts and pinching her nipples until she cried out. She could feel his pheromones, thick and intoxicating, wrapping around her like a vice. Her own pheromones surged in response, a heady mix of aggression and arousal that left her dizzy.

He looked down at her, taking the mess he was leaving on her body. Marks—biting bruises and deep hickeys—adorned her skin like battle scars, while her wrists, trapped beneath his grip, were already flushing red. The sight froze him for a moment. This raw, untamed image of her beneath him, already bearing his claim, was exactly what he’d imagined in his darkest thoughts.

A fierce war waged inside him—the cold logic of his mind clashing with the wild surge of his instincts. He didn’t release her completely, but his grip softened, and with it, his pheromones dulled, easing the tension between them.

Then, unexpectedly, Eunie's eyes snapped wide with surprise—and then narrowed sharply into a glare directed squarely at him.

“Spark’s sake,” she growled, voice thick with frustration and fire. Again? He’d stopped just when she wanted him to keep going. Despite the heat burning low in her, a fresh wave of anger surged up. Instinctively, she wrapped her hands around his neck, summoning all her strength. With a sudden, fierce movement, she flipped him over, catching him completely off guard.

Dazed for a breath, he blinked rapidly, shaking his head clear before it clicked: Eunie's straddling him now, her body pressed flush against his, her hands gripping his neck with fierce determination.

“Don’t you dare,” she snarled, leaning in close enough that their breaths tangled in the space between them. Taion’s eyes locked on hers, and for a fleeting second, one of her eyes shimmered violet instead of cerulean—a flicker of something wild, something primal. Was she slipping into rut too?

Her pheromones hit him like a tidal wave, thick and intoxicating, and her hold on his neck tightened, dominating him.

Demanding him to claim her.

“Don’t you dare hold back,” she hissed, voice low and commanding. “I’ve told you already—start acting like a sparkin’ Alpha, dork. I wanna be fucked by a real one.”

She pressed herself harder against his rigid length, the heat radiating from her every pore.

“Stop holding back! Stop! I’m fine. I don’t wanna stop—I want this. I want you undone. I want you feral. Sparks, I want you—clod. You.”

Her words hung between them, fierce and raw, igniting the spark that neither could deny any longer.

Taion's eyes widened, a mix of shock and lust blowing his pupils wide. Eunie's words, her scent, her sheer ferocity—it was all too much. The last of his restraint shattered like glass. With a roar, he flipped them back over, pinning her beneath him once more. But this time, there was no hesitation, no gentleness. Only raw, primal need.

His mouth crashed onto hers, teeth clashing, tongues battling. He bit her lip hard enough to draw blood, growling as he licked the coppery taste from his lips. His hands gripped her thighs, forcing them apart with brutal efficiency.

Eunie gasped into his mouth, her nails clawing at his back, drawing beads of blood that only served to spur him on. She wrapped her legs around his waist, urging him closer, daring him to take what he wanted, what they both needed. His cock, slick with both their arousals, pressed insistently at her entrance. With a feral growl, he thrust into her, filling her completely in one swift, brutal motion.

Eunie cried out, her back arching off the bed, eyes wide with the shock of his invasion. He was larger than she'd ever felt him, his cock throbbing and hot inside her. It bordered on painful, but the pleasure licking at the edges of her consciousness was overwhelming, consuming every nerve ending until she was nothing but sensation. Her body struggled to accommodate him, but she refused to let him see her discomfort. Instead, she met his gaze with a fiery determination, teeth bared in a challenge.

“This is what you want, Eunie?” he growled, voice rough with restraint fraying by the second. “You want me to lose control?”

“Yes, sparks, yes,” she snapped back with a feral grin, her nails digging into his shoulders. “Let go, four-eyes.”

Something inside him cracked—snapped apart like glass under pressure—and suddenly, the room was filled with an overpowering surge of his pheromones, heavier, darker, unmistakably dominant. Taion snarled, pulling out almost entirely before slamming back into her with a force that shook the bed. Eunie's breath hitched, her fingers digging into his shoulders as she held on, meeting each of his thrusts with her own fierce energy. Their bodies collided in a primal dance, each movement raw and unyielding. His grip on her thighs tightened, lifting her slightly to change the angle, deepening his penetration. She gasped as he hit a spot that sent sparks flying behind her eyelids, a moan tearing from her throat.

Taion growled again, this time lower, more guttural. Animal. His eyes glinted with hunger as his grip tightened, his fingers sinking into the plush of her hips, not cruelly, but with unyielding purpose.

"Hope you’ll be satisfied, then," he rasped, baring his sharper canines, and without another word, he slammed into her with a force that knocked the air from her lungs.

Eunie cried out, her voice a tangled mess of shock, pleasure, and wild desire. Her legs wrapped tighter around him, heels digging into the small of his back as he set a brutal pace—deep, punishing thrusts that made her see stars. Her nails raked down his spine, desperate to hold onto something as he pushed her closer and closer to the edge.

His pheromones were relentless, clouding her mind, trying to drown out her sense of control, to overwhelm her completely. He wasn’t gentle anymore—he wasn’t the Taion she knew in battle, nor the quiet tactician. This was the Alpha. The real one.

Her head fell back with a gasp, the mix of pain and heat vibrating through her bones. But instead of crumbling under his assault, her own instincts surged. Her pheromones pushed back—and merged.

Taion faltered for a second as the air changed, rich and complex. Their scents didn’t clash. They aligned.

Eunie’s eyes widened, not from fear—but from revelation. This wasn’t submission. This wasn’t defeat. This was something deeper. Something real.

It was connection.

A strange, blazing resonance surged through her body like ether igniting in her bloodstream. Every nerve ending lit up, every cell in her body vibrating as though tuned to the exact frequency of him. She felt Taion everywhere: in the breath she gasped, the wild hammer of her heart, the way her core clenched around him with ravenous greed. He wasn’t just claiming her—he was anchoring her. Holding her up. Wrapping around her like a second skin of heat and power. Not just an Alpha in rut.

Her Alpha.

“Don’t stop,” she moaned, her voice broken and urgent. “Sparks, don’t—”

“Oh, don’t worry, darling,” he growled, voice dark and satisfied as he bit into the crook of her neck, “I’m not going to. Never.”

Her eyes snapped open.

Darling?

Her?

“What the spark did you just call me—” she started to bark, but her words dissolved into a choked moan as his hips snapped harder into hers, the sound of skin against skin almost drowned by the heated cry that tore from her throat. The retort died before it could leave her lips. She hated that word.

Or she should have.

But his voice—gravelly, possessive, and soaked with lust—poured through her like thick, molten honey, short-circuiting her thoughts and turning her spine to liquid. Her body didn’t care what he’d called her. Her body wanted more.

She arched again, nails clawing his shoulders, dragging angry red lines down his back as he drove into her deeper, faster, more brutally than before. His every movement was deliberate and overwhelming, like he wanted to etch himself into her. Like he wanted her to remember this—feel this—for days.

“Say my name,” he snarled, leaning over her until his lips brushed her ear. His thrusts grew punishing again, unrelenting, as his hand slipped between them to find her already throbbing clit. He pressed down in slow, torturous circles, sending lightning bolts of pleasure ricocheting through her body. “Say it, or I swear—I won’t let you come.”

“Snuff ya—” she hissed between clenched teeth, half-defiant, half-desperate.

“Say.” His hand shooted to her throat, not choking but holding her firmly in place—controlling her, grounding her. His rhythm never faltered, hips slamming into her harder, deeper. Her back bowed, body begging for release, but he denied it. Teasing, grazing, thrusting just shy of that sweet spot with maddening precision.

“My.” His teeth scraped her jaw as he rolled her nipple between his fingers, making her gasp and tremble.

“S-spark—!”

“Name.” His thumb flicked sharply across her clit again, and she screamed, her body pulsing, trembling on the edge but unable to fall.

Eunie’s eyes fluttered wide as every inch of her body screamed for release. Her pride tried to hold on—but her need obliterated it.

Eunie knew she was at her absolute limit. Her head was spinning; the edge of orgasm had become less pleasure and more punishment. Her whole body trembled with overstimulation, every nerve taut and begging for release. It hurt—a sweet, aching kind of pain that radiated from her core and echoed in every breath.

And sparks help her, she loved it.

She shouldn’t. This was maddening. Depraved. A primal game of control and surrender. And yet… her Alpha side was thriving, practically purring inside her, reveling in the way he denied her, shaped her need, controlled the timing of her pleasure like it was his right. Her thighs clenched tighter around his waist, her hips moving with instinctive desperation.

“Taion,” she snarled, voice hoarse and ragged, a wild mix of frustration and arousal blazing in her eyes.

He met her gaze with a maddeningly calm smirk and finally, finally gave her what she was begging for. His thrusts shifted—deeper, focused, purposeful. He found that spot inside her with precision, and this time he didn’t circle around her clit—he pressed directly against it, thumbs pinning her pleasure center with firm, unrelenting pressure. A jolt of electric heat ripped through her spine.

“Say it again,” he ordered low, his voice like smoke and thunder.

She growled at him through her teeth, furious and feral, a combatant caught in the throes of desire.

“Taion!” she shouted again, and that was the last straw.

“Good girl,” he breathed, eyes gleaming as he grabbed the backs of her legs and hoisted them onto his shoulders, angling her hips perfectly beneath him. He began pounding into her, harder, faster, until everything blurred. Her scream caught in her throat as the orgasm finally detonated inside her. Her body clamped down around him, hard and relentless, as if trying to hold him inside forever.

The tightness drove him over the edge. He groaned, something snapping inside him—like a dam breaking under months of tension and restraint. His world turned white. Every muscle seized in bliss as he let go, releasing everything he had into her. But the pleasure didn’t end there.

Because something inside him changed.

Something ancient.

His body locked. His grip on her legs tightened, and his hips thrust one final, deep stroke—deeper than he thought possible. His cock swelled—painfully, uncontrollably—and he let out a low, guttural moan as instinct overtook him completely.

He bit down—hard—onto the soft flesh of her calf.

He knotted her.

The moment it happened, Eunie’s eyes flew open. “Damnit!” she shouted through gritted teeth, her back arching in shocked pain. Tears welled up, unbidden. She knew it might happen. They both did. But no one had warned her it would feel like being split open from the inside.

The high of her orgasm softened the pain, but not by much. She could feel it—the bulge, swollen and locked inside her, throbbing with the aftershock of his release. Her body was stuffed, unable to move without discomfort.

Taion collapsed against her, panting, forehead resting on her shoulder as the last tremors of pleasure drained from his limbs. For a long moment, he didn’t move—just held her, listening to their hearts thunder together in unison.

As awareness trickled back in, he blinked and gently touched her cheek, worried. “Are you… okay?” he murmured between ragged breaths. He scanned her face, relief washing over him when her eyes—no longer tinged with rut—were back to their usual clear cerulean.

He tried to shift, to pull out, but her entire body tensed and she let out a sharp whimper, digging her nails into his shoulders. “Don’t!” she snapped. “It hurts, Taion.”

He froze, panic rising. “Right. Right, sorry—uh—yeah, that’s the knot. I—I think I knotted you.”

“You think?” she growled, groaning as she pressed a hand to her lower belly. “Oh sparks, I can feel it. It’s like a godsdamn boulder.”

“...Sorry?” he said again, sheepishly, leaning in to try and kiss her cheek.

To his surprise, she didn’t slap him. Instead, she let out a long, trembling sigh and looped her arms around his neck, drawing him in close. He shifted them carefully onto their sides, legs tangled, her chest pressed to his. His arms wrapped around her, cradling her gently, protectively.

Taion nuzzled into the crook of her neck, his breath warm and uneven against her flushed skin. “How’re you feeling?” he asked softly.

Eunie paused for a moment. Her muscles ached, her hips still pulsed from the overwhelming fullness of him, and the phantom stretch of the knot lingered in her belly like a dull echo. But she smiled faintly, her fingers trailing idly along his spine.

“Full,” she whispered. “Sore.” She chuckled quietly. “You?”

“Never been better,” he sighed, one hand slowly stroking her back in comforting, rhythmic passes. But his tone carried something quieter, more uncertain beneath the surface. A truth unspoken.

It wasn’t enough.

Not for what he felt.

So he held her tighter, unsure if she’d let him, if she’d push him away now that the haze had lifted even slightly. But instead, she just shifted into him, warm and pliant and fearless.

And then—like smoke curling back into flame—he felt it return. The burn. That primal heat curling through his chest, seizing his blood, fogging the edges of his mind. The rut was kicking in for real now.

And Eunie saw it in an instant.

Her lips quirked into a knowing, wicked smirk. 

“Are you worried?” he asked, his voice rougher now, strained with the effort of holding himself back. His fingers dug slightly into her hip without meaning to.

“Just about my poor vagina,” she teased, patting his side with mock sympathy. “It’s gonna be ruined when this is all over.”

He gave her a crooked smile, heat flashing in his red eyes. “Stretchable tissue. It’ll bounce back.” Then, dropping his voice lower, with a playful smirk: “Good thing, too. I’m planning to ruin it more than once.”

Eunie groaned, tossing her head back with a dramatic sigh. “Aww, aren't ya the romantic one.”

He kissed her forehead softly. “I mean it though… I’m glad you’re still here. I don’t think I could’ve—”

She shut him up with a kiss, deep and lingering.

“I’m not going anywhere, genius,” she said. “Even if I wanted to, I don’t think I could move right now.”

“Even better,” he grinned, propping himself up. “Then I can have you again.”

She gave a half-laugh, half-growl as he nibbled his way down her neck, licking her flushed skin, the taste of her sweat and pheromones making his head swim. He took his time, hands kneading the soft curve of her ass, teasing her body with slow, greedy precision. When he reached her breast, he flicked his tongue once over her nipple—then bit, just enough to make her gasp and arch into him.

Her fingers tangled in his hair, tugging hard.

Their eyes met—her expression softening, pupils blown wide, cheeks flushed—and for a heartbeat, something between them shifted. Quiet, sacred, theirs.

But it passed like a whisper, replaced by hunger as he dove in to kiss her again, rougher this time.

“I really hope you’re not tired, darling,” he murmured darkly. “We’ve barely started.”

“Yeah, yeah. Big words for a guy who almost passed out earlier,” she said, grinning.

He waited—watched her carefully, reading every micro-expression, every breath. Then, when her body finally relaxed and the tension eased in her lower muscles, he carefully pulled out. She gasped sharply, then immediately swore.

“Sparks! You could’ve warned me, ya muppet!”

“Sorry,” he chuckled, brushing her thigh gently. “Had to make sure the knot was gone.”

She shook her head, but didn’t complain further. Instead, she shifted, rising to her knees, and straddled his lap once again. Their mixed fluids slicked his already-hard cock, and the sight made her smirk with satisfaction.

She placed her palms flat on his chest. “So. Round two?”

Before she could lower herself, his hands clamped around her waist and halted her descent.

“What do you think you’re doing?” he murmured, smirking up at her. “You’re not in charge here.”

She growled, squirming against his grip, trying to fight the pressure of his hands. But even she had to admit—he was too strong like this. The rut made him sharper, faster, Alpha.

“I swear, if you don’t let me ride you—”

He didn’t let her finish. With an amused grunt, he flipped them effortlessly, pinning her down against the mattress. She cursed, struggling, wings flaring wide behind her as she clawed at his arms. But his grip was solid, dominant, immovable.

He paused to take her in—panting beneath him, arms pinned, legs parted, the flush of her skin a perfect contrast to the fire in her eyes.

Mine.

The thought slammed into him.

He lowered his mouth to hers, kissing her hungrily, one hand at her throat, the other squeezing her rear possessively.

“You’re mine, Eunie,” he growled, his voice like thunder in her ear. “I don’t want anyone else looking at you. Touching you. Alpha, Beta, Omega—doesn’t matter.”

Her body shivered beneath him.

“Don’t care if you’re in armor or feathers,” he murmured hotly against her lips. “You’re mine. And I’m gonna make sure everyone knows it.

His words sent a tremor through her, a surge of heat building beneath her skin. She wouldn’t admit it aloud—never—but something about the possessive edge in his voice, the way he hovered just above her like a storm held back by sheer will, made her pulse race.

But pride had its place. Eunie wasn’t about to roll over and let him win.

With a sharp grin, she grabbed a fistful of his tousled hair and yanked his head closer until her lips brushed the shell of his ear.

“I’m not a bloody Omega, four-eyes,” she whispered, her voice low and taunting. “Save that growling nonsense for someone who wants to be tamed.”

Taion stilled. Slowly, his red eyes met hers—intense, dark, and unreadable. There was no hesitation in them, only something simmering too deep to name.

“Is that so?” he murmured coldly. “Still with the four-eyes. You really are stubborn, Eunie.”

“And you’re still acting like a lovesick pup,” she shot back with a defiant tilt of her chin. “Try harder.”

That did it.

In one swift motion, he flipped her onto her stomach. Her wings flared in surprise as her chest hit the mattress, and she let out a startled sound, face buried in the sheets.

“Hey—what the hell—!” she growled, trying to roll over, but his weight pressed firmly down on her back, keeping her in place.

“I don’t care if you’re an Alpha,” he whispered against her ear. “You belong to me. Whether you admit it or not.”

Eunie bit her lip, her body reacting to the heat in his voice despite her efforts to resist. She twisted her neck just enough to glare at him. “I don’t belong to anyone, clod.”

Taion chuckled—dark, breathless. “You say that, but your body disagrees. You're dripping, darling.”

“Why don’t you mo-” she didn't finish the sentence as with a swift and aggressive thrust, he entered her again.

Eunie's muffled cry was a mix of outrage and pleasure, her body tensing around him as he drove into her with relentless force. His fingers dug into the soft flesh of her hips, holding her steady as he claimed her with each powerful thrust. Her wings fluttered helplessly, pinned beneath his weight, adding a subtle resistance that only heightened the intensity.

"You can fight all you want," he growled, his voice a low rumble in her ear. "But your body knows who it belongs to."

Eunie's response was a fierce growl, but it lacked the venom she intended. Instead, it sounded more like a challenge—a dare for him to prove his words. Taion accepted that dare with every punishing thrust, his body claiming hers in the most primal way possible.

"Get on all fours," he growled, sliding his hands over her sides and gripping her flesh tightly. He pulled her into position.

He guided her into position. Her back muscles were taut, and her perfect rear was just centimeters from his hips. Her inner thighs were slick with their mingled fluids as she struggled to catch her breath, her cheeks flushed as she watched him. The sight was intoxicating, making it hard for him to hold back.

"Oi!" she interjected. "What the spark is this position?!"

"Trust me," he grinned. "Apparently, women are much more sensitive like this because..." he entered her again. Eunie let out a moan. "it reaches much deeper."

"D-damnit," she whispered.

He began to move, slow and deliberate, each thrust pushing her boundaries, each withdrawal leaving her wanting. Eunie's hands clenched the sheets, her knuckles white, as she fought to maintain some semblance of control. But her body betrayed her, pushing back against him, meeting his thrusts with her own desperate rhythm.

Taion's hands roamed her back, tracing the muscles that shifted beneath her skin, before gripping her shoulders for leverage. His pace quickened, his breath coming in ragged gasps. Eunie's wings shivered, their tips curling with the intensity of her pleasure. She could feel the pressure building within her, a coiling sensation that threatened to consume her entirely.

It was too much.

Too deep.

Too full.

Too embarrassing to be exposed like this to me and having little to no control.

He could feel himself getting closer to climax and he pressed his hands against her head, pushing it down while ensuring that her hips were lifted. He bit into her shoulder as he felt her getting even wetter, until she reached her peak once again when he bit down harder.

"My name," he growled triumphantly, releasing her skin “Now.”

Eunie's breath hitched, her body convulsing as waves of pleasure crashed over her. She could barely register his words, her mind a haze of sensation. Her wings fluttered weakly, their light flickering like a dying star.

"T-Taion," she gasped, her voice a shattered whisper. It was the first time she had uttered his name with such vulnerability, and it sent a thrill coursing through him. He released her shoulder, licking the wound gently, possessively.

He slowed his pace, allowing her to ride out her climax, and when he was sure that she was in the middle of it, he knotted her again.

Her body arched against him, a soft cry escaping her lips as she felt the swell of him locking them

Her body arched against his, a soft cry escaping her lips as she felt him bind them together once more. The world outside their embrace faded away, leaving only the two of them, locked in a dance as old as time itself. Taion's heart pounded in his chest, a primal rhythm that echoed her own racing pulse. He could feel her inner muscles clenching around him, drawing him deeper, holding him tighter.

Eunie's eyes fluttered open, meeting his gaze with a mix of wonder and surrender. Her wings, though weakened, glowed with a soft luminescence that cast dancing shadows on the walls. He could see the reflection of their entwined bodies in her pupils, a sight that sent another wave of desire crashing through him.

“Mine,” he whispered, the word a low, reverberating growl that echoed through her like thunder.

Whatever.

At this point, Eunie was nothing but aching limbs, pulsing nerves, and a full, stretched heat low in her belly. Her body was a mess of soreness and aftershocks, her mind fogged over with pleasure and exhaustion. If Taion’s overloaded brain wanted to keep claiming her, let it. She couldn’t even muster a sarcastic retort—not yet.

He collapsed onto his side, dragging her with him into a spooning embrace. Their bodies fit awkwardly together with his knot still lodged inside her, but he held her gently now, cradling her close as their racing hearts began to slow.

For a while, neither of them said anything. Just the steady hum of ether in the air and the soft sound of their breathing. Then, she felt his hand brush over her lower belly. A faint shimmer of soothing ether followed his touch, and the pressure that had been building there lightened slightly.

Eunie reached down, caught his wrist, and gently pushed his hand away.

“It’s not necessary,” she said, giving him a tired but contented smile. “Just don’t pull, ‘kay?”

“Okay,” he murmured and pressed a soft kiss between her shoulder blades, right where her wings met. His voice was steadier now. Calmer. “How was it?”

She snorted softly. “Which part? The position? Yeah, you were right—it hit different. Way more intense. A bit uncomfortable at first, but that’s your fault. You’ve got a ridiculous dick.”

He chuckled, fingers lazily drawing idle circles against her hip. “The knotting?”

She wrinkled her nose. “Heh… not a fan. Still too much. Feels like bein' impaled by a tree trunk. With attitude.”

“I liked it,” he said without shame, nuzzling against her neck. She could feel him smile against her skin as his tongue flicked across the fresh bite mark. “Helps. The clarity that comes after. My mind… it quiets down.”

Eunie hummed softly, brushing her fingers over the arm wrapped around her waist. “Glad it helps.”

Taion shifted slightly, propping himself up on one elbow to look down at her. There was something cautious in his expression—almost vulnerable.

“Were you… doubting?” he asked.

“I mean, yeah?” she replied, matter-of-fact. “I’m not an Omega. Who knows if I’m able to help during a rut.”

He groaned loudly and dropped his face into the pillow beside her. “Never,” he mumbled into the sheets. Then he turned back, pulled her in tighter, and pressed his forehead to hers. “Never doubt how you make me feel, Eunie.”

“I wasn’t—”

“I meant what I said earlier,” he cut her off gently, though his voice had gone rough again. His grip on her waist tightened slightly, not enough to hurt, but enough to ground himself. “I want you. Alpha, Omega, Beta—I don’t sparking care. I want you.”

His words ignited something deep in her chest. Her body shivered—not from cold, but from the echo of his voice, from memory.

You’re mine, Eunie.
I don’t care if you’re an Alpha. You belong to me. And I will make you mine.

She knew those words had been laced with instinct, driven by the haze of his rut. But part of her… liked it. Part of her had always viewed him as hers, too.

With a sly smirk, she reached for the back of his neck and yanked him into a kiss, hard and full of hunger.

“For once, we agree on something,” she murmured against his lips, her voice husky. “Because you’re mine too, Taion. All of you.”

His breath caught—just for a second—and his pheromones flared again, thick and heady. But before he could dive back into instinct, she stopped him with a raised brow.

“Hold on, horny Alpha,” she said, nudging his chest. “First things first. You’re still knotted in me and I’m parched. So unless you want me fainting mid-round three, get moving. I need to get somethin' to drink. Chop-chop!”

He grinned like a mischievous schoolboy. “Understood, darling.”

Eunie groaned. “Stop calling me that.”

“You’ll get used to it,” he teased, rolling them slowly until she straddled his lap, chest to chest.

“OW—ow, dammit—!” she yelped, clutching her belly. The angle pulled on the knot still nestled inside her, sending a jolt of pain through her core. “Don’t twist like that, clod!”

“Right, right! Sorry, sorry,” he said quickly, hands slipping beneath her thighs. “Hang tight.”

Without missing a beat, he rose from the bed—still very much connected to her—and started walking.

“Taion!” she shrieked, flailing slightly as she instinctively clung to him. “Oh, spark’s sake, are you serious?!”

“You said you were thirsty,” he replied, clearly trying not to laugh as he carried her across the room, bare skin against bare skin, as if they weren’t in the most awkward and painful position ever. “I’m just being a good partner.”

“I swear, if you drop me…”

“I won’t,” he said smugly. “I’ve got you. Besides, I could always offer you something else to drink if the water’s not good enough…”

She smacked his forehead with a flick of her wing. “Shut up and give me water, four-eyes.”

“Your wish is my command,” he chuckled, stepping into the kitchen with her still clinging to him—exasperated, sore, knotted, and grinning against her will.

He handed her the glass of water wordlessly, the heat in his eyes never wavering. Eunie accepted it with one brow raised, perched carefully in his arms as he gently lowered her onto the cool marble surface of the kitchen island. The moment her weight settled, he stepped back—barely, just enough to let her breathe—but she could feel his body twitching with renewed arousal. His gaze was locked on her, jaw clenched, chest rising and falling in uneven, shallow breaths.

She took her time sipping the water, deliberately slow, watching how his fingers curled restlessly at hersides. The glass clicked lightly against her teeth as she finished, setting it down beside her with a small clink—and as she did, she shifted her hips, testing. The knot had finally subsided. She could feel it. She could slide off now.

But before she could make the move, Taion did.

He pulled out suddenly, and their mingled fluids spilled down her thighs and onto the kitchen tiles with an obscene sound. Then, without missing a beat, he gripped her hips and spun her around, bending her over the island.

"Since you liked this position so much," he purred, his voice thick with anticipation, "how about we explore a few… new angles?"

"Not so fast, four-eyes," she growled, bracing herself on the countertop and twisting her body to glare at him. Her eyes narrowed, and with a slow exhale, she released a concentrated burst of pheromones—thick, sharp, and commanding. The air around them shifted instantly. It wasn’t just instinct or arousal now—it was a challenge.

In the earlier rounds, her scent had barely managed to stand up to his rut. But now, post-release, she could match it. And she was going to make damn sure he knew it.

Taion inhaled deeply, his crimson eyes widening in surprise as her scent curled through him like smoke and lightning. His grip faltered for a split second, and she seized the moment—one hand pushing him back with surprising strength, the other tugging his head downward between her thighs.

"Clean up your mess, first," she said with a smirk, spreading her legs just a bit more. “Then, maybe—and I’m saying maybe—you’ll get another shot.”

His growl vibrated against her skin before he even opened his mouth. Her scent was driving him insane now, not because it was overpowering, but because it was perfectly tuned to his own. No resistance. No clash. Just fusion.

"Correction," he murmured against her inner thigh, voice gravel and velvet. "You’ll let me fuck you while screaming my name. Then we’ve got a deal."

Eunie rolled her eyes, but it was half-hearted. She could already feel her knees weakening again. “Depends,” she teased, arching a brow over her shoulder. “How thorough is your cleanup, four-eyes?”

He didn’t respond with words. He dove in—tongue flicking, licking, and sliding across her folds, cleaning, yes, but also worshipping. He didn’t bother holding her still; she wasn’t going anywhere, not when his mouth was on her like that. Her hands gripped the counter until her knuckles turned white. When he finally began circling her clit again, her breath caught, and her hips rolled into his face of their own accord.

"You’re so wet," he groaned, pulling back just enough to let the words vibrate against her. "It’s obscene."

“Why don’t you—” She cut herself off with a sharp cry as his fingers joined his tongue and filled her all at once. Before she could curse him properly, he shoved two fingers into her mouth, muffling her with a devilish grin.

“Something to say, darling?”

"Yes, less talkin', more lickin'!" she growled back, biting his fingers.

"I love when you think you're in charge."

"Pff, I'm in charge, you muppet!" she snarled.

"Not today," he whispered lowly. Before, she could protest again, his fingers pressed the spot inside her, making her stifle a cry. Her mind was too far gone—again. The pleasure swelled too fast. He was deliberately avoiding her sweet spot, edging her without mercy.

"Then who’s in charge?" he taunted, pulling her arms above her head and pinning them against the marble while continuing to tease her mercilessly.

She wanted to scream. She wanted to say him. But no. No way.

Her inner Alpha roared. She wasn’t going to give him the satisfaction.

She analyzed the moment. He was stronger right now, thanks to the rut. But she was better trained. And unpredictable. As he leaned in, ready to claim her again, she shifted her weight, braced, and swept her leg next to his knee, twisting hard and shoving.

He stumbled, eyes wide with shock, trying to stabilize himself—but she was already on him.

She leapt, crashing into him, kissing him fiercely while biting down on his lower lip, drawing blood. As his cock brushed against her again, already hard, she slid down with a hiss and impaled herself on him before he could stop it.

“Wot were you sayin’, huh?” she gasped against his mouth, grinding her hips as she grabbed his chin between her fingers. “Sorry to ruin your plan, tactician.”

He groaned, eyes rolling back, as she wrapped her legs around his waist. He shoved her against the nearest wall, pinning her there with strength fueled by raw instinct.

"You’re—sparks, Eunie," he growled as he thrust into her harder, claiming her all over again. "You’re perfect. You’re driving me mad."

“Y’re welcome,” she panted, only half coherent now as the orgasm overtook her. Her nails dug into his shoulders, her body tensed—and then melted.

He grunted against her throat, biting down as he came with a snarl, and she felt it: the stretch, the heat, the unmistakable pressure of being knotted again. It made her whimper, hips twitching in overstimulated pleasure.

And yet, even through the high, even through the soreness and exhaustion, one thought crossed her dazed, satisfied mind:

Yeah… pissing him off might actually be my new favorite kink.

***

There wasn’t a single untouched corner in that room. The bed, the walls, the floor, the shower, the couch—hell, even the dresser bore the marks of their relentless mating. They’d broken furniture, shattered a lamp, and upturned at least three chairs in the process. The air had long since become saturated with their scent—thick with Alpha pheromones, arousal, and sweat. Despite the expensive soundproofing, complaints had still trickled in: guests irritated by the rhythmic thuds, the muffled cries of pleasure, and the suffocating scent of rut spilling into the hall. But no one had dared knock. No one interrupted two Alphas mid-mating. Not even staff.

Eunie had stopped counting the days. Time inside that room blurred into a haze of heat, growls, tangled limbs, teeth, and desperate, toe-curling orgasms. What had started as a way to help Taion through his rut had turned into something else entirely—something addictive. Volcanic. Maddening. She knew she should be asking questions—why she liked this, why her Alpha instincts were feeding his instead of soothing it—but she didn’t. Not anymore.

She had simply surrendered to it.

But that morning, something changed.

She stirred to the delicious sensation of his tongue between her legs. It wasn’t the first time he’d woken her like this, but this time, there was no frenzy. No desperation. His hands were gentle on her thighs. His breath steady.

As pleasure built slowly through her spine, she glanced down at him, threading her fingers into his tousled hair—and that’s when she saw it.

One of his eyes had returned to its usual hazel.

She froze. Her breath caught in her throat—not from the pleasure, but the realization.

“You’re back to hazel,” she murmured softly, her voice still breathy but warm. She cupped his cheek. “Guess it’s almost over, huh?”

That was when everything changed.

Taion went still.

Then rigid.

The air in the room thickened unnaturally, charged like a storm about to break. Her instincts flared with alarm—but before she could ask what was wrong, he surged upward and grabbed her, flipping her onto her back and slamming into her with a force that knocked the breath from her lungs.

“W-wot?!” she choked out, struggling against the sudden weight, the raw violence behind his movements. His teeth found her neck again—right over an older bite—and this time, it hurt. Sharp. Bruising. Desperate. His claws dug into the sheets as he pistoned into her with wild abandon, his eyes now unfocused, lost.

“Taion—what’s—ah—what’s wrong?!” she gasped, but her words were drowned out by his grunts, by the wet slap of skin on skin, by the chaos of it all.

It wasn’t like before. It wasn’t dominance or play.

It was panic.

He flipped her without warning, pushing her flat against the bed and rutting into her from behind with frenzied thrusts. She gritted her teeth through the burn of it, her forehead pressed to the mattress, her hands curled into fists. He brushed her hair aside with shaking fingers—tender, almost—and then bit down again.

Hard.

Too hard.

She cried out as she felt his teeth break the skin, the burn of blood joining the overwhelming sensations. Her vision swam. An orgasm tore through her before she could process it—raw and involuntary—and she barely had time to scream before he knotted her again.

But it wasn’t pleasure anymore.

It was possession.

It was fear.

His body collapsed against hers, trembling, breath coming in ragged gasps. And then… silence.

She turned her head slowly, panting, still trembling herself—and saw him.

Eyes wide.

Face pale.

Tears sliding silently down his cheeks.

"...What..." he whispered, his voice strangled. "What did I...?"

Her heart clenched.

Still half-tangled together, she reached for him, pulling his face gently to hers and brushing the tears from his cheeks with her thumb. She didn’t understand it—what exactly had snapped—but she knew he wasn’t himself. Not really.

“Taion,” she whispered. “Wot’s wrong? Talk to me.”

He shook his head violently, lip quivering.

“I tried,” he croaked. “I—I’m so sorry, Eunie, I tried—”

And then his body gave out.

He collapsed on top of her completely, unconscious, spent in more ways than one. His weight was heavy, but she didn’t push him off. She just lay there with him, one hand in his hair, the other gripping his back. Her body ached. Her neck stung. Her core throbbed from the knot that still held them together.

But her heart ached even more.

And that scared her more than anything else.

***

Hi! It's BelgianPallasCat! As always here are some pictures I draw! Hope you like it! Ps: yeah he is bulkier on purpose (rut is better than going to the gym apparently :D)

Not that the Omegaverse is strictly correlated with werewolf but it does share some similarities. Still, I'm not very good with animals but here is a second version imagining him as a shape-shifter.

Ahah I liked drawing the one below.

And the last one: it's slightly a R18 picture (not vulgar but still if you don't appreciate just skip it.)

Chapter Text

Sena sat quietly by a small campfire, keeping watch for any potential dangers while also glancing at the time on her IRIS. Usually, Lanz would be with her, but Manana had forced him to help with dishes as he had been slacking off in that duty recently. They were stationed at the base of Cloudkeeper, having just returned the metal piece needed for Simon's new ship from the Queen herself. As she thought about the events of the day, Sena felt an unusual wave of heat surge through her body, causing a release of pheromones. She gulped nervously and tried to regain control before anyone else approached.

Her pheromones had started rising after Eunie and Taion left, although her heat was scheduled to happen in three days. Yet, it was not the first time that she had somewhat the impression that she struggled more with the pheromones control than anyone else, and she didn't know why. She was sure to practice every day as Larry taught them time ago but it seemed it was never enough. It seemed to happen especially when there were a lot of Alphas around, but lately it even happened when Lanz was close to her. He never mentioned it, probably to spare her discomfort, but she noticed that he often adjusted his hard shaft in his trousers when she wasn't looking. They had an unspoken understanding between them: it was up to her to decide if and when she was ready for anything to happen between them. But now with her heat approaching, she knew the decision was looming closer. She could choose to spend it alone in a room with suppressants, or potentially with Lanz or Mio, - though she wasn't sure if that would work since she was now bonded with Noah. Joining Taion and Eunie during his rut didn't seem like a good idea at all; Eunie was already extremely dominant without being in an actual rut and there was something about Taion's scent when they left that made Sena’s skin rise. She was sure he wouldn’t have appreciated at all an external interference from anyone else in the group.

She let out a sigh as she looked up at the clear night sky, gazing at the stars above her. She had to make a decision, and quickly.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a noise behind her, causing her to tense up before relaxing when she saw Lanz sprinting towards her with something in his hands.

"Hey, babe!" he exclaimed once he was close enough for her to hear. She blushed and smiled at the nickname, then noticed what he was holding: two large chocolate biscuits that Manana had baked the previous night in the City. The problem was that...Manana was very strict about food and would only allow them one after dinner, saving the rest for breakfast.

"Lan!" she scolded as he offered her the delicious dessert. "Manana will be so mad if she finds out!"

He laughed and sat down next to her, biting into his biscuit. "Only if she finds out," he grinned mischievously. "And even if she does, I'll just apologize to her. The nopons love me; Imma sure she ain’t mind."

"Yeah, I'm not so sure about that," she replied with a smirk as she took a bite of her own biscuit, enjoying its sweetness.

"C’ mon, we deserve more than one!" he complained, playfully poking her with his elbow. Even such a small touch sent pleasant shivers down her spine and caused her to blush as it felt intimate. And with that came a new wave of pheromones surrounding them.

"Gosh..." she blushed, feeling embarrassed. "I'm sorry, it's just..."

"Ah, don't worry ’bout it," he murmured, waving off her apology and awkwardly coughing. "Do you wanna me to sleep somewhere else tonight?"

She was aware of the pheromones she had been emitting during her sleep, and she knew how much she was affecting him. But despite this, she appreciated that he never pressured her for more. He waited patiently for her...and it seemed that the intimidating Alpha enjoyed cuddling just as much as she did. So they spent their nights intertwined, occasionally engaging in kisses and pleasuring each other, but he never pushed for more. The thought of not having him beside her when she fell asleep was unbearable. She instinctively placed a hand on his strong thigh, causing him to tense up.

"No," she whispered, looking into his eyes. "Please."

His body instantly relaxed and he squeezed her hand back. Despite the coldness, her body radiated warmth and comfort to him.

"Of course, babe." That smile from him made Sena's heart flutter and her hair spark in the darkness. Without thinking, she climbed onto his lap, took his face in her hands, and before he could process what was happening, her lips were on his. He tensed initially, unsure of how to respond, but as soon as she teased his lower lip with her tongue, he moaned and pulled her closer to his broad chest, almost crushing her spine in the process.

"Dammit, Sen," he whispered, his breath quickening and his body responding immediately. Sena moaned softly as she felt his fingertips tracing over her naked back, the warmth spreading through her body.

Their eyes locked, words unnecessary between them. Sena lost herself in his captivating red gaze, different from the intimidating glare of Taion during the rut. His was warm, deep, inviting. He was always there for her when she needed him, as a friend, an interlinking partner, a lover... potentially even a mate.

In that moment, she realized what she had always wanted. Memories flooded her mind of their time together since the day they met. She saw how he never underestimated her and was always fascinated by even the smallest things she did, making her feel extraordinary. No one else had ever looked at her like that, not even Mimi.

But most importantly... he believed in her more than she believed in herself.

Lost in these thoughts, she took his large hands in hers.

"Lan," she said with a smile.

"Hmm?" he mumbled absentmindedly while tracing patterns on her palms and mesmerized by the glowing ether channels in the darkness

"I want to spend my heat with you," Sena said, her voice trembling with emotion. Lanz froze, unable to believe his ears. He looked at her closely, searching for any signs of hesitation or falsehood, but found none. He coughed awkwardly and blushed, then lowered his gaze.

"I...I don't think that's a good idea, Sen," he stammered, struggling to find the right words.

Sena's heart raced and her chest tightened at his words, but she tried to remain calm. She had been waiting for this moment for so long - had she waited too long? Had Lanz grown tired of waiting for her? Maybe she had misinterpreted his signals...maybe he had only pretended to enjoy their cuddling sessions instead of wanting more.

Before she could say anything else, Lanz spoke again with a serious tone.

“ ‘Cos I don’t think I’ll be able to control myself,” he sighed as every word was taking a toll on him “And in the end, I’ll try to mark you.”.

For a moment, only the sound of the cold night breeze filled the space between them. Lanz lowered his gaze again, feeling somewhat ashamed for what he had said. But he had always been honest in his life - there was no point in lying to Sena now. He didn't want to force a bond on her if she wasn't ready. He didn't want to pressure her into making this decision while she was in the midst of her heat.

"Oh," Sena murmured softly, then let out a sigh. "Is that all? I thought it was something serious."

"What do ya mean 'that's all'?!" Lanz groaned incredulously. "Duh, isn't that a big deal?"

Sena burst into laughter at his reaction - he just didn't get it.

She leaned forward and kissed him once more, causing him to let out a loud groan. He wrapped his arms around her and they collapsed onto the snow-covered ground. Sena moaned as she ground against his hard shaft, and when they broke the kiss, she saw that he was finally starting to understand.

"Are you sure?" Lanz whispered, his voice cracking with emotion. "I can't believe this is really happening."

"I'm sure," Sena replied with a warm smile. "Are you sure, Lan?"

He held her tightly, feeling his manhood pulsating painfully in his trousers. She winced at the pressure.

"Sparks, Sen. Yeah! Yeah, I’m bloody sure!!" He exclaimed breathlessly.

But before she could reply, he effortlessly lifted her up in his arms and started carrying her back to their campsite.

"Lan, my turn isn't over yet!" She protested laughing, gripping onto his neck for support.

"Ah, forget it. Noah and Mio can take over." He declared with a hearty laugh. "Right now, all I want to do is cuddle my mate."

Sena blushed deeply at the term, her hair sparking with electricity as if illuminating the night. They weren't technically mated yet, but just the thought of it made her heart race and a warm sensation spread throughout her body. And deep down, she knew she made the right decision

***

Sena's eyes fluttered open and she immediately recognized the familiar signs of the heat. Her body was warm and tingly, especially between her legs, and she struggled to gather her thoughts. She noticed that Lanz was not beside her, which caused her heart to race with panic.

Was he gone?

The thought alone made her writhe in panic, feeling as though someone had stabbed her in the back. This was unusual - it never happened in Li Garte, as far as she could remember. She opened her eyes wide and frantically looked around for him. When she saw him standing and talking with Mio and Noah, the sharp pain dissipated and was replaced with a surge of arousal.

"La-Lan?" she tried to call out, but it came out more like a moan than her actual voice. Lanz turned towards her with widened eyes and seemed momentarily paralyzed. He opened and closed his mouth several times but no sound came out from it. He glanced at Mio and Noah, who nodded in as to encourage him.

"What's happening?" Sena shrieked worried, trying to sit up straight.

"Hey babe, it's okay. Don't worry," Lanz murmured softly as he slowly approached her. His face held a worried expression and his voice was strained. Sena looked at Mio and Noah, who were smiling gently.

"Mimi?" she called out to Mio, seeking some sort of explanation for what was happening. "Is something... wrong?" Why did her clothes suddenly feel uncomfortable? It almost felt like every bit of fabric touching her skin was leaving bruises behind.

Mimi smiled warmly and shook her head before turning to look at Lanz and placing a hand on his muscular bicep.

“No, Sena,” she replied calmly. “Lanz is just a little worried.”

“W-wor… why?”

Lanz let out a loud sigh and ran a hand through his short white hair, blushing slightly. He glanced at Noah for support before continuing.

“I think I might go into rut,” he groaned. “I woke up this morning with the warning thingy in my IRIS. It's probably the same as four-eyes.”

It took Sena a moment to process the information before letting out a soft and surprised “Oh.”

“Imma not sure if it's still a good idea…” he huffed. “It's our first time...y’ know? I dunno! I don’t wanna mess things up!”

Despite feeling aroused, Sena's chest fluttered and her eyes welled up with tears. He was worried about her! Sometimes she forgot that underneath his tough exterior, he was just as insecure as her.

“Sparks! Don't cry, Sen!” he panicked, taking a few steps towards her despite being surrounded by her pheromones.

“You idiot!” she exclaimed, opening her arms and beckoning him closer. “Come here now.”

Without hesitation, Lanz's body reacted instinctively and he sprinted towards her, closing the distance between them in a matter of seconds. He knelt down and held her tightly against his chest while she melted into him. She hugged him back and nuzzled against his chest.

With tears of joy streaming down her cheeks, Sena whispered, "I know you'll take care of me, rut or not rut," as she rested her head against his tank. He gently lifted her chin to look into her eyes. To her surprise, one eye was turning blue and the pupil was transforming into a vertical slit.

"Of course, babe," he murmured before swiftly carrying her as if she weighed nothing. He turned to their teammates and said, "We're heading back to the City."

"Sure thing, guys," Noah nodded with a warm smile.

"Just make sure to check her contraceptive device," Mio interjected with a serious expression. "Unless, that is what you want, of course."

Sena held her breath at Mio's words, feeling a tingle run through her entire body.

A baby.

A baby from her and Lanz.

She had never thought about it before and only learned what a baby was a few months ago. But now, something inside her stirred awake. She panted and emitted new pheromones towards Lanz, who tensed up but then briefly looked at Sena before turning back to their teammates.

"We must go," he groaned. This was a conversation that he needed to have with Sena alone; his wolf instincts were telling him that they couldn't discuss this with their friends present. He loved them all dearly, especially Noah, but there were certain things that only he and Sena could handle together. And lately, his body had been preparing for rut - he felt reinvigorated and powerful, his mind already slipping onto his interlinking partner beneath him as he claimed her ferociously.

Without waiting for a response, Lanz teleported them away.

****

The minutes that passed between the frantic conversation with the receptionist and Lanz sprinting upstairs with the key in hand and Sena in his arms had been terribly chaotic. Especially considering they have barely been able to write down their name much to the amusement of the receptionist.

They finally arrived on the top floor which was reserved for large rooms specifically designed for spending the rut and the heat. As they arrived, they were greeted by a mixture of scents, but two stood out above the rest.

"Oh," Sena giggled, snuggling into Lanz's chest. "Tai and Eun!"

Lanz let out a loud snore, emitting pheromones to cover them both. Damn jealousy. It resurfaced as strong as the first period when their genders were first revealed. He clenched his teeth, knowing he had worked hard to keep it under control lately. She had helped him through it, especially after their talk in the spa. But now...he could feel his control over it slipping away again.

No other Alpha should be releasing their pheromones around her.

She only needed his pheromones.

Suddenly, they heard a familiar voice next to them.

"I swear, once this rut is over I- ah!"

Thump.

Lanz nearly lost his balance as the sound of something or someone hitting the wall on their right echoed down the corridor, mixed with moans and growls.

"Sorry, darling," Taion’s voice purred. "Continue what you were saying?"

"Snuff ya!"

Lanz sighed annoyed as Sena continued to giggle against his chest. He was still angry with him for what happened during their journey to colony Omega, especially when he interfered and twisted his wrist during training. It wasn't just about that; the way he acted put everyone in danger. He deliberately provoked him, and he didn’t know what prevented him from punching that nerd in the face as soon as his pheromones turned aggressive.

Lost in his thoughts, Lanz slowed down without realizing it. For a moment, he even considered breaking into their room and picking up the fight where they had left off. They were both in a rut now, and overcoming him would be as easy as beating a first-term cadet.

He knew he should focus on more pressing matters, but his brain refused to function coherently. He felt torn between claiming the Omega in his arms and beating another Alpha senselessly. His breathing became heavy as he stared at their door, unsure of what to do next. But as soon as he caught a whiff of her sweet scent, all urges to fight vanished. He looked down at her and licked the palm of her hand, causing her to pant and shiver against him. That was enough to make him take a few steps towards their room.

Without wasting any time, Lanz closed the door behind them before landing on the bed with Sena on top of him. He made sure not to crush her beneath his weight.

"Lanz!" she called out desperately, filling the air with her pheromones and making him almost drool. He grunted as he aggressively rubbed his hard manhood against her soaked pants.

He felt dizzy, finally understanding what Monica and Mio meant by being in a "highlighted state." The euphoria he normally experienced was nothing compared to this. He needed to be inside of her, and he needed it now.

He couldn't even remember how they managed to remove their clothes; he must have ripped them off, as they were scattered on the other side of the room.

“Sparks!” Sena squinted in disbelief as she felt his cock brushing against her belly. She had seen it before, but now it hit her that this monstrous thing was supposed to be inside her! Lanz was a big guy, but his dick was... a sparking Aspar!

"You put that in me?!" Sena shivered and couldn't resist the urge to touch it. As soon as her hands wrapped around it, Lanz growled and pulled her into a passionate kiss.

"Oh yeah, multiple times," he smirked, biting her lower lip while his hand explored her body. He had noticed during her first heat that an Omega's skin became incredibly soft and warm, and Sena was no exception. Although she was usually muscular and firm, during her heat all of that disappeared. But Lanz didn't mind- if her skin was softer, then it would be easier for him to mark her.

He could feel his body tensing as another wave of pheromones enveloped them. As he positioned himself at her entrance and slid against her slick folds, Sena moaned loudly, almost making him climax right then and there.

"Damn babe," he grinned, licking his lips and feeling his fangs poking out "Let me at least put the tip, wouldja?"

Sena could only whimper and gasp while his aggressive mating pheromones aroused her even more. Her body burned with desire and every touch from him made her skin tingle. She needed him inside of her, all over her. Despite her feelings for him, she couldn't shake the idea that her body was not built to match his; she feared she would not be able to handle his size and among the arousal, she started also to feel the panic rising.

"Spread your legs, Sen," he ordered through gritted teeth, grabbing her waist and thrusting his nails inside her skin. A wicked idea crossed his mind- with one powerful thrust, he could easily push her onto his cock and have his way with her. But just as he was about to give in to his animalistic urges, he noticed that Sena was shivering and was paler. Confused, he looked at her and saw that she had tears in her eyes.

He froze.

"W-what's wrong?" he stuttered, panting heavily "Sen?"

“I-I’m sorry!” She cried out, frantically wiping away her tears and covering her eyes. The sight of her crying brought some clarity to him and he immediately leaned in, pressing gentle kisses to her cheeks.

"Hey hey," he murmured, licking away the tears from her face. "What's wrong?" Sena shook her head and hugged him tightly, taking a few moments before answering and surprising Lanz with her response.

"Your...thingy is intimidating!" Silence fell between them as Lanz processed her words.

"My thingy?" he repeated, confused. "You mean my...yeah." He couldn't believe this was happening. His mate was scared of his size?

"It's too big! It won't fit!" she exclaimed, burying her face in his shoulder. Lanz felt himself tense up as he battled between his urgent desire to mate with her and his instinctive need to protect her as an Alpha. He had never encountered this problem before - usually, his interlinking partner was fearless about… well, everything! Was she feeling inadequate because of their size difference? He couldn't help but glance down at his throbbing erection pressed against her belly.

"Oh c’ mon, it's not that big..." he said, trying to sound nonchalant even though a part of him was secretly flattered by the compliment.

"It's bigger than my arm!" Sena exclaimed with a squint. "You'll tear me apart!"

Lanz finally understood: Sena was just nervous. Extremely nervous for some unexpected reason, especially considering that she was in heat. But he was sure all she needed was a little time and reassurance. Her pheromones were not lying, he was sure that she wanted him as much as he wanted her. How could he help her with that? Maybe they could try something else first?

But his tip was already at her entrance... one small movement and he would be inside her.

He let out a loud growl and pulled away from her in frustration. No, he wasn't the kind of person who would disregard his partner's concerns for his own pleasure. Without waiting for a reaction, he got out of bed and kneeled beside it, lifting her up by the waist and placing her on the edge.

Sena couldn't even finish her sentence before Lanz grabbed her legs and wrapped them around his neck. He left a mark on the inside of her leg with a bite, causing her to moan and lean back, running her fingers through his hair. He grinned in satisfaction and began to lick her skin, making his way down to her wet folds. The sheets were already soaked and the smell was intoxicating.

Lanz took in a deep breath, inhaling her sweet scent mixed with her pheromones. He fought off the urge to cum immediately and instead focused on pleasing Sena. Without any hesitation, he licked up her slick folds until he found the spot that made her cry out his name and tighten around him. He was well aware of her love when he took her clit between his teeth and began to suck gently. Without hesitation, he did just that and Sena's body reacted with a sharp jolt as her grip tightened in his hair. An intense orgasm surged through her like a powerful wave, causing her to see stars.

"Did you just cum?" he asked with satisfaction. "I barely touched you."

Sena couldn't even respond; she was trying to catch her breath and process what had just happened. Her body had been on the edge of climax since they had removed their clothes, and every touch from Lanz seemed to awake a new erogenous zone in her body. She felt tingly all over, and as soon as he licked that sensitive spot again, she could only come moaning so loud that she was sure people in the rooms next to them could hear her. But she couldn't relax yet; she knew she wanted more, needed more. She flinched as she felt another wave building in her abdomen when Lanz started licking with even more vigor than before.

Lanz grinned against her flesh and not so gently inserted two fingers inside of her, finding her just as tight as always. With his other hand, he started pumping his own cock to relieve some of the pressure and give himself some time.

"Relax," he groaned in pleasure. "Y're squeezing my fingers so tightly."

"I-I'll try," Sena moaned, but she didn't know how to relax. She was too busy not screaming from the intense pleasure of Lanz hitting all the right spots and sucking on her clit like he never had before. She felt the urge to climax again, and his subtle hissing only added to her pleasure. She gently tugged on his hair to get his attention.

"T-together," she stuttered out. Lanz raised an eyebrow in confusion, but then he understood and nodded his head in agreement.

He slid another finger inside her and began thrusting deeply, keeping teasing her clit with his teeth. This drove her wild; her insides contracted around his fingers and Lanz knew she was close to climax. He let himself go as well, riding out the orgasm together. He quickened his pace as she cried out his name once more, the thought of hearing her scream it while he was inside her making him cum hard onto the floor.

He continued licking until her orgasm completely subsided. When she stopped trembling, he grinned and withdrew his fingers from inside her. He couldn't help but pant at the sight of her: a wet and trembling work of art. Her ether channels seemed to light up the room and he had never seen her hair sparkle so much.

And they were only just getting started.

He stood up, lifting her under her arms and scooting her up in the bed. Pressing his body against hers, she felt his erection against her belly again and couldn't resist grinding against him. Looking down at her with a relaxed expression, he saw that her cheeks were flushed and she had a warm smile on her face.

"Kiss me," she whispered, taking his face in her hands.

Without hesitation, he crushed his lips against hers, causing her to whimper as she hugged him by the neck and ran her fingers through his hair. She could feel his body burning as hers, the pre-cum that had wetted her belly now igniting a warm sensation throughout her body. The thought of him entering inside her still scared her a little, but at the same time, she wanted it. She wanted every inch of him inside of her and he wanted to fill every hole she had with his cum.

Sena flinched as she felt his tip against her wet folds, but she forced herself to relax. There was nothing to be afraid of. Lanz would take care of her, and she had complete trust in him. Her pheromones became even sweeter, causing a growl to escape his lips as he started fucking her mouth with his tongue. He finally began to enter her.

She tensed up and let out a small whimper, but Lanz didn't stop. He couldn't stop. He focused all of himself on inserting into her as slowly as possible, but Sena's pheromones were only intensifying, making it difficult for him to control himself. He knew she would have experienced some sort of pain; Dr. Holly had explained the situation to them when they arrived in the City. But Sena didn't seem to be in that much pain. Was the heat actually helping alleviate it? If so, it was better for both of them.

"Sen?" Lanz murmured in her ear, sending shivers down her spine. She moaned in response and nuzzled her nose against his collarbone, urging him to produce more pheromones.

"I feel so full," she moaned, inhaling his scent deeply. In a strange way, his pheromones were helping to dull the discomfort she was feeling. She was grateful that Lanz was taking it slow and giving her body time to adjust.

Lanz smirked in satisfaction. The heat was definitely making things easier. He had managed to fully insert himself into her or at least as much as was humanly possible. After waiting a few seconds to make sure she was comfortable, he let go of his previous worry and gave in to his primal urge to mate.

He started to thrust harder, completely enveloping her and marking her with bites that didn't tear the skin. He was going wild with pleasure as her body pressed against his, trembling like a leaf in the wind.

“Not so scared now, arenja?” He smirked and licked the fresh bite mark on her collarbone.

“N-no,” she moaned in response, pulling his face towards hers for another kiss “I love it”. His growls sent shivers down her spine and she felt herself on the edge of another orgasm. Surprisingly, it wasn't as painful as she thought it would be. Her body seemed to fit perfectly against his, despite the initial discomfort when he entered her. But soon enough, the warm pleasure overtook her senses and Lanz filled her so completely that he hit all the right spots inside, making her a throbbing mess of ecstasy. She could only think about him inside her and begged for more.

"Cum inside," she whispered against his lips.

Hearing those words from her made Lanz lose control. He growled, lifting his torso and gripping her body while thrusting violently into her. She cried out and arched her back in response. In this position, he went even deeper and could see his cock pushing against her lower abdomen. The sight almost made him lose control.

"W-wait! I feel strange!" she squirmed, grabbing onto the sheet with trembling hands. Lanz had hit a new spot and she felt like something was about to burst out of her. "Lanz!" she called out to him.

"Let go, babe!" he ordered with a serious expression, digging his nails into her skin. Despite trying to hold back, the intense pleasure mixed with the pressure building inside of her was too much to resist. She found herself on the brink of orgasm once again, but this time it was even stronger than before. And just as wave after wave of pleasure crashed over her, she also felt that pressure release in an explosive climax.

"Sparks!" Lanz exclaimed as her new fluid sprayed across his torso, completely catching him off guard. He vaguely remembered Holly mentioning something about this, but he couldn't recall the name of that erotic thing. All he knew was that it had been scorching hot! Watching her convulse in orgasm and release that liquid while moaning only made him more intoxicated. He didn't slow down; he kept thrusting and even licked up the few drops that landed on his lips. And with one final thrust, he reached his own orgasm.

But as the pleasure washed over him, all of his old thoughts resurfaced. The ones he thought he had rid himself of.

Sena was his Omega.

A loud growl escaped him as he released inside her, filling her completely. Sena cried out as she felt him swell even more inside her. Instinctively, she wrapped her legs around his waist to ensure he was fully buried inside her and that she would take in as much semen as possible. She climaxed once again, clenching tightly around his shaft.

"Damn, Sen," he grunted, "You're squeezing me dry."

Still, in a post-orgasm daze, Sena didn't quite register what he was saying. She barely realized when Lanz flopped onto the bed next to her and pulled her onto his lap. It wasn't until her mind cleared a bit that she noticed her head resting on his chest that his still-erect member was still inside her. She lifted her head in confusion and glanced back at him

"Are we... stuck?" she asked, her cheeks flushing red, feeling the discomfort of having something so large inside her.

"Yup," he grinned, satisfied.

Sena mumbled something but didn't say anything more. His pheromones were now enveloping her, and she couldn't help but enjoy the feeling of being close to him. She took a moment to catch her breath before looking at him, still wearing his best smile.

Sena smiled back and reached up to touch his cheek.

"I like your new eyes," she whispered with a giggle.

"Did they change color?" he asked, stroking her back.

"Mmm-hmm." She replied in a hushed voice. "The color is similar to my hair...they're really cool."

"Then they are cool," he laughed, revealing his sharper teeth “Since, well, y're the most beautiful one," he said with a smile. "And the sexiest one! I mean, what ya did earlier? Sparks’s sake! It made me cum right away!"

Sena covered her face in embarrassment.

"Oh man! That was not sexy! It was just embarrassing! I basically...peed?"

"Nope, it's not. I can't remember the name, but some girls can do it. And damn, it was amazing!" He replied, biting his lip as he remembered the warm sensation that surrounded them both when their pheromones merged. He lifted his torso so that they were chest-to-chest. "But I expected nothin’ less from the most incredible person." He whispered in her ear, making her whimper.

"You really need to stop flattering me like that," she murmured, burying her face in his collarbone embarrassed and flattered.

"Why? Does it make ya embarrassed?" he purred, nibbling on her ear. She shivered and let out a small moan before nodding.

"Too bad, you look so cute when y're embarrassed," he replied, effortlessly lifting her off of his shaft. She winced as the knot was released from inside her and protested slightly when he laid her back down on the bed. Lanz paused for a moment before deciding to spoon with her, lying next to her on the bed.

Sena's body began to heat up once again, but she remembered something important before giving in to the pleasure and pheromones. Tilting her head back, she looked at him.

"Did you...mark me?" she asked curiously.

"Nope," he replied slowly, sliding his hard shaft between her closed thighs once more. He knew this because after biting her, something inside of him unlocked and he now knew how to bite for bonding or mating.

"Why not?" Sena whispered.

Lanz stopped moving, sighing loudly as he rested his head on her shoulder.

"Because a bond is for people who have...love feelings, right? Like Noah and Mio," he groaned. "I mean, I'm sparkin’ happy that ya asked me for the heat and that y're okay eventually with the bond, but I think both parties should feel the same way. I dunno if I'll be able to stop myself from doin’ it all the time, but I'll try."

"Right," Sena replied with a smile as she caressed his cheek. "Well, just so you know, on my end there are definitely romantic feelings so..."

"Yeah, don't worry. The future can wait, I can wait," he murmured with a sigh.

Silence fell between them.

"Wait," Lanz tensed and looked at her, finally realizing what she just said. "What?"

Sena burst into laughter at his reaction. The big, scary Alpha in rut was starting to tremble. His blue eyes shone as he opened and closed his mouth several times while trying to process her words.

"Sen, babe, are ya saying that only ‘cos y're in heat?" he asked incredulously, observing her closely.

“Well, I’m in heat but it’s me that is talking, not the pheromones,” she replied calmly, continuing to caress him. Sena couldn't tell if her words were having any effect on his rut or not, but for a moment she thought she had broken his brain with the way he was staring at her in disbelief. Her heart raced with joy as she turned to face him better, taking his face in her hands and kissing him slowly.

"I love you, Lanz," she whispered sweetly.

Once again, his mouth opened and closed multiple times, but Sena could see the tears forming at the corners of his eyes.

"Oh, come on!" she chuckled playfully. This was not how she had imagined it would happen. Not at all! Especially considering he was currently experiencing a rut. "Don't cry, Lan."

"I'm not crying! I don’t cry!" he stuttered before finally grabbing her and hugging her so tightly that it almost cut off her air supply.

She laughed again as he left a trail of kisses all over her face, body, and hair.

Finally, he looked at her, cupped her chin, and kissed her passionately. He couldn't believe it! It felt like his world was complete now that he realized he'd been in love with Sena for a long time. He knew deep down that his feelings for her went beyond just friendship; he wanted her as more than just a friend or even just a lover - he wanted her as his mate. No one else - not Eunie or Noah - made him feel the way Sena did: understood completely, motivated him to be better, and being the best interlinking partner he could ask for. If there was one person worth living the last term of their lives with, it was Sena.

"I love you too, Sen," he whispered before kissing her deeply.

Sena's heart fluttered once more, and she finally let the pheromones take over again. She rolled over, pulling Lanz down with her and spreading her legs for him. Lanz couldn't resist and immediately crushed his lips on hers.

"Lanz, please," she whispered, kissing his collarbone and wrapping her arms around his neck.

"Damnit, Sen," he growled. "Imma going to make a mess of you! Mark you so many times that you'll lose your mind."

"P-please!" she moaned as he pinched her nipples and teased her entrance with his shaft once more.

Without hesitation, Lanz thrust himself inside of her, feeling the intensity build with every thrust. He thrust so hard that he was certain his name would be imprinted on the wall next to them. But just before she reached climax, he flipped her onto her stomach and held her down with his entire body. Nibbling on the skin of her neck, he growled with desire.

"You sure?" he hissed, trailing his tongue from her back to her neck.

"Yes," she murmured, glancing back at him with the same adoring expression that had captured his heart.

Slowing down his pace, he continued to lick her skin, watching as goosebumps rose and her body trembled in anticipation. She wanted this, he could sense it from both her honest words and her pheromones.

She was his Omega.

He was her Alpha.

They were meant for each other.

For a few moments, he stayed still behind her neck, making sure they were both on the edge of orgasm to make it a truly unforgettable experience. And when he felt her inner muscles clenching tightly around him, he sunk his teeth into her neck.

In that instant, they both experienced indescribable pleasure and a deep sense of happiness and completion. They were now one unit, bonded together in every way possible.

Their moans echoed through the room before they collapsed onto the bed, spent. Lanz held Sena close to him, careful not to disrupt their entwined legs. They lay in silence for a few moments, catching their breath and processing what had just happened between them.

Sena's eyes drifted down to her body and she saw the mark on her leg. "Lanz!" she called out, pointing to where their legs were now imprinted with the bonding symbol.

"Wow!" he exclaimed, propping himself up on his elbow and extending his right leg. "Looks like we have our answer on what our mark will look like!"

Sena giggled, remembering when she accidentally blurted out her thoughts in the kitchen in front of everyone. She studied the mark with fascination: it depicted flowers and geometric patterns, resembling gears next to each other.

"Do you like it?" Lanz asked, brushing his fingers over her leg.

"I love it!" Sena replied with a smile. "It's really cool."

"Yeah, no idea what it means but it looks cool!" Lanz laughed, squeezing her tightly and nibbling on her neck once again.

Sena smiled, she actually had some theories about the meaning behind the mark. She loved the part with the flowers especially. She gently touched them as if they were real flowers, knowing that just like a flower needs time to bloom, so did she.

And now, she finally felt like she had bloomed.

Lanz nibbled on her ear, interrupting her thoughts. "It's not over," he whispered.

"That's fine," she whispered back with a smile, panting slightly and feeling the arousal rising again. "I want more."

"It's all yours, babe!"

***

Taion couldn't remember ever sleeping so deeply in his life. Not during training, not during missions, not even during recovery after the worst battles. This… this was different. He didn’t even know how long he'd been out. When he finally stirred, blinking through the haze of his blurred vision, the room was aglow with the warm gold of the setting sun—the soft, final rays painting everything in amber. Evening, then. Maybe even the last of it.

He sat up slowly, his joints sore, his entire body aching in strange, unfamiliar ways. His mind was a foggy tangle of fragmented memories—heat, bodies, sweat, teeth, cries. Eunie. The knotting. The marks. The rut.

And then he remembered something else—emptiness.

His breath hitched.

Eunie wasn’t next to him.

His pulse spiked immediately.

Where is she?

Had he hurt her? Had she finally had enough and left while he was unconscious? No one should’ve been able to take everything he’d thrown at her—no one. It was already a miracle he was still alive after what he did.

Wait—why am I still alive?

Panic overtook him.

Taion threw off the sheets and stumbled upright, barely aware of his nakedness. He was ready to tear the entire building apart if he had to.

That was when he heard her.

“If y’re going out, I suggest ya put at least the shorts on. Not sure the receptionist is eager to see your bruised dick.”

His head whipped toward the voice. Blurry shapes resolved into the kitchen. Two large white wings fluttered lazily in the light—Eunie. Moving. Speaking. Alive.

He charged, knocking over a chair in his frantic dash.

“Watch out! Geez—!” she huffed, barely managing to set her teacup down before he barreled into her like a missile. His arms wrapped tightly around her, squeezing until she wheezed.

“Are you okay??” he asked, frantic, pulling back to examine her face, then her neck, her lips, her eyes—anything that would tell him she wasn’t broken.

Eunie blinked at him, then burst into laughter, her head resting against his chest just above his ether crystal.

“Yeah,” she said softly, nuzzling under his chin. “Completely fine.”

She leaned up and kissed him gently—soft lips, warm hand on his cheek.

“And you?” she asked. “How’re you feeling?”

He let go of her reluctantly, then blinked down, his eyes trailing over her bare legs. She wore a new, oversized black jumper—similar to one of his old ones—and a pair of dark underwear. But what caught his attention were the marks.

All over.

Bites. Bruises. The angry imprint of his fingers on the inside of her thighs.

Spirits, he thought, what have I done?

Without a word, he reached for the zipper of her jumper, hands trembling. She caught his wrist.

“It’s fine,” she said quickly. “You don’t need to.”

“I’m not—” he swallowed. “I just… I need to see.”

She gave a tired sigh and smirked faintly. “I wasn’t worried about you trying to jump me, if that’s what you mean. My body’s so numb I doubt I’d feel anything even if there were ten Taions in the room.”

He didn’t laugh. He didn’t even smile.

His gaze stayed fixed on her.

“Eunie, please.”

Something in his tone made her pause. She released his wrist.

He carefully unzipped her jumper.

And his heart dropped.

Purple bruises. Swollen flesh. Deep, red crescent marks from his claws. Bites with the edges scabbed over. Even with his poor vision, they were vivid. Obvious. Violent.

He stumbled back, chest tightening. All the control he prided himself on—the discipline, the calculation—gone. Destroyed. And she, his comrade, his partner, his—

His everything—was the one who paid for it.

“Eunie…”

“Don’t be dramatic,” she groaned, rolling her eyes and grabbing his arm to pull him back toward her. “I’m fine.”

“You’re not—”

“I liked it,” she interrupted bluntly, cheeks slightly pink as she turned away to take another sip of tea.

He blinked.

“…You did?” he repeated, stunned.

She gave a small shrug as she reached for the kettle. “Yeah.”

He was behind her now, tall and bare and still reeling. “Are you just saying that to make me feel better?”

She turned, insulted. “Contrary to you, muppet, I don’t lie.”

Ouch.

He winced and ran a hand through his tangled hair. “Technically I didn’t lie. At least not at first. I wasn’t in rut when—”

“Don’t even try it, four-eyes!” she snapped, turning fully to face him, one hand on her hip and the other gripping the spatula like a weapon. “You start backtracking and I swear I will get angry. Now get dressed. We’re having real food. If I have to choke down one more protein bar I’m gonna stab someone. Probably you.”

“…Yes, ma’am.”

With a sheepish grin, he raised both hands in surrender. She huffed, then turned back to the stove where scrambled Rogul eggs were sizzling in the pan.

He moved quickly, pulling on a clean pair of boxers she’d left folded for him. When he returned, she was plating the eggs onto two ceramic dishes.

“Your clothes and glasses are on the stand by the door,” she said over her shoulder. “Ordered ‘em yesterday. They got delivered this morning. Hope the specs are right.”

He blinked in surprise. “You… ordered my prescription? How—?”

“I messaged Mio. She called Teach, who contacted someone in Gamma who tracked down the order history for your last pair.” She glanced at him. “Was that alright?”

He adjusted the frames on his nose, the world immediately snapping back into crisp clarity. “More than alright.”

She nodded, turning back to the eggs, and for a moment the only sounds in the room were the soft hiss of the stove and the distant hum of the ventilation system.

Taion watched her, heart swelling in his chest. The way her wings shifted when she cooked. The stubborn set of her jaw. The way she’d handled the aftermath without blame, without bitterness.

“How long was I asleep?” Taion asked, adjusting his new glasses as he nervously finished getting dressed. The fabric felt soft, warm, clean—like waking up from a battle to find the war somehow over. 

Eunie, still stirring eggs on the stove, shrugged lazily. “Mmmh… ’bout a day and a half,” she replied. “You collapsed on me yesterday morning and didn’t stir 'til now. Honestly, thought you were dead. Turned out you were just wiped. You even started snorin' at one point.”

Taion exhaled deeply, shoulders sagging. His body was sore but not broken. The memories of the past few days filtered in like smoke—tangled limbs, fevered gasps, her voice in his ear, his teeth in her skin. It was difficult to separate hallucination from reality.

“Eunie?” he called softly, like anchoring himself to something real.

“Mmmh?” she answered again, distracted.

He fidgeted with his glasses, clearing his throat before speaking. “You know I didn’t mean everything I said… right?”

Eunie glanced over her shoulder, eyebrow cocked, a wicked smirk already forming. “Oh? So I’m not yours?”

The teasing tone made him turn crimson. His ears burned as he stumbled over his words. “I—I mean, you’re not an object. I had no right to say any of that. I just… I wasn’t thinking.”

She snorted, flipping the eggs. “Sure seemed like you were. Over and over again. Like a broken bloody record.”

“I mean it, Eunie.” His voice was low. Serious. “What I said… I sounded like I wanted to own you.”

She turned off the stove, letting the silence stretch for a moment. Then, with an exasperated sigh, she turned to face him.

“Listen, four-eyes,” she said, arms crossed over her chest. “Yeah, it was intense. Possessive. Rut-brained. But guess what? I liked it. I liked hearing you say I was yours. Was it weird? Sure. Bloody strange. But if the roles were reversed, I’d probably be saying the same sparkin’ things to you.”

Taion gulped loudly, her words conjuring an image in his mind—her on top, hands gripping his wrists, her teeth on his neck. His arousal stirred, but it was met with a jolt of pain in his core. He winced, instinctively sending ether to ease the tension.

Eunie caught it instantly, and laughed. “See?” she said, gesturing to the obvious bulge in his pants. “You’re still a weirdo.”

She considered teasing him more—maybe climbing into his lap, whispering that he belonged to her now. But her body said otherwise. Every muscle was sore, her hips ached, and she was reasonably sure her thighs wouldn’t stop trembling until next week.

Taion took a deep breath, expression softening. “Still… I’m sorry for everything else.”

She raised a brow. “That your new favorite word or somethin’? ‘Sorry?’”

He approached slowly, gaze trailing down her bare legs to the marks he’d left. His fists clenched slightly at the memory. “Eunie,” he whispered. “We didn’t… right?”

It was almost too quiet to hear.

She tilted her head. “Didn’t what?”

“The bond…” His voice cracked, gaze dropping. “I… I bit you, but… nothing happened. You bit me too. And yet…”

She could see the shame building in his posture, like a stormcloud. She closed the distance and gently took his hands in hers.

“What did you tell Larry?” she asked, brushing her thumbs over his knuckles.

Taion blinked in confusion. “What?”

“You told Larry we would try again,” she reminded him. “And again and again and again. Remember?”

“I did,” he admitted. “But… after what I did to you…”

“What did you do?” she interrupted, kissing him lightly. “Have amazing sex with me? Push me past my limits in a way I asked for? Yeah, real traumatic, that.”

“Eunie…”

“Look,” she said, stepping back and resting her hands on her hips. “So what if we didn’t bond? Who the spark cares? We made it through your rut. Together. And we did something no one thought possible. We survived. We had fun. I enjoyed every bloody second of it. And yeah, I like all versions of you—even the rut-crazed, over-possessive, knot-happy bastard.”

He blinked. Then blinked again. His lips parted as if to argue, but her sincerity overwhelmed him. His arms wrapped around her, pulling her into a tight hug. His head rested against her wings, her feathers brushing against his cheek.

“You’re right,” he murmured into her shoulder. “Apologies.”

“You’re damn right,” she quipped, smacking his back lightly.

Taion chuckled. “Then I suppose we’ll just… wait for your rut.”

Eunie grinned mischievously, raising an eyebrow. “Aww. Dreamin’ of bein’ knotted by me already?”

“I mean…” he blushed. “Mio said it’s technically impossible unless I'm an Omega.”

“Yeh, well, don’t count me out,” she teased, giving his ass a sharp slap that made him yelp. “I’m stubborn. If I wanna get you pregnant, I’ll find a way.”

He couldn’t help it—he laughed. Loud and real. “I’d love to see you try.”

She leaned in and kissed him again, long and slow, her hands gently stroking the sides of his face. “Good.”

The smell of eggs filled the air between them. Their laughter faded into easy silence.

Taion, still holding her close, whispered, “You really are perfect.”

“Yeh, well, I know,” she said breezily, turning back to the stove. “Now sit your bruised arse down and eat before I change my mind and throw it at your face.”

He smiled.

Home. Somehow, it already felt like home.

****

Hi! BelgianManul here! 

Sena's pov

Real pov :p

Chapter Text

As Noah and Mio stepped into the kitchen, flanked by two floating Mondo, they barely blinked at the chaos before them. The bickering voices of Eunie and Taion were already echoing through the hallway—sharp, familiar, and weirdly comforting. The two healers were so caught up in their spat that they didn’t even register the new arrivals.

“Stop it! I said I’m perfectly fine!” Eunie growled, twisting her body to swat at the hovering Mondo fussing near her shoulder. The little creature shivered nervously and zipped back, undeterred. Its twin floated to Taion, casting him a worried glance before mimicking its partner and fluttering in front of his chest like a tiny, concerned nurse.

“As a doctor—” Taion groaned just to be interrupted by her.

“Doctor my arse, four-eyes!” Eunie snapped, eyes narrowing at Taion. “Where was this ‘doctor’ act when you were feelin' shit for your rut?”

Taion groaned and rubbed his temples, sliding his glasses higher on his nose. “That’s… not the same. Please, Eunie, just let me do this.”

She narrowed her eyes. Since he woke up—he’d been acting like a man on a mission, hell-bent on healing every bruise, mark, and fading bite he’d left on her. She wasn’t even in pain anymore, just sore in the best kind of way. Yet every time he caught a glimpse of his own marks on her skin, something inside him seemed to twist. She could see it in his eyes: pride and guilt battling for control.

He hadn’t even touched her that morning, despite her very clear intentions. The minute she climbed into his lap and whispered a filthy suggestion in his ear, he bolted into the bathroom like a soldier dodging an explosion. And then, of course, he’d had to deal with the consequences of that in there.

By himself.

“Seriously, it’s barely anything left,” she muttered, rolling her eyes. “It’s not like you didn’t bite me before.”

Taion flushed, adjusting his glasses again as if that would hide the red blooming in his cheeks. “I know,” he said, stepping closer and taking her hand. His voice dropped. “But I need to do this.”

She stilled. The desperation in his tone melted her resistance. With a dramatic sigh, she nodded—and the two Mondo immediately zipped to her shoulders, beginning their ether infusion like overzealous origami drones.

“There’s nothing to fix, Taion,” she murmured, her voice losing its sharpness. “If anything, it's your back that needs fixing.” Her gaze fell to the spot she knew still bore angry red scars. She had tried healing them—several times—but he kept stopping her, even going so far as to quietly instruct the Mondo to block her ether when he wasn’t looking. Every time, he refused. Every time, she grew more frustrated. But deep down, she knew why.

He wanted to remember. He wanted to carry the proof of his failure like a badge—his punishment, his penance.

She hated it.

Before she could press further, a calm voice sliced into their moment.

“So what, are you saying we weren’t good enough?”

Both of them turned, blinking like they’d forgotten the world existed beyond their argument. Mio stood by the door, arms crossed, wearing the unmistakable smirk of someone who’d been eavesdropping. Noah leaned against the counter beside her, trying—and failing—not to laugh.

“Nah,” Eunie replied quickly, straightening her spine. “With a bit more practice, you lot might get close to my level. Maybe.”

“Sign me up for your next class, master healer,” Noah chuckled, pulling out a chair for Mio and settling beside her.

Eunie tilted her head, tapping her chin with mock seriousness. “Master healer… y’know what? I like it.” She threw a look over her shoulder at Taion. “Use that next time.”

Taion raised an eyebrow and smirked. “I’ll stick with darling, thanks.”

Her face went bright red, wings fluttering involuntarily behind her. Mio giggled. Noah grinned.

“Oh for spark’s sake,” Eunie muttered, flopping into a chair across from them.

“Wait—where are Lanz and Sena?” she asked, looking around.

Mio answered with a smile. “Sena’s in heat. Asked Lanz to help her through it.”

Eunie choked on her tea. “What? So they’re—?!”

“Yep,” Noah replied casually. “And I’m next. Three days.”

“So,” Eunie said, stretching, “what’d we miss? Any urgent end-of-the-world stuff while we were busy… y' know… not sleeping?”

Mio leaned forward, eyes glittering. “Oh, you won’t believe this—”

And with that, she and Noah launched into an energetic recounting of the events from the last few days.

***

After Mio finished her update, Taion turned to Noah, his brow furrowed thoughtfully behind his glasses.

“Do we have the location of these metal parts?”

“We do,” Noah nodded, already pulling up the data on his IRIS. “The first one came from the Queen—she handed it over personally before Sena started feeling off. We managed to secure the second one this morning.”

As Noah sent the information, Taion opened his own IRIS. His gaze sharpened as the map loaded. Red markers blinked softly across Aionios, from the Cadensia Region to the upper stretches of the Great Sword’s Base.

“They’re scattered all over,” Taion murmured, his finger hovering over the different regions. “Retrieving them one by one will take far too long unless we deploy in separate units.”

“Exactly,” Noah said, resting his elbows on the table. “That’s actually why Mio and I wanted to talk to you both. We’ve been considering dividing up the team to speed things up.”

Mio added, “The problem is… Sena. Her heat might not pass quickly.”

“She could be down for a week,” she continued, concern flashing in her violet eyes. “And there’s a real chance her cycle triggered Lanz’s rut too. His IRIS gave him a hormonal fluctuation alert as they left.”

A moment of silence passed. Eunie’s eyes flicked toward Taion’s, and they exchanged a look—brief but loaded. Neither said anything. But Noah caught it.

He cleared his throat awkwardly and pushed forward. “So… what do you think, Taion? Should we split up?”

Taion took a breath and sat straighter, still eyeing the map. “Logistically, it’s the most efficient solution. We’ll cover more ground, and it gives Sena and Lanz the space they need to recover properly.”

He turned toward the two Nopon perched nearby. “Riku, Manana. You can come with us—or if you’d prefer, you’re welcome to work independently. We trust your judgment.”

“Riku have no issue,” the small Nopon said with a sage nod. “But Manana’s opinion also important. Riku defer to culinary wisdom.”

Manana, arms crossed and looking dramatically thoughtful, let out a long sigh. “Manana is strong. Brave enough for adventure. But Manana also worried...”

“About what?” Eunie asked, already guessing.

“Taion’s cooking! If something happen to Manana, friends’ meals will be... tragedy.”

Eunie snorted with laughter while Taion blushed furiously, adjusting his glasses with a sharp flick of his fingers. “That’s completely—!”

“She’s got a point,” Eunie cut in, grinning. “It’s not like we can live off emergency bars forever. But don’t worry, love. I’m decent with eggs. We’ll survive.”

“Eggs alone not balanced nutrition!” Manana scolded. “So Manana will prepare healing lunchboxes. Friends only need to reheat—simple! Like baby Nopon could do it.”

She had already begun rummaging through her bag, pulling out spices and sealed containers with the same energy one might expect from someone preparing for battle.

“Then it’s settled,” Mio said, her tone a bit lighter. 

“Sounds like a plan,” Eunie said, rising from her seat and stretching her arms overhead with a satisfying pop. “Good to move again. My wings are stiff.”

Taion stood beside her, already calling up routes and noting optimal departure times. “I assume that you'd like a warm place. What about Cape Arcaphor?”

“Oh, yeah! After all the cold, the good ol' Eunie needs some warm,” Eunie chirped with a smirk. “Back to the grind, eh?”

“You missed it,” Taion replied, adjusting his glasses, “Admit it.”

Eunie scoffed, grabbing her pack. “Maybe a little. But only because I missed showin' off.”

Noah laughed as he and Mio rose from the table. “Stay safe, both of you. We’ll regroup at the City in a few days.”

“Copy that,” Taion nodded. “And Noah—good luck.”

Noah gave him a knowing look. “You too. Try not to let her boss you around too much.”

“Oi! I heard that!” Eunie called back, already halfway out the door. “I am the boss!”

As they stepped outside into the fading light of Aionios, a cool breeze rolled in, rustling their capes and feathers. The sky overhead shimmered with streaks of orange and violet, and the sense of impending conflict dulled just a bit beneath the rhythm of banter, preparation, and movement.

The next chapter was already waiting.

****

The air was warm with salt, the sun trailing lazily down the horizon, and the soothing breeze from the Erythia Sea was exactly the kind of distraction she always claimed to need. Taion had barely blinked before she had already changed into her swimsuit much to his pleasure.

The truth was, he didn’t mind watching her enjoy the heat. Quite the opposite.

She moved with a confident ease, white wings catching the sun and throwing glints of light across her smooth skin. Her laugh had a kind of freedom to it out here, far from battles and tension. It made something warm flicker inside him every time she smiled.

They’d arrived via skip travel, landing just outside the coastal ridge, and had spent hours searching the rocky shoreline and dense beachside trails for the next metal shard.

But luck wasn’t on their side.

Uchrons were unusually aggressive near the water’s edge. A few exploratory steps too far into the dunes, and they were ambushed—twice. After the third encounter, Eunie swore loud enough to scare off some local crabs, and Taion finally convinced her to retreat and set up camp.

They found a small, naturally enclosed pocket of beach surrounded by jagged stones, just high enough to mask their fire. As twilight fell and the last battle faded into memory, Taion began setting up the Mondo barrier.

“Cool, wot’s that?” Eunie asked, crouching beside him as the origami creatures began to swirl around them.

“It’s a technique I’ve been refining,” Taion replied, carefully guiding the energy flow. “It camouflages us, masks our ether signatures, and scrambles our outline for the fauna. I worked on it at Captocorn Peak.”

He looked proud, though his focus remained sharp.

“Impressive,” Eunie whistled, genuinely curious as the invisible field shimmered briefly before stabilizing. “That means we’re hidden… together... alone… in a pocket of illusion... with no way out. I can't wait to ride you!”

She bit her lip, leaning just close enough to make him stutter mid-channeling. A few of the Mondo floated off course as his concentration faltered.

“I—Eunie!” he protested, cheeks tinged crimson.

“Seriously? After everything we've done?” she snorted, poking his side. “Ya still blush like a newbie cadet!”

“I suppose your directness remains my one critical weakness,” he murmured, adjusting his glasses and returning his focus to the field. But when he looked at her again—really looked—his expression darkened.

“You’re still recovering,” he added, his voice low.

Eunie sighed and flopped backward onto their camp blanket. “I'm fine, buzzkill,” she grumbled. “Ugh, whatever. I’m gonna warm up Manana’s stew.”

Soon the fire crackled between them, and the soft aroma of vegetables, meat and spices filled the air. They sat side by side, knees brushing, the sea’s waves a distant rhythm. Their teasing resumed as naturally as breathing. The air, the laughter, the heat—it all felt real again.

But Taion’s gaze lingered.

She was radiant in the firelight, wings flickering open and closed with each breath, her hair haloed with sunset glow. He watched her sip from the cup he’d handed her earlier, watched her lips curl into a grin at her own joke. And suddenly, he felt the gnawing ache return—guilt.

Not about the rut. Not the mating. But about everything before.

He hadn’t let himself think about that moment—that day—when he almost lost her.

He reached for her hand instinctively, fingers brushing hers. Eunie paused mid-sip and turned, her smile fading slightly as she caught the look in his eyes. She sighed, setting down the cup on the smooth rock beside her, and shifted to kneel between his legs on the beach towel.

“Bad thoughts again?” she asked softly, her voice calm and quiet in the stillness between waves.

He didn’t answer right away, but his hand rose, cupping her cheek gently. She leaned into the touch as if to say it’s okay.

“Yes,” he finally whispered, the word barely audible over the sea breeze.

“Wanna talk ‘bout it?” she offered, draping her arms across his chest and resting on him, as if she belonged nowhere else.

Taion’s throat tightened. “No. I just… my brain needs time to accept that you’re okay. That you’re here.”

He paused, swallowing hard. “The rut scrambled my perception, but I remember it all. The blood. Your scream. I remember thinking I’d trade everything to take your place. And I still would.”

Eunie didn’t respond right away. Instead, she propped her chin on his chest and looked up at him.

“Well…” she began, a mischievous glint returning to her eyes, “you certainly made me feel very alive when you fucked me like the world was ending.”

“Eunie!” Taion choked, flustered. His blush returned in full force.

“Wot? Don’t act surprised,” she teased, poking his cheek again. “You kept saying I was yours. Thought it was hot, by the way.”

He groaned, partly from embarrassment and partly because... well, she wasn’t wrong.

“How are you feeling now, Eunie?” he asked, pushing her hair behind her ear and tracing slow circles on her back.

She smiled at the use of her name, resting her forehead against his. “I’m okay, four-" he glared at her. "Taion.” she corrected with a groan.

He didn’t say anything. Just waited, holding her in silence, sensing that she wasn’t done.

Eunie let out a long, trembling sigh and pressed her cheek against his chest. The steady rhythm of his heartbeat beneath her ear, the slow, calming motion of his hand tracing up and down her back—it all helped. Just a little. Enough to breathe through the ache.

She hadn't had another nightmare since she started opening up. Since the quiet nighttime tea sessions, tucked beneath a shared blanket with Taion’s voice grounding her. Since hearing him talk her back from the edge of those memories, again and again. But opening up still made her feel bare. Exposed. Like walking into a battlefield without her Blade.

“I was scared,” she finally whispered, her voice almost carried off by the sea breeze. “Of dying… with regrets. ‘Cos we didn’t talk. Not really. Not before it happened.”

Taion’s chest tightened beneath her. Her words were quiet but carried more weight than any wound. His arms instinctively tightened around her, and he buried his face in the crook of her neck. His breath stuttered, warm and shaky.

“I-I'm sorry,” he murmured against her skin. “I don't even know how to ask you to forgive me. I—”

She cut him off, fingers curling into his hair until he looked up again.

“Well, it’s not your fault that absolute dickhead showed up and tried to kill us all,” she muttered, forcing a smirk that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I just happened to be the unlucky one on the hit list.”

Her voice wavered slightly despite her sarcasm.

“And yeah,” she added, eyes locking onto his, “I am still mad you didn’t tell me about your rut. But when we interlinked today… I saw it. I felt it all. Your guilt. The grief. The way you pulled away not because you didn’t care, but because you did.”

Her voice softened as her hands moved to cup his face gently.

“So stop it, Taion. Stop beatin’ yourself up over it. If you’re trying to push me away by guilt-tripping yourself to death, it ain’t gonna work.”

“Don’t even joke about that,” he groaned, his voice breaking. “You know how hard it was… keeping distance. From you. From everyone.”

Her gaze didn’t flinch. “Same here.”

A pause. Then, quieter still: “There were days I really thought… you were tired of me.”

The words hit him like a blow. He cupped her face instantly, drawing her in with trembling hands, and kissed her softly, reverently—like the apology he couldn’t put into words.

“Not in any of my lives, Eunie,” he said against her lips, voice low and sincere. “Not once. I meant every word I said. I wanted you. I want you. You’re more than just my partner in the field. I can’t get enough of you.”

A real smile cracked through her hesitation.

“I know,” she said with mock pride. “That’s the effect Eunie has.”

He chuckled, resting his head back and gazing at the sky. The stars were slowly emerging, glimmering faintly above them like memories scattered across the ether.

“I wish I could erase the painful ones,” he murmured. “I don’t want you to see those things when we interlink. I don’t want you to feel the weight of it, not the way I do.”

She slid closer, their bodies aligned now, her hands softly tracing his jaw.

“There’s pain, yeah,” she said, “but there’s also light. I saw it. Felt it. The way you held me. The way your pheromones wrapped around me like you were afraid to let go. I saw your joy. Your relief. Your tears.”

She kissed him again—gentle, warm, like a promise.

“Those memories are just as real. And I’ll hold onto them.”

He closed his eyes, overwhelmed. She made it sound so easy. So healing.

“And I’m sorry I lied,” he whispered, voice catching. “About the rut. I just didn’t want to worry you. I thought I could handle it, and then… I couldn’t. I was afraid. Of losing you. Of hurting you.”

She pulled him close again, wrapping her arms tightly around him as he sagged into her embrace.

“I know. I saw it all,” she said, peppering his cheeks with soft, fluttering kisses. “It’s in the past now, Taion. But no more lies, yeah? No more hidin' stuff.”

He nodded against her shoulder. “Agreed.”

They stayed wrapped in each other for a long while. The fire crackled softly beside them. The sea whispered in the distance. Above, the stars slowly stitched their tapestry across the sky. Taion kept checking the Mondo field now and then—old habits died hard—but every time he looked at Eunie, the fear dimmed.

She leaned in, lips hovering over his, close enough that he could feel the warmth of her breath.

Taion smiled, brushing a hand through her hair as he kissed her slowly. His hands cupped her face with care, and her fingers curled around ther waist, grounding herself in his warmth.

Even as their kiss deepened and their tongues met in a slow, sensual dance, there was no rush. No desperation. Just this quiet, precious stillness.

Until her hand brushed down his chest, over the lines of his core, and lower to his hips. He gasped softly as his body responded. A familiar stir of arousal—gentler now, but no less intense.

“W-wait,” he murmured, breaking the kiss, flushed. “I don’t think it’s a good id—”

She silenced him with another kiss, deep and slow. It pulled the breath from his lungs and replaced it with heat. He sat up instinctively, letting her straddle his lap. Their bodies aligned, close, and warm under the blanket of stars.

Their hearts pounded in sync, breath interwoven as they kissed again—this time deeper, hungrier. His hands settled on her waist, and hers slid up to his shoulders. She moved with a fluid rhythm, not to arouse or tease, but to stay close. Connected.

They didn’t need frenzy or pheromones.

Just the steady beat of two hearts choosing each other.

Again and again.

“Are you…” he began, breath hitching as her hands ran hot and slow across the muscles of his back, “are you sure?”

Eunie growled softly in response, nipping his lower lip with clear irritation. “You really know how to kill a mood, four-eyes.” Her voice was low, breathless. “Yes. I'm fine. For the love of the Queen, Taion—it’s been two days. You’ve been treating me like I’ll crack if you even touch me too hard.” She cupped his jaw roughly and stared into his eyes. “I’m done. I need this.”

“I didn’t push you away,” he mumbled defensively, his voice breaking a little. “I just… deleted the sex components. Out of respect.”

“Yeah, and now I’ve had enough respect to last me till my sparkin’ homecoming.” Her hand trailed down his chest as she smirked, leaning in for a kiss. “Let’s be us again, shall we? Besides, your dick agrees with me.”

He groaned—because she was right. And because he missed her. All of her. The wildness, the heat, the raw connection that tethered them closer than interlinking ever could. So when she tugged down his swim trunks and freed him, already hard and waiting, he didn’t resist. He helped her untie the sides of her bikini, revealing skin still glistening from sea mist and sweat, the heat between them suddenly thick enough to drown in.

He gulped when he felt her slickness dripping against his length, her thighs bracketing his hips with certainty. She reached for his hands and guided them across her body—from her waist to her breasts—wordlessly reminding him: I’m here. I’m alive. Touch me.

And so he did. Reverently. As if touching something sacred.

With his help, Eunie rose above him and sank down slowly, her breath catching as they were joined again. They moaned together, the sound low and deep, carried off by the waves crashing somewhere beyond the barrier of Mondo light.

He wrapped his arms around her waist, face buried in the hollow of her throat, overwhelmed by the feeling.

She’s safe.

She’s here.

His mate was safe.

Taion exhaled shakily as her fingers tangled in his hair. Her touch wasn’t rushed or teasing—just warm and gentle, grounding him. She tilted his chin up, her eyes locked on his as she kissed him slowly and began to move—soft, controlled rolls of her hips that matched the rhythm of their breaths.

“Sparkin’ hells, I missed this,” she groaned between kisses, her lips brushing over his temple.

He shuddered and nodded, unable to speak as pleasure laced through him like ether.

“How’s this… like this?” she whispered, pressing a kiss to his forehead as she continued her slow rhythm. It was different from the frenzied passion they often shared—the dominance, the bites, the games. This time, she simply wanted to feel him. To feel with him. Their bodies moved together as one, guided by nothing but instinct and the deep well of trust they’d built.

“It’s perfect,” he whispered back, his voice barely audible over the crashing waves and the hum of the Mondo field. He wanted to say more—to tell her that she was perfect—but the words caught in his throat. Instead, he kissed the curve of her neck, letting his hands guide her hips while his lips left soft trails across her skin.

Eunie flushed deeply at his tenderness, not quite used to this version of him. Yet it stirred something warm inside her, something unshakable. She was used to him being composed, reserved, tactical—but here, wrapped around her, open and raw and loving—he was beautiful.

“Y’ve changed,” she whispered against his ear, brushing his damp hair back. “A lot.”

“We all have,” he murmured through shallow breaths.

A pause. A subtle shift of her hips. Her nails lightly scratched the back of his neck.

“There’s a reason we met,” she said, repeating the phrase Noah had once told her—and one Taion himself had repeated more than once.

He smiled and met her gaze, reaching up to cradle the back of her head.

“There is,” he agreed, his voice trembling slightly as he pulled her in for another kiss—deeper now, more consuming. He kissed her as though he could imprint every emotion onto her lips: longing, devotion, fear, love.

He didn’t know when she became so necessary to him. When the thought of losing her became unbearable. When her voice became his anchor and her laughter the sound he chased. But he knew now it was more than just affection. More than simple chemistry. Something bigger.

He didn’t have the right words. Not yet.

But maybe he didn’t need them.

Not when she was here, moving with him, holding him in this moment. Not when he could show her in every kiss, every breath, every heartbeat.

She smiled again, and he felt the rest of him unravel, piece by piece. She was radiant like that—windblown hair, flushed cheeks, love in her eyes. He brushed a strand of hair behind her ear, letting his thumb linger along her cheekbone.

They moved together, slower and slower, until the tension built too high and they came undone—together, forehead to forehead, lips barely touching. The world went quiet around them as waves broke softly in the distance.

And in that stillness, with his arms wrapped tightly around her and her chest pressed to his, Taion knew.

She felt it too.

****

Two days passed before Eunie and Taion returned from Cape Arcaphor, the Origin metal piece safely delivered to Mr. Samon. By the time they made it back to their dormitory in the City, the sun had already dipped below the horizon, and the soft glow of the streetlights bathed the streets in a warm, nostalgic light. The City was still buzzing—children laughing in distant corridors, cadets returning from patrols, and the occasional clink of tools from a nearby workshop.

Eunie stifled a yawn as they entered the building, stretching her arms overhead with a groan.

“I’m definitely showerin’ first,” she declared. “Then, we grab somethin’ to eat and crash in bed. Sound good?”

“Perfect,” Taion replied with a tired smile. “Would you like me to help cook?”

Eunie gave him a pointed look, one brow raised.

“The best help ya can offer is stayin’ very far away from the pots.”

He chuckled, unsurprised. “Fair.”

Still hand in hand—without thinking, without hesitation—they made their way to their shared room. They had a nor-short-nor-innocent shower, and then they headed to the communal kitchen. It was late enough that they didn’t expect much company, but as luck would have it, Lanz and Sena were already there, halfway through dinner prep.

“Oh!” Eunie called out, immediately brightening. “Hello, love. Hello, empty-head.”

“Hi, feather-brain,” Lanz shot back with a grin before his eyes shifted to Taion. The grin faded. “Four-eyes.”

It was the first time the two had stood in front of each other since the chaos at Colony Omega. Eunie glanced between them, her posture sharpening just a touch—a silent warning: don’t start anything.

Both seemed to get the message.

“Lanz,” Taion greeted with a quiet nod, then turned to Sena. “And hello, Sena. How are you both?”

“Eunie! Tai-Tai!” Sena beamed, nearly bouncing. “Yeah! I’m great!”

She extended her leg slightly, showing off the intricate mark bond that now adorned her thigh. Both healers leaned closer, intrigued.

“It’s really beautiful,” Taion said, offering an appreciative smile. “The symmetry is impressive.”

“Yeah,” Eunie agreed. “Love the flowers. Suits ya.”

Sena beamed, clearly proud of it. She stared down at it again like it still didn’t quite feel real.

“And what about you two?” she asked eagerly. “Did you find the Origin piece?”

“Yup,” Eunie replied as she made her way to the counter, already scanning for ingredients. “Delivered it to Samon straightaway.”

“Nice!” Lanz said, rolling up his sleeves. “We were just startin’ dinner. Training’s been a killer—need to refuel.”

Only Lanz could define heat or rut as training. 

“Pasta with Refreshing Piranhax Meat,” Sena added with a shy grin, her cheeks a little pink as she glanced at Lanz.

“Carbo-heavy, eh?” Eunie smirked. “Takes me back. We used to make that in Colony 9, remember? After a good fishing haul.”

“Yeah,” Lanz said, glancing over his shoulder. “Mwamba always wanted seconds.”

Eunie pulled out a chopping board. “Wanna hand? I’ll start on the sauce. You prep the Piranhax?”

“On it,” Logan said, sliding into the rhythm with practiced ease.

“Um—can we help too?” Sena asked, looking between them, her hands twitching with energy.

“Sure,” Eunie replied without looking up. “Just keep Taion away from the knives.”

“Honestly,” he muttered, but there was no real heat in it. Sena and Lanz chuckled.

As they worked, the conversation flowed easily—until Sena, distractedly setting the table, suddenly blurted out: “So did you two also bond?”

The room fell into a sharp silence.

There was a small, audible crack as Taion’s fingers tensed too tightly around the glass he was drying. His entire posture froze.

“Sen!” Lanz hissed under his breath.

Sena blinked, confused—until she remembered. Monica’s words. Alphas can't bond between each other.

“Oh—oh sparks. I’m so sorry!” she gasped, hands flying to her mouth. “I don’t even know why I said that—I didn’t mean—”

“It’s okay, love,” Eunie said, tone light and disarming as she turned toward Sena. “Taion’s just bein’ dramatic.”

She looked back at her partner, who was still staring down at the fractured glass in his hand, his expression tight.

“Oi.” She walked over and plucked the glass from his hands before he could make it worse. “Before you break it and your fingers.”

Taion inhaled deeply, exhaled slowly, and managed a faint smile. “Apologies. I’m just… tired.”

He reached quietly for another glass, not elaborating. Eunie watched him for a moment, sighed softly, and turned off the burner. She moved to help Sena with the table, but her heart wasn’t in it. The weight in her chest hadn’t eased.

She could feel it—how he still carried that guilt like a second skin. That twisted belief that their inability to bond was some kind of failure. His failure.

And they’d had so many conversations about it.

“Maybe… maybe I should’ve bitten more toward the—”

“Taion, y ou bit me everywhere. My skin was your personal art exhibit.”

“But maybe not in the right way—”

“You had fangs, Taion. You pierced my skin. I was covered by marks to prove it.”

“…Maybe the knots didn’t—”

“Don’t even start. You tried to knot even my arse, you absolute dork!”

"..."

“My arse is off limits.”

“N-no! I wasn’t—of course—I wasn’t thinking that—”

"Taion!"

...

“Maybe it’s because I took those suppressants early on—”

“Oh, Sparks, Taion! Your rut lasted four days! Your pheromones were leaking through the walls. The suppressants were off after D’s battle.”

“But maybe—”

“Stop. Just stop, Taion! If you keep saying it’s your fault, then what—what does that make it for me, huh? My fault too? Maybe it just hasn’t happened yet. That’s all. And I’m happy. You hear me?”

But it never quite sunk in.

So when Taion finally sat at the table that evening, visibly weighed down by the same relentless guilt, Eunie didn’t speak. She just moved.

She stepped up behind him quietly and leaned down, her hands sliding into his hair as she kissed the crown of his head.

“We’ll try again,” she whispered, her voice a private melody meant only for him. Her fingers threaded gently through his hair, grounding him.

His posture softened. Slowly, cautiously, he looked up at her. And for the first time that night, there was something more than sorrow in his eyes—something warm. Something hopeful.

“I know,” he whispered back, the faintest smile tugging at his lips. “Next time.”

“Next time,” she echoed, brushing a kiss to his forehead and keeping her hand on his shoulder, steady and warm.

CRASH.

The sharp clatter of ceramic shattering on tile startled them both. Eunie's wings puffed out instinctively, feathers fluttering to the ground like snowflakes.

They turned toward the source—Lanz standing frozen, a broken plate at his feet, and both hands still awkwardly suspended in the air.

“Wot the spark, Lanz?!” Eunie exclaimed, her voice halfway between shock and irritation.

Lanz just pointed—right at Taion. “What did you DO?!”

Taion blinked. “Me?”

“Yeah, you!” Lanz jabbed a finger at him again, mouth agape. “Since when is she like that?”

“Wot the spark is ‘like that’ s'pposed to mean?!” Eunie snapped, wings still flared.

“I mean, seriously,” Lanz continued, bewildered. “You’re bein’ all soft and sappy and whispery and cuddlin’ and forehead kissin’—who even ARE you?!”

Sena snorted and giggled. “I guess that means it was really good sex!”

Taion turned beet red, coughing into his sleeve. Eunie turned crimson too.

“Wot’s wrong with cheerin’ someone up, huh?” she shot back, eyes narrowing.

“Nothing!” Lanz laughed, raising his hands. “But normally, your version of emotional support is, like—‘Stop cryin’, you numpty, and punch something!’ Not…” He gestured vaguely at Taion. “That.”

“Oh shaddup,” Eunie groaned, jabbing a finger at him. “Need I remind ya of the first time you sniffed her pheromones?” She pointed right at Sena.

Lanz choked on his own breath, the tips of his ears burning red as he fumbled for the broom.

“Y-yeah well—” he muttered. “It’s just weird on you, that’s all.”

Sena burst out laughing while Eunie rolled her eyes dramatically.

“Well, get used to it, empty-head,” Eunie said, pressing a kiss to Taion’s temple before sliding back into her seat beside him. “’Cause it’s not changin’ anytime soon.”

Lanz made a loud gagging sound, miming an exaggerated retch. Sena promptly pinched his arm, and he yelped in surprise while Eunie shot him a lazy middle finger.

Finally, the pasta was served—steaming, fragrant, and full of warmth—and the four of them settled in together at the table, the earlier tension melting away like butter on the dish.

Still, Lanz wasn’t one to drop things easily.

“Somethin’ definitely happened,” he said with a sly grin, nudging his plate toward the middle.

Eunie paused mid-bite, eyes narrowing. “Why don’tcha drop it, for Spark’s sake? It was a rut, what d’you think happened?”

“Oh, I dunno.” Lanz leaned back and crossed his arms, feigning innocence. “You tell me. Since when do you call him Taion?”

She blinked. “Wot else am I s’pposed to call him?”

Taion, ever the opportunist these days, sipped from his glass and gave her a look that practically glowed with mischief. It was the same look he gave her when he knew he’d gotten under her skin.

“Four-eyes, Professor Grumpiness,” Sena chimed in helpfully, ticking the names off on her fingers. “And Moodyguts. Definitely that.”

“Say my name. Say it, or I swear—I won’t let you come.”

“Snuff ya—” 

“Say.” 

“My.” 

“S-spark—!”

“Name.”

“Say it again.”

“Taion!”

Eunie’s face flared red. Teleportation device, where art thou? If she could’ve vanished right then and there, she would’ve.

“Yes, Eunie,” Taion said smoothly, still smiling into his drink. “Why don’t you explain it to them?”

She shot him a death glare, and he met it with a blink so slow it was practically smug.

“You’re not in a rut anymore,” she growled, grabbing his scarf and tugging him in until they were nose-to-nose. “So don’t push your luck, four-eyes.”

His eyes darkened just a little, and Eunie caught the flicker of intent behind them. He wasn’t going to forget this moment—and she knew exactly what kind of payback he had in mind once they were alone again. Her smirk grew wider, challenging. And she let just a whisper of pheromones bleed into the air between them.

For a second, the kitchen didn’t exist. Just them.

“Sparks,” Lanz groaned, breaking the spell with the grace of a charging Ardun. “Get a room, will ya? We’re tryin’ to eat without seein’ you two… spar.”

Eunie snorted and let go of Taion’s scarf, who calmly adjusted it again, glasses glinting in the overhead light. They exchanged a knowing look—both painfully aware the other could feel it, that shared buzz just under their skin. The pull was mutual. And so was the heat.

Sena’s cheeks were bright pink. Lanz rolled his eyes and shoveled pasta into his mouth with more force than necessary, grumbling something about pheromones ruining his appetite.

When the meal was done and Sena and Lanz got up to start clearing dishes, Eunie caught Taion gently by the wrist and tugged him aside, away from the others.

“You need to talk to Lanz,” she said in a low voice, arms crossing as she leaned against the counter.

Taion nodded immediately. “I know. I was planning to.”

She tilted her head. “Really?”

He raised an eyebrow at her. “Why does that surprise you?”

Eunie shrugged but didn’t answer. Taion took a breath.

“I know I didn’t do anything wrong, per se. I just… reacted. I was trying to protect you,” he said, eyes sincere. “And before you say anything, I know you didn’t need protecting. But during the rut—rationality goes out the window. I wasn’t thinking clearly.”

He paused, then added quietly, “Still, he’s your friend. And he’s… also mine. So I’ll apologize. It’s the least I can do.”

Her expression softened. She glanced over her shoulder to make sure no one was watching, then stepped in close and kissed his cheek. Her voice was a soft purr.

“Good boy,” she whispered, letting the words linger.

Taion flushed to the tips of his ears. Eunie caught the subtle twitch in his expression and grinned. She tugged gently on his scarf again, just enough to bring her lips near his ear.

“And good boys…” she whispered, her breath warm against his skin, “always get rewarded.”

He gasped softly, his mind instantly short-circuiting. His body responded before he could stop it, pheromones thickening the air between them, his pupils dilating as heat surged through his veins.

He looked at her—wide-eyed, stunned, desperate to pin her to the wall and forget about their teammates there.

But she was already pulling away.

“Hey Sena, love!” Eunie called sweetly over her shoulder. “Can you help me preen my wings? I’ll braid your hair after! Let the boys handle the dishes.”

Taion blinked.

Once. Twice.

Then looked down at his trousers.

Again?!

He groaned into his hand as Sena bounced over cheerfully. Eunie shot him a wink as she passed, the very picture of innocence… if innocence had wings, pheromones, and a knife-sharp smirk.

Taion approached the sink where Lanz was already working, the scent of leftover pasta sauce lingering in the air. The quiet clatter of dishes and running water offered a kind of peace, a rhythm that allowed him to gather his thoughts. He didn’t often get a chance to be alone with Lanz like this—not since that night at Captocorn Peak. And though Eunie had told him not to dwell on it, Taion still felt the weight of how things had unfolded.

He rinsed a plate, passed it to Lanz to dry, and then cleared his throat.

“Lanz,” he said at last, voice even. “I want to apologize. For what happened at Captocorn Peak.”

Lanz didn’t reply right away. He dried the plate, then leaned against the counter, arms crossed, as he gave Taion a long, thoughtful look.

“Is it you?” he asked finally. “Or did Eunie make you do it?”

Taion blinked. “Eunie doesn’t make me do anything,” he replied simply. “She knew I wanted to talk to you, but this is mine to say. I meant it. I am sorry. I wasn’t myself back then, but that doesn’t excuse it.”

Lanz studied him for a few more seconds, the tension between them thick enough to chew. Then, just when Taion began to wonder if the warrior would hold a grudge longer, Lanz’s lips curled into a slow, teasing grin.

“Alright, man. I’ll accept your apology.”

Relief flickered in Taion’s eyes. He nodded once. “Thank you.”

“But!” Lanz added quickly, raising a finger. “There’s one condition.”

Taion tilted his head. “Condition? And what may it be?”

Lanz’s grin widened, and then he raised his hand into the air—palm open, fingers wiggling expectantly.

Taion stared at it.

“…Are you serious?”

“C’mon!” Lanz waggled his eyebrows. “Do the right thing. Seal it with a high-five.”

Taion let out a slow, exasperated sigh. “You and your strange customs,” he muttered. But despite his tone, the corners of his lips twitched upward. “Very well.”

He gave Lanz a reluctant but solid high-five. The clap echoed in the small kitchen, and Lanz let out a bark of laughter.

“There it is! You’re not as stiff as you used to be, Professor.”

Taion just rolled his eyes and resumed stacking dishes, though a faint smile lingered on his lips.

“Are we good now?” he asked after a beat.

“Yeah,” Lanz said, giving him a firm nod. “We’re good.”

The silence between them shifted—no longer awkward or heavy, but companionable. Still, Lanz couldn’t resist pushing one last button.

“So,” he said casually, elbowing Taion lightly. “Did you really call her ‘darling’? Her? Eunie?”

Taion nearly dropped a fork. “W-what?! How do you—?”

“Oh, we heard ya,” Lanz said, barely suppressing a laugh. “When we were searching our room the other day. We heard ya from the corridor.”

“Oh,” Taion scoffed, cheeks coloring as he adjusted his glasses. “And I—well—I guess I did.”

“Rutted out of your mind,” Lanz cackled. “But seriously—darling? Does she even like it?”

Taion shrugged with a small, almost sly smile. “No. She hates it, which makes it the perfect nickname.”

Lanz looked at him like he’d just grown a second head. “And she lets you live?!”

“She does worse than let me live, Lanz,” Taion said with a slight smirk, pushing his glasses up. “She... responds.”

The sly way he delivered the words made Lanz double over with laughter, nearly knocking over the dish rack as he slapped the counter with a dish towel.

“Mate,” Lanz wheezed. “I have no idea how you managed to dominate her.”

Taion raised a brow, then chuckled, low and amused. “Dominate? Eunie?”

Lanz blinked. “You didn’t?”

Taion shook his head, not unkindly, just honest. “No. She never broke. No matter how far I pushed her, no matter how deep I tried to take her... she kept pushing back. Every time I thought she’d yield, she came back fiercer. She let me win sometimes, but she never surrendered.”

Lanz scratched his neck, brows furrowed. “Didn’t that, I dunno... piss you off? I mean, with Sena, it just... happened. Like Monica and Larry explained. She wanted to be filled, to be claimed. So I claimed her. Easy.”

Taion tilted his head thoughtfully. “No, it didn’t bother me. I expected resistance. I wanted it. I asked her to fight me.” He paused, then laughed softly under his breath. “Honestly... it was more fun that way.”

Lanz shook his head like he still couldn’t quite believe what he was hearing. “You’re unreal. Absolutely cracked.” He gave a wry smile. “But hey—if you’re happy, then that’s all that really matters.”

A moment passed in quiet. The air between them now cleared, settled.

“Thanks, Lanz,” Taion said, more quietly this time. 

Lanz gave him a firm clap on the shoulder, then as they walked out of the kitchen and toward the hallway, he slowed down and glanced at Taion with a more serious expression.

“Y’know,” he said, voice low. “Back before you went into rut... I was this close to punchin’ your face in. The way you acted toward her? Reckless. Cold. And the way you treated yourself, mate... even worse.”

Taion’s steps faltered slightly, the corner of his mouth tightening. “I know,” he murmured. “I’m not proud of it.”

“Yeah,” Lanz muttered, shoving his hands into his pockets. “But then I went through rut myself... and I got it.”

He looked over his shoulder at Taion. “Not the part before. You were still a right arse about that. But afterward... yeah. I understood.”

Taion exhaled heavily, the tension in his chest easing just a little. “At the end of the day,” he muttered, “I was just afraid. Afraid I’d lose her. Afraid I’d hurt her. Afraid I’d ruin everything we had.”

Lanz snorted. “You? Hurt her?” He threw him a look. “Mate, you’re lucky she didn’t rip your arms off. I’m still amazed you survived.”

A small smile tugged at Taion’s lips. “So am I.”

They reached the door to Lanz and Sena’s room. Taion stopped and turned toward him.

“Thanks,” he said sincerely. “For listening. For understanding. It was... important to clear the air between us.”

Lanz shrugged, then smirked. “Don’t worry, mate. I’m not plannin’ on stealin’ Eunie away from you. She’s like a sister to me—except way more violent.”

Taion laughed. “Same goes for Sena. Even though you two bonded, it’s still good to say it out loud.”

Lanz nodded. “You might not have the mark, but there’s something between you two. Some kind of bond. I mean—during your rut, you didn’t even notice Mio or Sena. You only saw her.”

Taion’s smile faltered, just a little, as his gaze drifted. The memories came back in fragments—disjointed, like broken reflections on water. He remembered the battle with D. He remembered holding Eunie, bloody and limp, thinking she was gone. And then, just as vividly, he remembered her breathing, holding him, pulling him back from the abyss.

Everything else—the voices of their friends, the world around them—had blurred into white noise. But her voice, her scent, her warmth... all of it had become his anchor. The only thread holding him together.

She had been everything in that moment.

So why, then... why hadn’t they bonded?

“Perhaps,” he murmured, lost in thought.

Lanz gave him a sympathetic glance but didn’t push.

Taion straightened. “Anyway... I suppose you’re tired. I’ll let you rest.”

“Yeah,” Lanz said with a yawn. “See you tomorrow.”

Taion smiled faintly. “Good night, Lanz.”

“Night, Taion.”

As Lanz disappeared into the room, Taion lingered in the hallway for a moment, the echo of Eunie’s laughter down the corridor drawing his attention. He closed his eyes.

Next time.

Next time.

Next time.

***

Before departing for Origin, the group gathered one last time outside the dorm, circling the campfire like they had so many nights before. The crackling flames cast soft shadows across their faces, flickering over the worn wooden benches and the familiar warmth of shared silence. It felt almost ritualistic—one final briefing, one final breath before stepping into the unknown.

Noah stood and glanced around the circle, voice steady. “Alright. Same protocol as before. Is anyone expecting to enter rut or heat?”

He paused, letting the question hang in the air.

“We have no way of knowing how long we’ll be inside Origin,” he continued. “Could be days. Could be weeks. Based on our estimates… at least a week, maybe longer.”

He looked over at Taion, who nodded in agreement, arms folded.

“Open your IRIS,” Mio added gently. “We’ll check pheromone profiles one last time.”

The quiet hum of activation followed as each of them flicked open the familiar interface on their arms. Colored bars, hormone graphs, and system markers flashed in the dim firelight.

“Nothing here,” Mio said first, eyes flicking to Noah as she closed hers.

“Clear,” Lanz added.

“Same,” Sena said with a smile, already closing her screen.

Taion checked his own. “Nothing to report,” he confirmed, calm and neutral.

Eunie was the last to speak. Her IRIS remained open a beat longer.

“…Same here. Nothin’.” Her tone was slower, tinged with something closer to frustration than relief.

Sena tilted her head thoughtfully. “Wait... aren't you the only one who hasn’t gone through rut yet?”

Eunie’s eye twitched. “Yeah,” she muttered. “Thanks for the reminder.”

Taion glanced over, catching the way her thumb hesitated just before she closed the device. Her shoulders were tense, her mouth drawn in a tight line. His hand moved beneath the table, finding hers and giving it a gentle squeeze. She returned it, but the tension didn’t ease.

He knew what she was thinking. He could feel it in the subtle pulse of her pheromones, low but uneven. The readings were always normal. The biology intact. But still—nothing. No rut. No trigger. Time was running out, and it wasn’t just about the rut anymore. It was about why.

She was the only one still waiting.

It wasn’t fair. Especially now.

Because after all the work they’d done—after all the training, the battles, the rebuilding—the ship was finally finished. Origin awaited. And once they crossed that threshold, the end would come. One way or another.

Either they’d break the cycle, or they’d be consumed by it again. There were no guarantees. No promise they’d make it back. No assurance they’d even see each other again if things failed.

And if she died in there… would she remember him at all?

Would he?

“Perfect,” Noah said, snapping the tension with his familiar command tone. “We leave tomorrow at dawn. I’ll update Monica and Ghondor tonight.”

“I’ll come with you,” Mio offered quietly.

Noah nodded, and the four of them—Noah, Mio, Sena and Lanz—dispersed into the shadows beyond the firelight.

Before Eunie could take a step, Taion’s hand found hers again, this time more firmly.

“Wait.”

She paused, surprised, and turned back to look at him. The firelight caught in his eyes, reflecting something deeper than strategy. Something personal.

He stood, never letting go of her hand.

“Let’s walk a minute,” he said, his voice low. “Just the two of us.”

Even though her chest already felt too tight with everything left unsaid, Eunie gave a small nod.

Taion didn’t speak right away. He just walked beside her, fingers still laced through hers, letting the silence stretch a little. Letting her breathe. Letting her lead. They strolled slowly toward the dorm, away from the others, their boots crunching softly against the gravel path.

“What’s on your mind?” he finally asked, his voice low, coaxing rather than probing. He offered her a quiet smile, the kind only she ever got. “Is it… about your rut?”

Eunie shook her head, distracted. “Not quite,” she muttered, brows drawing together. “I mean, yeah, I’m pissed. Like, seriously—how am I the only one left behind? My gland’s not broken. My readings are normal. And yet...” She trailed off with a sigh, eyes scanning the dim skyline of the City. “Whatever, it’s not just that. It’s… somethin’ else.”

Taion gently tightened his grip, letting her know he was listening. No judgment. No rush.

She was quiet for a long moment before finally speaking again. Her voice was softer this time, rough at the edges. “If we manage to kick Z’s arse into oblivion… time resets, right?”

“Yes,” he said after a breath. “That’s the most likely outcome. The Queen hinted at it. A return to our original timelines.”

Eunie exhaled through her nose, then turned to look at him, the firelight of the camp behind them casting faint golden hues in her pale hair. “So that means…” She swallowed. “We go back. You to Agnus, me to Keves. Before Aionios ever happened.”

She didn’t need to say the next part aloud. Different nations. Different timelines. Maybe even different universes. Who knew if their paths would ever cross again?

The weight of it settled over them like fog.

Taion had considered all of this before. Every outcome. Every possible configuration of failure and success. But hearing it from her—hearing her give it shape with her voice—somehow made it feel so much more real. And more unbearable.

Eunie stopped walking and looked down at their joined hands, her thumb absently brushing against his knuckles. “We’ve come so far, and I still haven’t…” She faltered, her voice catching. “Time’s runnin’ out, and I haven’t even bonded with you. Like properly. Not once. Not even by accident.”

“Eunie…”

“I wanted it to happen,” she confessed, the admission hushed but intense. “Not just during rut, but every time we were close. Every time I touched you, or you looked at me like I was the only thing keeping you sane. I wanted that stupid bond to snap into place so badly I started doubting myself when it didn’t. Wonderin’ if it was me. If I wasn't enough.”

“You are enough,” he said immediately, stepping closer.

“I know that now,” she said, almost smiling. “It’s just… I wanted somethin’ permanent. A mark, a memory, somethin’ the universe can’t just erase.”

He understood. Of course he did. All the theories and protocols, all the logic and planning—they meant nothing against the ache of uncertainty. Against the fear of being forgotten.

So instead of speaking, Taion reached out, cupping her cheek with one hand. She leaned into it, cold skin meeting warm fingers. Her eyes fluttered shut as he rested his forehead against hers, their breaths mingling in the cool night air.

“Maybe time won’t restart right away,” he whispered, though he didn’t believe it.

Eunie scoffed softly. “You don’t even believe that.”

“No,” he admitted with a quiet laugh. “I don’t. But I’d give anything for just one more month with you. One more day. One more morning.”

His voice cracked slightly at the end, and Eunie’s hand came up to rest against his chest, right over his heart. She could feel it racing. He was so calm most of the time that it was easy to forget how hard he fought to stay composed.

“I don’t need a bond to know what I feel for you,” she continued. “But if the stars give us one more chance, just one…” She swallowed hard. “I wanna take it.”

His hand slipped from her cheek to her waist, drawing her in slowly. “I just hope,” he said softly, “that if we don’t have time to bond here… it doesn’t matter. Because I will find you. No matter what time or place or world we end up in. I’ll find you.”

Eunie felt the words settle deep in her chest, anchoring themselves in places she didn’t know were empty.

“You better,” she whispered, tears prickling at the corners of her eyes. “I’ll be waiting.”

She tugged on his scarf gently, pulling him close enough for their lips to brush, and bit his lower lip with a soft growl. Taion let out a shaky laugh against her mouth, kissing her tenderly in return.

“That’s a promise,” he said.

And under the vast Aionios sky, with the stars blinking silently overhead, they held each other like the world could still be theirs—if only for a little while longer.

****

Some extra! Here's an idea for those who were wondering about the marks between Noah and Mio.

Chapter Text

The Ouroboros group stood on the edge of the cliffside path, the Amphitheater looming in the distance like a monument to everything they were trying to end. A cold wind swept across the open plain, tugging at their cloaks and armor, cutting straight through worn nerves and weary bodies. The air reeked of ether, blood, and tension.

Taion stepped forward slightly, glancing down at his IRIS before calling out to Noah, who had been watching the structure in thoughtful silence.

“As tactician,” Taion said quietly, “I recommend a pause before initiating an assault. Just a few hours. We’ve expended too much energy in the last engagement—we’ll be more liability than force if we go in like this.”

Eunie nodded beside him, rubbing her sore shoulders. “Yeah, Four-Eyes and I still have patchin’ up to do. But honestly?” She groaned, cracking her neck. “My knees are jelly and I’d kill for ten minutes flat on my back.”

Noah turned to take in his team, eyes scanning their faces. Lanz’s arm was slung awkwardly across his chest, a deep bruise purpling beneath the surface. Sena sat near him, still catching her breath, while Mio stood with a hand pressed against her ribs, blood soaking the corner of her coat.

He nodded slowly. “Yeah. I can feel it too. We’re pushing past our limit.”

“Even my organs are complainin’,” Lanz muttered, wincing as he shifted his weight. 

“I’ll look for shelter,” Taion said, already scanning his IRIS again. A quiet ping confirmed his findings. “There’s a rest spot close by. Storage structure. Looks abandoned. No ether trails or hostiles nearby.”

“Then that’s our next move,” Noah decided, glancing back toward the Amphitheater one last time before turning away. “Let’s go.”

The rest spot was a storage building—barebones, metallic, cold, but blessedly safe. The team slipped inside, sealing the reinforced doors behind them. Crates and old supplies lined the walls. No beds, no luxury. But shelter was shelter, and the moment they stepped inside, the air seemed easier to breathe.

One by one, they dropped to the floor like felled trees.

Without needing to speak, Eunie and Taion got to work. Ether began to swirl in practiced movements, their hands glowing as they moved from teammate to teammate. Bruises faded, cuts knit together, bones realigned under grimaces and clenched teeth.

“Guys,” Mio said gently, watching the two healers sweat and sway with exhaustion. “You’re both running on fumes.”

“Not done yet,” Eunie muttered, carefully drawing ether across Lanz’s wounded shoulder. She focused with furrowed brows, ignoring the way her own limbs shook. Sena held Lanz’s other hand tightly as he grunted through the final stage of healing.

At last, their work was done. Everyone’s wounds were closed, their vitality returning. Eunie collapsed beside Taion with a breathless groan, and he slid down the wall beside her. Neither said anything. Just sat, shoulder to shoulder, breathing.

After a few seconds, Taion quietly summoned a few Mondo, coaxing what little ether he had left into her. The energy slipped over her skin like a warm breeze. She didn’t protest—no biting remark, no teasing quip. Just a small exhale as she let him care for her. Then, she reached out and healed him, placing an ether circle beneath his legs with a delicate flick of her fingers.

When it was over, her head fell against his shoulder.

They sat that way in silence, the room quiet save for the hum of resting breaths and soft shifting. Until Sena finally broke the silence.

“Are we really ready?” she asked, her voice small, uncertain. She glanced toward Lanz, who was sitting against a crate with his arms crossed tightly, looking more serious than usual.

“We need a couple of hours,” Taion answered calmly, pulling Eunie closer and tucking her under his arm. “Then, physically? We’ll be ready.”

“And mentally?” Eunie muttered against his chest. “Dunno. I think I lost my mind three battles ago.”

Everyone turned toward Noah.

He looked at Mio. She smiled and squeezed his hand. That little warmth was all the confirmation he needed.

“I know the fates have asked a lot of us,” he began, his voice low but steady. “More than anyone should be expected to give. But we’ve made it this far. Not just because we had to—but because we believed we could change something.”

His gaze swept across the room, meeting each of theirs. “Z thinks fear is enough to control people. That by trapping us in the endless now, he can break us. He’s used time as a cage, and made us believe we can’t escape it.”

He stood slowly, letting the gravity of his words settle in.

“But we’re not just pawns anymore. We’re not the same people we were at the start of this journey. We’re stronger. Wiser. Connected. We’ve made miracles happen already. One more isn’t impossible.”

“We fight for the future. For the lives waiting beyond Aionios. For the ones who never got a chance. We fight so we can choose who we want to be.”

His eyes locked with Mio’s as he whispered, “We fight for the chance to meet again.”

A quiet settled over them. Not the same exhausted silence from before—this was something steadier. A hush of shared resolve.

Eunie lifted her head slightly, her fingers curling around Taion’s. Sena gave Lanz a small smile and scooted closer, resting her forehead on his. Mio leaned into Noah, resting her head against his shoulder. For the first time since entering this part of the world, there was peace in the room. A fragile, determined kind of peace.

One by one, they nodded.

They were ready.

Together.

“Damn, man,” Lanz muttered with a rough exhale, dragging a hand across his face. “Didn’t mean to get all emotional before the big showdown.” He grinned despite himself, eyes a little too bright.

“Always so charmin’, our Noah,” Eunie teased with a soft smirk, nudging her foot gently against Noah’s boot. Her voice was light, but her gaze lingered on him for a moment—grateful, steady.

Noah chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. “Just saying what needed to be said.”

“We are with you,” Taion said, his voice quiet but firm as he leaned his temple against Eunie's hair. “Until the end. No matter what comes.”

Eunie rested her hand over his. “And even after.”

Sena pumped a fist in the air. “Let’s give this Z guy the biggest whooping Aionios has ever seen!”

“Manana ready!” the little Nopon added with a determined bounce, her wings fluttering. “Manana smash with big spoon!”

“Riku assist,” her quieter companion chimed in, eyes gleaming beneath his fringe. “Strategic frying pan deployment ready.”

Noah laughed, the sound soft but full of affection. Looking around at each of them, he felt the weight in his chest ease a little. They were tired, battered, running low on ether and nerves—but their spirits were unbreakable. And in this moment, they felt like more than a team. They felt like family.

He turned to Mio, whose hand was curled around his. She met his gaze with a determined smile, her golden eyes fierce.

“Let’s kick his arse,” she murmured. Her ears twitched slightly, which earned her a sharp grin from Eunie.

“That’s my girl,” Eunie chuckled. 

They all began to relax then, the adrenaline fading just enough to let weariness take its place. Taion’s breathing had slowed, and he pulled Eunie a little closer, shifting so she could rest more comfortably against his side.

“We should try to get some sleep,” he murmured to the group. “Our healing cycles will stabilize faster with proper rest. And we’ll need every ounce of strength when the time comes.”

No one argued.

Lanz stretched with a loud yawn before curling his arm protectively around Sena, who had already begun to nod off beside him. Manana and Riku tucked themselves near a stack of crates, using an old blanket as a makeshift bed.

Mio settled into Noah’s embrace, and he adjusted so she could rest comfortably, wrapping both arms around her. She sighed, her breath brushing his collarbone.

“You’re not gonna fall asleep sitting up again, are you?” the flesh-eater teased.

“Only if you do,” he replied, brushing a kiss against her temple.

He gave the door a final glance, double-checking the lock. Nothing would get through easily, and if anything tried, they’d feel it coming. For now, they were safe.

He exhaled deeply and let his forehead rest against Mio’s.

“Goodnight, everyone,” he whispered.

A few quiet “’Night”s echoed around the room.

Then silence.

Not a silence of dread—but of calm before the storm. Of breath being held. Of hearts beating in rhythm. Of trust.

They would face the end together.

And whatever came after.

***

“Taion?”

“Yes, Eunie?”

“I think I’m bloody terrified.”

“Well, it would be odd if you weren’t considering our situation.”

“Geez, ya really know how to cheer people up, y’know?”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to make you feel worse.”

“Are you… also scared?”

“Always. But lately it’s gotten worse.”

“ ‘cos the enemies have became a pain in the arse and this one is the big bad boss of ‘em?”

“That certainly plays a part. But there are other reasons too.”

“Then for wot?”

“You already know what it is.”

“Maybe but I wanna hear you say it.”

“… let’s just say that every time we go into battle, I’m afraid of losing someone very special to me. Especially since she always charges on her own. And lately...just the thought of life without her is unbearable.”

“Heh, it seems a very cool badass person to leave this kind of impression on ya!”

“Yes, she is. The coolest I know.”

***

“Sen?”

“Yeah?”

“Have ya ever had visions?”

“Visions? What do you mean?”

“I dunno. Like ya close your eyes and ya see… things?”

“Like daydreaming?”

“Uh, yeah. Somethin’ like that. But always the same one.”

“Mmm, I do daydream sometimes I guess? But usually, it's different each time. Like when I did those cool exercises during training, or a handsome Feris we saw. Something like that?”

“Nah. It’s always the same one but I… ain’t do it on purpose.”

“Mmm, maybe you should ask Tai to check your head? For a conclusion?”

“Conclusion?”

“Con..cu..l..sion?? Y’know the brain damage!”

“… Babe I think it might be better if you get checked out instead.”

“Ow! Don’t be mean! I’m not a healer!”

“Heh.”

“… everything will be alright, Lan.”

“I know. Just make sure to hit that bastard in the head with all your strength. And I'll be behind ya, protecting your beautiful and perfectly toned arse.”

“Oh gosh! That was so sweet! And… inappropriate!”

“Inappropriate? Me? Never.”

***

“Are you okay, Noah?”

“Yeah. I-I mean I’m scarred, of course but I truly believe that we will succeed. I believe in us.”

“I believe in us too, Noah. Your words were truly inspiring earlier.”

“I just spoke from the heart.”

“From your heart, from your soul. Just when I think I couldn't love you any more, you prove me wrong.”

“Mio…”

“I love you, Noah.”

“I love you too, Mio. I will fight for our future together. Even if it's not in this world, I will find you again.”

“I know you will. I’m with you. Always.”

***

Eunie stood just inside the City’s massive gate, the wind tugging at her feathers as she kept a cautious distance from the edge. Beyond the parapet, Capcorn Peak loomed silently in the far-off horizon, its jagged silhouette cutting through the pale light of an ending world. The breeze was sharp, cold enough to sting her cheeks, but not enough to snap her out of the haze that had taken hold since the battle.

Everything from the past few days was a blur—a chaotic storm of memories and emotion, tangled together in a way that made it impossible to separate triumph from heartbreak.

They had done it. They had defeated Z.

And in doing so, they had guaranteed the end.

Time would begin again, Mia and Melia had said. Aionios would unravel, and each of them would return to the fragmented lives they had left behind. To before. To separate worlds. To before she ever knew what it felt like having someone by her side.

She didn’t want to think about it—not about tomorrow, not about the past. Not about the stupid, stupid mark she never got. Not about the bond that never formed. Not about the fact that, in her final hours in this world, she had chosen to be alone.

Chosen.
But it felt more like she was breaking.

She’d asked Taion for space, her voice too tight and shaky to argue when he gently offered to stay. He had hesitated—of course he had. The look in his eyes when he kissed her forehead was something she didn’t think she could survive seeing again. And then he let her go.

And now she was here, trembling against a stone wall, her vision swimming, her whole chest hollow and twisting violently with a grief too big to name.

The sob came before she could hold it in. Then another. And another. She tried to choke them down, but they burst out of her in a scream that scraped her throat raw. She crumpled against the wall, breath hitching, fists clenched so tightly her nails bit into her palms.

Everything was falling apart. The world. Her chest. Her bondless, broken heart.

And then—

Footsteps.

A low, familiar groan.

She looked up, tears blurring her vision.

Gray stood a few feet away, arms folded across his chest, that ever-present grimness etched into his face. He looked down at her without speaking.

“Yeah wot?” she snapped, voice cracking as she quickly wiped her eyes with the heel of her hand. Her tone was biting, defensive, but her shoulders still shook.

He didn’t flinch. Just watched her quietly, like he was trying to solve a riddle he’d already heard before.

“Why are you out here?” he asked eventually, his voice flat but not unkind.

Eunie stared at him in disbelief. That was the question?

“I’m out here mindin’ my own sparkin’ business,” she shot back, crossing her arms tightly over her chest as if to hold herself together. “Try it sometime.”

Gray raised an eyebrow, but didn’t react to the venom in her tone. He looked at her for another long beat, then turned to go.

“You should be with your friends,” he said. “And with your mate.”

She scoffed. “Didn’t ask for your opinion, old man. And I don’t have a mate. I just have a partner. We ain’t bonded.”

She didn’t even know why she said it—why she felt the need to explain. But the words tumbled out on their own, bitter and sharp, like a truth she didn’t want to admit even to herself.

Gray stopped, his back still half-turned to her. His voice was quiet but clear.

“He’s an Alpha.”

How did he...?

Eunie blinked. She opened her mouth, then closed it again. Her feathers ruffled with unease.

Whatever, she didn't care.

“Yeah,” she muttered. “He is. So what? Means we can’t bond. That’s how it works. Ain’t news.”

She started to walk past him, desperate to end the conversation—but then he said something that made her freeze mid-step.

“An Alpha can bond with another Alpha.”

Eunie turned her head sharply, her eyes narrowing.

“Say wot?” she asked slowly, blinking. “Dunno what’s wrong with ya, old man, but no, they can’t. That’s, like—basic biology.”

Gray turned to face her fully now, his gaze level and unreadable, arms crossed tight over his chest like he was bracing for a fight.

“Rare,” he said. “But not impossible.”

Her mouth opened again, but nothing came out. Her mind raced, rejecting the idea as fast as it tried to understand it.

“You’re bluffin’,” Eunie said finally, her voice cracking just enough to betray her doubt. “You don’t know what you’re talkin’ about.”

Gray didn’t react to the sharpness in her tone. Instead, he tilted his head slightly, voice low and calm as he asked, “And who told you it wasn’t possible?”

Eunie hesitated. “That lab guy. Larry. And Monica too. Said it's... basically impossible.” Her shoulders tensed as the memory resurfaced—one of many heated arguments she’d had with Larry during their rut recovery period. “Not that we didn’t try,” she added bitterly, biting the inside of her cheek. “But nothin’ happened. So yeah. Don’t see the point of ya stirrin’ up more bollocks.”

“Larry?” Gray huffed.

“Oh, dear, you really shouldn’t listen to that idiot.” A new voice cut in, light and amused. 

Eunie turned sharply, startled.

Rozana.

She walked toward him with the calm confidence of someone who had seen the world burn and rebuilt herself from the ashes. Her hair fluttered slightly in the wind, and she tucked a stray lock of hair behind her ear as she came to stand beside him.

“I was wonderin’ where you disappeared to,” she said, brushing a hand over Gray’s shoulder. “Working again, even when the sky’s about to fall?”

Gray shrugged without looking at her, his eyes still focused on Eunie. “Just clearing up some nonsense.”

Rozana smirked at that. “Let me guess—Larry?”

"Yeah," Eunie muttered. "He is an idiot."

Rozana gave a soft laugh. “He’s brilliant when it comes to suppressants, pheromone regulation, and diagnostics. But his view of bonds is... well, more ancient than this city’s walls.”

“Extreme,” Gray added simply.

“Right,” Rozana nodded. “Larry belongs to a very narrow camp. He believes bonding should only exist in the strict Alpha/Omega binary. And more than that, he believes Betas shouldn’t even be involved romantically with either.”

“Betas?” Eunie snorted. “He’s seriously that dense?”

Rozana smiled. “It’s not about density—it’s about fear. Rigidity. He doesn’t want to believe the system could ever stretch beyond what’s already known. And so, people like you? You get written off as anomalies. As impossible.”

Eunie’s brow furrowed, her eyes searching both of them.

“So... it is possible?” she asked carefully, her voice quieter now. “For two Alphas?”

Rozana glanced at Gray, who gave a simple nod.

“Yes,” Rozana said. “It’s rare. Uncommon enough that most people never even hear of it. But it happens.”

“But Monica said—”

“Monica,” Rozana interrupted gently, “wasn’t wrong. Alpha/Alpha bonds aren’t like the traditional Alpha/Omega link. They don’t show up the same way. No rut-activated bite. No scent-lock.”

Eunie’s heart was hammering now. “Then how do ya know it’s a bond?”

Rozana stepped forward. Her expression softened, and she raised a hand to Eunie’s cheek, fingertips hovering just above her skin before gently touching down. Eunie tensed—instinctively, stubbornly—but didn’t pull away.

“You feel it,” Rozana whispered. “Your scent begins to match. Not perfectly, but in rhythm. You begin to sync. And the more you accept one another as equals—true equals—the stronger that resonance becomes.”

Eunie blinked, her throat tightening. “But we tried! So many times! During his rut... something happened, but spark, no mark!”

“Are you sure?” Rozana asked softly.

Eunie flinched. “We don’t have a mark! I checked every bloody inch of me.”

“That’s because the bond takes time to form,” Gray said quietly, stepping forward with the weight of lived truth in his voice.

“Exactly! It doesn’t ignite in a single rut like traditional ones. It builds. Slowly. Deliberately. And when it settles, the mark will appear and with that it leaves something deeper. Recognition. Authority. A presence that others feel,” Rozana added with a soft smile.

He met Eunie's stunned gaze and went on, “Other Alphas sense it. Not as a challenge, but as a warning. An instinctual message: this one’s not alone anymore.”

Eunie’s breath caught in her throat. Her chest rose unevenly as she tried to draw air into suddenly trembling lungs. She shook her head, trying to wrestle down the overwhelming swirl of confusion, frustration, disbelief—and hope.

“But…” her voice cracked. “How do you know all this?”

Rozana and Gray exchanged a look—quiet, wordless, and weighted with years of experience. In that fleeting moment, something passed between them that didn’t need to be spoken aloud. Then Rozana smiled and stepped forward.

“Because we’re both Alphas,” she said softly.

“And we’re bonded,” Gray finished.

Time felt like it had ground to a halt.

“W-wot?” she managed, voice thinned by emotion.

Gray started again, but she cut in with a sharp groan. “It was a rhetorical question, old man!”

Rozana chuckled softly, folding her arms.

But Eunie pressed forward, mind racing. “Even if what you’re saying is true—and that’s a big if—why haven’t I seen any bloody record of Alpha/Alpha marriage in the City Archives? Isn’t bonding the same as marriage?”

Rozana smiled knowingly. “No. A couple can be bonded but not married and vice-versa, I understand that for someone outside the City, it must be confusing.”

Gray crossed his arms with a grunt. “Which archive are you talking about?”

“I dunno!” Eunie huffed. “Taion was diggin’ around in the big one ages ago. Said he couldn’t find a single Alpha/Alpha match. Just Alphas and Omegas.”

Rozana and Gray exchanged another glance.

“There are multiple marriage archives in the City,” Gray explained. “But those of us bonded as Alphas register in a separate one. It's less known, less accepted—some Houses don’t even acknowledge it.”

“Exactly,” Rozana added. “It exists, but it’s small. Niche. Hidden in plain sight. Taion probably looked into the most prestigious database—which, unfortunately, doesn’t tell the whole story.”

Eunie felt dizzy, the implications crashing into her all at once.

If they had missed something—if they’d been chasing a definition that never fit them to begin with—

“But then why—” she started, then stopped. Her stomach twisted. Her throat tightened. She couldn't even finish the thought.

Why hadn’t they bonded?

“Tell him how you feel,” Gray said flatly, but not unkindly. “Tell him you choose him. That you accept him. As your Alpha. Your mate. Your equal.”

Rozana’s voice followed, warm and steady. “Exactly. Have you ever told him that, love? Truly? Said the words?”

Eunie shook her head slowly.

“No,” she admitted. “We’re not exactly... that kind of people. I mean, we don’t do the whole gooey, lovey-dovey thing. We’re more like… snark and battle sarcasm.” She gave a weak laugh, but it didn’t hide the fear curling beneath it.

She didn’t even know how to have that kind of conversation. Feelings? Openness? That wasn’t how she was raised. That wasn’t what soldiers were trained for.

But the second she tried to push it all down, to ignore the ache behind her ribs, Rozana spoke again.

“The pride of Alphas,” she said with a knowing smirk. “That’s the other reason Alpha bonds are rare. You’re both too damn stubborn.”

Then, without a word, she rolled up the hem of her pants.

Eunie gasped.

There, along Rozana’s calf, was a mark—not like any she'd seen before. Not the clean, design of traditional bonds, but a swirling, abstract pattern. Ethereal. Almost shifting in the light, like it breathed on its own.

“Unique, right?” Rozana chuckled, observing her expression. 

Eunie could hardly hear her over the sound of her own heartbeat. Everything inside her was burning.

Gray coughed and crossed his arms again, nodding toward the city.

“I think you have something to do,” he muttered.

But Eunie was already gone.

She bolted down the path like a shot, the wind slicing past her face, her legs moving faster than they ever had. Faster than in any battle. Faster than any desperate run across Aionios.

She didn’t know where Taion was—only that she had to find him.

And she was going to tell him.

Everything.

***

“She’ll be back,” Lanz muttered, glancing toward the outer wall with a hint of concern softening his usually gruff features. “Don’t worry, Four-Eyes. She just needed some space to cool off.”

Taion didn’t respond right away. He stood there, too still, fists curled slightly at his sides.

Cool off. That made it sound so easy—like it was just another small disagreement, another tactical misalignment. But it wasn’t. It was their last night in Aionios. Maybe their last night ever. And she’d gone off alone.

She could’ve taken him with her. They were partners. More than that, didn’t they? 

He knew she needed time. Eunie was always a wildfire—emotions loud, thoughts messy, heart enormous. When it got too much, she pulled away, not to punish, but to breathe.

He understood.

But he hated it.

“I know,” he said quietly, voice rough around the edges. Sena gently squeezed his arm in support, her touch grounding. He forced a small smile, but it never made it past his lips.

Then—he heard it.

“TAION!”

His name, bright and sharp as a blade, cut through the night air.

He turned instinctively, heart hammering, eyes scanning the crowd of people flooding the streets of the City to celebrate until—

There she was.

Wings out, hair windswept, sprinting through the mass of people as if the world hadn’t just been saved, as if he was the only thing she could see.

“Sparks,” he breathed, barely believing it. Joy erupted in his chest, knocking the air out of him.

“Go!” Lanz shouted behind him with a grin, giving him a hard shove. “Go get her, lover boy!”

Taion didn’t wait. He ran.

He barreled through the crowd, barely registering the cheers and laughter around him, eyes locked on her. Eunie didn’t slow. If anything, she picked up speed—and when they collided, she leapt into him with so much force he almost toppled over.

“Oof—!” he gasped, stumbling but catching her, his arms wrapping around her instantly, instinctively. “Eunie—!”

She clung to him tightly, the press of her body telling him more than any words ever could. She was here. She came back. And something in her had changed.

She pulled back just enough to look at him, eyes blazing, grin wild and mischievous. “Bed. Now.”

His entire brain short-circuited.

“I—what?”

She grabbed his scarf and started tugging him down the street. “We need to have sex.”

“Now?” he spluttered, blushing furiously. “Eunie, I—wait—what’s happening?!”

“No time to explain,” she barked, never slowing her pace. “Just—trust me!”

His legs moved on instinct, dodging people and stumbling after her through the celebration. He couldn’t tell if this was panic, ecstasy, or some kind of dream. “This is… not how I imagined tonight going!”

“Shut up and keep up!”

They burst into the dormitory, which—thankfully—was empty, everyone else still caught up in the city’s revelry. Eunie grabbed a random key, threw open a door, and yanked him inside.

She slammed it shut and locked it. Taion barely had a second to catch his breath before she had him pinned to the wall, crashing her lips into his in a kiss that was nothing short of desperate.

Her pheromones hit him like a wave. He groaned as his hands found her waist, gripping her tight, grounding himself.

“Eunie…” he breathed between kisses, dazed. “You’re shaking.”

“I know,” she snapped, then softened. “I know. But I need you to trust me, alright?!”

"I-yes, of course, of course," he panted. "I trust you, Eunie."

"Good! I want you to fuck me like a real Alpha,” she whispered, leaning in so her lips brushed against his jaw.

Taion exhaled shakily, his control fraying. “Eunie…”

Her hand slid to his chest, pushing against it lightly, her voice softening into something achingly sincere. “And also… as Taion.”

He stared at her, awed. Then, without another word, he surged forward, cupping her face and kissing her so deeply it knocked the air from both their lungs.

They stripped one another with a hunger that was both urgent and reverent, as if they could memorize each other through touch alone. Jackets hit the floor, shirts dragged after them, and Taion’s scarf fluttered to the bedpost like a discarded symbol of restraint.

Their bodies collided again in the center of the room—bare, trembling, breath mingling, and pheromones thickening the air between them. That instinctive, mate-fight response kicked in, adrenaline coursing through their veins, skin crackling with tension and need.

“Dammit, Eunie,” Taion growled as he knelt in front of her, pulling her close and nipping at her lower stomach until he reached her clit. . “If this is how we’re spending our final hours, I think I’m starting to really like your plan.”

“Told you I’d steal your job as tactician,” she smirked, pushing his head towards her wet folds. She held onto his hair tightly as he eagerly began licking and sucking while also sliding two fingers inside of her, knowing exactly how to make her moan with pleasure.

“You’d be brilliant at it,”  he smirked against her clit, continuing to swirl his tongue around. 

She gave a breathless laugh—sharp, cut off by a moan when he found the spot that undid her completely. Her body tensed, her grip on his shoulders tightening as she gasped his name. “Sparks, Taion—!”

Her hips jerked, nearly buckling. “Taion!” she barked, voice thick with need. “Not like this—bed. Now.”

He tilted his head, entirely too innocent. “Why?” he asked, even as he teased her again with his hand. “Details, Eunie. You know I like details.”

“Snuff ya,” she growled, grabbing a fistful of his hair with one hand and his throat with the other, dragging his gaze up to meet hers. “I want you. Inside me. Now.”

Her voice dropped to a hiss. Her eyes blazed.

Taion gasped at the pressure against his neck. It wasn’t pain—it was possession, overwhelming and electric. His cock pulsed in response, and he trembled beneath the weight of her pheromones. His Alpha instincts bucked wildly inside him, caught between the urge to submit and the deeper, darker urge to dominate.

“You like that,” she purred, noticing the flush rising to his cheeks. “When I take charge.”

“I like you,” he managed to say, voice ragged.

Still, something primal inside him rebelled.

He pressed his fingers deeper, made her gasp, and when her grip loosened—just a little—he took the opportunity. Rising swiftly, he crushed their lips together, kissing her with all the aching, desperate love he couldn’t put into words.

They stumbled together toward the bed, limbs tangled, bodies burning. Eunie shoved him down onto the mattress and straddled him before he could say a word, eyes glittering with heat and mischief.

“Be a good boy,” she murmured, trailing her fingers down his chest. “And let me take care of you tonight.”

Taion’s breath caught at the sight of her above him, flushed and powerful, her wings barely trembling at her back. He could only moan softly, running his hands over her waist, feeling every inch of her with reverence.

Then she guided him into her, and all thoughts scattered.

“Sparks—Eunie,” he gasped, digging his fingers into her hips as she rocked against him, slow and sure, like she was claiming him with every motion. She felt incredible—hot, tight, and entirely too much.

For a moment, the world outside didn’t matter.

“You feel amazing,” he groaned, reaching up to cup her breasts, mouth finding sensitive skin as he dragged his tongue across it, then bit down just enough to make her hiss.

She retaliated by grabbing his hair again and pulling, trying to flip him over. But he didn’t move.

Instead, he leaned in close, releasing a pulse of his pheromones that surrounded her, thick and dizzying.

Her breath caught. Her body shivered. He felt her walls clench around him and used that moment to push her back, finally flipping their positions with a fluid motion.

Now above her, he braced himself on his arms, hips rolling slowly as he buried himself deeper.

She let out a low growl and attempted to shift her position, but he used his body weight to keep her in place, thrusting into her with force. He breathed in her enticing pheromones, allowing them to further heat up his body. But before she could use them to turn the tables, he grasped her shoulders and roughly flipped her onto her stomach. She glanced back at him with a smirk and positioned herself on all fours, causing his nostrils to flare - that had been her plan all along.

Her smirk was a challenge, a provocation that sent a thrill coursing through him. He grasped her hips, digging his fingers into her soft flesh as he positioned himself at her entrance. She arched her back, pressing against him, and he couldn’t hold back any longer.

He thrust into her, hard and deep, and she met him with a fierce intensity. Their bodies collided, again and again, each movement more urgent than the last. The room filled with the sound of their skin meeting, their breaths mingling in ragged gasps.

Eunie looked back at him, her eyes wild and fierce. “More,” she demanded, her voice a low growl. “Give me more.”

Taion leaned forward, his chest pressing against her back as he wrapped one hand gently around her throat, the other snaking around to stroke her clit. She moaned, a sound that was half pleasure, half surrender. He could feel her pulse quicken under his hand, her body trembling as he circled the sensitive nub with his fingers. Her breath hitched, and he could sense her climax building, her body tensing around him.

“Is this what you want, Eunie?” Taion whispered, his voice rough and breathless, thick with longing. His lips brushed against her skin, just beneath her ear, warm and trembling. “Is this Alpha enough for you?”

His control frayed at the edges. Adrenaline surged through him, sharp and wild, making his heart pound. He could feel it—his instincts clawing to the surface, demanding more, demanding her. His canines began to lengthen, aching with the familiar pull he had tried so many times to suppress.

But this time… maybe this time it would work.

He leaned closer, lips skimming the back of her neck, where the instinct always led him.

One more time. Just one more try.

He bit down.

Her growl erupted the moment his canines pierced her skin—too easily, too cleanly—but the sharp burst of pain melted swiftly into something hotter, something that pulsed through her nerves and made her body sing. Her back arched, hips grinding against his as her hands clutched at the sheets.

A moan escaped her lips—raw, guttural.

She pushed back against him, forcing him deeper inside her. Her body was slick with sweat, her skin hot to the touch. He could feel her throbbing around him, her release imminent.

Taion increased his pace, his hips moving faster, his fingers working her clit with renewed vigor. He could feel his own climax building, his body aching for release. But he held back, waiting for her, needing to feel her come undone around him first.

However, he barely had time to process it—Eunie braced herself on her hands and, with a sudden, fluid movement, shoved him onto his back. The world spun for a heartbeat, and then he was staring up at her, dazed and breathless.

Before he could react, she straddled him again, her hands sliding up to wrap around his throat—not tight, but firm enough to make his breath catch in the most delicious way.

“Perhaps,” she purred, her hips moving with controlled, relentless rhythm as she rode him. Her eyes gleamed with heat and challenge, and her smirk was wicked. “Is this Alpha enough for you, four-eyes?”

Her words sent a shockwave through him, a mix of thrill and surrender that he hadn't known he needed. His hands found her thighs, gripping tight as she rode him with an intensity that was both dominating and exhilarating. The room spun around him, a blur of sensation and emotion as she took control.

“Eunie,” he gasped out, his voice barely more than a raspy whisper. His body was on fire, every nerve ending alight with pleasure and need. He could feel her, all around him, consuming him. Her scent, her touch, her very presence was overwhelming, and he was drowning in her—willingly, eagerly.

She leaned in, slow and deliberate, her breath brushing hot and heavy against the shell of his ear.

“You’re mine, Taion,” she growled low, the sound rich and feral—possessive enough to light his whole nervous system on fire. “Every part of you. Always.”

A tremor ran through him like lightning. His heart slammed against his ribs, pounding a rhythm that matched the pulse throbbing violently in his cock. Her voice, her scent, her weight pressed down on him like gravity, anchoring him to the now.

“Always,” he breathed, the word torn from him like a vow. His hands slid up her body with a kind of reverence—trailing from her trembling thighs, across her stomach, ghosting along the curve of her ribs before reaching her face. He cupped it gently, guiding her down to him, and kissed her like he was starving. Like he was drowning, and she was the only air left in the world.

The pressure coiled tight in his gut, nearly unbearable. Pleasure twisted through him, sharp and sweet, but he didn’t let go. Not yet. He held on for her—for them—teeth gritted, breath ragged, body straining like a drawn bow.

She was close. He could feel it in the way her movements faltered, in the way her breath stuttered against his cheek, in how her body clenched around him with a rhythm that pushed him right to the edge.

His thumb brushed across her bottom lip as he studied her face, eyes fluttering shut, mouth open in a soft moan. Her skin flushed, glowing, wild. Beautiful.

And then—her voice.

“Knot me.”

His eyes snapped open.

He blinked. Once. Twice. A third time, as though the words were too surreal to be real.

“I know you know how to do it now,” she panted, her nails digging lightly into his chest, her hips never stopping. “You need to trust me.”

“Eunie…” he choked out, her name catching on a growl deep in his throat.

He remembered too well—how it had gone during the rut, the sharp pain, him nearly losing control. He had sworn he’d never hurt her again.

But now—now her eyes were locked on his, clear, burning, certain. There was no fear in her scent, no hesitation. Only want.

Need.

Permission.

And the part of him he tried so hard to leash—the part that ached, that howled, that had always known—roared in response.

Lock her.

Claim her.

She's yours. Yours. Yours.

Your mate.

Your sparking mate.

“Are you sure?” he rasped, his hands tightening on her hips, holding her still for one precious second.

Her lips curved into a wild grin, eyes blazing. “I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life.”

And that was all it took. The last thread of restraint snapped.

With a snarl, he surged upward, slamming their mouths together, his hands gripping her tightly as he thrust up, hard, deep, home. She cried out against his lips, her back arching as the final wave crested and broke inside her. And then—

He let go.

His knot swelled as he locked inside her, their bodies fused, sealed with a bond that defied biology and expectation. Eunie gasped, her nails raking down his chest, not in pain—but in euphoria. Her hips trembled as the sensation overwhelmed her, and her forehead collapsed against his, both of them breathless, wrecked, together.

Taion could feel it in his very bones—like fire and lightning and fate had carved their names into each other. A deep, reverberating certainty settled in his chest, heavier and more sacred than anything he'd ever known. His Alpha instincts, once restless and razor-sharp, quieted. Soothed. Fulfilled.

Because she wasn’t just his partner.

She was simply his.

His match.

His mate.

And then—like the final piece of the universe clicking into place—she whispered, “I love you, Taion.”

Time stopped. The world outside vanished. All he could hear, feel, breathe was her.

Eunie loved him.

The words rang through his soul, shaking loose a thousand fears he hadn't even known he was still carrying. He’d never said the word aloud before—not in the way that mattered. He didn’t even fully understand what it meant until he met her.

Back in the City, Monica had taught them about love—about bonds, about intimacy, about things their previous lives had never allowed. It had all felt foreign, abstract. Until now.

Now he knew.

Love was her—the sound of her laugh after a long day. The way her eyes softened when she saw through his mask. The fire in her voice when she stood up for what was right. The warmth that bloomed in his chest when she reached for his hand without a word.

Love was vulnerability without shame. Trust without hesitation. It was losing himself in her and somehow becoming more whole because of it.

It was knowing, deep down, that no matter what happened—no matter what world they woke into next—his soul would always look for hers.

He didn’t even realize he was crying until she cradled his face, her thumbs gently brushing away the tears. She kissed him slowly—no heat, no urgency. Just reverence. Just truth.

“And you are my Alpha, Taion,” she whispered against his lips, her voice steady and solemn like a vow. “I accept and recognize you as my Alpha. As my mate. As my equal.”

The moment the words left her lips, something ancient and primal surged between them.

Those words didn’t just belong to the present. They resonated on a deeper frequency, echoing through instinct and biology, through every moment they had shared, through everything they were.

Taion’s breath caught in his throat. His entire body stilled—not from hesitation, but from reverence. He felt her words. Every part of him, Alpha and human alike, heard them and responded.

She wasn’t submitting.
She wasn’t challenging.
She was inviting.

Calling to him—not to rise above or fall beneath, but to stand beside her. As her equal.

A tremor passed through him as his eyes fluttered shut, overwhelmed. Then slowly, he opened them again, filled with nothing but love.

He reached for her—gentle, reverent—and lifted her chin. When their lips met, it wasn’t with hunger, but with devotion. He poured himself into that kiss, into every brush and press of his mouth, wordlessly telling her everything he didn’t know how to say.

That he had always belonged to her.
That he would always choose her.
That this—they—were real.

“I love you too, Eunie,” he whispered against her skin, kissing her cheeks, her temple, her lips again and again. His voice shook with emotion, but his smile never faltered. “And yes... you’re my Alpha too. I accept and recognize you as my Alpha. As my mate. As my equal.”

And as if those shared vows had pulled a thread from the stars themselves, something shifted around them.

Their pheromones, once electric and chaotic, began to intertwine—slowly, steadily—like a melody reaching perfect harmony. There was no clash. No tension. Only fusion.

Two Alphas. One bond.

Real.

Recognized.

Unbreakable.

In that room, time no longer mattered. The world could fall, Aionios could vanish—but what they had forged here would outlast it all.

Still smiling, Eunie lowered herself gently, her breath warm against his neck. She was trembling, not with fear but anticipation—her instincts taking over in the most natural, inevitable way.

And for the first time, she felt her canines extend.

There was no hesitation.

She bit.

It wasn’t violent. It wasn’t painful. It was claiming. Soft but firm, deliberate and possessive.

Taion gasped, shivering beneath her as a wave of pleasure crashed over him. His knot swelled deep inside her, locking them together more completely than before. She groaned but didn’t stop—if anything, the sensation thrilled her.

She kissed the spot where her mark now lived—a visible, sacred brand that only they would understand.

Then, slowly, she tilted her head to the side. Pulled her hair aside. Bared her neck to him.

Inviting.

Open.

Instinct took over like a quiet tide. Taion leaned in, lips brushing the sensitive skin of her throat. His own canines lengthened—not forced, not aggressive. Just right.

He kissed the spot once. Then again. And then he bit down, mirroring her.

Claiming her.

Marking her.

Completing them.

Their bond, no longer just emotional or physical, was now something sacred. Etched into their bodies and spirits alike.

They weren’t just two Alphas who had found love in a dying world.

They were mates.

Chosen.

Recognized.

Forever.

The moment their lips met, it happened—subtle at first, like static dancing along the skin. Then unmistakable.

A warm, tingling sensation sparked in their shoulders and raced down their arms, as if something ancient had awakened and was stitching them together thread by invisible thread. Both of them gasped and pulled apart, startled, eyes wide and hearts thundering in sync.

And then they saw it.

Taion’s eyes locked on his left arm. Eunie's, on her right.

Stretched along their skin was a mark, unlike any they had seen before—organic and fluid, lines and curves weaving together like vines wrapping around the bones beneath. The design sprawled from their shoulders to the back of their hands, not symmetrical, but perfectly mirrored. Unified. Living.

On Taion’s arm, the black markings were threaded with deep, glowing green. On Eunie’s, vivid strands of orange glowed within the same dark lines.

A bond. Their bond.

"I can’t believe it," Taion breathed, his voice cracked with emotion as he held up his hand in awe. His fingers trembled. He looked up at her, stunned. “Eunie…”

How?

How had she known what to say? What to do?

He thought back to all the failed attempts—the biting, the grappling, the desperate pushes for dominance. How long they’d tried to force something that was never about force at all. How foolish it all seemed now, looking at her—glowing, flushed, radiant with pride.

Her smile was blinding. “We really did it,” she murmured, eyes glistening. “I’m so, so glad.”

And suddenly, he couldn’t hold back.

He kissed her hard, wrapping his arms around her and squeezing her tightly like she might vanish if he let go. His whole body trembled with the force of his emotions.

“How? Sparks, Eunie!” His voice broke, and tears gathered at the corners of his eyes. “Thank you—thank you, thank you!”

“Shhh,” she soothed, brushing her thumb gently over his cheek, cradling his face like something precious. “Thank me for what, dummy?”

“For choosing me. For… being my Alpha. For loving me.” His breath hitched, and a sob escaped him despite his best efforts. “I don’t know. I don’t know, Eunie. I just—I'm just happy.”

She chuckled through the tears welling up in her own eyes, then rested her forehead gently against his. “I’m happy too,” she whispered.

They held each other in that quiet, trembling moment, their skin still buzzing with the bond’s aftershock. Finally, Eunie pulled back just enough to look down at their arms again. Her breath caught in her throat.

The bond mark shimmered faintly in the low light, the green and orange threads pulsing like embers caught in a breeze. It wasn’t just ink or ether residue. It moved ever so slightly with each heartbeat, warm against her skin—as if it were a part of her now. As if it had always been there, waiting to be awakened.

“It’s…” Her voice cracked as the weight of it sank in. “It’s beautiful,” she whispered, her words laced with reverence and disbelief.

She reached out, her fingers trailing along the lines that etched across Taion’s arm, carefully, like she might smudge it if she touched too hard. Then she looked back up at him, her cheeks flushed pink, her eyes glassy with wonder. “It’s us,” she added, softer now. “It’s really us.”

Taion’s smile trembled as he watched her, heart full and eyes stinging. He didn’t need to look at the mark again—he only needed to look at her. At the strength and tenderness in her eyes. At the girl who had once teased and bickered with him, then trusted him, challenged him, loved him.

His Alpha. His mate. His everything.

“Just like you,” he murmured, barely audible. Then he leaned in and kissed her again—slow and deep, filled with everything he couldn’t put into words. She responded just as softly, her lips moving against his with the same raw emotion.

When they pulled away, they stayed close, resting forehead to forehead, breathing each other in like oxygen. Around them, time seemed to hold its breath.

“What did you promise me?” she whispered, a single tear slipping down her cheek.

He didn’t hesitate. “That I’ll find you,” he said, brushing his lips over hers again. “Always.”

Her bottom lip quivered as she nodded, her voice thick with emotion. “Then I’ll wait,” she said, swallowing. “But don’t take too long, yeah? You know I’m no good with patience.”

Taion let out a soft, wet laugh, his own tears falling now. “I’ll do my best,” he promised, lifting a strand of hair from her cheek and tucking it behind her ear with a trembling hand. “I love you, Eunie.”

Her breath caught again, but this time she smiled through the tears. “Love you too, Taion.”

They stayed like that—entwined, bonded, whole—as outside the stars slowly shifted, and the countdown toward a new world ticked ever onward.

But in here, in this room, in this breath, in this heartbeat—forever had already begun.

WARNING: mild R18 picture (I really wanted to show the mark :D, yes the lights are slightly different from the previous picture. Probably I'll adjust it later.)

***

Flames.

Lanz's eyes snapped open with a soft, sharp inhale. For a moment, he couldn't place where he was—caught between the fading echo of a dream and the dim stillness of the room around him. He blinked, breath caught in his throat.

It had happened again.

Every time he shut his eyes lately, the same vision haunted him: blue fire, bright and consuming, dancing all around him. But unlike most people, who might recoil from flames and what they represented—danger, destruction—Lanz didn’t fear them. He was drawn to them.

It wasn’t terror that gripped him during those visions.

It was awe.

The fire didn’t burn him. It held him. Embraced him like something ancient and familiar. And the longer it went on, the clearer the flames became. More vivid. More real. Like a memory trying to surface.

A voice—soft, sweet—cut through his haze.

“Lan?”

Sena’s voice. His tether to reality.

He turned his head slightly, grounding himself in the feel of her body curled against his. They were still in one of the City’s dorm rooms. The celebration after Z’ defeat had spilled into the streets, into music and dancing and clinking glasses. But not for them. Not tonight. The others had paired off, stolen moments of peace before everything ended—but Lanz had felt too restless to join in fully.

Not with the fire behind his eyelids.
Not with the world threatening to vanish at dawn.

“Yeah?” he murmured back, his voice a low rumble. Sena was nestled against him, bare and warm, her head on his chest, her fingers lazily tracing shapes against his skin.

“Did you fall asleep?”

“Nah. Just closed my eyes.” He held her closer, his arm tightening around her small frame. “Had that vision again.”

Sena shifted, her brow furrowed in concern. “The fire one?”

“Mmh.” He nodded, staring up at the ceiling. “Every time. Blue flames this time… Like your hair.”

A smile ghosted over her lips despite the tension in her shoulders. “So now I’m invading your dreams, huh?”

“Can ya blame me?” Lanz chuckled softly, toying with her hair. “It’s gorgeous. You’re gorgeous.”

Sena flushed, pressing a quick kiss to his chest to hide her smile. But then her tone shifted, thoughtful and uncertain. “I’ve… been having dreams too. Lately.”

He looked at her, his hand pausing in her hair. “Yeah?”

“Started right after our last rut and heat.” She chewed her lip. “It’s hazy, but… there’s someone in it. Tall. Strong. Familiar. I can never make out their face.”

Lanz raised a brow, mock offense in his voice. “Am I being replaced in your dreams, Sen?”

“Pfft—no! Silly.” She giggled, swatting his shoulder. “It feels like it could be you. But it’s weird, I can’t tell if they’re a man or a woman. Just… this presence. Watching. Waiting.”

Lanz shivered slightly, despite the warmth between them. He knew how that felt—how those visions seemed to reach for him.

“You think it means something?” he asked quietly.

Sena went quiet for a moment, fingers playing absently with his dog tags.

“I don’t know,” she finally whispered. “But Tai and Eun told me that I have no concussion!”

He chuckled softly before his smile faded. He looked up again, jaw tightening.

“I’m gonna miss you,” he murmured. “If things go south… if this really is the end… I’ll miss you more than anything.”

She didn’t respond with words.

Instead, Sena sat up slightly and pulled him into her arms, cradling his head against her chest. Her heartbeat was steady and strong, a rhythm just for him. And when he wrapped his arms around her waist and buried his face into her warmth, she felt his tears soak slowly into her skin.

“I’ll miss you too,” she whispered. “But I believe in you. In us. You'll find me again, Lanz. I know you will.”

They held each other in silence while the world outside carried on—unaware of the fire they dreamed of, the memories just out of reach, and the time that threatened to steal everything. But in this stolen moment, they had each other.

And sometimes, that was enough.

(Can you hear Lanz saying 'woo, that's cool!')

***

Noah sat at the edge of the bed, shirtless, his bare shoulders bathed in the soft, fading light seeping through the window. The quiet after their lovemaking hung around them, heavy yet intimate. Outside, the City glowed with celebration—cheers and laughter echoing faintly through the walls. But Noah didn’t feel like celebrating.

His eyes stayed locked on the horizon, where the sky was just beginning to darken.

Behind him, the bed rustled softly. Mio stirred and shifted closer, drawing herself upright and wrapping her arms around his torso from behind. Her fingers gently traced the curve of his back, warm and grounding, before she pressed a slow, affectionate kiss to the side of his neck and rested her head on his shoulder.

“I can’t believe it’s all going to end,” he murmured. His voice was low, heavy with the weight of everything they’d fought for—and everything they were about to lose.

Mio didn’t answer right away. Instead, she closed her eyes, breathing him in.

“What did you promise me?” she whispered, her voice gentle but firm. Her lips brushed just under his ear.

Noah gave a small, sad smile, intertwining his fingers with hers where they rested against his chest. “That one day, I’d come see you.”

“And I’m holding you to that,” she replied with a nod, nuzzling her nose into the curve of his collarbone. “A promise is a promise, Noah.”

They sat there for a while, held together in quiet understanding. The City’s glow continued beyond the glass, but in their room, time felt like it had slowed down just for them.

“It doesn’t feel right,” Noah said eventually, frowning faintly. “To not say anything to the others. Just to… disappear into our own little goodbye.”

“I know,” Mio said softly. “But… I think everyone needed space. Their own moment to breathe.”

“Yeah, but we’re more than just teammates,” he said. “We’re friends. A unit. Family. We should have something. Together. Before…” He couldn’t bring himself to finish the sentence.

Mio leaned around and kissed his cheek. “Then let’s do something. We still have a few hours before Nia and Melia call us again. Let’s reach out.”

Noah smiled at her—tired, but genuine. He pulled up his IRIS and typed the message, feeling a flicker of warmth in his chest despite everything.

Noah: Should we meet one last time? Is everyone up for it?

He expected to wait. Expected silence. But almost instantly, his IRIS chimed with responses.

Sena: Absolutely!

Lanz: Of course, mate. Where?

Eunie: Yup.

Taion: We were just discussing that.

Noah let out a soft laugh, his shoulders relaxing. He looked over at Mio, his smile growing.

“Well,” he said, “guess we weren’t the only ones thinking it.”

“Where should we meet?” she asked, looking around their small room. “Here?”

Just as he was about to suggest it, another ping came in.

Taion: May I suggest a location?

Mio giggled and nodded. “Tactician instincts, huh? Let him work his magic.”

Mio: Yes, please.

Coordinates appeared almost instantly in the shared IRIS space.

Sena: See you there!

Noah stood and stretched, then turned to Mio, reaching for her hand.

She smiled and took it without hesitation.

They dressed quickly, quietly, the ritual of getting ready carrying a strange reverence. There were no words needed—just the way his fingers lingered at the hem of her top, the way her hand smoothed his scarf into place one last time.

Hand in hand, they walked to the center of the room. They exchanged one last look, full of love and quiet fear.

Then they activated the teleporter.

And disappeared into light.

Chapter Text

Noah, Mio, Lanz, and Sena were mesmerized by the view from the secret spot above the Lost Colony that Taion had suggested. The place was just as breathtaking as they remembered, but this time, the view from that particular high spot was absolutely astonishing.

"It's stunning," Mio exclaimed, her ears twitching happily.

"Yeah, this guy knows his stuff," the teasing voice of the Kevesi healer chimed in as she and her interlinking partner approached the group. Their clothes were dishevelled and their hair a mess from dressing quickly before teleporting. Eunie's feather was completely puffed out as if they had just finished having sex before teleporting. Yet, they both looked radiant and exchanged subtle gazes with each other.

"Oi, feather-brain, your hand is dirty," Lanz observed absentmindedly. "Ya could have at least taken a shower."

"Y’ know, Lanz, maybe you should start wearing glasses too, you muppet," Eunie huffed, glaring at him. The other three also noticed her stained hand.

"Taion, do you have something on your hand too?" Sena asked, confused.

Mio's eyes widened in disbelief.

"Is that... a mark?" she asked in surprise.

"Wow!" Sena added. "H-how...?"

Taion and Eunie smiled at each other before turning back to the group.

"Thanks to some good advice from old friends," Eunie explained. "And some right dirty talk."

"Some... what?" Noah repeated in disbelief.

"Don't mind her," Taion intervened with an amused sigh. "But yes, we managed to bond. She is definitely my mate."

Eunie glanced at him and blushed slightly. It felt strange to think of him as her soul mate now. But she was happy. Despite the challenges that lay ahead, she felt a little more confident knowing they could face them together even if they were going to be apart.

The group huddled together in a circle, locking eyes with each other. The gravity of what was about to happen weighed heavily on their minds. Sena was the first to break eye contact, tears welling up in her eyes. Lanz wordlessly pulled her in front of him, embracing her from behind and holding onto her chest.

"It's been quite a journey," Noah spoke softly with a sad smile, as Mio took his hand in hers and squeezed it. She nodded towards him, trying to infuse some courage. "But I'm grateful that I had all of you by my side." He hesitated for a moment before continuing, "Without your support, I may have ended up like N."

The others exchanged glances before Eunie took a step forward and silently embraced Noah.

"Don't underestimate yourself, Noah," she whispered as she held onto him tightly. Mio smiled at them then extended her arm to join in on the hug. It wasn't long before Lanz and Sena also joined in, wrapping their arms around each other and the rest of the group. Only Taion remained slightly apart until Eunie gave him a reassuring nod.

"C’ mon Tactician," she playfully nudged him. "Ya can allow yourself to show emotions in front of us for once, since the world is endin’ soon."

Taion rolled his eyes but couldn't help smiling as he stepped in for the group hug. Lanz grinned mischievously and pulled him under his arms, giving him a tight squeeze. Despite initially scoffing at the gesture, Taion eventually wrapped an arm around Lanz's waist and patted his back affectionately with his free hand.

And in that big, messy hug, there was everything. Their feelings toward each other were conveyed by the touch of their skin, and the tears that were stroking their cheeks.

“Damn,” Eunie hissed, her voice a mix of sadness and anger as she fought back tears.

“Yeah, it sucks," Lanz added, placing his large hand on her head and ruffling her hair. She didn't say anything, but his touch provided the support she needed to keep from breaking.

"Did we really make…" Sena whispered, nuzzling into Mio's chin. "the right decision?"

There was a moment of silence, only interrupted by the rustle of Saffronia leaves brushing against each other.

"Yes," Mio replied, squeezing Sena a little tighter and giving her a kiss on the head. "I know it may not feel like it now, but I believe we'll see each other again. We are more than just Ouroboros; we're family. Our bond will last even after Aionios."

"Mio is right," Noah chimed in slowly, while Taion wiped away a tear from his cheek with a gentle touch. He leaned into it before adding, "I've said it before and I'll say it again: we will find each other. It may take time, but it will happen."

"Exactly," Taion whispered softly, continuing to stroke Noah's cheek with his thumb. "Otherwise, we wouldn't be so different within the Moebius itself."

"Yeah," Lanz spoke up while running his fingers through Mio's hair. "We're also kinda...mates with each other. Monica once said that mates always find each other."

"That might be one of the smartest things y've ever said," Eunie chuckled, poking him in the side and eliciting a snort. "Like, we have our romantic mate and our buddy mates?"

"Wouldn't it be amazing to have a mate bond between all of us?" Sena giggled through her tears. "Because I also love you guys. I love all of you so much." She began to cry, and the others tightened their hug even more. She turned to Lanz as she just realized what she said out loud. "I-It's a different kind of feeling, but I don't know how else to describe it!"

Lanz smiled at her and kissed her forehead.

"Gotcha, Sen," he replied. "Ya don't have to justify it. I feel the same way."

"There are different types of love," Mio explained with a gentle smile. "And I think I feel the same as all of you. I love you all."

"Yeah," Eunie said slowly, smiling as she reflected for a moment. It had taken her some time to realize that she loved Taion, but could she use that label for her feelings towards the others too? Probably yes, just in a different way. "I'm still new to this whole romantic thing, but sayin’ that I care ‘bout ya is...well, an understatement. So yeah, I guess I love ya all in my own way."

Taion was caught off guard and unsure of how to react. As Eunie had pointed out, it took time to realize his romantic feelings toward her, or at least to put a label on them. But as his mate had just mentioned, only caring about them was extremely reductive. He cared for Nimue, for Commander Isurd, and for his Lambda and Gamma comrades but what he was feeling toward the other four Ouroboros members was far beyond that. During their journey to Colony Omega, Taion missed Eunie's presence as much as he missed the others - even the nopons. He felt incomplete without them.

"I..." The tactician hesitated briefly before shaking his head and smiling warmly. "I love you too."

Noah's hand trembled against Taion's palm before he turned to smile at everyone.

"And of course, I love all of you," he said, then turned to Sena. "The idea of having another mate mark sounds wonderful."

"It would be amazing," Mio agreed, giving Sena a kiss on the top of her head. Sena's body trembled before she turned to hug Mio tightly. After a moment, she broke the embrace and looked at Lanz with uncertain eyes. To her surprise, he smiled tenderly at her - no hint of jealousy in his expression. Sena started to feel that familiar desire to bond stirring within her, similar to what she experienced with Lanz but now it was with everyone around her. Her skin tingled all over while her pheromones started to release slowly into the air.

"Why... why don't we try it?" She whispered, struggling to keep her glands under control.

There was a brief moment of silence before Noah spoke up with a smile.

"Oh... so I wasn't the only one feeling it," he said, looking at Sena.

"You feel it too?" She asked, surprised, while Mio released her from the hug.

"Yeah," Noah replied thoughtfully. "It's like this tingling sensation all over my body. My pheromones are also difficult to control because my body is forcing me to release them."

Sena's eyes widened in agreement. "That's exactly what I'm feeling! But then again, I've always had trouble controlling my pheromones..."

"Wait, wait, wait," Eunie interjected with a perplexed tone. "By 'try', ya mean... y’know? Have sex?"

"And what do you mean by 'feel it'?" Taion added seriously. "Care to explain?"

The two Omegas looked at each other, their cheeks flushing with embarrassment.

"It's hard to explain," Noah admitted. "It's like our bodies want to connect with all of you on a deeper level. We want to bond with everyone." Mio and Lanz exchanged surprised glances before turning to the others for confirmation.

A bond between each other.

Despite their differences, fate had brought them together and their bond was deeper than most friendships. Mio wondered if it would actually work out, digging for any kind of information in M’s memories. As far as she knew, no one had ever attempted or even considered this kind of relationship before.

But they were not ordinary individuals.

They were the Ouroboros.

And Noah's care for his fellow members went beyond just being an Omega; he genuinely cared for them and their well-being.

"I... wouldn't mind," Mio finally spoke, her expression softening. "We can give it a try if everyone is on board."

Eunie smirked, crossing her arms under her breasts.

"Well, it’s not that we have so much else to do, innit? Except cryin’, being desperate and miserable," she grinned, looking at her mate. "Wot do you think, four-eyes? Ready to have some fun? Or are ya still too jealous?"

Taion rolled his eyes and coughed slightly in embarrassment, blushing a little.

"It's fine," he sighed. "I-I mean, Lanz and I already talked about it, so there won't be any problems from my side with anyone here. I may not be an expert on romance, but I also harbor feelings for the others. This is just a way for us to bond more with each other." His cheeks flared up before adding “You’re my mate, our bond and our feelings have nothing to do with them.”

"Yeah, what the nerd said," Lanz agreed, scratching his chin thoughtfully. "We're just having some fun with each other. I mean, if it was someone else, I wouldn't be okay with that."

"Definitely not," Taion grinned. "Probably no one outside this group would be."

"Not even Isurd?" Eunie teased, poking him in the elbow while knowing his answer. Taion looked at her with a serious expression, and Eunie could admire a little spike of red in one of his eyes.

"Even Commander Isurd," he hissed lowly, never breaking eye contact. Eunie felt a thrill of excitement run up her spine; she missed him in a rut.

"Alright, then I'd say we can... emh, proceed?" Mio asked, glancing at the two Omegas.

Both of their expressions brightened up, and after exchanging a quick look, they began emitting a new type of pheromone. The air around them was soon filled with the scents of wood and vanilla, enticing the Alphas to claim them and form yet another bond between themselves.

Lanz swallowed hard as Sena took a step towards him. She sensually removed his jacket and kissed him on the lips, causing him to groan. "Are we really goin’ to do it?" he asked, his breath hitched.

"Is it going to be any different from what happened in the spa?" Sena asked as she moved away from Lanz, provoking him to growl in protest and began removing Eunie's leather jacket. As the Agnian worked, her warm hands grazed Eunie's skin, causing her to momentarily consider pushing Sena down and taking control. The pheromones around them were definitely having an effect on everyone, awakening their instincts and desires.

"We don't even know if it's possible to create this new bond between all of us," Taion pointed out as Noah removed his orange scarf, causing him to gulp nervously. He couldn't deny that he was struggling to keep himself in check; part of him wanted to act on his desires.

"Our pheromones shouldn't affect each other," Mio panted as Sena began removing her jacket too.

"No duh," Lanz grumbled, blushing as Noah tugged at the hem of his tank top, silently urging him to take it off. "I dunno ‘bout you Mio, but I swear Noah's pheromones are just as delicious as Sena's." Noah grinned widely, making it difficult for Lanz to resist kissing him.

"Yeah, I was definitely feeling it," Mio moaned, resting her head on Sena's shoulder and breathing in her scent. "They may not be as strong as Noah's, but they're definitely effective."

"If anyone is uncomfortable or doesn't think this is a good idea, then we won't go through with it," Noah chimed in with a warm smile. "But personally, I really want to connect with all of you again before everything comes to an end."

To Taion's surprise, he found himself getting aroused by the situation. Not just because of the Omega's pheromones, but also because it gave him a chance to see something he had been missing since their second adventure began. He remembered how fascinated he was seeing Eunie in control and taming the others right before his eyes and how much he craved to be under her control. He didn’t feel the jealousy this time thinking about it. So when Noah started to unzip his pants, Taion didn't resist. Eunie noticed his expression and grinned as she approached his ear.

"Wot's on your mind, you pervert?" she whispered playfully, nipping at his earlobe and eliciting a hiss from him.

"You," Taion replied as her pheromones swirled around him, causing his erection to twitch in his underwear. "You taming the others."

Eunie seemed surprised by his response, but then she could only smirk.

"Let's set a safe word," Mio suggested, looking at Taion and Lanz. "In case someone changes their mind later." They both nodded in agreement.

"How about Ouroboros?" Noah proposed.

"Good idea," Taion agreed. "Ouroboros will be our safe word."

He summoned his blade and sent a storm of Mondo flying around them, securing the entrance to the cave.

"I'm not sure if it's soundproof," he explained while directing the Mondo to seal the entrance. "But it should be enough to make it seem like no one is here."

One by one, the Alphas ended up undressed by the two Omegas until they were all standing naked in front of each other, their clothes forming a makeshift blanket on the ground.

"It's been a while, innit?" Eunie smirked, pushing her back against her mate who groaned as his hands roamed her waist and gripped her flesh. Their mating marks were now fully visible, almost glowing in the dim light.

"They are really beautiful," Sena smiled, indicating their marks as she stepped closer and traced the lines with her fingers before taking Eunie's hand in hers. Eunie pulled her close against her body.

"I dunno how ya planned on startin’ things off, probably with Mimi," Eunie said, "But I hope you ain’t mind if I have a taste of you before her." She grinned mischievously and slid her hand down Sena's toned buttocks, spreading them apart and making her moan as she melted into Eunie's touch.

"Sparks, Eunie!" Lanz hissed, his eyes widening in awe at the sight before him. There was something incredibly erotic about seeing her between one of his closest friends. He was so captivated by the scene that he almost fell over when he felt a hand gently touch his bicep.

Noah chuckled softly and amused.

"I apologize for startling you," he chuckled, observing the shock on his face. He shook his head and smiled as he pulled him closer. Noah was one of his favorite people, along with Eunie and Sena. He had to admit, he enjoyed the time they spent together in prison and at the spa.

"Do ya need help, Noah?" He finally grinned and grabbed his chin, pressing his lips against his own. Noah trembled under his touch and let out a soft moan.

Mio smirked as she watched her mate being held by the big guy, enjoying the sight of him trembling and gasping. "Wanna join?" Lanz asked Mio from above while squeezing Noah's ass. She glanced at the trio in front of her.

"Actually," Mio said, shifting her gaze from Eunie and Sena to Taion who was still grinding against her back "I've been curious." Her eyes met with Taion's. Eunie noticed and paused her actions briefly to bite down on Sena's collarbone, a smirk crossing her face.

"Do ya wanna taste an Alpha?" Eunie asked teasingly, gently pulling on Sena's hair and tilting her head while running her tongue over her skin.

"Maybe," Mio replied with a smile, waiting for Taion's response. For a moment, he seemed uncertain. His relationship with Eunie was unique; they worked because of their past, their personalities, and their feelings for each other. He cared deeply for Mio as well. But having sexual relations with another Alpha was not common at all - it could easily turn into a fight, especially considering that Mio was used to Omegas.

However, he couldn't deny that he was intrigued. A part of him was curious to see if it would be enjoyable with another Alpha or if Eunie was truly the only exception. He looked at Entia, who was observing her while teasing Sena's entrance. In her eyes, he saw a challenge - she was daring him to, asking him to try and tame Mio as well. He rolled his eyes; what did he expect from her? Finally, he stepped back from them and faced Mio with a serious expression.

"It will be different," he warned, sensing her pheromones clashing with his own. For a moment, he saw her tense up; she wasn't used to this type of interaction. She instinctively growled in his direction, her pupils becoming more vertical. To her surprise, this made him smirk, enjoying the sensation of dealing with another Alpha. He couldn't deny that her pheromones were pleasant - not on the same level as Eunie's, of course, but they were as intoxicating as the ones of the Omegas.

He took a step closer, causing her to tense up and her expression to darken. She could feel the fur on her ears rising as his whisper tickled them.

"Are you still sure?" he asked, watching her closely for any signs of hesitation.

Mio panted, feeling her own pheromones battling against his, but his were much more powerful and almost playful with hers, which were highly unstable. Despite this, she couldn't deny the thrill that ran down her spine at the thought of subjugating an Alpha instead of an Omega. It would be incredibly difficult, but if she could do it... Suddenly, she felt her arousal start to build inside her. But before she could fully process it, Taion closed the gap between them and roughly grabbed her throat, squeezing until she saw stars. He crushed his lips onto hers, biting fiercely without giving her time to adjust. Her primal instincts kicked in and she growled against his lips while scratching his back.

Meanwhile, Eunie watched from where she sat next to Sena, licking her lips as she observed her mate pinning Mio down and biting at her neck. There was something undeniably erotic about seeing him go savage.

She bit down on Sena's neck and squeezed one of her breasts while using the other hand to rudely finger her. The high-pitched moans that escaped Sena's mouth only seemed to make Lanz groan even louder next to them. Eunie couldn't help but smirk at the sensation of having such different skin and pheromones around her. Her lover was on a completely different level; their intimacy was nothing like what she experienced with Taion, but it was a welcome distraction. And Sena was certainly adorable, especially when she tried so hard to hold back those moans.

A mischievous idea sparked in Eunie's mind as she remembered their location. She stopped teasing Sena's nipple with one hand and tilted her head up so their breaths mingled together.

"Wanna try something fun?" she whispered seductively, inserting another finger inside Sena and making her moan. Sena looked at her with confusion before glancing down between her legs. Eunie couldn't help but laugh as she bit playfully on her lower lip.

"I don't need a dick to make ya come," she teased. "But if you wanna..."

Sena shook her head, the thought of Eunie having a penis was even more terrifying than her first time with Lanz. She tightened her grip on Eunie's neck and kissed her softly, causing Eunie to groan while her fingers moved faster inside her. Suddenly, the Kevesi flopped back onto clothes-blanket, pulling the Agnian down with her. She then shifted positions so that Sena was sitting on her lap, her hands gripping her ass as she scooped her closer to her mouth.

"E-Eunie!" Sena squirmed, trying to maintain balance.

"Wot?" Eunie grinned mischievously as she pushed her closer to her face. "Just trust me," she whispered licking her lips in anticipation. "It'll be mind-blowing."

Lanz smirked observing his mate trying to stay still while one of his best friends was giving her pleasure. After having pinned Noah’s down, since they were next to the two girls, he took hold of Sena's face and kissed her deeply, his fingers still busy pleasuring Noah who was moaning on all fours in front of him.

"Shut her up for all of us, wouldja babe?," Lanz growled playfully as he nibbled on Sena's lip.

"Oi! You spo-mmfff!" Eunie didn't have a chance to finish her sentence before Lanz pushed her closer to the Entia’s face, causing the Agnian to let out a loud moan. She had really the feeling that the Kevesi was eating her alive!

"Dammit," Mio growled, flushed from arousal and the embarrassment. Taion managed to pin her head down while they were both on all fours, keeping her butt rose so he could grind with satisfaction against it. His pheromones were much stronger than hers after the bonding with Eunie and he was able to use them to control her, taking advantage of her inexperience with other Alphas and simply putting her in the position that he wanted.

"Mio, ah!" Noah moaned as he found his love's face right in front of him. He couldn't help but be amused at their similar positions, both being taken from behind by another Alpha. He leaned down and gently kissed Mio on the forehead.

"Now you know," Noah whispered to Mio with a smirk as he felt Lanz's tongue working its way inside him, licking the sex juice that was dripping from him.

"Sparks," Mio growled, glaring back at her teammate who wore a teasing smile.

"Are you enjoying this?" Noah asked curiously, flinching as Lanz continued to pleasure him with his tongue. In response, Mio let out a hiss and tried once again to roll over, but Taion used his strength and pheromones to keep her pinned down.

“She definitely is,” Taion grinned, responding to the swordsman's question. Mio was panting, her body jolting at every thrust of his teammate's cock against her clit. She felt completely powerless in this position, unable to bite or do anything. Her Alpha instincts were on high alert, not just for mating but also for fighting; she had never experienced something like this before.

As soon as Lanz stood up, he made eye contact with Taion and they both smirked mischievously. Almost simultaneously, they started to penetrate their teammates. Noah moaned while Mio growled.

“Oh, that feels different!” Lanz exclaimed, biting his lip in arousal “Y’re amazing, man!”. Noah was extremely tight and wet inside, just like Sena's pussy.

“And you're really big,” Noah gasped, trying to relax his body as much as possible. Lanz released more pheromones to help him relax and increase his arousal. Noah whimpered along with Sena next to them. The Kevesi grinned and caressed his mate's face, kissing her deeply while her sobs echoed in his throat.

“Y're doing a great job keepin’ her quiet,” Lanz grinned between breaths, continuing to penetrate Noah “Keep goin’, ‘kay?”

Eunie growled under Sena's weight and bit down on her clit with vigor, making Sena cry out in pleasure and almost pushing her over the edge of orgasm.

“Don't come yet,” Lanz ordered playfully. Sena tried to nod but didn't know how much longer she could hold out; Eunie's tongue was working its magic and she knew exactly what she was doing - swirling and sucking at just the right moments.

“I think I can help you out, Sena,” Taion smirked mischievously. Mio immediately glared at him while Lanz and Sena looked at him with confusion.

“Taion!” Mio growled, but before she could react, Taion pressed his chest against her back, bit down on the back of her neck, and used a hand to guide her head towards Eunie's inner thighs.

"Great idea, four-eyes!" Lanz exclaimed, understanding what his friend wanted to do. "Let's distract her!"

Eunie tensed up as soon as she felt Mio's hair brushing against the insides of her thighs. She eased off on the rhythm, giving a small break to Sena who was on the brink of orgasm. The Entia smirked, finding this turn of events quite interesting. As she had suspected, her mate was even more perverted than she had imagined. She lifted both legs and wrapped them around Mio's neck, which just bit her skin in response. The Kevesi groaned feeling her sharp teeth marking her but that fueled her arousal even more. She continued to lick Sena's drenched entrance while using her legs to push Mio's head closer so the flesh eater could replicate what she was doing to Sena.

"Oh!" Noah moaned, watching the scene next to them. Seeing his mate sandwiched between two Alphas aroused him more than he cared to admit. He couldn't wait to lick their fluids from her body! Without realizing it, he found himself on the verge of orgasm. Lanz noticed and started thrusting roughly inside him, causing him to arch his back, moan, and climax through his clothes.

"Someone is enjoying the view," Taion commented with satisfaction admiring the body of Noah being shaken by the orgasm while thrusting rudely into his teammate. Mio hissed not used at his size but her sounds were muffled by Eunie's folds and one of her hands keeping her head firmly in place. She hated to admit it, but she could feel her pheromones being completely overpowered by those of the two healers. Their combined pheromones created one dominant and irresistible scent that was impossible for anyone to resist. It was like fighting against both of them at once! Her Alpha's pride still screamed within her to rebel, but it was as if their voices were now inside her head, seducing and controlling her every move. And despite how much she tried to deny it, she was undeniably aroused. It was humiliating, yet her body responded to every rough thrust from Taion.

The tactician and his mate were in perfect sync, enjoying every moment of dominating Mio. His fingers dug into her skin as he scratched and held her in that position. He relished the fact that his mate, without even seeing what he was doing, understood his plan perfectly and they were now working together to overpower Mio. The sight of Eunie licking Sena’s pussy made it all the more erotic. As Lanz fucked Noah in front of him, mimicking the movements he was doing with Mio, the tactician felt a newfound closeness to the machina guy. They shared smirks from time to time, their previous fights forgotten.

“L-Lanz!” Sena cried out, reaching for Lanz's arm next to her. "I really need...!"

Without stopping his rough thrusting into Noah, Lanz turned his face and cupped Sena's face with his hand. He pushed his tongue into her mouth as she finally reached the climax, muffling her moans with his lips. A new wave of Sena's pheromones filled the air, causing Mio to gasp and tighten around the tactician's cock, making him groan and feel his own orgasm approaching.

Following Sena's lead, they all reached their own climaxes and the area was filled with a mix of their pheromones.

As they caught their breaths, Sena slid off Eunie and Lanz helped her lay down next to a still-trembling Noah who had just experienced his second orgasm. Eunie smirked as she cleaned herself off with one arm and began releasing her grip on Mio's head. She sat up, keeping her legs on her shoulders and grabbed Mio's chin, tilting her head upward to meet her gaze. With a mischievous smile, Eunie said, "Not bad, huh?" All Mio could do was growl in response. Eunie's smirk widened as she looked at her mate still inside her, catching his breath, before turning back to Mio. She leaned in close to her ear and whispered, "Y’ know, there's nothin’ wrong with asking for some help..."

Mio looked at her, trying to catch her breath and comprehend her words. Then she smelled it. Eunie's pheromones were now surrounding her but they weren't clashing with hers...they were almost guiding her.

"Eunie," Taion growled instinctively sensing the shift as well.

The two girls quickly glanced at each other and before he could react, Eunie pushed Mio towards him. Taking advantage of her new position, she used her strong legs to pin him down by his neck, causing him to lose his balance and fall to the ground.

He attempted to turn over, but the overpowering pheromones from both Eunie and Mio had him feeling dizzy and aroused. He tried to regain control, but Mio pinned him down roughly while straddling his face.

"I have to admit," she hissed, looking at him her pupils almost completely vertical. Taion grunted, recognizing the same determination in her eyes that she had shown against P and O. "You're surprisingly a piece of work, Taion." Before he could even process what was happening, she pushed herself onto his mouth, nearly suffocating him in the process. Taion growled as he felt his own cum sliding down his throat and almost choking him.

"You go girl," Eunie purred as she positioned herself on top of her mate's shaft, coating it with her own arousal. Despite Taion's attempts to resist, both Eunie and Mio easily kept him subdued, much to their amusement and arousal.

"Poor Taion," Sena giggled, her cheeks flushed as she watched the scene unfolding. Noah also giggled, lifting his head to get a better view. He felt Sena's warm skin pressed against his and instinctively began to rub against her softly. She looked at him and brushed her forehead against his shoulder, placing a gentle kiss there. His skin felt different from Lanz's or the others', softer and brighter. It radiated a comforting warmth that drew her in.

"Do you think..." she whispered, her cheeks flushing as she looked at him. "Do you think two Omegas could work?"

"Oh?" Noah seemed taken aback by her question. He smiled at her and replied, "Well, it worked for two Alphas, so I don't see why not." Sena smiled in response and leaned in to plant a soft kiss on Noah's lips. They began to nuzzle together affectionately, lost in their own world until they heard Lanz panting heavily behind them. They had almost forgotten he was still between Noah's legs, sitting on his knee and watching them with a lustful expression. His large cock was throbbing and twitching, and he was completely flushed with desire.

"Sorry, Lan," Sena apologized. "Would you like to-"

"Spark's sake! That was so friggin’ hot! Keep going!" Taion interrupted with drool on his lips. "Pretty please?"

Both Omega blushed and exchanged confused looks.

"Hot?" Sena stammered, embarrassed.

"Yes!" Mio chimed in between labored breaths as she continued riding Taion's face, glancing over at the two with a mischievous smile.

"Love, if you turn, you can enjoy the show even better," Eunie suggested, pushing her hips down onto her mate's shaft causing him to groan.

"Keep him still," Mio nodded. She didn't have to ask; she was going to do it either way. Mio finally rose up, while Eunie pinned down the tactician's shoulders, sinking her nails into his skin and releasing enough pheromones to help her task.

Taion could only pant heavily and glare furiously at her as she gave him a smirk.

"How does your cum taste?" Kevesi teased playfully. Before he could reply, Mio was back on his face and all he could do was try to survive the two Alphas while planning his revenge for later. As soon as Eunie made sure she was comfortable, she extended her arms and quickly grabbed Mio's face, kissing her deeply and pushing her tongue against hers, biting her lip in the same spot as Taion.

"Eunie!" Mio growled as soon as she let go of her mouth to catch her breath again. The Kevesi grinned naughtily and pinched her nipples, making her jolt from the unfamiliar sensations of two Alphas working on her. Their pheromones quickly aligned once again and all she could do was try not to drown while Eunie extended her head and bit ferociously at her neck.

Noah chuckled quietly, before returning his attention back to Sena, kissing her softly on the lips. Sena couldn't help but giggle at the gentle contact; it was something she wasn't used to. He then wrapped his arms around her in a hug, brushing his hands against her skin. Sena trembled slightly, enjoying this new sensation as she nuzzled under his chin and licked his skin. He tasted sweet, almost like honey. Was that what attracted Alphas to Omegas? She heard him gasp and felt his cock harden against her belly. She smiled and began exploring his body as well, finding him so different from their teammates but still incredibly likable. The way he trembled under her touch was adorably cute. And the moans and gazes of their teammates focusing on them only aroused them both even more.

“Can I…?” Noah whispered in her ear starting to brush gently his shaft against her.

"S-sure!" Sena breathed out, her body already responding to his touch. "Do you want to stay on the top?"

"I'm not sure," he stammered, hesitant to take the lead in their sexual encounter. Mio was usually the one riding him, not the other way around. "But I can try."

"Please," Sena said with a smile, wrapping her arms around his neck and nuzzling her head under his chin.

"Don't worry, dude," Lanz grinned. "I can help out!"

Noah rolled over onto his back and positioned himself above Sena, being careful not to crush her. She kept her grip on his neck and locked her legs around his waist. Noah panted, hesitating for a moment. Fortunately, Lanz reached between their bodies and guided Noah's shaft inside of Sena. They both gasped and moaned.

"How does it feel, Noah?" Mio asked with a teasing grin as she bit her lip and continued pleasuring herself with Taion's tongue flicking against her clit while Eunie massaged her breasts.

"It feels good," he groaned as he started thrusting slowly into Sena.

Eunie also enjoyed watching the two of them together, but what truly excited her was seeing her mate pinned down by Mio and her. She rode him more vigorously, sinking her hands into his waist and marking him as hers. As she felt herself getting closer to orgasm again, she didn't realize that Mio had shifted positions and now had ahold of Eunie's hair, tilting her head back roughly and biting down on her neck with sharp teeth. Eunie growled and tightened her hold on Taion.

"Sorry guys, but I'm reachin’ my limit," Lanz grunted to the two omegas. "Do ya mind if I join in?"

Noah could only nod, too lost in the sensations to speak coherently. He loved being with Sena, but he couldn't deny that having Lanz inside him again was driving him wild.

"Please," he murmured, giving his consent. Lanz grinned and positioned himself at Noah's entrance, rubbing his shaft against his anus to make sure it was coated with Noah's juices and Lanz's previous climax.

Lanz taunted with a smile and then he started to immerse himself inside Noah, who could only moan in response. The pleasure was intense, coming from both his dick and his back. Lanz quickened his pace and Noah followed suit.

“Yeah, Sen loves it when ya go faster,” Lanz said with a grin as he bit down on Kevesi's neck. “Don't worry, just follow my lead.”

Noah nodded, trying not to climax too soon. Soon, the valley was filled with moans and skin slapping against skin as they all reached a mind-blowing orgasm together.

“Sparks,” Mio panted heavily as she released her grip on Taion's face and moved away. He gasped for air, his face flushed and sweaty. Meanwhile, Eunie smiled and stayed on top of him, playfully nibbling at his chin.

“That was fun, right?” she teased, rolling her eyes when he groaned.

“I have to admit,” he said as he ran his hands over her back, pulling her closer to him. “You have officially taken over my role as tactician. I never saw it coming.”

She laughed and then they turned their attention to the others.

“You okay, love?” Eunie asked Mio with a smile.

“Yeah,” Mio replied with a small smile, running her fingers over the marks left on her skin. She wasn't used to this kind of roughness but found herself enjoying it in the moment. “Now I understand why you like it.”

“Wasn't that… duh… odd?” Lanz asked curiously as he sat down with Sena between his legs.

“It was,” Mio admitted as she leaned against Noah's shoulder. She needed to feel close to her Omega or at least someone who wouldn't push her down or bite her in return. “But also really exciting. It triggers both the mating and fighting responses at the same time.” She then wrapped her arm around Noah and kissed the top of his head, feeling him melt against her. “You completely miss out on the cuddling aspect.”

“Well, not every time,” Eunie pointed out thoughtfully. “One time we did in a, like romantic way?”

“Yes, back in Cape Arcaphor when we were searching for the metal component for Origin,” Taion added. “We weren't emitting any pheromones. We were like two Betas rather than an Alpha and Omega.”

“Uh-uh,” Eunie mused. “But every other time it's like this - a battle for dominance. Pretty cool, right?”

“It is...” Mio smiled, admitting it. “Once you get over the fact that another Alpha managed to submit you, it's actually really pleasurable.”

“Really?” Lanz asked with a thoughtful expression. “I wouldn't mind givin’ it a try.”

“Be my guest,” Eunie grinned, quickly getting up before Taion could protest. Their combined fluids ran down her thighs as she stood up. “The tactician is all yours.”

"Wot?" Eunie teased seeing them hesitating and exchanging nervous gazes, "I'm no expert, but if we need to bond, shouldn't ya have some fun too?"

The two looked at each other hesitantly before blushing and turning away.

"I dunno," Lanz groaned, "Isn’t painful if I put it inside him? He doesn’t have the fluid-thingy."

"Why do you automatically assume I'll be the one taking?" Taion growled, his gaze locking with Lanz's before Mio quickly intervened.

"Hey now, calm down you two!" she chimed in, giving them a serious look. "If you're not comfortable with it, then don't do it."

"Mimi is right," Sena nodded worriedly. "And actually you can start with… I dunno, something easy?"

"Like what?" Lanz grumbled. "Kissin’?"

"Why not?" Eunie smirked, taking a seat behind Noah who flinched when he felt her breast pressed against his back and her breath on his neck. "He's a good kisser. And he studied up, so he knows wot to do."

Lanz clicked his tongue and shook his head before turning to look at the tactician in front of him. Despite his furrowed brow, Taion seemed more relaxed than he was. But there was something about him that made Lanz break out in a cold sweat. His pheromones were strong, but they were hiding something threatening underneath. In response, Lanz began to emit his own pheromones.

"It's strange seeing you nervous," Taion commented slowly as he observed him. Taion knew that Lanz was different from Mio; his pheromones were more similar to Eunie's – aggressive and territorial. And he was bigger and stronger than Taion. He wasn't worried about his pheromones, but rather his size and what would happen if he let his guard down for a moment. The tactician glanced between Lanz’s legs and knew there was no way he could fit inside him. He needed to be quicker and catch him off guard.

"Can ya really blame me?" Lanz huffed, running a hand through his hair. "I don't know if you wanna have sex or punch me!"

Taion seemed amused by Lanz's words, and a small smirk appeared on his face as he took a step closer to the Kevesi. He growled lowly but didn't back down, continuing to observe the tactician as if he was afraid, he might summon his blade and knock him out.

“How do ya do it?” Lanz whispered feeling his throat burning feeling his heart racing faster while adrenaline started to fuel his veins as his body was preparing for a battle.

“How?” Taion seemed surprised by his question. “Well, like this.”  He grabbed his throat and pressed on the side to cut off blood flow while emitting pheromones. The Kevesi's vision went dark for a moment and before he could react, Taion's tongue was in his mouth and their bodies were pressed together.

When Taion finally released him, Lanz was still under the effects of his pheromones, making it hard to resist him. But seeing Taion's smug expression, deliberately provoking him, snapped Lanz out of it.

He wouldn’t have a smirk like that with his dick in his mouth.

"Yes, just like that” the tactician purred feeling the shift in his expression and in the air. “But I'm afraid it won't be so easy," Taion added, pushing Lanz onto his knees while he was still under the effect of his pheromones.

"Didn't you say you wanted to try an Alpha?" Taion taunted, looking him up and down while guiding his head towards his shaft. Lanz's eyes showed frustration, desire, but they were also frozen in place by Taion's strong pheromones. He panted heavily, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "Changed your mind, 'mate'?" he sneered.

Lanz grunted and felt a wave of heat rush to his face. He couldn't believe he was on his knees like this, all because of his pheromones. He could have accepted it from Eunie, maybe, but not from the gloomy, pompous tactician. How could he have let himself be dominated so easily? And yet, as Taion's hand remained firmly on his hair and his hard shaft pressed against his face, something stirred within Lanz once again. He glanced up at Taion, still struggling with conflicting feelings and desires.

"Open," Taion hissed, once again overpowering him with his pheromones. As soon as he gasped for air, Taion took advantage and pushed his cock into the back of his throat. Lanz struggled to adjust, not used to being on the receiving end.

"Sparks," Eunie grinned, watching the scene as a Feris while Noah eagerly licked between her thighs and up to her buttocks.

"Eunie has definitely been a bad influence on him," Mio smirked, finally letting go of Sena's neck. She left a mark that made Sena moan in pleasure.

"Heh," Eunie replied teasingly, her body flinching when Noah's tongue swirled with just enough pressure to make her growl in pleasure. "But actually, I didn't do anythin’. He was already like this. Just too busy puttin’ on his diligent soldier face. Right, love?"

"Perhaps," Taion responded with a teasing tone, keeping his gaze fixed on Lanz to make sure he continued what he wanted. Lanz continued to suck and swallow, feeling his will becoming weaker with each passing second as Taion's pheromones surrounded him like an invisible cage. With some effort, he slid his arms around his knees and tried to release as many pheromones as possible to create a shield between them. As soon as the Agnian realized what he was doing, he found himself on the ground and seconds later, he was pinned by Lanz.

And it was heavy. Unbearably heavy.

The tactician knew he couldn't use physical force to escape; he could only rely on his own pheromones to try and control his actions.

"I haven't changed my mind, man" he growled into Taion's ear, locking eyes with him, Lanz held tight to his throat, as the tactician did before. "Now it's my turn to have some fun, dontcha think?". Before Taion could respond, Lanz flipped him onto his stomach and forced his legs apart. Taion tried to fight back, growling in frustration, but Lanz pinned him down once again.

"Damnit," Lanz panted into Taion's ear, "Ya really are a piece of work, nerd."

Taion looked back at him with flushed cheeks and a hint of a smirk on his face.

"Glad you enjoyed it," he teased.

"I have no idea what y're talking ‘bout," Lanz groaned, blushing heavily as he tilted his head to the side to expose his neck and shoulder for easier access.

"I saw that you were aroused," Taion replied, flinching as Lanz's teeth grazed his skin while keeping him pinned down.

"Because of your pheromones, yeah!" Lanz grumbled before proudly observing the mark he had left. With one hand still pressing between Taion's shoulders to keep him pinned down, Lanz sat up slightly and couldn't help but grin when he saw the blush spread across Taion's face.

" ’lright, I'll give you that," he purred as he slid one hand on Taion’s back tracing from his shoulder to the bottom of his back and digging his nails into his skin, "You do have a nice bum." And he had to admit he was enjoying it more than he thought he would. Finally being able to dominate him gave him a new thrill along his spine. A delightful mix between adrenaline and arousal as Mio pointed out before.

Those words caused Taion to tense up, especially when he felt Lanz squeeze his cheek and then grind against his ass.

There was no way this was happening.

In response, Taion released as many pheromones as possible, causing even Mio behind them to flinch. Seeing Lanz shake his head and cough slightly, Taion managed to break free from his grip, sit up, and turn to face him. He raised his legs on either side of Lanz's body and then brought them on his side. Lanz growled lowly but made no move to stop him, panting heavily while he felt his inside boiling once again. The tactician then placed his hand on Lanz's back and pushed himself closer until their shafts were touching.

"Is this just for my ‘bum’?" Taion purred, referring to the precum dripping from his erection. "I'm sorry, but I have to decline your offer. My arse is not available." He then entwined their cocks and began stroking them slowly. "Give me your hand."

Lanz moaned, tilting his head back and following Taion's lead with his own hands. They locked eyes while the pleasure built between them.

"Compromise," Taion gasped, his cock throbbing against Lanz's as more cum leaked out. "Is it good?"

"Yeah," Lanz groaned, pulling Taion closer and devouring his lips in a passionate kiss. He then pressed him against himself, effectively straddling his lap.

"Lanz," Taion growled, trying to push away but only causing Lanz to tighten his grip and nibble on his chin.

"Compromise," he repeated, his hold on Taion's body firm. "I wanna touch you."

"I can guess where you want to touch me," Taion hissed, feeling Lanz's hand squeezing his buttocks once again.

"Ya have control of my junk, and yeah," Lanz grinned mischievously as he ran a finger over Taion's entrance, making him flinch and growl. "But it won't fit. Consider it payback for the head earlier."

The tactician hesitated for a moment, his pheromone levels rising once again, but Lanz silenced any protests with a deep kiss while stroking their shafts together with his hand.

"It's rude to ignore someone who is giving you pleasure, Sena," Mio's sensual voice broke through the haze of arousal for Sena. She wasn't ignoring her; it was impossible to do so when Mio's tongue, teeth, and hands were everywhere on her body. But seeing her mate being dominated and dominating by another Alpha was incredibly arousing.

"I wonder how I should get your attention again?" Mimi purred, grabbing Sena's legs and placing them on her shoulders while biting her calves and making Sena moan.

Sena squirmed as she felt Mimi's fingers suddenly enter her roughly and press against her most sensitive spot, while her thumb pressed down on her clit.

"Mimi!" Sena cried out, her pheromones filling the air as she felt herself warming up and reaching the brink of orgasm. Mio seemed satisfied and continued fingering her until she was sure Sena couldn't hold on any longer. With her mouth, Mio sucked, licked, and bit at Sena's nipples, maximizing her pleasure as much as possible.

"Do you want it, Sena?" Mio asked between heavy breaths. "Tell me how much you want it."

Mio's words were like a melody in Sena's ears, each one arousing her more and more. But somehow, Mio was able to keep her on the edge without letting her come.

"Yes! I want it! So much!" Sena sobbed, trying to grind against Mimi's hand to relieve some of the building pressure.

"Then why do you keep getting distracted?" Mio taunted.

Sena shook her head frantically as another wave of pleasure rushed through her body, almost becoming painful with its intensity.

"N-no! Please!" she whimpered.

"That's it, good girl," she said with a smirk before suddenly removing her fingers, causing Sena to gasp and almost cry out. But before Sena could react, the Gormotti pressed against her and penetrated her.

"What...?" Sena managed to gasp as she could feel something familiar inside of her, twitching against her slick walls.

"Don't get distracted," Mio grunted as she started thrusting into her, making Sena moan. All Sena could do was tilt her head back and wrap her arms around Mio while her mouth closed on her neck.

"Eunie!" Noah shrieked as Eunie began thrusting against him. "S-slow down!"

"Shh," Eunie moaned as she pushed her fingers into his mouth. "Be a good boy and stay still!"

"Mmpf!"

And once again, the air was filled with moans, growls, gasps, and wet sounds. Then, like a wave, they were all overcome with orgasms that left them panting and covered in fluids.

"Sparks, man" Lanz grunted, resting his forehead on Taion's shoulder as he finally regained control of his pheromones. "Ya drained me."

Taion looked at their sticky torsos and hands covered in cum.

"I was also curious to see if your semen was the same as mine," he remarked, observing the liquid in his hand before licking it. This caused Lanz's nostrils to flare and his dick to twitch as he watched Taion with increasing arousal.

"Ya have no idea how much I wanna stick my dick in your pretty ass right now, nerd."

Taion chuckled, then reached down to gather some of Lanz's cum on his chest before quickly shoving his finger into Lanz's mouth. Just as the Kevesi was about to bite down, Taion pulled away and stood up.

“Not a chance, mate,” Taion replied laconically while searching for some water to clean his torso.

“Yeah, if someone will have his bum, that will be me!” Eunie grinned helping Noah to sit.

“Sparks Eunie… you are savage,” Noah could only murmur provoking a giggle from the Entia.

“Cannot wait,” Taion replied back to his mate with a teasing tone.

The others laughed as they caught their breath.

"I need a break..." Noah sighed, wiping sweat off his forehead.

"Already?" Mio teased him, causing Noah to blush.

"Do you feel any different?" Taion asked after some minutes of silence, glancing curiously at both Noah and Sena. They shook their heads. The tactician wasn't surprised and nodded. "It makes sense. If we want to bond with everyone, then we must have our way with everyone."

"So it's me and Eunie with Lanz, and you with Noah and Sena," Mio said, looking at Taion for confirmation.

"Sparks, right," Eunie groaned, seeing that Lanz was snoring in her direction. "Looks like I'm stuck with empty-head."

"Correct," Taion agreed, meeting her gaze. For a moment, they both remained silent. Eunie's intense stare made him feel like she could see straight into his thoughts, but he had no problem meeting her inquisitory gaze. She then shifted her attention to Lanz, who was cuddling with Sena and playing with her hair. Eunie's smirk widened.

"It's only fair," she whispered in Taion's ear. "One mate per one mate."

Without waiting for a response, she stood up and walked over to join Lanz and Sena. She leaned down and whispered something in Sena's ear.

"Wouldja mind keeping him busy?" Eunie asked, nodding towards Taion who was standing a few steps away watching them with a serious expression. Sena smiled warmly and nodded.

"Sure!" she replied before giving Lanz a sweet kiss. "Be good, Lanz."

"Oi," he protested. "I'm always good!"

Eunie waited for Sena to stand up and join Taion. The two guys exchanged a glance, their hands almost trembling as they hesitated to touch the girls. Eunie shook her head and sighed before turning to Lanz with a smirk. She pressed her hand against his chest and grinned widely.

"Yeah, ya really are a sparkin’," she teased as she pushed him roughly onto the ground, “Good boy.”. Her pheromones spread around them, causing Lanz to become dizzy again and aroused. She took advantage of this by pressing her crotch against his and grabbing his throat, biting down on his shoulder to make him gasp for air. Through his struggle, she whispered in his ear.

"He'll take care of her, ya hear me?" she said firmly, looking into his eyes. Lanz groaned but didn't protest, too lost in her grip and the pleasure pulsing through his body.

"Yeah, I know," he finally replied.

"Great," Eunie said with a smile, tightening her hold on his neck. "Now stay still for me, wouldja? I need to… get used to that sparkin’ Aspar that ya have between your legs!"

She positioned herself over him and took his shaft, sliding it into her with a groan mixed with pain and pleasure. Lanz could only watch as she rode him, feeling both frustrated and aroused at the same time.

“Damnit,” she hissed trying to adjust her position to make it as comfortable as possible. “How in Aionios, those two can take it?!”

To her immense surprise, Lanz's pheromones finally reached her, causing her body to relax. She tilted her head and let out a low growl as he continued, but she maintained her grip on him, eliciting groans from him.

No way, she would be submitted by him.

"Omega's stretchability," Mio chimed in as she entered Noah with one swift thrust. He whimpered at the sudden sensation and clung onto her tightly as they began moving together.

"I missed you, Noah," Mio said with another rough thrust that made him moan louder. "Especially your adorable not-so-subtle moans."

Noah blushed furiously but hugged Mio closer, burying his face in her neck.

"Mio..." he breathed out, feeling overwhelmed with pleasure.

"I have to be honest," she murmured in his ear, her voice laced with a low growl. "I almost felt jealous seeing you with your winged companion. I finally got Taion and Lanz."

Her thrusts were punctuated by sharp bites. Angry, savaged bites as she wanted to mark him again.

"You know that I'm yours, and yours alone," he moaned as he felt the heat spread through his body, her pheromones aggressively claiming him once again. He had to admit, he was loving it. Mio knew exactly how to satisfy him, hitting all the right spots and keeping him on the edge until he begged for release.

"I know," she replied with a smirk, nuzzling his neck. "But it seems you're enjoying me being rough."

A loud moan from him was all she needed to understand that yes, he was truly enjoying himself.

Ever since Eunie had descended onto Lanz's member, Tai had been fascinated by how quickly his mate had taken control of the situation. But then Sena's soft touch on his burning cheek snapped him out of his trance.

He cursed himself for being so enraptured by the scene before him that he had completely ignored Sena.

"Sorry, Sena," he sighed, trying to smile at her. "I was just...checking."

Sena giggled in amusement.

"It seems history is repeating," she commented, chuckling softly. "Even though my memories are fuzzy, I remember what happened during my heat. You couldn't take your eyes off her while you were...taking care of me."

"Oh," Taion stammered, feeling embarrassed. "Am I sorry?"

Sena giggled once again and shook her head. She wrapped her arms around his neck and finally, he let himself relax and inhale her sweet scent.

"Allow me to properly apologize," he whispered, pulling her onto his lap in the same position they had been in during their time in Li-Garte. Sena gasped as she felt his teeth graze her neck.

Like that he could still see above her shoulder and admiring Eunie.

Just for checking… right?

"I've never done it like this!" she stammered, feeling his member pulsing between her legs.

"Let me guide you then," he said in a husky voice, lifting her up and down on his cock while nibbling and licking her skin. He squeezed her ass and helped move her up and down, pushing her down forcefully to stretch her as much as possible. "Good girl," he whispered, nibbling at her chin. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Eunie riding Lanz with equal fervor, pinning his hands above his head without giving him any time to react.

And she was so beautiful.

A smirk crept onto his face as he thrust himself into Sena with more vigor. As he looked over at Eunie, he once again felt the urge to rush over and pull her away. This only caused Sena to moan louder in his ear.

"Tai! Y-you’re not knotting me, right?" Sena shrieked, tightening her grip on his neck while feeling the swelling of his cock. "It feels bigger!"

"No," he grinned, finally meeting Eunie's gaze as she watched them with a smirk on her face. "I'm just enjoying myself."

"Sparksparksparksparks!" Lanz groaned with each movement. He couldn't keep up with her pheromones; if it wasn't for Taion wearing him out before, he might have been able to match her but if he had to be honest, as Mio said before… it wasn’t so bad. It was completely unnatural to remain still like this, but it was undeniably pleasurable. And how mesmerizing were Eunie's bouncing breasts!

Once again, they were consumed by an intense wave of orgasm as their pheromones mixed and mingled between them.

Afterward, they were both too exhausted to speak and instead focused on catching their breaths.

"Let me rest for a bit..." Lanz panted, covered in sweat but still inside the Entia. "And then... I'll have my revenge!"

"Yeah, yeah," Eunie panted back, smirking at his words. "Big talk."

Noah chuckled at their playful banter before turning his attention to Mio, who had rested her head under his chin.

"Still jealous?" he asked, running a hand through her hair as her ears twitched under his touch.

"Mmm, no," she murmured in response, nuzzling back into his touch with a low voice. "But I really wanted to knot you. Just to be sure."

"Yeah, I could feel it," he giggled, turning to look at Taion helping Sena get comfortable between his legs. "But I'm glad you didn't. Taion and I still have to go."

"Mmmh," Mio nodded understandingly, but before she could say anything else, she heard the voice of the Kevesi healer.

"Oi, love!" Eunie called out with a grin, causing Mio to turn towards her. "If y're done with that poor man, could you lend me a hand or two?"

"Huh?" Lanz lifted his head slightly, confused as he looked between Eunie and Mio.

Mio opened her mouth to respond, but then sighed and shook her head in amusement. She slowly pulled away from Noah.

"I can help," she grinned back at Eunie, giving Noah a quick peck on the cheek. "Have fun with Taion and Sena."

Noah smiled and turned to look at Sena and Taion beside them.

"Do you mind sharing him, Sena?" he asked with a warm smile directed at the Omega.

"Not at all!" Sena replied happily, shifting slightly to make space for Noah to sit between the tactician’s legs. The two Omegas shared a mischievous smirk before turning their attention to Taion and emitting pheromones that made his nostrils flare. Then, Sena took Noah's face in her hands and softly kissed him again on the lips.

"It's not just Alphas who enjoy each other," she giggled while Noah gently rubbed his hands over her back.

"Definitely," he purred, licking and kissing her neck. He glanced over at Taion with a sensual expression, noticing how the Feris was biting his lip with an aroused look. After thinking for a moment, a smirk appeared on his face. With a swift movement, he positioned himself behind Sena and forced Noah to lie down on the ground with Sena on top of him. He then slid one hand onto one of Sena's cheeks, spreading her legs apart along the sides of Noah. From her entrance, a mixture of fluids and previous cum spilled out, filling the air with an intoxicating scent. He could tell that she was already wet and aroused enough. His gaze then shifted to Noah's throbbing shaft, which was brushing against Sena's clit.

"Noah," Taion called to him, beckoning with a new wave of pheromones that made them both jolt. "Put it in her."

Noah obeyed almost automatically, eagerly waiting for his orders as he panted and drooled with desire.

"Taion, what are you- ah!" Sena's words caught in her throat as Noah slowly began to thrust inside her, replacing her words with soft moans.

"Good boy," the tactician purred, observing the scene in front of him and keeping one hand firmly on Sena's cheek.

"Sparks!" Noah moaned, his own pheromones intensifying his arousal.

Taion waited a few moments before slowly sliding his fingers over her center, brushing against Noah's dick.

"Taion!" Sena shrieked, completely blushing as she turned to look at him.

"Breathe," he replied gently, sending another wave of pheromones to help calm her nerves before beginning to insert two fingers inside her.

"Oh Sparks!" Sena couldn't control her moans as she buried her head in Noah's collarbone.

He continued to pleasure her with his fingers, guiding Noah's thrusting rhythm until she was completely relaxed and ready. Then, he positioned himself and slowly inserted the tip inside her. As soon as he did, Sena arched her back and gasped at the sensation.

"It's too much!" she cried out between labored breaths.

"Keep breathing," Taion whispered in her ear, lying on her back and nibbling at her skin while also gently rubbing her clit with his finger. "You're doing great."

Sena didn't know how it was possible but Taion's low and husky voice only intensified her arousal, making her even more eager to please him and Noah. His voice was filled with pheromones that drove her wild. As the pain began to mix with pleasure, Taion's fingers helped her stay relaxed and comfortable as he slowly pushed himself deeper inside her.

"It seems fair to me," Lanz grinned as he grabbed Eunie's shoulders from behind, pressing his hips against her buttocks and glancing between her and the trio on the left.

“It’s sparkin’ not!” Eunie growled as she tried to break free, causing Mio to giggle in front of her.

"Actually, Lanz has a point," Mio smirked. "Since his mate is being stretched so much, it's only fair that you are too."

This was not how Eunie had planned things when she called for help from the Agnian. As soon as the flesh eater reached them, she pulled Eunie close and kissed her deeply until she was breathless. It wasn't until after that Eunie realized that hers and Lanz’s pheromones were aligned perfectly with each other, making her head spin and her body ache with desire. And then Lanz took advantage of her distraction by biting down hard on her neck and flipping her over onto all fours, with her head positioned directly between Mio's legs.

Just like before with Taion.

But now a cold child was running down the High Entia’s back. What if Mio shifted her now-female genitals into male ones? Would she end up like Sena?

No way.

"W-wait!" Eunie stuttered nervously, looking back and forth between her own legs and Lanz's looming figure behind her. "Lanz is already too big! I can't... take another one! I'm not as stretchable as Sena!"

She turned to the flesh eater. "Girl, I thought we had somethin’ going on before?! C’mon, wouldn't it be more fun to keep him under us? Y’know? As before?!"

"Oh, it would definitely be fun," Mio replied with a mischievous smile as she ran her hand through Eunie's hair before grabbing it tightly and tilting her head back provocatively. A low growl escaped from Eunie's throat. "But not as much fun as dominating you. Right, Lanz?"

"Oh spark yeah," Lanz smirked. "We're just returning the favor, feather-head!"

Eunie tried to emit as many pheromones as she could, but both Mio and Lanz were able to overpower her with their own. "Dammit!" Eunie snapped as Lanz thrust into her roughly, causing a sharp pain to shoot through her body and causing her pheromones to partially shift. It was then that Mio noticed Taion had stopped abruptly and was now staring at them.

Had they gone too far?

Taion and Lanz exchanged a glance, and for a moment nobody moved as they waited for their reaction. Then the tactician looked at his mate, who was panting and flushed all over. With a subtle nod towards Lanz, he indicated Eunie and he grinned and nodded in agreement, causing Mio to let out a sigh of relief. The machina started licking and nibbling Eunie's back in an effort to help her relax. "Just tell me when you're ready," he whispered huskily.

Eunie gasped for air, her body burning with desire and her head spinning from the pheromones of the Alphas surrounding her. She turned to Mio with a mischievous grin.

"Show me whatcha got!" she exclaimed, dragging her hands down her backside in an attempt to bring her closer to her mouth. "Both of ya!"

Mio let out a sigh, shaking her head. It was no surprise that Eunie would try to take advantage of the situation, even with multiple Alphas present.

"Eunie is as Eunie does," Mio chuckled, tightening her hold on Eunie.

"Damn ri-" Eunie didn't get to finish her sentence before Lanz pushed against her slit and clit. She nodded at Lanz before he began thrusting into her. As soon as he started moving, her pheromones shifted again, provoking him and igniting his primal instincts. He felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through him, breaking down his barriers and unleashing his savage side with Eunie.

Meanwhile, Taion did the same inside Sena, biting violently at her neck. Sena cried out in response while Noah trembled beneath him. It felt like Taion's dick was stretching him even more than usual and his rough thrusts were threatening to tear him apart.

"Sparks!" Noah moaned, trying to hold back his orgasm. Despite Taion's furious thrusts against him, it still provided enough friction to bring pleasure.

The pheromones around the Omegas grew thicker once again and both flinched as their desires boiled within them.

"Are you-ah- okay?" Noah asked between heavy breaths, placing a hand on Taion's flushed cheek.

"Yes," Taion growled lowly before grabbing Noah's hand and pushing it down aggressively, pinning it down while he continued to thrust into Sena. He alternated between biting her and Noah, leaving visible marks on their skin to mark them as well.

The valley echoed once again with moans and growls, punctuated by flashes of pleasure. As the umpteenth orgasm washed over them, a shift occurred. Their pheromones mingled and aligned, creating a unique scent of heart peach, rainforest wood, fourtune clover, saffronia leaves, metal and vanilla that filled their nostrils. While they were consumed by waves of ecstasy, a synchrony was activated between them, forging a new connection.

They collapsed onto the makeshift blanket, drenched in sweat and bodily fluids.

"Queen's ears," Sena gasped. "I'm sore! And I never get sore! That last round took everything out of me."

“Sore, dead, yeah,” Eunie groaned in agreement. “I don’t have anythin’ left in me.” She then rolled over from the other two Alphas “I’d say gimme me… some hours and I’ll be back to ya. Damn, both of ya!”

"It was our pleasure," Mio chirped, massaging her neck where Lanz had left his mark.

"Yup," Lanz smirked as he pulled Sena into his arms, nuzzling her hair.

"We're all dehydrated," Taion noted sitting straight and searching for his glasses. "We should drink something."

"Five minutes," Noah sighed as he closed his eyes and pulled Mio closer to him.

Silence fell over them, interrupted by only laboured breaths.

"Did it work?" Lanz asked curiously.

"I dunno," Sena murmured as she finally sat up straight. She quickly examined her legs where Lanz's mark was visible, then moved on to her belly, shoulder, and hand. "Guys! It worked!"

The others immediately sat up as well and looked at their own wrists.

"Well damn," Eunie chuckled. "I think I recognize this symbol."

"Quite fitting," Mio observed as she studied it.

"I agree," Taion nodded with a smile as he rotated his wrist.

On each of their wrists, Kevesi on the left and Agnian on the right was the Ouroboros symbol encircling their skin.

"One arm with one mark and another with another," Eunie mused softly as she rolled over to cuddle against Taion's side. She rested her head on his chest just above the crystal marking. "I like it."

"Me too," he replied, gently kissing her head.

Noah sat up next to Mio and looked around at all of them.

"Now no matter what, we'll always find each other in the future," Noah said with a hint of fear still in his voice. "I'm still scared, of course, but...a little less now."

"Yeah," Lanz grumbled as he pulled Sena closer to him. "You two had an amazing idea."

"I'm just glad it worked," Sena replied, her lips trembling slightly.

If only… if only they could have a little bit more time.

Staying like that.

Cuddling each other.

Loving each other.

But suddenly, all of their IRIS devices beeped simultaneously with a message from the Queens. "It's time," Noah whispered as Mio held onto him tighter. In silence, they quickly got dressed and without saying a word, they teleported to the coordinates given by the Queens.

****

The group formed a tight circle, their faces showing a mixture of emotions, love, and defiance against the passing of time. One by one, they stepped forward to embrace each other, communicating without words. As their arms wrapped around each other, they felt the warmth and beating hearts of their pack. But when Mio, Eunie, and Taion hugged Sena, a quick flash of blue flame lit up their eyes like a brief vision.

"Wot was that?" Eunie whispered, her confusion evident as she kept blinking her eyes.

Mio's eyes widened as she looked at Sena with worry and confusion. She recognized that blue flame anywhere; it had to be from her. But how was this possible? She wasn't Sena's Alpha; she shouldn't be able to feel it. Could it be because of the new bond they had formed between them? Mio nervously glanced at Lanz, wondering if he knew anything about it. But he didn't mention it to them. Probably he had those visions before but he had not idea on the meaning behind them.

Taion furrowed her brow and looked at Eunie, who nodded in agreement. Mio saw Taion summoning ether and quickly stepped in to stop her. She gave a subtle nod and shook her head.

"Guys?" Sena asked curiously, noticing the change in the trio after hugging her. "Is everything okay?"

"She's fine," Mio whispered to the healers. "No need for ether."

Taion and Eunie exchanged a look before turning back to the group.

“Is it … wot I think it is?” Eunie whispered, glancing at Mio and then at Lanz who were watching them with concern. Mio nervously bit her lip and gave a subtle nod.

“She deserves to know, he deserves to know,” Taion said solemnly. He turned to where the two Queens were observing them from a short distance away. “Even if the world is ending.”

“What’s the point?” Mio exclaimed, worry etched on her face as she lowered her ears. “It will only hurt them…”

“Um, hello?” Lanz interjected, annoyed by their secretive conversation. “We are still here! Who is hurtin’ who? What is going on?!”

“Let ‘em decide,” Eunie sighed, patting Mio's shoulder in reassurance. “I've got ya, girl. But Taion is right. It's not up to ya to keep this information from ‘em.”

Mio glanced nervously at Sena and then at Lanz. She took a deep breath and nodded.

“I'm sorry,” she apologized with a small smile, then took Sena's hands in hers. “Sena, Lanz. There's something you both should know.”

The two looked at each other with concern before turning their attention back to Mio.

“About your… emh… relationship…” Mio hesitated, her voice trembling slightly. “But this information could bring happiness or pain. That's why I'm struggling with telling you.”

“Our relationship? Whaddya mean?” Lanz tilted his head, confusion evident on his face.

“I'm asking because... well, the time is about to restart,” Mio murmured softly while gently caressing Sena's palm with her fingers.

Sena met Lanz's worried gaze before smiling softly and tilting her head up towards Mio.

“You said it could bring happiness too,” Sena said quietly. “Remember, you always tell me to stop underestimating myself. So don't start doing it now, Mimi.”

Mio looked at her with hesitation before Sena nodded again. She let out a sigh but quickly replaced it with a smile as she hugged Sena tightly. She then turned to Eunie and Taion, an idea sparked by M's memory coming to her mind.

"Eunie, Taion, I need your help," Mio said with a smile. The two healers exchanged perplexed looks before stepping forward.

Mio stepped back and lowered her voice as she instructed them on what to do.

"Infuse some ether from Sena's lower belly to Lanz's ear, and also from Sena's ear itself. They'll hear it," she explained. "It's a little trick from M."

The two healers nodded and positioned themselves in front of the couple. Eunie placed her hand on Sena's stomach and one on her ear, while Taion did the same for Lanz. As soon as they began infusing the ether, Sena and Lanz could hear it.

Noah approached Mio and gently hugged her around the waist before giving her a kiss on the top of her head.

"Do you remember when we heard it for the first time?" he asked softly, wiping away a tear that had fallen down her cheek.

"Yes," Mio replied with a soft smile. "I cannot wait to hear it again, Noah."

"Me too," Noah sighed, kissing her once more and rubbing her arm.

"What is it?" Lanz asked confused, unable to remove his hand from his ear where Taion had placed it. Sena was also sobbing quietly with both hands over her mouth, trying to muffle any sound. She remembered perfectly where she heard that rhythmic sound: when Doctor Holly had explained the meaning of life to them and let them hear from a pregnant woman in the hospital.

Taion smiled and removed his hand from Lanz's ear before patting his arm.

"Congratulations, Lanz," he whispered before taking Eunie's hand in his and stepping back.

"F-for what?" Lanz stammered, nervously gulping.

"Lanz!" Sena sobbed, finally looking up at him.

"It's a heartbeat, you spoon," Eunie sighed with a warm smile. "From her lower belly."

"Wait, do we have the heart in our lower belly? I thought it was...duh… up," Lanz asked, tilting his head in confusion “Is it normal it’s so fast?!”.

"Oh, Spark’ sake!" Eunie exclaimed. "Lanz, she's-"

But Taion quickly dragged her away, nodding to Sena as he did so. Sena turned back to Lanz and hugged him tightly, leaving him breathless.

Tears streamed down her cheeks as she whispered, "I'm pregnant, Lan. The sound we heard was our baby's heartbeat." There was a long silence before he could even begin to comprehend what she had just said.

“W-what?!” he asked blinking his eyes several times. Did she really say baby? Pregnant? Who? Them?

But then he remembered Monica and Larry mentioning that Alpha could sense pregnancies. But they never specified how one would feel this sensation!

"Pregnant," she repeated with a small laugh. "You remember how babies are made, right?" Lanz couldn't help but hold her close as his mind raced with a million thoughts and emotions.

"We're...we're pregnant," he trembled, his voice barely above a whisper. "I can't believe it."

"I know," Sena sighed through her tears.

"I mean, the world is going to end like in minutes. I dunno whether to feel like… happy? Or sad?" he admitted through his own tears, overwhelmed by the magnitude of the situation.

Sena gently grabbed his face and turned it towards hers. "I know but think about our baby. Think about the life it represents, the new beginning we will have together."

She wiped away his tears with her thumbs. "This soul chose us, Lanz. And our love will transcend even the end of the world. When we meet again in whatever comes next, our baby will be with us."

“Shit, babe,” Lanz smiled tightening his embrace on her “Ya became a master to make me cry!”

His gaze softened and he kissed her deeply before resting their foreheads together. "That's why I had those visions," he whispered with a smile. "The bulky person you saw...it wasn't a dream."

"It was our baby," she confirmed as she held him tightly. "It'll be strong like its dad."

"Duh, bulky like Dad maybe but strong like Mom," Lanz laughed back. "But it will definitely have your hair!"

“Have I mentioned that you're a little too obsessed with my hair?” she sighed, kissing him again.

“Um, nope, must've slipped my mind,” he grinned back. “I love you, Sen. And I love our baby too.”

“We love you too.”

Eunie and Taion stood at a distance, watching the scene before them. As the sun over the sea, they held hands tighter. After a few moments, Taion reached into his pocket and pulled out a small brown book, handing it to Eunie.

“Wot is it?” she asked, surprised as she took it in her free hand. He let go of her other hand so she could examine it more closely.

“Herbal tea recipe. You have to dry your own leaves... You should manage,” he smiled back.

“Isn't this kinda, pointless?” she grinned back keeping admiring the little book, recognizing his beautiful handwriting.

“Pointless?”

“I mean, if the worlds are gonna drift apart again, this paper won't last...” she teased with a smile.

“I considered that, of course. The paper and the ink, it all comes from your world,” he replied with a hint of proudness in his voice while indicating the pages.

“And the leaves for the tea? Even those, and all?”

“What do you think?”

“Heh, well check you out!”

“Who am I if not scrupulous?”

“Who? Well... You're my best bud! Fourth best, to be exact,” she grinned closing the little book with one swift movement and observing his reaction.

Taion pretended to be offended, gasping in shock.

"Fourth only? That's a bit harsh," he replied, rolling his eyes. He took her right hand in his left and admired how their marks fit together perfectly. "Too bad that these tell a different story."

"Mistakes happen," Eunie grinned, meeting his gaze. "Didn't you tell me that I was a mistake?"

"Yes," he sighed, pulling her into a hug. "The best mistake I've ever made in all my lifetimes."

She chuckled and hugged him back, but her mind couldn't stop racing. The teasing banter only served as a temporary distraction from the tears, pain, and terror she had been feeling since losing him - and possibly even herself.

"Ya better find me, four-eyes!" she exclaimed, tears streaming down her face. "Or else I'll make sure you really become last!"

A sad chuckle escaped Taion's lips before he nodded and buried his head in her hair.

"We will find each other again," he whispered, kissing her cheek. "You are and will always be my mate. No matter what."

She looked up at him and kissed him fiercely one last time in anger and desperation.

"I love you," he sighed as tears rolled down his own cheeks, gently kissing her forehead. "Sometimes words aren't enough. I love you and more, Eunie."

"I love ya too, Taion," she smiled through her tears. "I guess in the end...we became just like the others, didn't we?"

"I'm afraid so," he sighed, kissing her again. "But I don't give a spark about that."

Chapter Text

Eunie: Come to my house. Now.

Ashera raised a single eyebrow as she stared at the curt message blinking on her IRIS. Still sprawled comfortably across her king-sized bed, she lazily sat up, the silken sheets slipping from her bare shoulders. A soft groan came from beside her—Zoren, ever dramatic, flopped over and buried his face in the pillow.

She glanced down at the three naked Omegas curled up in the disheveled bed, their skin still marked by her teeth, still glistening with sweat and remnants of the heat they’d indulged in. Easel was tangled with Clad, and both were still fast asleep, breathing softly against each other. Ashera could tell Easel’s heat had finally broken, though the lingering haze in the room told her the satisfaction wasn’t mutual. Not entirely.

Ashera: Good morning, lil’ bird. Is something wrong with my favorite princess?

Eunie: Now.

That was… sharp. And unusual. Eunie could be impatient—fiery, even—but this? This was different. She tapped the message again, frowning. Why the urgency? Why her?

Ashera: What about this afternoon? I can be in Alcamoth by two. I’m busy right now.

As if on cue, her hand wandered down, squeezing Easel’s bare backside. The Omega whimpered in her sleep, pressing back instinctively. Ashera smirked but didn’t let herself get distracted for long.

Eunie: What part of “now” is unclear, Ash? Get your ass over here! I need you.

I need you.

That halted Ashera’s usual teasing banter before it could even begin. Not want—need. That word wasn’t one Eunie threw around lightly. She could’ve contacted Noah. Even Joran or Lanz. They all lived closer to her than Ashera did. So why her?

She stared at the message for another heartbeat, then sighed.

Ashera: Fine, lil’ bird. I’ll be there in thirty. Can you at least tell me what’s going on?

No reply.

With a groan of her own, Ashera tossed the covers off and swung her legs over the side of the bed. She delivered three sharp slaps to the rumps of her companions in one smooth motion.

“Wake up, darlings,” she drawled, striding across the room to fling open the curtains. Bright morning light flooded in, causing all three Omegas to groan and curse. “The princess has summoned me. You know what that means.”

“Oh, come on,” Zoren mumbled, rubbing his eyes. “After two straight days, you’re just going to abandon us?”

“My body is here, Zoren,” Ashera said breezily as she pulled a fresh black t-shirt from her drawer, “but my heart belongs to royalty. Besides, I think you three need a break before you die of pleasure.”

Easel groaned as she finally sat up, still a little dazed. “How long was I out?”

“Two days,” Ashera replied while slipping into the shirt and reaching for her pants. “And you were magnificent. All of you were. Now shower, change the sheets, and leave the key where I showed you.”

“Do you think you’ll be free for my heat in two weeks?” Zoren asked, hopeful, his tone softer than before.

Ashera paused at the door, turned, and gave him a wicked grin. “For my Omegas? Always.”

She descended the stairs quickly, her earlier amusement draining away. Eunie’s last message blinked again on her IRIS.

Eunie: Just hurry.

She didn’t like this.

Ashera debated messaging the others. But something told her this wasn’t about them. If Eunie had wanted the team, she would’ve said so. She said Ashera.

And Ashera never ignored a direct summons.

She reached the first nearby teleportation terminal outside her home, keyed in the destination, and vanished in a flash of light—heading straight for Alcamoth and whatever storm the Princess of Keves was caught in.

Once she arrived at the palace, Ashera had no trouble getting in. Her reputation preceded her—infamous, respected, and, more importantly, known as one of Princess Eunie's closest companions. The guards greeted her with curt nods, and she returned them with a faint smile and a lazy flick of her hand before heading down the familiar halls.

She took the lift to the eastern wing, where Eunie's private suite was tucked away—secluded and heavily warded, not just by protocol but by preference. As the doors slid open, Ashera stepped out and immediately spotted a tall figure at the far end of the hallway.

Tyrea. Of course.

The Entia stood like a statue—poised, elegant, but with a subtle tension in her shoulders that gave her away. Her gaze was fixed on the sealed door ahead of her as if she were calculating its weaknesses… or steeling herself to enter it.

“Lady Tyrea,” Ashera called, her voice smooth and amused. “Well, this is a surprise. Am I interruptin’ a staring contest with the door, or were you plannin’ to knock it down?”

Tyrea turned, surprised—and then suspicious. Her eyes narrowed slightly.

“Ashera.” She greeted with an edge of formality, eyes scanning the Exile’s outfit, her IRIS still open on her wrist. “I didn’t expect you here.”

“Eunie asked for me,” Ashera replied simply, lifting her arm to flash the most recent message. “Sounded urgent. So. What’s goin’ on?” She folded her arms and tilted her head. “Did something happen to her?”

Tyrea hesitated, then glanced both ways down the empty corridor. Her voice dropped to a low whisper.

“She’s in rut.”

There was a beat of silence.

“…Pardon?” Ashera blinked, momentarily caught off guard—not by the revelation itself, but the tone Tyrea had used.

“She’s an Alpha, as you well know,” Tyrea said quietly. “And this morning she went into rut. It’s... intense. And unstable.”

Ashera straightened slightly. “No, I meant—why me?” Her voice was sharper now, edged with real confusion. “Why’d she call me in that state?”

Tyrea’s lips thinned. “We don’t know. We tried calling Noah. When he arrived, just the scent of him from behind the door triggered her pheromones. He nearly passed out before she screamed at him to leave and locked herself in again. Since then, she’s been unresponsive.”

She took a step closer, her tone grave.

“We don’t know if she took her suppressants. And if she hasn’t…” Tyrea exhaled. “Let’s just say a confrontation could turn ugly. We can’t risk forcing our way in. Her Majesty doesn’t want violence. And with Eunie’s current state… there’s no telling how she’ll react. Not to the guards. Not even to her mother.”

Ashera’s brow furrowed, gaze shifting to the door.

“…You think I can help.”

“I hope you can,” Tyrea corrected. “Because right now, she refuses to let anyone near her. But maybe, for some reason… she’ll let you in.”

Ashera felt something shift inside her. Something old. Something instinctual.

She liked Eunie—more than she ever let on. They had history. Attended the same school back in Colony 9. While Eunie was a royal, she had insisted on being educated among her people, alongside Noah and the others. Ashera had gravitated to them over time, lingering at lunch breaks, sharing stories, even teasing Eunie until the princess rolled her eyes in that flustered way Ashera secretly adored.

If Eunie had been an Omega, Ashera would’ve claimed her years ago.

But she wasn’t. She was an Alpha. A powerful, dominant one. They flirted, danced around one another, but never crossed the line. Not until now.

Now, Eunie was calling to her—needing her.

And that meant something.

Ashera exhaled, squashing the flicker of heat that stirred in her chest. “I’m not a nurse,” she warned. “I’m also a Dominant Alpha. If I go in there, and she’s feral…”

“That might be exactly what she needs,” Tyrea said calmly, holding out a case. Inside was a syringe filled with dense amber liquid. “This is one of the most powerful suppressants available. We need to administer it intramuscularly. But she won’t let anyone close. She’s in pain. You might be the only one she lets touch her.”

Ashera took the case, fingers curling around the syringe.

She wasn’t blind to the implications. Walking into a sealed room with a rutting Alpha, suppressants in hand, meant one of two outcomes—submission or dominance. Neither simple. Both dangerous.

Having sex with Eunie. Another Alpha. A Princess.

The thrill curled low in her belly.

Ashera smirked, then schooled her face into something calm, cool, and utterly collected. “Well. If this goes sideways, I hope someone writes a dramatic poem about it.”

Tyrea gave her a dry look. “I’ll be one floor below. You have my IRIS tag. If anything happens, signal me and I’ll be up in less than a minute.”

“Understood.”

With a final glance, Ashera turned and walked toward the sealed door.

Your move, Princess, she thought, bracing herself as she pressed her palm to the panel.

Let’s see what you really called me for.

Each step toward the sealed door felt heavier than the last—like the air itself was warning her. The moment she touched the panel to open it, a wave of heat and scent slammed into her. Not warmth—heat. Raw, suffocating pheromones filled her lungs, searing her throat and sending a spike of pressure to her head.

She staggered.

For a second, she thought she might black out—but before she could even brace herself, the door flew open.

And a hand grabbed her.

A blur of movement—a flash of white wings, violet eyes, bare skin, heat radiating off her in thick waves—and then Eunie yanked her inside, slamming the door behind them with a force that echoed down the corridor.

“Why did ya take so long?” Eunie snarled, voice guttural, almost animal. The scent in the room was unbearable—feral, desperate, drowning in territory-marking and need. Mating heat. Reeking of dominance.

Ashera stumbled back, gasping. Her body screamed at her to leave. But it was too late.

Eunie turned, and the moment their eyes met, Ashera felt the bottom drop out of her composure.

She was beautiful—no, terrifying. Her irises had slit into vertical pupils. Her wings twitched, her lips were parted, and her teeth—gods, her fangs—were bared in something between a snarl and a smirk.

Ashera reached for the syringe, trying to stay steady. “Hello, lil bird,” she murmured hoarsely, trying to find her usual charm. “Nice to see you. How’s this rut going?”

Eunie didn’t answer.

Her gaze flicked to Ashera’s face—and widened.

“Red eyes,” she whispered, and then suddenly she was on her.

Faster than she could blink, Ashera was shoved back and down, crashing onto the floor with Eunie straddling her waist. Her breath caught, her head cracked lightly against the carpeted marble, and for one brief second, her Alpha instincts panicked.

Too strong. Too fast. Too much scent.

Eunie leaned close, her lips brushing Ashera’s ear.

“You have red eyes…” she whispered, her voice low and strange, like she was speaking to someone else entirely. Then she ground against her, making Ashera’s body arch involuntarily.

“Fuck—Eunie!” Ashera hissed, trying to shove her off. Her fingers scrabbled at her pocket, reaching for the syringe.

“Why’re ya actin’ like that?” Eunie growled against her throat, her grip tightening around Ashera’s neck. “You were okay with my scent before… weren’tcha?”

Ashera didn’t know what she was talking about. The edges of her vision blurred, her temples throbbed, and blood trickled from one nostril. Her instincts were shouting run or hit but her muscles refused to obey.

Then—

Eunie froze.

Her body trembled, eyes wide, lips twitching. She looked down at Ashera—really looked—and something in her face cracked. Her grip loosened. Then she bit her own lip—hard—until blood spilled over her chin.

Ashera choked, coughing violently, dragging air into her lungs in greedy gulps. Her heart pounded so hard she could barely hear anything else.

Neither of them moved.

Eunie was still straddling her, still radiating that intense heat, her scent thick and slick between their bodies. But she wasn’t attacking anymore. Her fists clenched, her wings trembled.

It's not her.

The room pulsed again. Ashera coughed and wheezed, swaying slightly under the crushing weight of Eunie's pheromones.

“Inject me,” Eunie said, her voice low and deadly. “Now. Or I’ll fuck you ‘til your soul can’t stand the sound of my name.”

There was no humor in her tone. No teasing. Just a desperate warning.

Ashera looked up at her—sweat-drenched, flushed, eyes glassy—and saw it: guilt. Strain. Restraint. Eunie was holding herself back by sheer force of will. That alone was almost more terrifying than her violence.

Still dazed, still breathless, Ashera reached up slowly, hand trembling. “Let me help you, little bird…” she rasped, barely above a whisper.

“You can’t,” Eunie growled. “Just do it.”

And then came another wave. Heavier. More potent. This one hit Ashera like a punch to the gut. Her nose began bleeding again, and this time her vision fully blurred.

That was it.

Something in Ashera snapped—not in panic, but in raw Alpha instinct.

Her body surged forward.

She tackled Eunie backward, pinned her down on instinct, and with her other hand, ripped the syringe from her pocket and jammed it hard into Eunie's neck. Eunie hissed, back arching, as the suppressant entered her bloodstream in one violent pulse.

For a moment, silence.

Then—rage.

Eunie growled and shoved her off with inhuman strength. Ashera’s body hit the floor with a loud thud. She coughed again, clutching her ribs.

Eunie stood above her, chest heaving, jaw clenched, wings shuddering.

“Leave.” Her voice shook with emotion—grief, anger, shame. “Leave, Ashera. Now.”

She turned her head away as if she couldn’t bear to look at her. The flush of arousal still glistened on her thighs. The scent of her heat still clung to the room. But she stayed still.

Ashera sat up slowly, her legs weak beneath her. Her eyes met Eunie's one last time—half in defiance, half in pity.

“Next time, bird,” Ashera muttered with a dry, crooked smile, wiping the blood from her nose. “Don’t summon a storm and cry about the thunder.”

She didn’t look back. Just straightened with effort, turned on her heel, and limped out—leaving the door to slowly hiss shut behind her.

Silence.

Then—

Eunie exhaled shakily and slumped back on the bed, her body trembling as the suppressant began to take effect. The first thing she felt was the weight: her limbs becoming heavier, her heartbeat slowing down, her strength bleeding out of her like ink in water. And with it came the agony.

Not the ache of arousal, not the pull of pheromones—but pain. Deep, searing pain. Like every nerve in her skin was on fire. Like hot knives were carving her from the inside out.

She bit down hard, her fangs pushing past her lips in response to the stress. Blood pooled on her tongue, the metallic taste grounding her—but barely.

Her knees buckled, but she didn’t fall.

Instead, she stood in front of the tall mirror that dominated the far wall of her room, sweat dripping from her temple, her body shaking with the effort of holding herself upright. She stared at her reflection, panting like a caged beast, her violet eyes wide and wild.

No, not just violet.

Her breath caught.

One eye—her left—was glowing red.

Just like the last time.

The last time she snapped. The last time she lost control, locked into a mating she hadn’t chosen, hadn’t understood. When she’d begged Noah to leave—had to, or she would’ve broken him.

He’d said her eye changed then, too.

But now…

Now it wasn’t rage or lust pushing her to the edge.

It was grief.

It was longing.

Something inside her screamed. Not from pain—but from absence. From a yearning so ancient it felt like her bones were remembering something her mind couldn’t grasp.

Her lips trembled as she tilted her head back and let out a guttural growl that cracked her throat.

He’s not here.

Her chest burned with fury. And fear.

“Where the fuck are you?!” she shouted, slamming her fist into the wall beside the mirror. The impact split her knuckles, blood splattering onto the marble and her reflection. “You promised me!”

The room rang with her voice, raw and cracked.

And then, softer—softer than a breath:

“I... I’m sorry…”

The words echoed back at her, spoken not from memory, but from somewhere deeper—like a whisper between lifetimes.

She pressed her bleeding palm to her chest and squeezed her eyes shut. A single tear escaped, running down her cheek and disappearing into the sweat on her jaw.

“Keep your word,” she growled through gritted teeth. “You said you’d find me. So find me.”

Her fists clenched, nails biting into open wounds, the blood running freely now—offering nothing but more silence in return.

But the words she’d heard once long ago still reverberated inside her, echoing like a heartbeat that didn’t belong to her alone:

“I’ll find you. I swear.”

She opened her eyes again, stared at her reflection—feral, flushed, bleeding, trembling, alive.

And broken.

“I’m calling you,” she whispered, voice barely audible. “Wherever you are… whoever you are…”

Then, louder, her voice trembling but firm:

“Come to me.”

Because she didn’t know how or why, but somewhere out there, she had a mate.

And her soul was screaming for him.

***

A guttural growl rolled out from behind the heavy door—low, ragged, almost animal. It didn’t sound like a boy in distress. It sounded like a Volff, cornered and furious. Pacing. Ready to pounce.

“This can’t be happening,” Nimue hissed, her arms crossed tightly across her chest as she stared at the sealed door to Taion’s bedroom. Her expression was stricken with worry, her fingers digging into her arms. “He just went into rut last month! It’s far too soon. His cycle isn’t due again for at least another two months.”

Isurd stood beside her, tension visible in the tight lines of his jaw and the furrow in his brow. His eyes didn’t move from the door, flinching slightly with every thud or muffled snarl that echoed from within. “He’s seventeen,” he said softly, “It’s not unheard of. Hormonal volatility at that age can cause early or spontaneous ruts.”

“Yes, but this… this isn’t normal,” Nimue snapped, a little louder than she intended. Her voice trembled. “He’s never been like this. Never… attacked me.”

That word hung in the air like a warning bell.

He had tried to lunge at her when she first entered the room. Her son, the meticulous, soft-spoken Taion—had bared his fangs and nearly struck her.

Another loud crash from behind the door made both of them jump.

“Did he take his suppressants?” Isurd asked, his voice tight.

“He always does. He’s never missed a dose, not once,” Nimue whispered, shaking her head. “This isn’t just a rut. It feels... wrong.”

Isurd gave her a glance of grim understanding. “It’s too aggressive.”

Nimue nodded slowly. “Like a Dominant Alpha.”

“But Taion’s recessive,” he finished, voice hollow with disbelief. He didn’t say the rest of the thought. Or so we thought.

Suddenly, a hoarse voice rang out from behind the door, raw with desperation:

“Marker!”

Both Isurd and Nimue blinked.

“What?” Nimue whispered, completely caught off guard.

“Fuck! I need a marker!” Taion shouted again, panting heavily between syllables. “Please!”

“Did he just—curse?” Nimue blinked, aghast. “He never curses!”

“I’ll get it.” Isurd hurried down the hall and into his study. Within seconds, he returned with a nearly unused black marker. He crouched down, placed it in front of the door, and knocked twice.

The second the marker touched the floor, the air around them shifted.

Isurd froze, eyes wide. The pheromones pouring out from the narrow crack under the door were thick and sharp—suffocating. Dominant. Predatory.

His Omega instincts recoiled, and he had to take a full step back to stay on his feet.

“Taion,” Isurd called carefully. “Have you taken your suppressants? Or should we call—Sena, maybe, or—”

“NO!” came the guttural response. “Don’t—don’t send her. Don’t send anyone!”

A long, trembling pause.

“They’re not working.”

Nimue’s breath caught.

“What?” Isurd stepped back further, his heart hammering. “You mean…?”

“I took them,” Taion rasped. “I took all of them.”

More panting.

“It’s not enough.”

Nimue’s hand shot to her mouth in horror.

Isurd leaned toward her and whispered urgently, “I’ll go. He may need something stronger. He’s probably developed resistance—maybe triggered by stress, or a deeper underlying—”

He stopped speaking as the door suddenly cracked open.

Both of them held their breath.

Taion appeared in the narrow sliver—shirtless, his hair damp with sweat, chest heaving. His skin glistened and flushed as if he were burning from the inside out. And his eyes—Nimue’s heart skipped a beat.

His left eye was glowing light violet.

Not red. Violet.

Taion stared down at the marker, retrieved it silently, then looked at his parents.

Isurd's breath caught.

That look was not Taion.

And yet—it was him.

For a moment, none of them moved.

Then, without a word, he closed the door again.

Nimue exhaled shakily. “Isurd, did you see that? His eyes—”

“I saw,” he whispered. 

“That’s not… possible,” Nimue murmured, her voice distant with shock.

“I’m not sure what we’re seeing anymore,” Isurd admitted quietly. “Just keep the room sealed. Lock it with Mondo, and don’t let anyone near. I’ll find stronger suppressants.”

He turned and left, boots echoing down the polished hallway.

Inside the sealed room, Taion collapsed against the cold wall, the black marker clenched tightly in his trembling hand. His breathing came in shallow gasps, sweat clinging to his skin as his body quaked under the weight of something far too powerful—far too wrong. The urge inside him was searing now, a fire licking at his nerves, burning through his composure.

This wasn’t just a rut.

This was a calling.

Someone—no, something—was calling to him.

Not with words, but through every cell in his body. His instincts screamed it.

His mate.

But how could that be? He was seventeen. He had never bonded. Never even kissed someone with the thought of permanence. And yet… something primal and ancient within him was clawing to the surface, frantic and frenzied, demanding he move—find them—claim them.

His knuckles whitened around the marker. A deep growl vibrated in his chest and echoed through the sealed room, laced with pain and longing. His pheromones thickened again, curling through the air like smoke, hot and wild. The air shimmered with tension, heavy and sweet, saturated with need.

They’re calling me…
Where are they?

He didn’t know how he knew it. He just… did. The connection wasn’t rational. It pulsed like a second heartbeat inside his chest—an invisible thread tugging gently but persistently, pulling him toward something far beyond the walls of this room, beyond the reaches of Alrest itself.

The madness of it all made his vision blur. He doubled over, pain twisting in his gut. The thought of being touched by anyone else—even imagined—burned through him like acid. He couldn’t bear it. His body rejected the idea as violently as it craved only one thing: them.

And yet he didn’t even know who it was.

Where the fuck are you?!

His heart skipped several beats.

But the thread pulled tighter. More urgently. A whisper brushing along his skin from nowhere and everywhere at once.

You promised me.

His breath caught. His eyes widened.

Memories flickered—half-formed, muddied, slipping through his fingers like smoke. But there it was: a promise. One he had made before. A voice in his head, too familiar to be forgotten, too faint to be remembered.

The marker trembled in his grip as he uncapped it, and without consciously choosing to, his hand began moving.

Lines.

Swirls.

Marks he didn’t recognize, and yet knew intimately.

He traced the symbol across his left arm—slowly, with purpose. Each stroke seemed to pull the veil back slightly, tugging at those lost memories, feeding the ache in his chest.

But it wasn’t complete. Not yet.

Something’s missing.

A color, maybe. A detail he couldn’t grasp.

Still he traced, entranced, the pull growing stronger with every mark.

I-I'm sorry... he breathed into the silence, voice cracking. His fingers trembled as tears filled his eyes, streaming silently down his cheeks. “I...I’m sorry…”

He didn’t know who he was apologizing to. Only that he had to. That he had broken something sacred. A vow. A bond. A truth he no longer remembered.

Keep your word.

You said you'd find me. So find me.

The marker fell from his hand with a soft clatter as the final curve of the symbol darkened. The moment it did, his head snapped up, eyes wide.

A flash.

Like a mirage.

A figure stood before him. Ethereal. Shifting. Too distant to focus, yet undeniably real. Their face was a blur, but the wings—those dark-white wings—were clear. Spanning wide behind them, regal, powerful, unforgettable.

“I’ll find you,” he whispered, a vow carved into the marrow of his bones. “I swear.”

His body was on fire, the pain unbearable, the rut consuming him whole. There was no logic left, no hesitation—just instinct.

Raw, mindless instinct.

His hand fumbled at his waistband, his hips already moving on reflex as he gave into the only release he knew would help, the only image anchoring him to something. Someone. Those wings, that presence, that ghost of a bond not yet fully forged but ancient in its truth.

He moaned—harsh and desperate—as he spilled over the line between agony and relief. His head lolled back, a soft whimper slipping past his lips as he came harder than he ever had before. His body trembled violently, aching and spent.

And as the aftershocks rolled through him, the vision of those wings lingered in his mind like an imprint left on his soul.

He curled in on himself, arms wrapped tightly around his middle.

“I’ll find you,” he whispered again into the dark. “I will. Just… wait for me.”

And in the quiet, something in the air answered—not in words, but in warmth.

The thread was still there.

Waiting.

***

Noah was well-liked.

By boys and girls. By Alphas, Omegas—it didn’t seem to matter. Wherever he went, attention seemed to trail after him like pollen to the breeze, uninvited but constant. He never sought it, never basked in it the way others might. In fact, he often wondered why it even found him in the first place.

That same thought flickered through his mind yet again as he stepped into the classroom and caught sight of the latest offering: a delicate bouquet of wildflowers resting beside a shiny box of chocolates, carefully arranged on his desk like an altar.

“Oh-ho!” Eunie crowed before he even had time to process it, darting past him to snatch up the chocolates. “Snuffin’ jackpot today, huh? These look expensive!”

Noah blinked. Rain still clung to his dark hair, and his school scarf hung limp from his neck. They’d only just come in from the courtyard—he, Eunie, and Lanz—after taking shelter under one of the awnings from the storm brewing outside. But now, even the wet chill in his clothes was forgotten as he stared at the gifts.

Again.

He sighed and crouched beside his desk, gently setting the flowers on the floor like they were something fragile. His fingers lingered on the wrapping ribbon before he straightened up, leaving the box of chocolates to be picked apart by his two Alpha friends.

“I... I just don’t get it,” he said finally, his voice low and tired. “Why me?”

Lanz had already popped the lid of the chocolate box open and was happily munching away, but he paused mid-chew.

“Duh, probably for your face,” he said through a mouthful of caramel.

“My... face?” Noah blinked, baffled.

Eunie, who had taken a seat on his desk, smirked and took a long sniff. “And your scent, love. Prime Omega material. You’ve got some of the smoothest, richest pheromones I’ve ever smelled. Bet half the class is practically vibrating just bein’ in the same room.”

Noah groaned. “Do I have to remind you I’m not some walking meat stand?”

“Sorry, mate.” Lanz chuckled, throwing an arm around him in a half-hug. “Guess it’s not just your face. You’re popular, Noah. Kind, soft-spoken, reliable, annoyingly good with a blade and a flute. Honestly, you’re kinda like a school legend.”

Eunie nodded, still chewing. “Damn right. You’re practically a celebrity. Like a Pippitto with perfect hair. And you always know what to say—especially when people cry.”

“But I don’t want to be a legend,” Noah said, exasperated. “I don’t do anything. I’m just… me. I treat people the way I’d want to be treated. That’s all.”

“Yeah, and that’s exactly why people fall all over ya,” Eunie teased, flicking a chocolate at his shoulder. “Trust me, love, most Alphas and Omegas around here are either drama queens or walking hormones. You’re, like...a soft breeze in a loud room.”

“But why the gifts?” he insisted. “The chocolates, the letters, the perfume-scented envelopes. Every time I open my locker, it’s like Valentine’s Day exploded in there.”

Eunie and Lanz exchanged a look, their shared amusement simmering just beneath the surface. Then they burst out laughing.

Noah flushed. “What?”

“Oh Noah, Noah, sweet summer flower,” Eunie sighed dramatically, draping an arm over his shoulders like a performer about to deliver a soliloquy. “Let your good ol' Eunie explain the mysteries of the bee and the flower—”

“No, no, nope,” Noah cut in, waving her off with both hands, half-laughing despite himself. “Absolutely not. You’re not giving me the birds and bees talk.”

Lanz snorted. “C’mon, featherhead, you can come up with somethin’ better than that metaphor.”

“Better than your empty skull?” Eunie shot back.

“Guys,” Noah interrupted again, rubbing his temples. “Please. I know what this is all about. I’m not an idiot. I just... I don’t feel it.”

That stopped them.

Noah sank onto his seat, resting his elbows on his desk and leaning back. His eyes lifted to the pale ceiling tiles, expression clouded.

“I’ve never dated anyone. I don’t think I’ve wanted to. Not really,” he murmured. “I mean, yeah, sometimes I get... curious. Especially before my heat. But whenever I look around—at everyone who flirts or stares or sends me things—it’s all just grey.”

He paused.

“I don’t see them. It’s like they all blend into the background. The only people I ever really notice—who feel real to me—are you two.”

Lanz shifted awkwardly. Eunie blinked, her teasing tone fading.

“But even then,” Noah murmured, his voice quieter now—confessional, like he hadn’t meant to say it out loud. “Even your shapes aren’t all that bright. You’re clearer than the rest, sure. But I keep waiting for someone to walk through the door and just… shine.”
He paused, eyes drifting toward the grey-tinged window. “And they never do.”

The classroom was suddenly too still.

Lanz leaned back in his chair with a frown. Eunie stopped mid-chew on her chocolate and stared at Noah, brows slightly furrowed. It wasn’t an awkward silence, not really. More like something delicate had been set between them, and none of them quite knew what to do with it.

Then Noah blinked, visibly realizing what he’d just said.

“Oh!” he gasped, straightening up as if to take it back. “Sorry, guys! I-I didn’t mean that how it sounded. I didn’t mean to—”

“It’s alright, man,” Lanz cut in with a casual shrug, though there was something warm behind his eyes. “We get it.”

He turned toward Eunie and added, “That was a metaphor, you spoon.”

“Asshole,” Eunie shot back automatically, rolling her eyes—but her voice was soft, a little amused, a little thoughtful. She got up from Noah’s desk and plopped herself into the chair next to him, folding her arms over the surface and resting her chin on them. “We get it, Noah. I ain’t doin’ much better than ya. Honestly? It’s a snuffin’ mess. Love, bondin’, all of it.”

She cut a glance toward Lanz. “Only this big oaf seems to have any luck.”

Lanz made a face, groaning.

“Is everything okay with Joran?” Noah asked carefully, noting the tension that hadn’t been there before.

“Yeah. Yeah, everything’s fine,” Lanz replied too quickly, flashing a smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes.

Eunie arched a brow. “That so?”

“Yes,” he grunted, crossing his arms. “We’re fine.”

Noah and Eunie shared a look but didn’t push him. Not now.

A few quiet moments passed.

Then Eunie flopped back in her chair with a dramatic sigh. “Snuff me, how come he’s the one in a relationship and we’re just sittin’ here like spare parts?”

She turned toward Noah with a wicked little smirk, her eyes glittering. “Hey, wanna be my boyfriend?”

Noah looked like someone had just tossed a textbook at his head. “Wha—I—I—what?!”

His face went beet red in an instant, ears burning as he flailed for words. “Eunie, I— I don’t—!”

She burst out laughing and slapped his shoulder. “Relax, I’m joking! Snuffin’ hell, Noah. Your face!”

He sputtered, trying to recompose himself, but his blush wasn’t going anywhere.

Eunie leaned in with a teasing glint in her eyes. “Though, I will say—offer still stands for the heats, if you need help. Just say the word, and I’ll keep you company. Y're sweet, Noah. But not really my type.”

Lanz scoffed, grinning. “Good luck finding someone who is.”

“Oh please,” Eunie huffed, tossing a crumpled candy wrapper at him. “Unlike you, I actually have standards.”

“Keep talkin’, princess.”

Noah rolled his eyes as the two of them slid back into familiar bickering, their banter echoing around the classroom just as other students began filtering in. The bell would ring soon. The day would go on.

But Noah wasn’t quite listening anymore.

His gaze drifted to the back of Eunie’s head, to where her snowy-white wings fluttered absentmindedly. Feathered, delicate, expressive. During his last heat, he remembered resting his hand there without even thinking. Not tugging. Just... brushing, tracing.

Eunie had teased him about it afterward—said he was clingy with her wings. But she didn’t seem to mind. Said it felt more like he was searching for something than actually enjoying it.

He hadn’t argued.

Maybe it was a sign. Maybe he did have a thing for Entia. That was the theory he and Lanz had floated more than once.

But it wasn’t just the wings. That much he knew.

It was something else. Something under the skin.

He turned his gaze toward the window again. His own reflection stared back faintly in the rain-streaked glass. And then, as if his mind had reached into some half-formed place of longing and imagination, he pictured another version of himself—same dark eyes, same face—but standing next to someone... different.

Someone with animal ears.

A flicker of fur. Tall, tapered shapes. Not wings. Something wild and soft and foreign.

The image struck him with an almost electric clarity.

He blinked.

Where had that come from?

He stared harder, but the reflection was just his again.

Still, the thought wouldn’t leave him.
Not wings. Not feathers.
Ears.
That felt... right.

Somewhere, deep in his chest, something twitched—
Something that had nothing to do with the chocolates or the attention or even the friends who sat beside him.

Something that whispered,
You haven’t found them yet.
But they’re out there.

***

Lanz knew it was only a matter of time before this happened.
He’d always known.

No matter how much he tried to pretend otherwise—how many times he convinced himself they were just fine, just in sync, just figuring it out—he’d known deep down that this moment was inevitable.

And still, nothing could’ve prepared him for how it would feel.

Joran lay naked beneath him, flushed and trembling, slick with sweat and heat, his scent saturating the room until it choked every thought out of Lanz’s head. His pheromones were wild—needy, sweet, desperate. They crashed into Lanz like waves, dragging him under.

And yet, Joran’s eyes were the worst part.

Those pleading, teary eyes.

“Please, Lanz,” Joran whispered, his voice broken and raw. “I want it.”

Lanz groaned, his body responding instinctively even as his heart twisted inside his chest. He leaned in, pressing a kiss to the nape of Joran’s neck, breathing in deeply—but it didn’t soothe him. It only made the ache worse.

“Joran…” he growled, trying to hold back, trying to summon some restraint. “We’ve already—”

But another burst of pheromones hit him and his body answered before his mind could catch up. His hips moved on their own, and Joran moaned softly beneath him, arching into the motion.

“Y’re not thinkin’ clearly,” Lanz hissed, though the words were hollow now. He was inside him again, rutting slow and deep because he couldn’t walk away. “We’re only eighteen…”

A weak, pathetic excuse. They both knew it.

The truth was simple.

He wasn’t going to mark Joran.

Not now.
Not ever.

And still… he stayed.

Joran cried out, climaxing again as his body convulsed around Lanz, a sob escaping with the release. Lanz gritted his teeth, praying that this time it would be enough, that maybe it would soothe the hurt he hadn’t yet put into words.

But then—quietly, like something breaking—Joran asked:

“Why are you still with me?”

Lanz froze.

Joran turned his tear-streaked face toward him, searching his eyes. “You never knot me. You don’t want to bond. You don’t want to mark me.” His voice cracked. “So why are you even here, Lanz? Why are you doing this to me?”

Lanz opened his mouth. Closed it again.
He had no answer. None that wouldn’t hurt him.

Because I care about you.
Because I want to protect you.
Because I’m afraid someone worse will take my place.

Because I’m selfish.

Joran’s eyes were still locked on him, expecting something. Anything.

“I do care ‘bout ya,” Lanz murmured at last, pressing a kiss to his cheek. “You gotta believe me, Joran. I care so much.”
“But I can’t mark you. Not yet.”

“When, then?” Joran’s voice broke apart, a sob catching in his throat. “When I stop hoping? When I’ve finally given up?”

His tears were silent now, soaking into the pillow as he trembled beneath Lanz, heartbreak flooding the air like acid.

Lanz hated himself for it.
For doing this. For not doing what Joran wanted.
For not loving him the way he needed to be loved.

If he were a better person, he’d have walked away before it ever got this far.

“Please leave,” Joran whispered, voice low, defeated.

Lanz’s breath caught in his throat. “I can’t. Your heat—”

“I don’t care!” Joran snapped, his voice rising into something between a scream and a sob. “I don’t care about my heat! I want to be alone!”

“But—”

“Get out!”

Lanz opened his eyes again, heart pounding with conflict. “I can’t. You’re in heat. It’s dangerous—your body—”

“I don’t care!” Joran yelled, his face wet with tears. “I don’t care if it hurts! I’d rather be in pain than have you lie to me again!”

Lanz swallowed hard.

Another part of him—his Alpha instincts—was screaming at him to stay. To finish what they started. To protect.

But the boy under him didn’t need an Alpha.
He needed truth.
And maybe a little dignity.

With a strangled breath, Lanz pulled away. He ignored the way Joran flinched when he moved, the faint sob he stifled against the pillow. He grabbed his boxers off the floor and slipped them on, trying to calm the raging need still burning in his blood.

He stood there a moment, staring at the boy who had once made him smile so easily. The one he used to race through the corridors with, the one who used to fall asleep on his shoulder during study sessions.

Now all he could do was watch him cry.

“I’m sorry,” Lanz whispered.

He meant it. Even if it wasn’t enough.

Then Lanz turned and walked out, closing the door behind him with shaking hands.

Behind that door, Joran curled in on himself, his naked body trembling, heat tearing through him like fire under the skin. But even that unbearable sting—those sharp, invisible claws that raked down his spine and made his nerves scream—was nothing compared to the hollow ache in his chest.

He had given Lanz everything.
His body.
His trust.
His heart.

And it still hadn’t been enough.

The evening air outside Colony 9 was cool, crisp against Lanz’s sweat-dampened skin as he walked the familiar paths in silence. His footsteps echoed dully, almost out of rhythm with the turmoil churning inside him. With every step, his arousal faded, but in its place came a storm of thoughts he couldn’t quiet.

He did like Joran. Of course he did. He always had. Joran had been there for him, always looking at him like he was something good, something worth holding onto. And maybe that was why Lanz had stuck around—because he’d been afraid that if he let go, no one else would protect Joran the way he needed to be protected.

And yet…
Every time he let himself imagine a life with Joran—bonded, marked, mated—something inside him rebelled. His stomach would twist, his chest would tighten, and more than once, he’d accidentally released a surge of hostile pheromones that made even Eunie raise an eyebrow.

And worse than that…
There was always that haunting feeling.
That someone was missing.
That someone else—the one—was still out there.

But who?

If not Joran... then who the hell was he waiting for?

Lanz exhaled sharply and glanced up at the horizon. The last rays of sunlight painted the sky in gold and blush, the clouds catching fire as day gave way to dusk. He lifted his arm, letting the warm light stretch across his skin, and for just a moment, he closed his eyes.

It was that warmth again.

The one he dreamed about. The one he felt in fleeting moments that never lasted long enough to name. Something like fire—but soft. Comforting. A warmth that fit between his fingers like a hand meant to be held. Not burning. Just right.

He groaned softly and ran a hand through his hair, frustration bubbling just under the surface.

Maybe Noah was right. Everyone around him felt dim, like watching people through thick glass. He could see them, hear them, care for them—but none of them glowed. Not really. Not in the way he wanted someone to glow.

Not even Joran.

He let out a bitter laugh. Well. At least now Noah and Eunie wouldn’t have to tease him about being the only one in a relationship. That was clearly over. And honestly? Maybe it was for the best.

He knew what came next.
“The talk.”
The moment where Joran would ask him, gently and tearfully, if they had a future.
And he’d finally have to tell him the truth.
That they didn’t.

Because Joran deserved more than comfort. More than routine.
He deserved someone whose heart beat faster just from being near him.

Lanz looked down at his left wrist. The odd, jagged birthmark there—charcoal-colored against grey and violet skin—had always fascinated him. But even stranger was the fact that both Noah and Eunie had the same one in the exact same spot.

They joked about it sometimes. That they were all soul-bound in another life. Some weird trio of star-crossed weirdos. But Lanz could never shake the feeling that something about his mark was… incomplete. Like a puzzle piece waiting for its missing edge.

He flexed his fingers and frowned.

There had to be more to this than coincidence.

Shaking his head to clear the creeping weight of those thoughts, Lanz reached into his IRIS and fired off two quick messages. One to Eunie. One to Noah.
Lanz: Wanna hit the gym? Need to punch stuff. Or cry. Both maybe. Bring protein snacks.

He didn’t expect a fast reply. But it helped to send it.

The wind picked up as he walked, carrying the scent of the incoming night—cool metal, fresh rain on stone, and pollen from the hilltops above the colony. He slowed as the sky turned deep violet and indigo, watching the final threads of sunlight fade behind the mountains.

And then, out of nowhere, a strange memory hit him.

Hair.

Lavender fading into midnight blue.

He blinked hard. The image was gone as fast as it came. Like a dream you forget the moment you open your eyes.

But the feeling remained.

He had seen that color before.
He had known it.
Someone had hair that shade. And they had meant something to him.

But who?

***

“Mio!” Sena gasped, wide-eyed, the moment she and Taion stepped into the royal suite.

The room itself was massive—more like a lavish apartment than a simple bedroom, filled with light from high arched windows and ornate touches that screamed royalty without ever feeling cold. But it wasn’t the grand decor that caught their attention.

It was Mio.

Or rather, Mio’s hair.

“H-hi,” Mio stammered, cheeks flushed as she met their stunned expressions. She stood near the center of the room, hands wringing the edge of her shirt. “What do you think, guys?”

Taion adjusted his glasses, taking in the drastic shift with his usual composed frown. “…It’s definitely a big change.”

“Yeah!” Sena chimed in, already bounding forward to touch the tips of Mio’s newly dyed ears with gentle fingers. “But you’re still Mimi! Still beautiful.”

“You mean that?” Mio asked softly, walking toward the tall mirror by her wardrobe. She stared at her reflection like it belonged to someone else. “I… don’t know. I feel weird.”

The once silver hair—soft and luminous—was now a deep black, with streaks of blue peeking through when the light hit it just right. Her feline ears matched. She reached up and ran her fingers along the strands. The color hadn’t taken evenly; the underlying silver made the blue shift toward a brownish tone.

Taion finally sat down at the table, slowly opening a textbook. “My opinion likely holds little weight,” he said, eyes flicking back toward her. “But for what it’s worth, you always look… quite nice. That hasn’t changed.”

Sena grinned at him. “He means you’re stunning, Mimi. He’s just too awkward to say it directly.”

Mio smiled, but it faltered quickly. “Glimmer and Cassiopeia won’t stop teasing me about it. I don’t even know why I did it anymore. I just—” She sighed, flopping down next to Sena, her arms folded on the table. “Maybe I thought it’d make me feel new. Different.”

“Or maybe it’s something deeper,” Taion murmured, almost to himself. His gaze drifted down to his left hand, still faintly marked by the lines he had drawn during that strange, restless rut night weeks ago. The marker was long gone, but the memory wasn’t.

Mio turned to glance at him, noticing how he tugged at the sleeve of his jumper to hide the hand. “You okay, Tai?”

He nodded slowly. “Sometimes… when we make changes without knowing why, it’s because something inside us is searching. For meaning. Or for someone.”

There was a pause.

Then Mio chuckled dryly. “Deep thoughts for a dye job.”

Taion gave a light shrug.

“I don’t even remember why I picked black with blue shadows,” Mio continued, pulling a strand forward and letting it shimmer in the sunlight. “I said it felt right… but I can’t think of anyone who even looks like this.”

“Maybe my mum?” Sena offered. “Mórag’s hair is super dark, but… it’s not blue-tinted.”

“Duke Zeke, maybe?” Taion added, though his tone was uncertain.

“No, Zeke’s is more grey,” Sena said, then giggled. “But yours is kind of close, Tai.” Without warning, she reached over and ran her fingers through his dark brown locks.

“Sena,” Taion protested, going stiff—but not moving away.

“They’re really soft,” she teased.

“They’re brown,” he insisted, trying not to let his cheeks color. “Not black. And my shadows are reddish, not blue.”

“Dark brown still counts!” Sena chirped, messing it up more while Taion rolled his eyes but didn’t stop her. Mio watched them with a small, wistful smile tugging at her lips.

The room fell into a momentary hush again, the type that happened between friends when thoughts turned inward. Mio leaned back in her chair and looked out the window. In the far distance, just visible with the naked eye, was the shimmer of another world—hovering like a mirage across the sky.

Two worlds, slowly drifting toward each other.

Eventually meant to merge.

She blinked. For just a second, she imagined a shadowed figure with long dark hair and eyes like twin oceans looking back at her. The image vanished before she could even hold it.

“No,” Mio murmured, her voice distant, her gaze fixed on nothing in particular. “They’re darker than that. Almost like ink under moonlight. And straight—not wavy like Taion's. Tied back in a ponytail.”

Taion and Sena shared another glance, this one heavier, more questioning.

“Were you… thinking of someone specific?” Taion asked gently, pushing his glasses up the bridge of his nose. There was a trace of hesitation in his voice, like he wasn’t sure if he wanted her to say yes. Maybe because he, too, had questions he was too afraid to ask.

“I…” Mio’s ears drooped slightly. “I don’t know.” She sighed, resting her chin in her hand as her black-dyed hair fell around her face. “Maybe I just made him up. A dream or something.”

The silence that followed wasn’t uncomfortable—it was reflective. The kind of silence that felt like sitting at the edge of a long-forgotten memory, just out of reach.