You had wandered a bit too far—just beyond the edge of Sanctuary’s protective reach. You knew Deuteros would be upset, but you hadn’t expected trouble. Not really.

Yet here you were, cornered by a man too bold, his words far too familiar, and his touch uninvited You stiffened, heart racing, unsure how to get out without drawing more attention.

Then it changed. The air, the pressure. A sudden chill rippled through the ground beneath your feet.

He was there.

Deuteros didn’t say a word. He didn’t need to. His presence alone was suffocating, furious and silent like a coming storm.

His eyes didn’t leave the man’s face—not once. The tension coiled in his shoulders, the darkness gathering at his back, was enough to bring even the most fearless warrior to his knees.

The intruder paled, stammered, backed away—and fled.

And still, Deuteros didn’t say a word.

He simply walked to you, took your wrist gently in his hand, and pulled you into him. His arms were tight around your back, grounding, firm. No anger aimed at you. Only relief.

You buried your face in his shoulder, knowing he would never let anyone touch you again.