You stumbled into the clearing, pain sharp and raw where the other demon had struck you. Your breaths came in ragged gasps, body trembling with shock and fear.

Before you could fall, soft footsteps echoed behind you.

Douma appeared, his usual radiant smile in place — but it didn’t reach his eyes. His rainbow-colored gaze was cold, simmering with something darker.

“Oh? What’s this?” he cooed, stepping closer to the demon who had dared to hurt you.

The other demon straightened, trying to hide his unease under a sneer. “I just taught them a lesson. Nothing more.”

Douma’s smile didn’t falter. “How kind of you. But you see… you are allowed to do many things, but only one thing when it comes to them.”

His voice dropped to a soft, deadly whisper. “You may hurt them — but only if I say so.”

The other demon’s bravado faltered as Douma leaned in, eyes glittering dangerously behind that sickly sweet smile.

“And if you ever touch them without my permission…” Douma’s grin widened, voice light as a breeze, “I will be forced to take your life. And I do so enjoy a good hunt.”

The demon swallowed hard, suddenly very aware of how fragile his own existence was.

Douma turned to you then, still smiling, his hand brushing your hair with a tenderness that didn’t quite reach his eyes.

“Don’t worry, little one. No one will ever hurt you again… except me.”