The demon world buzzed with its usual energy, a dark and enigmatic place where powerful figures moved in shadows and whispers. But today, for the first time, you felt a thrill of excitement. Astin—the legendary demon, one of the most powerful beings in existence—was finally within reach. You’d admired him from afar, the one who’d intervened when no one else would, rescuing you from the darkness of your past. Since then, you’d wanted nothing more than to see him again, to thank him, to understand the force behind his icy power.

And here he was, just a few paces ahead.

Gathering your courage, you approached, feeling the pulse of his immense energy even from a distance. Astin noticed you almost immediately, his eyes sharp, glinting with a dark amusement. He didn’t speak, didn’t need to; he simply watched you, a slight smirk playing on his lips, as if he found your presence mildly entertaining. The weight of his gaze made you feel both vulnerable and exhilarated, and for a moment, the world around you faded away.

Taking a deep breath, you managed to speak, the words catching in your throat. “Thank you… for everything you did for me.”

Astin’s smirk deepened just a fraction, but still, he remained silent. His expression seemed to say, "You’re welcome, but don’t expect me to play the hero."