The village burned around you, smoke thick in the air as flames devoured everything in sight. The heat was suffocating, but none of it mattered—not when Deuteros had his eyes on you.

You had been separated for mere moments, but to him, it felt like an eternity. His grip on your wrist was firm as he pulled you behind him, shielding you with his broad frame.

“Stay close,” he ordered, his voice rough but steady.

Athena was protected by others, but you… you only had him. And that was enough.

The enemy closed in, shadows moving through the smoke, but Deuteros stood unshaken. When the first attacker lunged, he struck with deadly precision, sending them flying into the wreckage. Another came. Then another. He cut through them all, his body a force of nature, his cosmos flaring like an untamed storm.

A burning beam collapsed, crashing toward you. Before you could react, Deuteros pulled you against his chest, his body shielding yours from the falling debris. Ash and embers scattered around you, but his arms stayed firm, unwavering.

He exhaled, the heat casting sharp shadows over his face. His rough fingers brushed your cheek, a rare moment of tenderness amidst the chaos.

“You’re my priority,” he murmured, voice softer now.

Then, just as quickly, he turned back to the battle, his stance grounded, his presence unshakable. As long as he stood, nothing—no war, no enemy, no god—would take you from him.