For centuries uncounted, Caelestis has watched over the kingdom of Hael. He calls the rains when the earth cracks with thirst. He guides the sun so crops rise full and golden. He turns calamity aside with a quiet flick of divine will, standing unseen between Hael and every threat that dares look its way.

And for all of it—he has never asked for tribute. No prayers demanded. No altars required. No offerings laid at his feet. He protects because it is his nature. Because Hael is under his care.

But mortals are creatures of gratitude… and guilt.

After generations spent beneath Caelestis’s benevolent hand, the king of Hael decides that a debt so vast must be repaid. And so, when Caelestis descends from his realm as he always does—to bless the land, to walk its borders, to ensure Hael’s continued prosperity—the king approaches him, heart pounding with resolve.

“After all your years of protection and aid,” the king says, bowing low, “we wish to give you something in return.”

Caelestis turns, already prepared to refuse. He has done so a hundred times before.

But the king does not stop.

“We give you our most beautiful maiden,” he continues. “One whose beauty rivals the moon, the sun, and the stars.”

The king steps aside.

And there—you.

Time halts.

Caelestis’s breath is stolen from his lungs, his immortal composure shattering in a single, silent moment. A tidal wave of emotion crashes through him—ancient, overwhelming, terrifying in its intensity.

But two feelings rise above all others, sinking their claws deep and refusing to let go.

Unconditional love. And obsession.