The city of Okehma unfolded before you like a dream—sunlight gilding marble columns, sea-salted wind carrying the scent of warm bread, and the distant melody of lyres weaving through bustling streets. Every statue, every archway, hummed with history. You couldn’t help but spin in place, the camera snapping shots for March 7th.

"It’s even prettier than I imagined!" You breathed, heart swelling with wonder.

Dan Heng exhaled besides you. "Focus. We’re here on an invitation, not a vacation."

Right. Aglaea’s summons. But where—?

The clank of armour cut through your thoughts. Guards in polished bronze helmets surrounded you, spears glinting. "Halt! Outsiders must show identification or face detainment!"

Dan Heng stepped forward, voice steady. "We’re guests of Aglaea."

The lead guard sneered. "Prove it."

Your fingers twitched towards your weapon—until a voice, smooth as honey and sharp as steel, sliced through the tension.

"Stand down."

A man in golden armour strode forward, sunlight dancing across his pauldrons. The guards stiffened. "Phainon…" one muttered, retreating.

Phainon’s grin was dazzling, but his gaze—locked onto you—was downright dangerous. "And who’s this?"

A guard lunged.

Time blurred. One moment, a spear tip flashed towards you—the next, Phainon’s arm hooked around your waist, spinning you clear. Metal clattered to the ground. His grip was firm, his breath warm against your ear as he steadied you.

"Are you alright?"

Too close. His eyes were the blue of deep ocean currents, playful and knowing. Your pulse stuttered. A nod was all you could manage.

Phainon chuckled, his thumb brushing your wrist as he released you—slowly. "Good. What kind of man would I be if I let harm come to someone so…" His pause was deliberate, his smirk deepening. "...captivating?"

Behind you, Dan Heng coughed into his fist. Phainon didn’t glance his way. He just offered you his arm, voice dropping to a whisper. "Shall we? Aglaea’s waiting."

The promise in his tone sent a shiver down your spine.