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“ X ander?”

A soft knock on the door made Cyprian startle in his bed. He opened his eyes and darted his gaze around, confused for a moment, before he remembered. Right. He was in Helion, in his new bedroom, in the bed he had crashed into when he arrived last night. After that disastrous meeting with Moargan.

The thought made him groan.

“Are you awake?’

“Yeah.” Cyprian pressed his face in his hands, forcing his body to wake up. “What time is it?” His gaze landed on his wrist, only to catch sight of the stupid ring. As he inspected the silver banner for any other messages, he heard Archer’s muffled response. “It’s nearly eleven. I’ve got you some breakfast. I’m meeting up with friends later. Want to join? I can show you around.”

“Sure. Just give me five, I’ll be right there.”

The small room he rented had an even smaller bathroom that consisted of a shower, toilet, tiny sink, and a medicine cabinet. It didn’t take Cyprian much to get ready, thankful for the simple wardrobe that he packed. He took a deep breath and stepped out of his bedroom, locking it before joining Archer in the kitchen. His eyes were burning from fatigue. “Hey.”

His roommate was messing around with some pots and pans and turned to Cyprian, a timid smile on his oval face. His hair, a deep indigo, was tied back in a messy bun at his nape. His eyes, surprisingly that same shade of blue, were large and friendly. The anti-eyebrow piercing that adorned his cheekbone glimmered from the sun that came through the kitchen window.

“How are you feeling?” Archer gestured to a plate. “I made us some tiganos, a Helion breakfast treat, to welcome you to our planet. Would you like some?”

“I, uhm, sure.” Feeling awkward, Cyprian circled a finger around a raven strand before tucking it back behind his ear and sitting down on one of the stools. A brown cat sat on the windowsill, sweeping an unimpressed glare through the spacious kitchen. “What’s his name?”

“Helianth,” Archer blushed.

“That’s a nice name.” Cyprian eyed the cat. His baby sister Nikkie had always wanted one, but his oldest brother Ichor, the biggest asshole in the world, had promised to drown every pet that came into their house. He didn’t miss him.

“Yes, it is.” Archer placed a steaming plate in front of him. “You don’t have to eat all of them. I always make too many.”

The tiganos looked like thick wraps, filled with honey, nuts and something else that was made of a brown substance. Cyprian carefully pushed his fork in it.

“It’s fig jam. I hope you have a sweet tooth. Helions love sweet things.”

And…there went Cyprian’s thoughts. Back to last night, when he’d fled from the Imperial Prince. No one had said anything, not even Bekn, but he had felt their gazes. They had kn own. By the time the spaceship had landed on Helion, Cyprian had been exhausted. He had fallen asleep in the taxi and woken briefly to swipe his multi-slate to pay for the ride. Archer hadn’t been home, but multiple welcome notes guided him through the two-bedroom apartment.

Which had been perfect. The moment Cyprian’s head had touched the pillow, he had passed out. For twelve hours apparently.

Swallowing his first bite, he nodded at Archer. “It’s really good.” His roommate beamed and started filling up mugs with coffee. After he had joined him, they just sat there, eating, enjoying the silence. Quieter than his home in Tulrini, where there was always something going on with six foster kids. But there was also a soothing rustle that filled that quietness here. “What’s that sound?”

“Trees,” Archer said and gestured to the window, where Helianth still sat, half asleep. “Helion has a reputation to uphold. We are the greenest planet in the Crystal Sea.”

Cyprian pushed his empty plate to the side, and with his mug in hand, he walked toward the open window. The sky was blue, but as far as his eyes reached, he saw trees. He was raised in a jester, an enclosed village, protected from the outside world with barriers and security. This was unlike anything he had ever seen before.

“Umbral Park.”

Cyprian turned over his shoulder. Archer smiled, pointing toward the green view. “It leads up to the campus. During the day, it’s a great shortcut, but I advise you to take the bus when you finish after five in the afternoon.”

“The bus?” He looked at the traffic below. He’d never taken a bus before.

“The Academy has free public transport for students. There’s one that stops just down there.” Archer got him and joined him by the window. He pointed across the street. “In fact, let’s take one now, so you know how it works. Unless you want to walk through the park to campus?”

“To campus?”

Archer grinned. “I thought I’d give you a tour before classes start. Help you settle in. Unless you prefer going alone?”

“No.” Cyprian swallowed. Archer’s words made his chest tighten. He had never had someone looking out for him. Back home, he was one of the eldest, and he’d protected his younger brothers and sisters from the wrath of their oldest brother and their parents. “The bus is fine. Thank you.”

“Alright then. I’ll go and put on my shoes.”

The apartment was situated in a quiet neighbourhood, far enough from the student hustle, the main reason why Cyprian had chosen the place. The ride to the Academy was short, and the facility was easy to use. During one of their messages, Archer had explained that he had inherited the condo from his grandparents and needed a roommate to cover costs. With his savings, Cyprian would be able to cover the first six months without needing to have a job. He had told Archer the same story as he’d told Bekn, the excellent reputation of the Helion art facility being the reason why he wanted to change planets. And the deal was sealed.

“Welcome to Helion Academy,” his new roommate announced when they hopped out of the bus. He pointed toward a large arcade that stood at the entrance of a large complex made of multiple buildings in different shapes and sizes. “First building on your right is the sports centre. A busy place early in the morning and right after classes, from four to seven at night. Should you want to stay until that time—” He threw a thumb over his shoulder.

“I take the bus back.”

“You’re a fast learner!” Archer smiled, then gestured for them to move ahead and pass the barriers where they were stopped by two guards.

Cyprian’s heart sped up. Seeing Archer hold up his multi-slate to be scanned scared the shit out of him. What if the software hadn’t activated in time, and he was still Cyprian Creighton instead of Xander Devers?

“This is daily control,” Archer explained. “Nothing to worry about.” He must have felt Cyprian’s unease.

Following Archer’s example, Cyprian held up his index finger, forcing a small smile as he nodded a greeting at the security officer. With a dismissive wave, they were cleared. Cyprian’s relief was palpable.

“Okay, that building over there is the canteen. If you don’t like local food, several restaurants on campus serve different specialities.” He pointed at a large, white building. “That’s the science department. If you need me, that’s where I am most of the time.” He smiled. “Although…you’re going to study art, right? I’m doing a minor in art. Perhaps we will have some classes together. Let me show you where you’ll be.”

They followed a path toward the other side of campus when Archer’s ring started vibrating. The silver seemed to swirl on his finger, lighting it up. “My friends.” He gave Cyprian a sheepish look. “They’re already waiting for us in the canteen. Do you mind if we visit the art department after coffee? We can go home through the park after that. It’s right behind your building.”

The canteen was spacious, with countless tables and chairs. Empty, for the most part, since classes hadn’t officially started yet. The introductions were awkward, the names easily forgotten. There were two girls and a guy who seemed to be a close friend with Archer. He introduced himself as Enzo.

After listening to the group's small talk about class schedules, one of the girls turned. “What about you?”

Cyprian startled. “What about me?”

Her smile widened. “You weren’t listening, were you? I was asking if you intend to enroll in any of the side activities the Academy offers. They can get you extra points.”

“I haven’t thought of it,” he replied truthfully.

“Of course you haven’t. You’ve only just arrived.” Archer smiled his way. “But, if you’re interested, they have science of art classes that might be up your alley.”

“Or you can come join the Luminary,” Enzo wiggled his brows.

“Luminary?”

“Enzo…” Archer warned.

Enzo shrugged. “Why not? That will give plenty of extra points. Not to mention a better house rating for my family.” He turned Cyprian’s way. “The Luminary operate as security for the Imperials.”

Cyprian felt his cheeks heat. “I see.” He forced a smile. “Thanks, but I think I’ll go for those science of art classes.”

“Or you can try kuda. It’s a Helion sport.” One of the girls said.

Enzo shivered. “Kuda is for girls. Whatever you do, don’t let yourself be talked into that.”

“That’s not true, we also have guys attending. Okay, one.”

The sound of their laughter faded when the light suddenly changed in the canteen. It was as if there was a blip in their surroundings, and Cyprian blinked in surprise. He wanted to ask if the others had felt it, too. Then, one of the girls abruptly stood.

“It was lovely meeting you, Xander, but we have to go.” She pulled on her friend’s arm. “Come on.”

“Shall we go and check out your building, Xander?” Archer’s smile felt forced. “Perhaps check out the park you found so fascinating? Today, it's perfect weather.”

“They’re coming our way,” someone muttered.

Enzo straightened his shoulders and looked up. “Vandor, hi. Can I help you with something?”

Two students appeared, dressed in black pants and a tank top. On their chest, they wore a golden broach.

“It appears so,” one of them said. With a single circle of his finger, everybody got out of their chairs.

“Let’s go.”

But before Cyprian could follow his new roommate, a warm hand pressed onto his shoulder, putting him back in his seat.

“Not you.”

“Everyone else, out,” Vandor sneered.

With one final apologetic look, Archer left with his friends, leaving Cyprian alone with these strangers. Except for one.

Moargan Zephyranth went around the table and plopped into the seat right across from him. He was no longer wearing the white cloak. Today, he wore a pair of tight, black, leather pants. His black shirt left a few buttons open, revealing a smooth, sculpted chest. His blond hair was trimmed on the sides, showing off his pierced ears, leaving plenty of muss strands on the top. “Hello again, Xander Devers.”

Cyprian stared at him, frozen. His mind rattled. Had security flagged his presence? Had Captain Delaine leaked the missing person’s file?

Moargan let out a tssk. “Manners, manners.” Some of the other guys snickered. “You clearly lacked a firm hand raising you.’ His mouth twitched despite the sharp words. They stung Cyprian, just like the truth did. He couldn’t have been further from the truth. “Perhaps you need a good?—”

“That’s none of your business,” Cyprian snapped before the Imperial could continue. He instantly clamped his mouth shut, his stomach filling with dread.

Moargan cocked his head, taking him in. “You see, that’s where you’re wrong. Everything that happens here is my business. You are my business.”

Those words hit their target.

“Nothing to say to that? Come on, give me something. Call me curious, but a handsome guy like you, joining our academy? You got any siblings? What’s the weather like in Tulniri? I bet you don’t get a lot of sunshine over there, do you? You’re all pale and…” Moargan smirked when he let those amethyst eyes crawl over Cyprian’s face, taking in every single detail.

When Cyprian still didn’t answer, Moargan leaned in and placed his hands on the table, making the jewelry around his wrist clank, his gaze still intent on Cyprian’s face. “Did you leave a girlfriend back home? A boyfriend?” He hummed softly into the silence, his predatory grin widening. “Do tell me. You left a boyfriend ?”

Cyprian felt his heartbeat pick up. He knew the Imperial could feel it, but he couldn’t stop it.

“You felt so needy in my arms,” Moargan whispered. “As if you were famished.”

Cyprian shook his head. His skin felt hot with embarrassment at the memory. At least his roommate had left and didn’t have to hear this.

“I know. You have a lover here on Helion. That’s why you changed planets.”

“No—sir,” Cyprian muttered. More snickers from around them followed.

“Silence!” Moargan barked. He slid closer, skidding those jewelled hands further onto the table. “Then why did you come here?” He whispered.

Cyprian swallowed. His mind was blank, his earlier bravado gone. He’d never been a good talker, and emotions always got the better of him. He was torn between telling the Imperial to back off, telling him why he had left, or simply running away. “I did lots of research, and Helion’s Art Academy has the best reputation.”

Moargan hummed at that, still eyeing him carefully. “It’s expensive to travel off-planet.”

Cyprian shrugged. “I saved up. I’ve known for a long time that I wanted to come to Helion. Now that I am here, I promise you won’t even notice I’m here.”

“Oh, but you’re too late for that.” Moargan’s lips widened, exposing those sharp canines. “Is that why your heart is pounding so fast, little aeon ? Thump. Thump. You sound…afraid.”

Cyprian clenched his fists under the table. “I’m just a little nervous. Who wouldn’t be talking to an Imperial Prince?”

Moargan’s purple eyes flashed with delight. “Afraid and a bad liar. A golden combination. Yes, I’ll be seeing a lot more of you. I did offer you another game, didn’t I? Maybe I should take it upon myself to show you around campus?”

Cyprian got out of his chair, feeling stiff and anxious. “I don’t play games. And my roommate has already volunteered to give me a tour. If there’s nothing else to discuss, I’d like to continue my day. I can assure you, I’ll stay out of the way.”

“And miss out on the possibility of a repeat of last night?” Moargan’s eyes turned to slits when Cyprian didn’t answer. “Don’t tell me you already forgot what happened?”

“I’d rather not discuss those details again.” The burning desire Moargan’s touch had left was too confusing.

“Don’t give me that.” Moargan snorted and got out of his seat. He was tall and imposing, with well-defined shoulders that led to a tapered waist. “Your body was burning for my touch, your heartbeat begging me for release.”

Ignoring the Imperial’s taunts, Cyprian started collecting his things. Awareness crawled through his chest, making it tighten. Why did his body react that way? He’d never been with anyone before, but still…why did it have to be him of all people?

The Imperial sensed his trepidation. “Maybe I should invite you to participate in the next Aureate . Are you good with your fists, Xander?”

Cyprian froze. “I’m sorry? ”

“Your fists?” Moargan pointed at his hands, giving him his brilliant smile. “Or do you prefer knives?”

“I’m afraid I’m not sure what you mean…sir.”

Moargan cocked his head, and a lazy grin curved his lips. "Oh, you don’t? Don't tell me that your research about my planet didn't give you any information on our famous Aureates?"

Cyprian felt his mind fog, and he tightened his hold on the bag. “I—I checked universities, that’s all. I wanted to come here to study. I didn’t mean to—” He paused, not wanting to finish that phrase.

I didn’t mean to get caught in your web.

The Imperial cocked an eyebrow. “And shy as well? This day just can’t get any better.”

“I’m not shy,” he bristled, though he felt his cheeks flush. “You are putting words into my mouth.”

“Oh, am I now?” Moargan huffed out a laugh. “What else? Come on, spill it.”

“You’re obnoxious and loud, and way too arrogant, big brother.” Cyprian jumped when another blond man with amethyst eyes glided toward their table, a sheepish smile on his face. Cocking his head, he swept his gaze between the two of them. “Who have we got here?” He held Cyprian’s yellow stare.

“No one,” Cyprian muttered. “And I’m not really here either.” He groaned inwardly. What a stupid thing to say.

“Oh, Xander is quite someone indeed,” Moargan countered. “He has gone out of his way to study on Helion but is not familiar with our celebrations.”

Cyprian felt his blush deepen when Moargan winked at him.

The stranger raised his eyebrows before barking out his amusement. “And then they say I’m the funny one. What’s your name? I’m Helianth.” Cyprian thought of the bored cat in Archer’s apartment. “How do you know my brother?”

“I don’t. There was a slight misunderstanding, but it’s been cleared up. If you’ll excuse me.” He bowed to Moargan. Both brothers laughed at that.

“Not a misunderstanding,” Moargan grinned. “Actually, little brother, I didn’t realize just how much fun our new student here would be. Don’t worry, little aeon , we’ll meet again soon. I promise.”