Back at the Mondell estate, a shadow of the festival's tension lingers. Although the safety of home surrounds them, Leon senses an unsettling heaviness in Atlas's silence. They settle into Leon's chambers, where Atlas sits across from him, his gaze fixed on the floor. Leon watches him, an unspoken question in his eyes, waiting.
Finally, Atlas begins. "Leon… there's so much I haven't told you, and tonight nearly made those secrets come to light." His voice carries a weight Leon's never heard before.
"Secrets?" Leon's curiosity is tinged with concern as he reaches out, covering Atlas's hand. "Tell me, Atlas. I want to understand."
With a sigh, Atlas meets Leon's gaze. "My mother came from the Fleur Empire's royal family. She left the empire to escape its burdens, hoping to find a life free of the throne's constraints. But the bloodline she fled still lives within me… and those who covet power over the empire know that."
Atlas describes how the Fleur Empire's royal lineage carries a unique power—a legacy marked by an unmistakable ability. This power not only binds him to the empire's history but also marks him as a threat to those who seek control. His connection to the throne is undeniable, and for that, he has been hunted.
"I've tried to live as anyone else, to stay invisible," Atlas explains, "but even from afar, the empire won't leave me in peace."
Leon's hand tightens on Atlas's, his voice steady. "You don't have to face this alone anymore. I'm here, and together, we'll face whatever comes."
A flicker of relief appears on Atlas's face, a subtle transformation as he leans into Leon's embrace, resting his forehead against his. "Thank you, Leon. I'll protect you with everything I have."