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Chapter 20 - "Flames of Protection"

Nao and Raviel walked through the boutique, surrounded by beautiful clothes. The lights in the store made everything look shiny and luxurious. It felt peaceful, but there was something that made Nao uneasy. He didn't know why, but he felt like someone was watching him.

A man, just standing a little too far away, was keeping his eyes on Nao. Raviel, always aware, noticed the man right away. He didn't say anything, but he made sure to stay close to Nao, making sure nothing happened. The man didn't get too close, though, and didn't try anything—thanks to Raviel's watchful presence.

After shopping, Nao and Raviel had dinner together, trying to relax. The meal was simple, but the calm time helped Nao feel better. They didn't talk much, just enjoying the food and each other's company.

When it was time to leave, something unexpected happened. A group of cars suddenly blocked the road. Before they could even understand what was going on, shots rang out. Raviel instantly pulled Nao down, protecting him with his body. The driver, hurt in the chaos, couldn't drive properly.

"Stay down," Raviel whispered, his voice sharp. His eyes began to change, and before Nao could react, Raviel's wings burst out, huge and dark. They looked like they were made of fire. Raviel's eyes glowed, and he became a force of nature, filled with rage.

With a single movement, Raviel sent out a wave of fire, burning all the men who had been trying to hurt them. The heat was intense, and Nao could only watch in shock as Raviel destroyed the attackers with ease. The flames were powerful and terrifying. Nao had never seen Raviel like this before—his wings were so big, and his eyes were burning.

When the danger passed, Raviel turned to Nao. "You're safe now," he said softly, though Nao could see the worry in his eyes.

Nao was still stunned. "Your eyes... they changed."

Raviel nodded, his voice calm as he gently touched Nao's face. "It's okay. Don't worry. I'm here."

By the time Mr. Den arrived, the area was destroyed. The attackers were gone, and the police were standing around, confused, trying to figure out what had happened. Mr. Den rushed to Nao's side. "Nao, are you alright?" he asked with concern.

"I'm fine," Nao answered, though he was shaken. "It's the driver... he's hurt."

Mr. Den quickly looked at Raviel and then back at Nao. "We need to get to the hospital. Don't worry about anything here. I'll handle it. There's a new car and security waiting for you."

---

At the hospital, Nao and Raviel finally started to calm down. Mr. Den was there, handling everything like he always did. Nao felt safe, but his mind was still racing from everything that had just happened. Raviel had changed, and Nao couldn't forget how he looked when he used his powers. But for now, Nao knew Raviel was there to protect him.

The hospital room was sterile and quiet, the fluorescent lights buzzing softly above. Nao sat on the edge of a bed, the shock of what had just happened still heavy on his mind. The events of the night kept replaying in his head. Raviel had protected him, but the power he displayed—those wings, that fire—Nao couldn't stop thinking about how different Raviel looked when he unleashed that strength.

"Raviel…" Nao whispered, still trying to grasp everything. "What happened back there? Your eyes... your wings… It was like you were someone else."

Raviel stood by the window, watching the street below with a distant expression. He hadn't said much since the attack, but Nao could tell the weight of the situation was just as heavy on him. "I'm not someone else, Nao. I just... I had to protect you. That's all that matters."

Nao's thoughts raced. "But you—your fire, your wings, it was... I didn't know you could do that. I've never seen you like that before."

Raviel turned to face him, his eyes softening. "I've kept that side of me hidden for your safety. But when it comes to you... I will never hold back. You're mine to protect. Always."

The words hung in the air, thick with unspoken promises. Nao swallowed hard, trying to process everything. He had always known Raviel was powerful, but this... this was beyond what he had imagined.

Before he could say more, the door to the room opened, and Mr. Den walked in. His usual calm and professionalism were a relief in the midst of the chaos. "Mr. Nao," he said, his eyes scanning the room. "I'm glad to see you're safe."

Nao nodded, forcing a small smile. "I'm fine, Mr. Den. The driver's hurt, though."

Mr. Den's expression hardened. "I'll take care of it. Everything else is under control. The police are still investigating the scene, but there's nothing left. No evidence. Everything was burned."

Nao felt his stomach tighten. "Burned? How could that even happen?"

"It's complicated," Mr. Den said, his tone shifting to something more serious. "But don't worry. We'll figure it out. For now, let's get you back home."

Nao glanced at Raviel, who had remained silent through the exchange. There was something unsettling about the way Mr. Den spoke, but Nao knew there was no one else he could trust more in this situation.

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