Chapter 53

Emanations

Raphael returned to his room, took a shower, got changed, and headed to class. That day, he once again chose the history of races and species. He figured that since he had to function in this reality — in a world full of various beings he wouldn’t even have imagined — he should learn as much about them as possible. The very existence of Tauri, Serpentari, and Neteru had been surprising enough.

It made him realize how much he still had to learn to find his place in this world. The lecture hall, as usual, was nearly full, so he sat in a corner — where there was still a free seat, but from where he still had a good view of the lecturer.

After a moment, the class began.

— All right — the lecturer began. — I think today we’ll go over the basics. I’d like to discuss the different groups of beings and their interrelations. As you probably know, the gods emerged as an emanation of the universe’s energy. The next group of beings are the Descendants. They also come from the same energy, but they were created by the gods. Immortals also emerged from the universe’s energy — created by the gods in combination with an additional type of energy. Because of their origin, members of these groups are immortal. Of course, that doesn’t mean they can’t be killed — rather, that if nothing and no one kills them, they will live forever.

From the universe’s energy also emanated matter, which possesses its own specific energy. From material energy and the energy of the universe, the gods created various worlds. These were constructs so complex and unique that they began to generate their own energy. We call it the energy of nature or natural energy. It was so vital that from its emanation, the Naturals were born. And from the combination of nature’s energy and material energy, the gods created the Shapeshifters. From pure material energy, thanks to the gods, the Mortals came to be. Over time, from this group evolved the Gifted — beings infused with divine energy, which resulted in exceptional abilities. In most cases, these abilities are inherited, although sometimes they can skip a generation.

— Can someone give examples of the Gifted?

A girl with long, curly brown hair immediately raised her hand.

— Yes, please.

— For example, Telepaths, Empaths, Dream Walkers, and Shadow Walkers.

— Very good. And can someone name some Naturals? Oh, the gentleman in the third row — please.

— These are all the races strongly connected to nature, like nymphs, mermaids… and Elementals — answered a tall blond boy.

— Excellent — the professor said with satisfaction. — And what about beings like werewolves? They’re connected to nature too, aren’t they? — he asked cunningly.

— We classify them as part of the Shapeshifters group — answered the pleased young man.

— Bravo — the lecturer praised him. — One must remember, however, that the difference between these two groups doesn’t lie in the ability to transform, because some natural beings can also change their form. Naturals, due to their origin and essence, are much more deeply connected to the forces of nature and its various aspects. Moreover, they are usually much longer-lived.

— What about Demigods? — asked a short boy from the second row. — Are they also counted among the Descendants?

— Very good question. The answer, however, is no. Demigods were not created — this group includes beings born from the union of a human and a god. It’s not a large group, and since the gods haven’t appeared in any of the known worlds for a long time, no new Demigods are being born. Sometimes their offspring inherit certain traits, but far more often they’re just ordinary mortals.

— So it’s kind of like Hybrids? — asked a girl with strangely colored skin, in a hue difficult to define, as it resembled mother-of-pearl. She had long hair in all possible colors of the rainbow, braided into many small plaits.

— Another good question, Aurora. However, there is a fundamental difference between Demigods and Hybrids, and contrary to what one might think, it’s easy to identify. A Demigod is the result of a union between a god and a mortal being — only very rarely with a representative of another group. Hybrids, on the other hand, are the children of parents who come from two different groups listed here, but who don’t include a divine parent. Sometimes we also classify as Hybrids those who come from parents of the same group but of very different races. Hybrids are not nearly as rare as Demigods, and new ones are being born all the time. The best-known representatives of this group are probably the Nefilim and the Cambion — the result of a union, respectively, of an angel or a demon (from the Descendants group) with a mortal. Of course, such offspring are no longer immortal, but they usually have a much longer lifespan than an average mortal.

— So Descendants are immortal? — asked someone from the first row. Raphael couldn’t tell their gender or race.

— Good question, and to be honest, I don’t have a definite answer. It is believed that either they are immortal, or they live an incredibly, incredibly long time.

— Excuse me — said Raphael, raising his hand. — May I ask something?

— Yes, young man, go ahead.

— I recently heard about beings called Taurosi and also Serpentari. Could you tell us more about them, Professor?

— Of course. That’s one of the reasons I’m here — the lecturer chuckled. — Both of these races belong to the Shapeshifters group. On a daily basis, they display very few traits that could be considered animalistic, but they can partially or fully transform. As the name suggests, Taurosi are connected to bulls, and Serpentari to snakes. I must say, I’m curious where you encountered them, because these are rare races and usually keep to themselves. Very few people have had the chance to meet them face to face.

— No, I haven’t met them — Raphael replied a little too quickly. — I just happened to hear those names somewhere.

— I see — the professor replied, clearly unconvinced, but didn’t press the subject.

— Professor — spoke up a green-haired boy from the back of the room — could you explain the matter of the Immortals more precisely? What exactly does their immortality mean, if they can be killed?

— As I’ve explained — the professor continued — under natural conditions, their life does not come to an end, which means they do not age. Furthermore, they are immune to diseases. However, in certain circumstances, they can still be killed. This is definitely more difficult than in the case of other groups, but not impossible. Sometimes, there are factors common to an entire race — we can call them weaknesses — but there are also things that affect only specific individuals.

— The easiest way to understand this — he continued — is by using a human analogy. As a rule: if you pierce the heart, every human will die. On the other hand, a cut isn’t fatal by nature, but it can become infected and eventually lead to death. In someone with hemophilia, even a small wound — if not properly treated quickly — can result in bleeding out.

— Another example — the lecturer added with passion — is cyanide. If a person drinks such a poison, they will most likely die. But sometimes, someone might be more resistant, and the dose might be too low to be lethal. On the other hand, we have regular nuts. For most people, they’re harmless — but if someone is allergic, they can kill just as effectively as poison.

— I understand. Thank you very much for the explanation — the boy replied.

As he was leaving class, Raphael ran into Aquos.

– Oh, Raphael! What a coincidence – said the siren in a suspiciously innocent tone.

– Really? Why do I have the feeling you were waiting here for me? – he asked suspiciously. – How did you even know I’d be here?

– Okay, fine, it just so happened that Melody saw you going into that class and… something might’ve slipped out – he replied with a laugh. – I hope you don’t mind?

– Nah, it’s fine. Nice to know I’ve got my own personal stalker – said Raphael, winking.

– All right then, how about we grab lunch together?

– Sounds good. I’ve actually worked up quite an appetite from all that knowledge.

– Great! So, shall we head to the Grand Hall?

When they entered the room, Raphael caught sight of Liam sitting by the wall and quickly looked away. Aquos noticed immediately and asked:

– Did you two have a fight?

– No. It’s just that last night I had a nightmare with him in it, and honestly, now it’s really hard for me to look him in the eye. I hope it passes quickly, because we haven’t talked in a while, and I’m starting to feel a bit guilty about that.

– I get it. So, what are we eating today?

– I’m sticking with tradition and hunting for new dishes. I’ve been here for a while now, and there are still plenty of meals I’ve never seen in my life.

– Bold move…

– Well, so far I’ve either been incredibly lucky, or everything they make here is just insanely good.

– I think you might be right about that second one. Though, of course, tastes differ — one person might love liver, another can’t even look at it.

– Well, I wouldn’t call myself too picky when it comes to food. Which doesn’t mean I’ll eat anything! All right, let’s see what we’ve got here…

He carefully examined the main courses and reached for a steaming dish that looked quite inviting. It seemed to include something like shrimp and various — probably — vegetables. “Probably,” because he didn’t recognize half of them — they had very strange shapes and colors.

– Have I mentioned you’re brave…? – Aquos asked cautiously.

– Hmmm… Is something wrong with this dish? No offense, but I really like seafood.

– Yeeeeah… except you won’t find any of that in this meal – Aquos laughed.

– No? – Raphael’s eyebrows shot up in utter surprise.

– Nope. What you might’ve taken for shrimp actually prefers living deep underground rather than near water. They’re beetle larvae – he explained, barely holding back laughter.

– Well then… since I’ve already served myself – I’ll take the risk – Raphael declared boldly, though his expression did falter a little.

– Bravo! That’s what I like about you – Aquos winked.

– Only that? – Raphael asked playfully.

– Don’t push me. You want to know everything right away. But I’ll let you in on a secret – it’s not just that – he said with a mysterious look.

They sat down at an empty table and began enjoying their food.

– So? – asked Aquos, seeing that Raphael had already started eating his mysterious main dish.

– I have to say — it’s delicious. I honestly haven’t eaten anything this good in a long time. And these larvae – if you’re not messing with me – are actually amazing.

– I’m glad you like it. I’ve heard it’s a real delicacy, but I didn’t want to tell you beforehand. I wanted you to form your own opinion.

– Thanks – Raphael replied sarcastically.

The rest of the meal passed in cheerful conversation, laced with light flirting. It was clear they got along great — and there was definitely some spark between them. After the meal, they said their goodbyes and casually agreed to go for a walk together someday, or maybe even a small trip. Raphael was genuinely pleased — there were still plenty of places in Amaltea he hadn’t visited yet.

In the evening, he got ready for the meeting and then teleported directly to Mikael’s door. He knocked, and after receiving an invitation, stepped inside. The interior hadn’t changed, but the host was dressed casually this time, in loose, comfortable clothes.

– Welcome. You came after all – he smiled.

– Well, I try to keep my word – the guest replied with a smile.

– Then please come further, into the more private part of my modest quarters.

They walked from the living room into another room, similar in character but definitely cozier. This space too was filled with astrological symbols, incense, candles, lamps, and a multitude of various accessories. In the center of the room was a large bed covered with a colorful spread, and a multitude of pillows in various colors were scattered on it. A muslin canopy was draped above the bed.

– Beautiful – Raphael admired. – Just like a bedroom from the tales of One Thousand and One Nights.

– Thank you, I put a lot of heart into this room. Just like into every other one in this place.

– Believe me, it’s something you can really feel the moment you walk in.

The room was lit only by candles and a few lanterns, which created a very intimate effect and a cozy atmosphere.

Raphael slowly walked up to Mikael and placed his hands on his hips. Mikael moved closer and also wrapped his arms around Raphael’s waist. From that distance, it was even more apparent how tall the boy was. Raphael began gently running his hands over his back and shoulders, then traced his fingertips along his collarbones and moved his hands toward the first button of his shirt. He paused for a moment, a questioning expression in his eyes. Mikael nodded almost imperceptibly, so Raphael began to slowly unbutton, revealing his beautifully sculpted chest.

The Dream Walker wasn’t passive – he gently pulled Raphael’s shirt out of his pants, then lifted it up and took it off. Raphael slid the already unbuttoned shirt off Mikael’s back and began untying his pants. Mikael had an easier task, as his athletic pants could be easily slipped off.

Standing in just their underwear, they embraced tightly, their hands roaming each other’s bodies, slowly learning their topography. They did it unhurriedly, but with evident passion and engagement. Their hands gradually moved lower, occasionally brushing against their buttocks.

Raphael began gently kissing his neck and collarbones, then slid down to his nipples, and tracing a path with kisses, moved toward his navel. His hands fully cupped Mikael’s buttocks, holding them in a firm grip. He gently squeezed, as if checking their firmness. Then he slowly started stroking his thighs, moving his hands up and down, occasionally slipping them under Mikael’s boxers.

– Mmmm… – Mikael purred softly.

Then he pulled Raphael back up and began kissing his body in return. When he reached his waist, he gently turned him around, and – without stopping the kisses – slid his boxers down. His mouth moved to Raphael’s buttocks, while his hands roamed over his thighs and stomach. Raphael closed his eyes and gently tilted his head back. Then he turned to face his partner, unintentionally brushing his already hard cock across his face. He reached under Mikael’s chin with his hands and pulled him back up. As if in a ritual, he repeated the gesture — this time turning Mikael around and gradually removing his underwear.

He admired his beautifully sculpted buttocks.

– Definitely doesn’t look like you just sit at a fortune-telling table or wander through dreams.

– Well, I believe balance in every area is very important. So I try to take care of not just my spiritual side, but my body as well.

– Believe me, it really shows.

– I’m glad.

Raphael straightened up, gently brushing his cock across Mikael’s buttocks. His hands moved to Mikael’s neck and instinctively began to massage it.

– Well… apparently I’m a little tense after all – Mikael laughed.

– Don’t worry, we’ll take care of that – Raphael winked knowingly, working gently yet intensely on his neck muscles.

– Mmmmm… that feels good. I can tell you know what you’re doing.

Without a word, Raphael began guiding him toward the bed, then lightly but firmly pushed him onto it.

– Brutal – Mikael joked.

– Shhh… – Raphael whispered, then straddled him and returned to the massage. This time he didn’t limit himself to the neck. He massaged his entire back, pouring a lot of affection into it. Every movement was gentle, each stroke like a ritual of worshipping the body. Mikael closed his eyes and surrendered to the pleasure.

Raphael’s tireless hands gradually moved lower. They kneaded his buttocks, traced circles, and seemingly by accident gently spread them. He bent down and kissed the spot where the cleft began. Without stopping the massage, his mouth slid lower and lower until it reached the pink hole. There, his lips stopped, and his tireless tongue began its work. A moan of pleasure escaped Mikael’s throat. But Raphael didn’t stop, working his tongue around it, occasionally pushing deep inside.

– Divine…

With a moan, Mikael allowed his hips to rise. His manhood, fully erect, was dripping with precum.

Raphael didn’t stop the rimming but moved his hips closer, then dragged his tongue along Mikael’s spine, while positioning the tip of his cock at the entrance of Mikael’s ass.

– Mhmmm… – came the barely audible consent.

Raphael pressed gently and slowly entered, watching Mikael’s body arch with pleasure. His movements were slow at first but gradually picked up pace. Mikael’s body found a shared rhythm. Raphael lifted his upper body so that they were now almost in a kneeling position. One hand stroked his chest and stomach, brushing over hard nipples, while the other massaged his balls and cock.

As he approached climax, his thrusts became faster and more intense.

– I can’t hold it anymore – he moaned.

– Then cum – Mikael replied.

Raphael felt a gigantic surge of energy within himself, then experienced what was likely the most intense orgasm of his life. His body arched so much that the top of his head nearly touched the bed behind him.

Mikael felt pulsing waves of heat filling him from within. He turned his head and watched — first with satisfaction, then with a mix of awe and fear — as Raphael’s body arched, and his wide-open eyes filled with blue light that began to glow more intensely. It looked as if instead of eyes, he had two powerful blue flashlights that illuminated the whole room with a bright aura.

At the same time, shadows poured or flowed from Raphael’s mouth, resembling thick black smoke like that generated by liquid nitrogen. They trickled down his naked chest and dissipated before touching Mikael’s back. He froze completely still.

Gradually, the shadows stopped, and Raphael’s eyes returned to normal. He straightened up, closed his eyes, and slowly withdrew from him.

– Wow! That was the most intense orgasm of my life. I’m sorry I didn’t wait for you – he said with a hint of guilt. Only then did he notice Mikael staring at him with wide eyes and parted lips, as if he didn’t recognize him.

– Hey, come on! I said I was sorry – he added, scratching the back of his head. – I’ll make it up to you in a second.

He reached toward him, but Mikael instinctively pulled back and sat up on the bed.

– What was that? – the Dream Walker asked, his voice unnaturally flat.

– I said I’m sorry. I know it was kind of selfish, but—

– Not that – Mikael interrupted. – I’m talking about what happened to your eyes. And that… black thing.

Now it was Raphael’s turn to widen his eyes in confusion.

– What are you talking about?

– You really don’t know? You didn’t notice anything?

– No. Like I said – I just felt this huge surge of energy inside me that turned into a massive orgasm. I honestly have no idea what you’re talking about.

– Okay. I believe you. I don’t know why, but I do.

He then described in detail what he had just witnessed.

– I don’t get it. I don’t even know what to think about it.

– Well, we wanted an experiment, and we sure got one – Mikael tried to say in a lighter tone, masking the awkwardness of his earlier reaction.

– That’s true. But what does it even mean? It doesn’t resemble any ability I’ve ever heard of. Unless glowing eyes count as a power – he joked half-heartedly.

– I haven’t heard of anything like that either. Maybe it’s not about a skill, but about unlocking something inside you.

– Hmmm… maybe. What worries me is just one thing…

– Good that it’s only one – Mikael winked. – Though honestly, I’m worried about the same thing…

– The shadows.

– Exactly.

– Do you think we awakened some demonic energy in me?

– I don’t know. But if I had to guess, I’d definitely say it has something to do with the Shadow Realm. Or with true darkness. I’m not sure.

– What’s the difference?

– Right! I keep forgetting this is all still new to you. The Shadow Realm favors darkness, demons, and beings tied to shadow… but not exclusively. Shadow Walkers use the Shadow Realm. I do too – during my dream travels, I basically rely on it. Of course, there are different layers of it, but they’re much more interconnected than in the physical world. Mortal souls sometimes end up there as well.

– Okay… something else to think about – Raphael sighed. – But that’s not what I came here for – he added with a teasing smile.

– I know. No offense, but I don’t think anything more is going to happen tonight. Sorry.

– I get it. And I’m the one who should apologize.

– It’s not your fault. You can make it up to me another time – Mikael added with a forgiving wink.

– Alright. I’ll go then. Sleep well. I hope I won’t give you nightmares.

– Don’t worry about that. I’ve got my ways – the boy said with a mischievous smile and walked him to the door.