1.2 Threats and Promises

When someone settled in on his right, Dorian turned his gaze toward them. The individual emitted a delightful and friendly presence, their features emanating a captivating warmth. Their chestnut eyes conveyed a soft, inviting gaze, reflecting depths of sincerity and kindness.

Their demeanor exuded an endearing quality, marked by a gentle grace that created an aura of approachability. Soft, tousled hair framed their face, adding to their inherent charm and giving them an effortlessly cute appeal.

Dorian smiled.

"Hey, I'm Dorian Voltaris."

The young man reciprocated with a smile.

"Hello, Dorian. It's nice to meet you. I'm Darius Celestino."

Dorian replied warmly.

"It's nice to meet you too, Darius."

In the first trial, Darius played a crucial role in saving the original. The candidates found themselves transported to a vast forest teeming with various alien species.

The original encountered a Phobosian and succumbed to fear. As the Phobosian tapped into his mind, projecting his deepest fear of witnessing his father's death, Darius rushed to his aid. 

The Phobosian, leveraging his fear, violently thrust him against a tree. Darius, alerted by the sound, intervened swiftly, eliminating the Phobosian before it could kill him.

Unbeknownst to the original at that time, the Phobosians were not intended to be part of the trial. 

Luna, aware of the original's lingering nightmares and panic attacks, informed her boyfriend, the supreme commander, to include them, as they represented a race likely to be encountered in the final mission of the show.

They were convinced the original was on the brink of demise, but they hadn't foreseen Darius being so close. 

After their initial failure, and with the entire galaxy moved by the original's courageous response to witnessing his father's tragic end, Aries manipulated the situation using Lieutenant General Nero to torment the original.

Nero messed with the original's diving suit, making sure the screen showing his vital signs and live feed looped, making everyone believe he was fine. Nero harbored deep feelings for Aries, always catching glimpses of Aries coming to work to see his sister. Aries, well aware of Nero's affection, shrewdly used it to his advantage.

Dorian's hit list expanded to include Nero. Aries turned to Darius with a friendly smile.

"Hi, I'm Aries Zeno. I'm Dorian's best friend."

Darius returned the smile.

"Hello, nice to meet you, Aries. I'm Darius."

"It's nice to meet you too."

Dorian glanced at Aries, his eyes flickering with amusement. Despite Aries deeming the original unworthy of him, he desired the original to be passionately in love with him, ensuring he wouldn't form close bonds with others.

Aries staked his claim by declaring him his best friend. Dorian then turned to Darius.

"How are you feeling about tomorrow?"

Darius reflected and shared, "I'm a bit nervous but mostly excited. I aim to prove to myself that I can survive if left alone in this situation. How about you?"

Dorian responded, "I feel the same way. Can't wait to be alone in the woods and tough it out for five days."

Aries, who overheard, frowned. "What's this, Dorian? I thought we were teaming up."

Dorian glanced at him. "I'd rather go solo. It's about proving my strength to myself."

Aries, with a flash in his eyes, retorted, "You were the one begging to team up when I wanted to go solo. Now you're changing your mind?"

Dorian chuckled, realizing Aries was upset because he wanted to be the one to ditch him. Aries lied about doing everything together, aiming to catch Dorian off guard when they were beamed into the forest.

"Now we both got what we wanted since you didn't want to team up in the first place."

Aries opened his mouth, but nothing came out. What could he say? He couldn't believe Dorian was leaving him. He asked, "What will you do at night without me?"

Despite trying to appear concerned, Aries couldn't conceal the glimmer in his eyes. While most people might be fooled, Dorian, with his long experience, saw through it.

Dorian replied, "I'll figure it out. It's not like we're gonna be roommates forever. This show's a chance for us to have some space and for me to learn to be more independent."

If Aries didn't think he'd kick the bucket soon, he'd hurl insults. Dorian can't even handle sleeping alone, let alone being independent. He's everywhere, suffocating him. And he dares to say that?

Aries sneered and turned away, expecting Dorian to notice and beg for forgiveness as usual. Instead, Dorian was chatting with Darius.

When a silence fell over the room, Aries looked toward the doors, his eyes lighting up at the sight of the supreme commander. Dorian, catching Aries' gaze, noticed an alpha.

This alpha commanded attention with a powerful presence, towering over others with strength and elegance. A formidable frame, a chiseled jaw, and a regal demeanor exuded authority and nobility.

His dark, effortlessly waved hair framed a face embodying rugged handsomeness. Piercing grey eyes, like storm clouds, held captivating intensity, revealing wisdom and determination. A gaze penetrating to the core silently assured of his capability and resolve.

Every move was deliberate, reflecting the disciplined nature of a natural leader. His presence drew attention like a magnet, leaving an indelible impression of power and charisma.

Dorian grinned. So, this is the crown prince and Supreme Commander Damian Nova, the alpha reigning supreme as the strongest in the entire galaxy. At least, until Dorian came along. 

He now understands a bit more why Luna and Aries are smitten with him, although he feels the alpha on his left is more his type.

Dorian checked CS and found he was the second in command, Aeron Stratos. Not only the marshal but Damian's best friend. He smiled, eyeing him up and down.

This alpha, despite his undeniable strength, carried himself with an unexpectedly relaxed and easygoing demeanor. His robust build and powerful presence were accompanied by a perpetual air of approachability. Tousled brown hair mirrored his carefree spirit, breaking away from the usual alpha stoicism.

His gold eyes twinkled mischievously, hinting at a playful nature beneath the imposing exterior. Instead of overwhelming authority, he radiated a magnetic charm that put those around him at ease. Lines on his face spoke of laughter and camaraderie, and his genuine smile was infectious.

Dorian licked his lips. That man is downright scrumptious. For the first time since this whole nightmare began, he can do whatever he pleases. No more being forced into things he doesn't want or saying things he doesn't mean.

He's free to have fun and savor life as long as he takes down those who harmed the shell he inhabits. So, of course, he's going to embrace and enjoy life to the fullest. The last time he had sex was before he got bound to that cursed amulet.

The first person Dorian will have fun with is Aeron. When Aeron caught his eye, Dorian grinned seductively. Aeron tilted his head, studying the omega.

The omega was like an ethereal vision, akin to an angelic presence that entranced everyone. His blond locks flowed in soft waves, framing features radiating innocence and purity. Mesmerizing blue eyes held a serene depth, reflecting a gentle and enchanting soul.

When he smiled, the transformation was enchanting. The angelic aura briefly gave way to a seductive allure, and his gaze became like a siren's song. 

Lips curved with a subtle yet tempting grin, hinting at hidden desires. In those moments, he embodied a siren, effortlessly captivating attention, much like sailors drawn by mythical sirens.

Despite his celestial appearance, an undeniable duality made him even more enchanting. Aeron couldn't help but feel an instinctive desire to pamper and protect this beautiful omega, caught between the allure of an angelic presence and the captivating charm of a siren.

Aeron smiled back at him, surprising Luna and Aries. Aries tapped Dorian's arm, but Dorian kept his focus on Aeron until he walked up the stairs.

Aries tapped him again, and Dorian turned to him. Aries said, "You were staring at the marshal; it's rude. Don't do that again."

Darius, who overheard, frowned. Dorian replied, "You don't tell me what I can or cannot do, Aries. I'm your friend, not your servant."

The supreme commander took a seat in the middle, with Luna and Aeron on their side. The others occupied the ends.

Luna, catching Dorian's response to Aries, frowned. Aries, looking stunned, spoke with tears in his eyes.

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to upset you. I just didn't want you to get in trouble. I know how anxious you've been about all of this, and I can't help but worry about you after everything you've been through since your father's death."

Aries spoke loudly, and the producer turned the camera toward him. The galaxy watching felt a bit bad for Aries; he seemed to genuinely care for Dorian.

Dorian checked CS and saw they were live. He stated, "Don't you think ordering me around and making me do things I don't want to do will make me more anxious? I participated because you threatened me, saying we wouldn't be friends anymore if I didn't. Now that I'm here, I want to enjoy the experience and not be treated like I'm made of glass. Let's leave the past in the past and not bring it up every two seconds, as you do at home. I don't need a daily reminder that my father is dead. I saw him die in front of my eyes, and I still see it every night. So, stop bringing it up and micromanaging me. Okay?"

Aries, stunned, opened his mouth, uncertain of what to say. He couldn't believe Dorian was making him look like the bad guy. Why bring this up now?

Darius smiled. He hasn't known them for long, but he can sense Aries thinking he's superior to Dorian and should obey his every command. He's glad Dorian spoke up. Besides, what kind of best friend threatens to end the friendship if they refuse anything?

Luna's brows furrowed as she looked around, sensing sympathy in the room for Dorian. "Dorian."

Dorian focused on the woman calling his name, scanning her. She was a portrait of timeless beauty, chestnut hair flowing in gentle waves around her shoulders.

Her eyes, a captivating shade of green, held a warmth reflecting her kind and sweet nature. Features exuding a gentle charm made her smile inviting and sincere, bringing radiance to her visage.

Her overall demeanor radiated approachability, and there was an undeniable softness that invited comfort and trust. 

The combination of chestnut hair, green eyes, and a gentle smile created an image of a genuinely kind soul, making those around her feel at ease in her gracious presence. However, just like with Aries, Dorian sensed deception.

He had to admit Luna was quite beautiful. If her soul weren't so rotten, he might've enjoyed some fun with her too. Honestly, he didn't care much about her rotten soul; he was a villain but his revenge came first.

When their eyes met, Luna asked, "Are you alright? You don't seem like yourself."

Dorian smiled gently. "I'm alright, Shijie. I just don't want to be reminded of the past, as you all do every day. It's tiring."

Luna responded, "I don't understand what you mean by that. All Aries has ever done is be there for you. I can't help but feel you're being ungrateful after everything my family and I have done for you. We would never bring up that subject if you didn't want to talk about it. You're the one who always shares everything with Aries, so it's normal that he would be mindful and make sure nothing triggers you. He's only being a good friend."

Dorian was about to respond when Darius spoke up, asking, "How is threatening Dorian to end your friendship if he refuses to participate in the show being a good friend?"

Luna glanced at Darius, wondering why he was getting involved. Aries, addressing Darius, said, "Why are you sticking your nose in something that doesn't concern you? Dorian and I have been friends since we were kids; you don't know what you're talking about."

Darius retorted, "Didn't your sister involve herself too? Besides, from the little time I spent with you two, everything Dorian said seems true. You seem to have something to say about everything he does, and you're used to bossing him around. That's why you're shocked he finally spoke up. He's not a child."

Aries' eyes darkened, but he forced himself to stay calm. He looked at Dorian, who was smiling at Darius.

Darius looked at Dorian, apologetic for butting in, but relaxed when he saw that Dorian wasn't angry. When Dorian smiled, he smiled back.

Aries asked, "Dorian, aren't you going to say something to someone who's interfering in a 13-year friendship?"

Dorian looked at him, noticing Aries with wet eyes. Darius and Aeron chuckled when Dorian rolled his eyes, crossing his legs as he settled back in his chair. 

Aries felt angrier than ever. Not only was Dorian going to die, but Darius would get caught in the crossfire for sure.

Luna tried to speak, saying, "Dorian..."

Dorian interrupted, "I don't care. Let's end this conversation, and this is the last time you call me ungrateful. The fact that you would dare to use that word after everything I've done for your family without saying anything, unlike you, who reminds me every day, is unbelievable."

Furious, Aries interjected, "If it wasn't for us, your father wouldn't even be buried."

Luna cursed inwardly, disliking Aries' impulsiveness. The entire galaxy felt disgusted hearing that comment from Aries.

Dorian chuckled, looking at him. "You've just proved my point. You're supposed to be my best friend, yet you have no issue saying something like that. Did you ever hear me say that without me, you wouldn't be living in a 50 million credit house where everything is paid for by me?"

Aries' heartbeat quickened, and he said, "Dorian..."

Dorian cut him off, "Did I ever say that without me investing 20 million in your father's company and 5 million in your mother's business, they wouldn't be working? Did I ever complain about giving you all a credit card linked to my bank account, where you all use more than 200,000 credits every month?"

Luna and Aries' cheeks flushed as they heard Dorian speak about everything. In a million years, they never thought he would dare to speak out of turn to Aries, let alone talk about everything he had given them.

Dorian looked at Luna and stated, "As I said, this is the last time you call me ungrateful. If you do it again, you won't like what I do."

Stunned, Luna replied, "Are you threatening your General?"

Dorian smiled, "You're not my general yet, since I'm not part of the army. And it's not a threat, it's a promise."

Damian's eyes darkened, and he stood up. Walking down the stairs, he positioned himself in front of Dorian. As soon as his spiritual force was unleashed, everyone around them stood up, struggling to breathe.

The entire galaxy felt worried for Dorian. Even if they understood why he reacted the way he did, threatening the supreme commander's girlfriend was definitely a bad idea. Right now, Damian looked ready to kill for her.