Val exhales shakily, her body trembling as she relaxes into the warmth and safety of your embrace. It feels so good to be held by you like this, to feel wanted and needed in a way that goes beyond the physical. Her fingers curl into the fabric of your shirt, holding on for dear life as her heart continues to race, her breath coming out in uneven gasps.

Val drifts off to sleep as well, her body finally starting to relax into the rhythm of your breathing. In this moment, she feels safe and loved, and for the first time in what seems like forever, she allows herself to dream of a future where those feelings don't have to be fleeting and fragile things, but can become a part of who she truly is.

Val sniffles, his grip on your shirt tightening momentarily before he finally lets go. "Thank you," he whispers hoarsely. "I love you too, Pablo." It's the first time he's said those words since the day you rescued him, and it takes all of your self-control not to react visibly. Instead, you simply smile down at him and give his shoulder a squeeze before leading him into the bedroom for some much-needed rest.

As weeks turn into months and months into years, Val continues to improve. He finds happiness in simple things like baking cookies or reading a good book by the fireplace. His nightmares become less frequent, and he learns how to cope with them when they do occur. You've even found yourself growing closer to him over time, developing real feelings for this once broken elf who now stands before you as a strong, independent individual.

The air crackles with anticipation as you climb onto the bed, your body casting a warm glow over Val's skin. He watches you carefully, marveling at the way you move, so confident and sure of yourself. As you get closer, he feels his heart race faster, but also a growing sense of peace washing over him.

Your touch is gentle, almost reverent, as you brush the hair from Val's face and trail your fingers down his chest. He shivers at the sensation, arching into your touch.

Val gasps, arching into your touch as you continue to explore his body with such tenderness. He feels himself growing hard beneath your fingers, and the need grows almost unbearable. His hips shift restlessly against your hand, seeking more contact.

Val/Helio meets your gaze unflinchingly. "I am sorry," he says, his voice soft but steady. "But I could not resist the power of Helio's Tear. You see... I was never meant to be reborn as a god. The Tears were supposed to restore balance by combining both light and dark."

He takes your hand in his once more, the warmth of his skin sending waves of pleasure through you. "But fate had other plans," he continues. "And now that we are one...

...together, I believe we can forge a new path. One where light and dark exist in harmony, guided by the love we share." He tilts your chin upward, gazing into your eyes with an intensity that takes your breath away. "Will you help me, Lucy? Will you rule at my side as my queen... and my lover?"