Heaven Before Hell / Innocence

Shakti's eyes fluttered open after what felt like the longest and most satisfying nap of her life.

The lethargy and relaxation she felt was so inviting that she thought she was still dreaming. She didn't recognize the ceiling she was staring at, but honestly, she didn't care.

Her body had grown used to the dull aches she'd developed over the course of her training.

But now, all of that was being washed away by the comforts enveloping her. Soft, scented sheets. Fluffy pillows. Warm blankets and… a tail?

Ever so slightly, Shakti turned her head to the side.

There, she found Taira in bed with her and enveloping her with his tails.

His face was so close to hers. His breathing remained even and steady.

He was asleep. Truly. And at this moment, Shakti realized that she had never seen him without his guard up.

He had always seemed so… divine to her. Like an immortal already descended from the lower realm.

But he was just a man.