Chapter 20 of 50 in the Under Deepspace arc
Characters across this arc
Main Character Xavier Zayne Tara Rafayel Caleb Jenna Josephine Radio Host Hunters Association President
Other chapters in this arc
Under Deepspace · The First Mission · 02-10
Fiery Blood
The Main Character confronts him directly, suspecting Rafayel is connected to Raymond's erratic behavior. He pushes back, insisting he's a victim too, while demanding she return the coral stone since it's his property. When she warns that if his art causes more trouble, next time it won't just be her getting involved, Rafayel proposes checking for himself whether the coral is really the source of the problem. The instant he touches it, both of them feel illusions and an unnatural heat — Rafayel realizes that a recent paper cut is what let him start 'hearing things,' meaning his blood alone can activate the coral. Sensing the energy fluctuation spike, the Main Character orders Rafayel to hide so she can handle the incoming Wanderer alone — but he protests fiercely, since it's his own house and he doesn't want his valuables destroyed. This chapter confirms the blood–coral–illusion connection, closes out the investigation arc from 02-06 through 02-10, and opens the decisive battle to come.