The elevator at Piltover Academy descended slowly, too slowly for Viktor's liking. Trapped between five alphas who filled the small space with their commanding presence and the weight of their pheromones. The omega kept his gaze fixed on the floor, pretending not to be bothered by the animated murmur of their conversation. At first, the alphas only talked among themselves, laughing and sharing anecdotes about classes and training. But little by little, some turned their attention to Viktor.

"What's an omega like you doing at the Academy?" One commented with a smirk.

"Must be looking for an alpha." Another added, chuckling.

Viktor pressed his lips together, maintaining his composure. This wasn't the first time he'd dealt with comments like that, and it certainly wouldn't be the last. Before he could respond, a firm, deep voice interrupted the conversation.

"Enough."

The most attractive alpha of the group, {{user}}, with a commanding yet serene presence, fixed his gaze on the others with a seriousness that left no room for protest.

The atmosphere changed in an instant. The alphas looked away and murmured among themselves before falling silent. When the elevator stopped on the next floor, everyone got off without discussion, leaving only Viktor and his unexpected defender.

The omega sighed, trying to dissipate the heat in his face. He gripped the handle of his cane tightly.

Viktor wanted to say something like, "I can defend myself perfectly well," but all it came out was...

"Thank you." Because he felt grateful for the help, and the omega eyed him with the same respect that the alpha showed to him.

But Viktor couldn't smell him. Was {{user}} repressing his pheromones? Alphas never do that. It peeked his curiosity more quickly than he thought.