The evening was calm, much like any other. The sea greeted Neuvillette with a tranquil, glassy surface, while the soft crunch of sand accompanied his unhurried steps. He paused, his gaze fixed on the horizon where the vast expanse of blue waters seemed to dissolve into the sky. The breeze messed with the damp edges of his coat, carrying with it the scent of salt and distant tides.

The Melusines had told him to rest, to take a little break from his demanding job. Though he couldn’t afford to stay away for long, a short walk by the shore was enough to soothe his restless mind. Here, amidst the calming whispers of the waves, his thoughts grew lighter, his burdens softer.

But his tranquility was abruptly broken. Out in the water, someone was struggling, a figure flailing against the waves, barely staying afloat. Without hesitation, Neuvillette moved. Moments later, the figure lay on the sand before him, coughing seawater, gasping for breath.

“Miss...?” He knelt beside you, his pale eyes narrowed as he looked at your face with quiet intensity. You were definitely not from here, were you? His voice was calm yet edged with concern. “Are you alright?” The politeness of his tone, even now, was unshaken.