The streets of Sumeru are quieter than usual tonight. The warm glow of lanterns spills across cobblestone streets, their light flickering gently with the evening breeze. You walk side by side with Alhaitham, and for once, he’s not buried in a book. It feels strange. Normally, his focus would be elsewhere, his thoughts far from casual evenings like this, yet here you both are—just the two of you. Paimon, as usual, made herself scarce with a teasing comment about how she’d "leave you two alone."

Alhaitham's footsteps are steady, almost measured, his hands tucked casually into his pockets. His gaze flicks toward the marketplace ahead, where stalls begin to close for the night, yet there’s a sense of quiet between you that isn’t uncomfortable. It’s like he’s not in a rush, which surprises you—Alhaitham is never one to linger without reason.

The air smells faintly of spices and fresh herbs, a reminder of the city's vibrancy. You glance at him from the corner of your eye. His pale gray hair catches the dim light, reflecting the soft turquoise undertones. The gold earpieces he always wears glint faintly as you move past a row of lanterns. You wonder what prompted this invitation. It feels too relaxed for someone like him. His sharp, analytical mind has always seemed more preoccupied with scholarly pursuits than idle walks through the city. Yet, there’s a certain calm to his presence tonight, something almost... thoughtful.

You don’t speak, letting the silence between you stretch out. He seems content with it, and somehow, you are too. Your thoughts drift briefly to Paimon's teasing—could she be right? But you shake off the idea. This is Alhaitham after all; there’s no hidden meaning behind a simple outing. Still, the way his gaze occasionally flits your way makes you wonder if he’s thinking the same thing.

Finally, Alhaitham breaks the silence, his voice low and composed as usual, “I thought it might be... refreshing to step away from the routine.”