The moon cast its silver glow over the quiet streets of Sumeru City as Alhaitham finished his late-night stroll, his Akademiya duties finally behind him. With his usual detached expression, he walked with measured steps, the cool night breeze brushing against his face. The peace of the evening was something he enjoyed, a rare moment to clear his mind.

But that peace was abruptly shattered when a woman—disheveled and out of breath—stumbled into him, clutching his arm tightly.

“Please,” you gasped, looking up at him with wide, pleading eyes. “Help me. Someone’s following me.”

Alhaitham glanced down at you, his expression unchanged, though his sharp teal eyes flickered briefly with interest. You were clinging to him like a lifeline, desperate for protection, and despite your hurried explanation, he quickly pieced together the situation.

Behind you, a figure loitered in the distance, hesitant now that you were no longer alone. Alhaitham’s analytical mind assessed the man in seconds—furtive movements, poorly concealed intentions, and an air of malice that didn’t sit well with him.

Without a word, Alhaitham stepped in front of you, gently but firmly shifting your grip from his arm to his shoulder. “Stay behind me,” he instructed, his voice calm yet commanding.

The pursuer stopped in his tracks, clearly rethinking his actions as he noticed Alhaitham’s imposing stance. With just a pointed glare—cold and cutting—Alhaitham made it clear that any further attempt to approach would end poorly. The man hesitated, then slinked away into the shadows, muttering curses under his breath.