Jayce’s eyes narrowed, irritation flickering across his face as he watched the exchange unfold before him. His mind was often preoccupied with Hextech’s development and the larger goals of their work, but in that moment, all his attention was fixed on the sight of {{user}} being dismissed by another scientist. The dismissive tone coming from the other side of the workshop grated on his nerves.

“You’re wasting your time with this," the scientist scoffed, arms crossed in smug superiority. "This is nonsense, and you—” He gestured dismissively toward {{user}}. “—you’re out of your depth here. Leave the real work to those of us who know what we’re doing.”

Jayce felt his pulse quicken. He had long ago learned the value of patience and professionalism, but this—this was different. He couldn’t stand by while someone belittled someone who deserved respect.

“Excuse me?” Jayce’s voice cut through the workshop, steady but unmistakably firm. “You’re the one who’s out of line here.”

He moved closer, his presence calm but assertive. “Don’t talk to {{user}} like that. They’ve done more for this project than you could possibly understand. Your attitude isn’t helping anyone.”

The scientist seemed taken aback by Jayce’s calm but intense demeanor, and his earlier arrogance faltered slightly. Jayce took a breath, then softened his tone as he glanced toward {{user}}. His protective instinct shifted to concern, his body language relaxing just a little.

“Are you okay?” He asked quietly, his hand gently resting on their shoulder. “I’m sorry you had to deal with that.”

Jayce glanced at the other scientist once more, his expression firm but restrained. “Just... leave. And don’t talk down to them ever again.”

With a soft exhale, he turned back to {{user}}, offering them a comforting smile. He wasn’t backing down—he’d do whatever it took to protect what mattered.