SSS-Class Profession: The Path to Mastery

My body tensed.

I was still frozen mid-step, my breath slow, controlled—but my mind raced.

"You're a kind man, Reynard."

The words resounded in my mind, a warning chime growing louder with each second that ticked by.

I didn't mention my name.

I hadn't given any hints.

And still, this individual—this alleged homeless individual—recognized my identity.

I turned back to him, moving closer, my stance adjusting a bit. Ready.

Ready for a battle, should it come to that.

"You're familiar with me," I stated, my tone cautious and deliberate.

The man did not react. He just smiled—a tiny, aware expression. "Certainly."