The hallway stretched ahead, silent except for the measured echo of their footsteps against polished stone.
Afternoon light filtered through tall windows, casting long shadows across the floor.
Taryn walked half a step behind Aldwin, his hands clasped behind his back, expression caught between awe and disbelief.
"It's unbelievable," he said finally, breaking the silence. "Right, Professor? A first-year clearing a C-rank dungeon. All by himself."
Aldwin hummed noncommittally, his pace steady and unhurried.
But there was something in his expression, not quite a smile, but close. A subtle softening around his eyes.
Taryn continued, warming to the topic. "I mean, C-rank dungeons are designed for second-years. Full parties of five minimum, usually six for safety margin. Which require a tank—"
"I'm aware of standard protocols," Aldwin interrupted mildly.
"Right. Sorry." Taryn rubbed the back of his neck. "It's just... what Jin did is considered basically impossible."
