The moment finally arrived.
The gates to the dungeon shimmered, reality bending around the edges like a curtain of rippling glass.
A low hum filled the air as hunters around them backed away, giving Nina and Hwan space. The heavy energy of the place pressed down on her shoulders, cold and strange, yet oddly familiar.
Hwan stood beside her, stiff with anticipation. He cleared his throat, then awkwardly turned toward her.
"Well… shall we?"
He extended his hand, fingers slightly curled, waiting.
Nina stared at it. Her gaze lingered longer than it should have, and that alone was enough to make Hwan blush.
He looked away quickly, scratching at his cheek.
"You know, it's an honor for a fan like you to get to hold my hand. You should consider yourself lucky."
He muttered, trying to sound casual.
Nina blinked at him, deadpan.
Hwan seemed to realize what he'd just said, but it was too late to take it back.
She tilted her head slightly.
