The door opened before them with an echo that lingered in the air, sending shivers down Xavier's spine. He took a deep breath, rubbing the back of his neck as a faint hum of mana danced around the space, signaling their passage into a new test had opened. Aji glanced back, making sure the door was real not an illusion, then went toward Xavier who looked lost in thought.
“Alright,” Aji muttered. “We passed, we’re supposed to move on to the third floor, but…” He eyed his friend, catching the worry etched across his face. “You still don’t look too happy. What’s up?”
Xavier clenched his fists, taking a slow breath. “Zoro’s not back.”
Aji blinked, then frowned. “The test’s over. Zoro should’ve—”
“Exactly!” Xavier snapped, then caught himself. “Sorry… It’s just… If the test is done, then why
