The next hour was detailed logistics. Required equipment, backup supplies, emergency protocols, communication signals, and division of responsibilities. Kai half-listened while studying the other team members.
Derek was clearly the aggressive type who would want to prove himself. Lin seemed competent but quiet—possibly shy or just focused. Roland had the steady presence of someone reliable in crisis situations. The others were harder to read, though most seemed nervous about their first real dungeon expedition.
"—and that brings us to room assignments," Mira was saying. "We'll be camping in the dungeon's safe zones on levels one and two. It's the standard four-person tent groups for better efficiency and safety. Kai, you'll be with Derek, Roland, and Thomas."
Thomas was a lanky third-year who specialized in wind techniques and scouting. He nodded at Kai from across the table.
Derek looked less pleased. "Why am I stuck with the mysterious second-year?"
