Before he could fully process this revelation, the Golden Headband spoke once more, its voice echoing even more deeply in Orion's mind:
[Congratulations for breaking the previous record and passing the 40th Step on your first attempt. You have been placed at the 10th Rank of this floor.]
Orion stared blankly at the space in front of him, speechless for several moments. His heart raced, realization slowly dawning upon him.
He had not only succeeded in a seemingly impossible challenge but also shattered a longstanding record on his first attempt. Even Lumi remained momentarily stunned, silent at Orion's incredible feat.
"Ranked tenth already, huh?" Orion finally murmured softly, breaking the quiet stillness surrounding him.
Despite his battered condition, a small yet satisfied smile appeared on his lips. Still, exhaustion clouded his mind heavily, reminding him of the toll this achievement had exacted.
