Taro returned to the stands amid cheers and applause from his companions. Min was the first to pounce on him, putting his arm around his neck and messing up his hair. Ren followed with a more restrained but equally sincere congratulation; he was proud of his friend.
What was surprising wasn't just the congratulations from his roommates, but the small reception committee that had formed spontaneously. Roran and his group approached.
"That was incredible!" exclaimed Trent, shaking Taro's hand enthusiastically. "We insect tamers glimpse a new era with you. Also Kai looked like he was going to explode with rage!"
Han's team had also approached, though Han himself maintained a certain distance, observing from a few meters back with an unfathomable expression. Jun and Sora, however, showed no such reserve.
"Good job," commented Jun simply, though the gleam of admiration in his eyes said more than his words.
