Alaric smirked at Aryan’s response. "Both, huh? I suppose I’ll let you take credit alongside the slugs, then." He cast another glance at the pit and shook his head slightly. "And I appreciate the confirmation that keeping my distance is the smarter choice. Not that I needed much convincing." His tone was dry, but there was a flicker of amusement behind it.

He let out a small chuckle at Aryan’s offer. "I will keep that in mind. Good to know I have a limited-time slime rescue plan." He paused for a beat before adding, "Though I am hoping I will never need it."

As Aryan rummaged through his bag, Alaric arched an eyebrow at the mention of his friend’s name. "Mandrake and Gillyweed?" He gave a thoughtful hum. "Yeah, that does give away their mum’s interests a bit." He nodded slightly at Aryan’s fond tone. "She sounds... unique. In a good way." He did not comment on the boyfriend part. He was not the type to pry unless someone made it a point to share.

When the topic shifted to the Moving Staircases, Alaric sighed lightly, already resigned to his fate. "Well, at least I know what to expect now. If I vanish for a day, you will know where to look." His tone was wry, but his grey eyes glinted with humour.

At Aryan’s question about homesickness, Alaric hesitated briefly before shaking his head. "Not really. It is different, sure, but I expected that. There is too much to take in to dwell on home too much." He shrugged slightly, keeping his answer light. "Besides, I have an owl. If I ever miss home too much, I can always send a letter."

His gaze drifted back to the pit before he quirked an eyebrow at Aryan. "Alright, since you clearly have more experience here, what is the absolute weirdest place in the castle you have found? Please tell me it is not worse than this."