If Alfred's aura was like the vast sea, then Sean, at this moment, was the unyielding rock.
Regardless of how fierce Alfred's presence became, even hinting at a tinge of hostility, Sean remained utterly fearless, calmly locking gazes with him.
There was no clashing of swords and no heated exchange of words, but within the core of these two figures, an intense energy rippled outward in successive waves, sending shivers through many of the pub's patrons.
Among them were individuals who also held third-tier professions, even though they were only in the lower bronze echelons of power.
However, none of them had truly faced battle or brushed with death. Under the pressure of Alfred's aura, their thoughts dissolved into fear.
In this regard, their reaction was not as composed as that of Sean, a mere apprentice who hadn't even reached the lower bronze tier.
"Cough, cough," a sudden, slightly intrusive cough sounded in the quiet tavern.
