My eyes narrowed as I listened to their complaints. The group was composed of seasoned mercenaries from Professor Orion's company, weathered fighters with years of dungeon expeditions under their belts. They were older, tougher, and clearly annoyed that someone like me had been chosen to lead them.
Still, I couldn't help but smirk. They had no idea who I really was or what I was capable of. Deciding to have a little fun, I concealed myself in the branches of a nearby tree, silently watching them. Let them prattle on for a while. I could afford the entertainment.
After a few moments, I cleared my throat and spoke, my voice cheerful. "Good morning, everyone!"
They fell silent. Heads tilted upward as their eyes searched for the source of the voice. Then, slowly, surprise spread across their faces as they spotted me perched high in the branches.
