Chapter 81
Remillia’s eyes narrowed as she listened to their complaints. The group was made up of mercenaries working from Professor Orion’s company, clearly seasoned veterans in dungeon exploration and monster hunting. They were older, rougher, and obviously resentful that someone like her had been chosen to lead them. Despite their harsh words, Remillia couldn’t help but smirk. It was clear they had no idea who she was or what she was capable of.
Deciding to have a little fun, she deliberately made her presence known by stepping forward, her boots crunching on the gravel. The group fell silent as they noticed her, their eyes widening slightly in surprise.
"Good morning, everyone," Remillia said cheerfully, her smirk widening. "I hope you all slept well. It’s going to be a long day, and we wouldn’t want anyone getting cranky because they didn’t get enough rest."
The mercenaries exchanged uneasy glances, their previous bravado faltering.
"And here I thought I’d be meeting professionals," she continued, her tone light but with an edge. "I guess I was mistaken. But don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll manage to keep up with me. After all, I’m just a ’spoiled brat,’ right?"
One of the men, the one who had first spoken, crossed his arms and glared at her. "Listen, kid, we don’t take orders from—"
Remillia cut him off with a raised hand. "Actually, you do," she said, her voice suddenly cold and commanding. "Professor Orion made that very clear when he assigned me to lead this mission. Now, if you have a problem with that, you’re free to leave. But if you stay, you follow my orders. Understood?"
The man clenched his jaw, clearly struggling to contain his anger, but he didn’t say anything. The others shifted uncomfortably, realizing they were outmatched despite their experience.
Remillia allowed herself a small, satisfied smile. "Good. Now, where’s Sir Gusion? I assume he hasn’t arrived yet?"
One of the workers shook his head. "No, he’s not here yet. We were told he’d meet us here, but we haven’t seen him."
Remillia nodded, turning her attention to the cavern entrance. "Then we wait. And while we do, I suggest you all prepare yourselves. This mission isn’t going to be easy, and the last thing we need is to be caught off guard because someone was too busy complaining to focus on the task at hand."