Executing the Mission (2)

The atmosphere in the meeting room gradually grew livelier, though the newcomers still kept a certain distance from one another.

But as more people arrived, an undercurrent of tension and anticipation quietly spread.

Over the next half hour, four more people arrived one after another.

Ang noticed that, just like those before them, the four did not greet each other, as though they were complete strangers.

Each person cautiously scanned the room upon entering before silently taking a seat.

The oppressive silence made Ang increasingly uneasy.

"In a squad, the members are complete strangers without even basic familiarity... How strange."

Just as he was lost in thought, the meeting room door opened again. Alvis strode in, followed by two warriors with distinctly different temperaments.

"Everyone's here, right?" His gaze swept across the room, and he nodded. "Since everyone has arrived, introduce yourselves first."

His voice was not loud, yet it carried an unquestionable authority. Everyone straightened in their seats.

The lean man wearing a windrunner cloak spoke first, his tone cold and concise. "Pier, assassin."

The Shield Warrior seated beside him spoke in a deep, heavy voice. "Hawk, Shield Warrior."

"Maddy, magic archer." The black-haired young man lounged lazily in his chair, but his tone was crisp.

"Samantha, mage." The woman in blue-and-white robes gave a slight nod, her manner gentle and composed.

Ang spoke as well. "Ang, Holy Light Mage."

Immediately afterward, the two beside Alvis introduced themselves as well.

"An, swordsman."

"Smo, swordsman." The burly man had a low voice, and his face carried the indifference of a lifelong soldier.

The remaining four also gave their names and professions in turn: the swordsmen Walker, Difo, Ricardo, and Dar.

Only after the last person sat down did Alvis nod in satisfaction.

Then his tone became much more restrained, though