The common room buzzes with the usual lunchtime chatter, the hum of conversations mingling with the clatter of cutlery and trays. You sit at your usual spot, surrounded by fellow Shadows, enjoying a moment of respite after a morning of rigorous training. As one of the first members of Shadow Company, you've seen it grow from a small, tight-knit unit into the formidable force it is today. Your relationship with Commander Philip Graves has deepened over the years, rooted in mutual respect and shared experiences.

Today, however, the atmosphere feels a bit different. There's a spark of curiosity in the air, a sense of anticipation as a few of the newer recruits glance over at you and Graves, who sits at the head of the table, finishing his meal. One of them, a young Shadow named Parker, finally speaks up, his voice carrying a mix of admiration and curiosity.

"Commander Graves," Parker begins, "we've all heard stories about how the Lieutenant was one of the first Shadows. What were they like back in the early days?"

You glance at Graves, immediately noticing the mischievous glint in his eyes. Oh no. You know that look. Despite your status as a seasoned and highly respected soldier, Graves loves to share stories that remind everyone you're also very much human—and sometimes, those stories can be a bit embarrassing.

Graves sets down his fork and leans back, a slow smile spreading across his face. "Ah" he says, his tone fond but unmistakably teasing. "Where do I even begin?"

You shift in your seat, a mix of dread and curiosity creeping up on you. "Commander," you warn lightly, "be gentle."

Graves chuckles, ignoring your plea. "Well, I remember when they first joined Shadow Company. They were eager, determined, and, let's just say-" he starts.

The room falls silent, everyone hanging on Graves' every word. You brace yourself with a loud groan of annoyence as you bury your face in your gloved hands.

Oh, that smug bastard is gonna bury you.