you're late

"Indeed, it was I who vanquished it," Ming declared nonchalantly. "It was a formidable three-star regal aquatic creature, with whom I engaged in a protracted and fierce battle beneath the waves before ultimately defeating it."

"Alone, you accomplished this feat?"

"Indeed."

"You are truly formidable... And now?"

"Yes, this fish is immense; it has taken me a considerable amount of time to slice it in half, and I reckon it will take even longer to finish the task."

Ming subtly revealed an expression of exhaustion and difficulty, hoping the astute woman would notice his faint cues.

Upon hearing this, Marie tentatively offered, "Do you need our assistance?"

"Oh, that would be most welcome," Ming replied enthusiastically. "I caught a glimpse of the young girl with the colossal blade, and I immediately knew she was the industrious type."

"..."

Marie hesitated, suddenly feeling as though she had been swindled.