"Would it be possible to meet up with them first?" I asked sincerely.
Silence fell over the group. For a moment, all I could hear were hushed whispers.
"Pride and Envy…? They're here too?"
"W-We're so lucky…"
"We're saved!"
"T-Three single rankers are here to rescue us. Thank the lord."
Hope turned to face me and nodded. "Alright."
That was easy.
"Thanks." I responded.
Hope handed Defender's injured body to a second-year student and motioned for the group to follow him.
All the students, despite their dire circumstances, they all cheered in joy.
Why wouldn't they be?
After all, one of humanity's strongest was guarding them.
They had reason to feel proud.
The image I had built as Hope was truly taking shape. I could see it in their eyes—admiration, relief, and trust.
As we walked, I noticed how they kept glancing at me. Not just the girls, but even the boys.
Their eyes gleamed with awe.
I ignored them, keeping my focus ahead.
