"Likewise. We've heard a lot about you, my lady," Caleb said. "Some of our members admire your bravery, and how you've chosen to walk this path despite everything. It takes real guts to stand against the tide."
"Indeed," Mateo chimed in, a bit more theatrical in tone. "That you would train, endure hardship, and willingly walk the thorn-strewn path—even though you're an esteemed noblewoman? That's truly admirable."
They looked at me the way kids look at festival fireworks—wide-eyed, almost like I was something rare. They were practically glowing.
'H-help. They're blinding.'
"Haha..." I let out an awkward laugh, unsure what to do with this sudden attention. I scratched my cheek, glancing to the side.
Alessio sighed, rubbing the back of his neck like this was just another Tuesday.
"That's enough, you two."
