PAID

The Heart of the City

In the heart of the city square, a place always bustling with people, there were even more gathered today. So many, in fact, that the wide plaza was nearly packed with no empty space to be found.

The reason for such a crowd?

“Ladies and gentlemen, the graduation ceremony of Aegis Academy’s 402nd class and the subsequent Hero Commendation Ceremony will commence shortly. Please take your seats.”

Today was the day of the Aegis Academy graduation ceremony, which also marked the day the graduating students were officially bestowed the title of "hero." It was an annual event, but today it had drawn an unprecedented crowd.

“Wow, so many people. I’ve only ever seen this on TV, but it’s my first time attending. Is it always this packed?”@@novelbin@@

“Not really. I’ve come to this a few times, but I’ve never seen this many people. Sure, it’s a popular event, but this is on another level. I mean, if even you wanted to come, it must be something special, right? Ah, look over there, there are still seats. If we don’t hurry, we’ll have to stand the whole time.”

“Wow, there are still seats available? You really know your way around these things. I’m so glad you agreed to come with me this time.”

“…Actually, now that we’re here, I feel like I should ask—why did you invite me of all people? We’ve only talked a handful of times since you transferred.”

“Hehe, I didn’t want to be alone with no one to talk to, you know? And I knew you were really into this kind of stuff, so I thought it’d be nice to have someone knowledgeable with me. And, well, thanks to you, we found seats!”

“…Whatever. It’s not a big deal.”

Still, despite their small talk, the sheer size of the audience was highly unusual. The number of people drawn to this ceremony was extraordinary, and the reason lay in the graduating class itself.

“Look! Over there! It’s Yoon Si-woo!”

“Oh wow, he rarely makes public appearances these days, but I guess he couldn’t miss his friends' graduation.”

“Whoa, this is my first time seeing him in person! He’s even more handsome than on TV, right?”

“…Yeah, I guess so. Look at all the people screaming. Are those the members of his fan club? I heard they were going to gather here because they were sure he’d show up for his friends' ceremony. Wait, don’t tell me the reason you wanted to come today is because…”

“Huh? Sorry, I didn’t catch that over the cheers. What did you say?”