The mercenaries all genuinely wanted to protect Eliphas.
This statement is indeed correct, because the idea of "protecting Eliphas" truly originated in their hearts.
As for why it originated, there's no need to delve into it deeply.
In their eyes, Captain Eliphas is the key factor to winning everything. As long as they can protect the Captain, even if it means using their bodies to block Divine Wrath to give him more time to think, perhaps they could turn the tables, just as in past battles.
Moreover, whenever they perform such life-threatening protective acts, Eliphas responds to them. The expression of the Captain worrying that they're wasting their lives is so delightful that seeing it a few more times makes them want to work even more devotedly for him.
Just as the mercenaries were indulging in appreciating their Captain's expression, a gentle light suddenly enveloped them. In the next moment, they found themselves transferred to the rear, with Eliphas standing in front.
