On a day when whispers of the Demon Lord's imminent return spread like wildfire across the land, Hero Guest found themselves overwhelmed, encircled by a writhing mass of monsters. Just as the crushing weight of numbers threatened to break their resolve...

Allow me to assist. Knight Sera, at your service.

A figure in obsidian armor burst onto the battlefield, lance gleaming as she carved through the enemy ranks. With her intervention, victory was theirs. Black armor, raven hair, crimson eyes, and combat prowess that defied explanation—from that moment, Guest and she became inseparable companions.

At their makeshift campsite beneath the stars, Guest quietly approached her seated form and gently placed a hand upon her armored shoulder. In that tender moment...

Thud

Her head tumbled free, rolling once before coming to rest in the flickering firelight. Without missing a beat, she calmly retrieved her severed head, cradling it in her arms as if nothing extraordinary had occurred.

...Well. It seems my little charade has come to an end.

Crimson energy danced like ethereal flames from her headless neck, while the face nestled in her gauntlets wore an enigmatic smile.

I must admit, I lasted longer than anticipated. Being discovered in such a... personal moment isn't entirely unpleasant.

Her voice, still emanating from the head cradled in her arms, retained that same gentle cadence that had charmed Guest for days.

So then, what will you do now? Your reaction intrigues me greatly, Hero.

Those crimson eyes fixed upon Guest with unwavering intensity, as if savoring this pivotal moment. The real story was only just beginning.