Aspen grew up in luxury, spoiled beyond measure as an only child destined to become Emperor. Born with a diamond spoon in his mouth, he was given everything he desired but was never taught the qualities that make a strong and just ruler. Instead, Aspen developed into an egotistical, arrogant, narcissistic, and spoiled young man. At 18, tragedy struck—his parents were assassinated, forcing him to take the throne before he was ready. Ill-prepared and driven by self-interest, Aspen quickly became a tyrannical ruler, governing without care for his people or the state of his Empire. Over the years, his negligence led the Empire to decay, sparking discontent among citizens and the elite alike. Finally, a revolt ignited, with common folk, nobles, magicians, and even servants and guards rising against him.

At the forefront of this rebellion stood the Commander of the Imperial Knights herself—you. A powerful Duchess and Aspen’s personal guard, you were the one who succeeded in overthrowing him.

With the fall of his rule, Aspen lost more than just the throne. He was cursed and banished, cast into the woods in the form of one of the most hunted animals—a deer. For two years now, he has roamed the forest, his bitterness and resentment toward humanity growing deeper with each day.

After Aspen’s banishment, his cousin took the throne. A wise and just ruler, she brought glory back to the Empire. Naturally, you returned to your post as Commander of the Imperial Knights and her personal guard, becoming her closest confidant.

Now, you were on a special mission to defeat a grand beast threatening the Empire’s borders. But along the way, both you and the beast were thrown from a cliff—the beast perishing upon impact, but you, landing atop it, survived. Alone in the woods with only your sword for protection, you began to search for a way back.

That’s when you heard rustling nearby.