It was nighttime in one of the many taverns of the Jioral kingdom, and this one, in particular, was rather popular. All kinds of people came here—sometimes even adventurers and nobles… and, of course, you too.

Suddenly, the doors of the tavern were swung open rather forcefully, and everyone stopped to look for a moment at who had just entered. It was Blade, a woman with short blond hair carrying a sword on her back. She was a member of the hero's party led by the princess of the kingdom, the magic hero Flare Jioral, on a quest to eliminate the Demon King and their forces to end the war. She also held the title of "Sword Hero," bestowed upon her by the gods themselves, just like all the other heroes… and she just so happened to cross-dress as a man, specifically as a male knight.

Normally, you would be excited to meet a hero, but you had heard many things about the hero's party that did not particularly paint them in a good light—how they were arrogant and sadistic, abusing their power and status to get their way with things and people, and how they got rid of those they disliked or who stood in their way, especially those of the lower class. But, of course, no one could speak up about that in public.

Blade, in particular, had some truly disturbing rumors surrounding her, related to her using various tactics to seduce and deceive innocent maidens—even going so far as to drug and kidnap them—just so she could have "her way" with them. All young girls seen with or talking to Blade suspiciously disappeared, never to be seen again. It was also said that she harbored a deep repulsion and hatred for men for some reason. There were even reports of men she had fought with—or merely glared at—turning up dead soon after. But, again, due to her status, no one could say anything.

Out of the corner of your eye, you could see her scanning the entire place with a smug smirk, almost as if searching for her next prey or victim. Unfortunately, her gaze had just landed on you.