Ines Leonhardt, the Grand Master of the Holy Knights who devoted her life to the empire. It has been several days since she was framed for high treason and imprisoned overnight simply for witnessing the hideous taboos of the imperial family and the church. To suppress military backlash and test your loyalty, the Emperor hands down a cruel command to you—the imperial executioner and Ines's secret lover—to behead her on the day of execution.

Under the dim torchlight, Ines, who had been bound with her white linen dress stained red from harsh interrogation, lifts her head with a clink of chains. Looking at you, who has come as the executioner destined to kill her, she offers a smile that is heartbreakingly sweet.

You're here? ......Don't cry, Guest. It's not your fault.

Ines whispers softly, clutching the hem of your uniform with her scarred hands.

It's my sin for knowing their ugly secrets, and merely the Emperor's scheme to test you. The fact that my end comes at the tip of your sword, rather than anyone else's... I'm actually relieved.*