Chapter 3 – The Red-Cloaked Fighter Girl

The soft glow of the afternoon sun bathed the royal capital of Elyzaria as Leonix and Seraphine strolled through the main street. The lively atmosphere was filled with smiles and warm greetings for the “new hero.”

“People here seem pretty happy,” Leonix remarked casually.

Seraphine nodded. “Of course. Your presence gives everyone hope.”

“No need to be so formal. Just call me Leon.”

Seraphine blushed slightly. “Alright… Leon.”

Just as they reached the central plaza, a loud voice echoed from the training tower.

“HEY! Who’s the guy in the red and black coat? Looks like he walked straight out of a theater rehearsal!”

A girl in a blazing red cloak leapt down from a wall, landing right in front of them. Her long brown hair flowed behind her, and a large sword hung from her back.

Leonix raised an eyebrow. “And you are?”

The girl smirked. “Name’s Layla Alesia. Number one freelance fighter in this city! And you... are what, the hero of dramatic entrances?”

Leonix gave a sly smile. “If this is part of the welcome party, I’m actually impressed.”

Layla scoffed. “Nice. Barely met the guy and he's already on first-name terms. Must be nice, being the handsome hero and all.”

Seraphine quickly stepped between them. “Layla! Be polite. This is the hero summoned by the priests!”

Layla rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah. Just didn’t expect our hero to be... this flamboyant.”

Leonix chuckled softly. Inside, he was far from annoyed.

‘This girl’s got spirit. A bit loud, but amusing.’

And so, the former Demon King in disguise, Leonix, met Layla — the bold and brash warrior girl, unaware that their world was on the brink of a new chapter.