Hero of Kuli

Lady Ashford wiped the blood from her blade, a fierce smile playing on her lips as she looked at Theo and Ely. "Indeed," she said, her voice filled with pride. "You've both proven your worth in ways I never could have imagined." The maids beamed under her praise, their own weapons still dripping with demon blood.

The knights and townsfolk gathered around them, their eyes wide with a mix of fear and admiration. The whispers grew louder, comparing their fighting prowess to the legendary Empress Lilian herself. Theo felt a strange mix of pride and humility wash over him. He had never sought to be a hero, but here he was, fighting alongside these powerful women.

"Right," Lady Ashford said, her voice filled with satisfaction as she sheathed her sword. She turned to the knights, her smile as sharp as the blade she had just wielded. "We must fortify our defenses and prepare for any remaining threats. The Hazzari will not rest until they've taken their vengeance."