She was being forced to join this journey with the hero because it was her mission as the Saint of Light—to help the hero save the world from war.
When they finally arrived at the village, many people greeted them warmly, grateful because they had just been saved from the Demon yesterday. However, some of the wealthier villagers didn't like the hero party, blaming them for destroying their property during the battle.
That day, the party worked to heal more people, distribute food, and help the village return to a normal state. Night came quickly, and after the hard work, everyone in the team felt exhausted—after all, they were just human beings.
A girl in the hero party used magic to create a spatial gate leading back to their inn. The strange thing about this village was that there were no women at all—it was just a group of men who had traveled and settled there.
Lyer was deep in thought as she was the last to step toward the gate. Even people with bad intentions… when their problems are solved, they show happiness. They even offer gifts, and they don't steal anything. This makes me happy. Perhaps I can guide them to the right path, she thought, smiling softly at the village.
She turned back toward the gate, feeling satisfied, but just before she could step through, she heard a voice.
"Ha… what a lucky day I'm having."
A man appeared, using a cursed item to trap her. The gate closed behind her, and Lyer couldn't move. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't break free. Panic rose in her chest as more figures approached, their intentions unclear but clearly dangerous.
Tears filled her eyes, fear taking over her face. Why is this happening? My Lord… please protect me, she whispered silently, praying for divine intervention.
Meanwhile, the hero noticed Lyer had not passed through the gate. He grew worried and focused all his energy, gathering mana as quickly as possible to open the gate again. Lyer, overwhelmed by fear, closed her eyes and silently prayed to her God for help.
Then… everything fell silent.