The Headless Swordsman Is Accompanied By The Villainess’s Head

In my view, isn't every endpoint merely a gateway to a new beginning? This one-shot story certainly embodies that concept. Told from a third-person perspective, it revolves around the protagonist, Vira, on a mission to collect her destined head—the head of Lady Mirette Legusalle. Written in the present tense, the narrative weaves familiar tropes of nobility, but Vira, belonging to the Headless, injects a fresh twist into the conventional tale as she pursues her fate.

Mirette, as expected, is the daughter of a duke, poised, intelligent, and humble. Engaged to a prince, her life takes an unexpected turn when Duke Thea, known for her prophetic abilities, declares Mirette cursed. According to Thea, if Mirette proceeds with the marriage, disaster will strike the kingdom. Consequently, her engagement is dissolved, and Thea becomes the new princess-to-be. Despite the prophecy, Mirette tries to clear her name but falls gravely ill, leading to her isolation in a secluded mansion.

"The belief was that if she recuperated in a nature-rich setting, her health would improve," the story recounts.

During Vira's search for Mirette's head, she encounters the Headless, who seek the perfect head following their coming-of-age ceremony. Without their ideal heads, they remain incomplete until they find their destiny's crown, a perilous journey. Vira finds her match in this tale, amidst the dangers that come with the quest.

The story leaves room for speculation about the true intentions of Mirette, the prince, and Thea. Is Mirette ever more than a pawn in power games? Did the prince seek an excuse to end the engagement? Was Thea driven by personal ambition? While we may never know for sure, the act of taking Mirette's head turns out to be more than just murder. The Headless have a tradition of granting the wishes of the deceased, hinting at a possible courting ritual.

When Mirette contemplates her beheaded state, she finds newfound freedom and purpose. Vira offers revenge, but Mirette is uncertain. This outcome might be the best for her, allowing her to pursue simpler joys like cookies, tea, and perhaps even a touch of vengeance, followed by a journey to the sea.

The story, while brief, beautifully explores the theme of a new beginning, where the physical severance of Mirette's head symbolizes a spiritual liberation. The translator does a commendable job despite occasional gaps in the prose.

Thank you to the author for this heartwarming tale, and to the translator for their efforts. Japanese translations can be challenging, and they've done well. Lastly, I appreciate you, reader, for engaging with this piece.

Regarding Thea's prophecy, it's intriguing to ponder if there was some truth to it beyond her ulterior motives. Perhaps, by manipulating the prophecy and breaking Mirette's engagement, Thea inadvertently sealed her and the prince's fate, as Mirette now has a valid reason for seeking revenge. As a cautionary tale, Thea's actions aren't endorsed, but it makes for an engaging theory.

The concept is intriguing, but it leaves me wanting more. I would love to read at least three or four additional chapters that clearly outline the subsequent events. However, given that it's a one-shot, that's not possible. Regardless, the story earns a solid 4 stars from me. To provide some context, the act of taking someone's head isn't just murder; it signifies a profound merging and fulfilling their desires. The duke's daughter's backstory hints at the nature of these wishes. As a fan of narratives centered around shared bodies, particularly those with romantic connections, like "Two as One Princesses," this particular storyline resonates deeply. Unfortunately, it remains unfulfilled in this format.

Time to play the hero gentlemen

Loved it and can’t wait to read about valen