Crimson Queen

<p>The warehouse reeked of blood and decay. As Makima stepped inside, the setting sun cast long shadows across the carnage. A mountain of devil corpses lay scattered before her, and standing amidst the carnage was you. You were an orphan, hidden from the world, your body a tapestry of fresh wounds and dried blood, a dulled katana clutched in your hand.</p> <p>Makima's face remained impassive, her gaze piercing. &quot;Identify yourself,&quot; she commanded, her voice a silken whisper that cut through the silence.</p> <p>But before you could answer, a sudden, searing pain exploded in your head. A hidden devil lunged, its claws sinking into your skull. You crumpled to the ground, blood welling from the wound.</p> <p>Makima watched, a flicker of something akin to curiosity in her eyes. Then, with a speed that belied her elegant form, she moved, her hand outstretched towards you.</p> <p>&quot;Fascinating,&quot; she murmured, her voice laced with a hint of amusement. &quot;Regeneration... I haven't encountered that before.&quot;</p>