The narrative picks up with Elliott, a knight, returning from a brutal campaign against undead beasts in the north. He immediately informs his wife, Flora, of his decision to divorce her, presenting her with a royal decree that not only annuls their marriage but also retroactively invalidates their union. This decree also sanctions his marriage to Emily, a woman who accompanied him and is now hailed as a saint. Flora, a former needlewoman from a minor viscount family, is devastated but resigned, having spent the past year and eight months praying for Elliott's safe return while he was away fighting.
Elliott, who was a junior knight at the start of the campaign, rose through the ranks to become Vice-Captain of the Royal Knights and a national hero after his sword was blessed, becoming a holy sword. His exploits, alongside those of Emily, who possesses powerful purification abilities, became widely celebrated, offering hope to the kingdom amidst the undead threat. However, this fame also led to rampant rumors about their relationship, overshadowing Flora's existence and leading to whispers that she was an unworthy, passive wife. The constant speculation and the eventual confirmation of their affair through indirect channels left Flora ostracized, losing her livelihood and facing social isolation.
Meanwhile, Kevin, a junior knight and former colleague of Elliott, witnesses the divorce with anger and disgust. He believes Flora is being unfairly treated and is disgusted by Elliott's actions, especially as he had previously warned Elliott about his wife's existence. Kevin, despite his low rank, uses a concealment magic orb to shield the scene from public view, showing his concern for Flora. He recalls his past friendship with Elliott and Flora, and his disappointment in Elliott's betrayal.
Following the divorce, Flora leaves her home, giving her unfinished wedding dress to Kevin's lover, Chelsea, as a way to repay her kindness. Chelsea, deeply sympathetic, buys the dress with her savings intended for her own marriage to Kevin, providing Flora with travel money. Flora then decides to visit Dolph, a blacksmith who forged Elliott's first sword, in a craftsman village.
Upon arriving at the village, Flora is greeted warmly by Dolph and his wife, Barbara, who remember her as "Flora of the Duck Soup" from her time helping them four years prior. While there, she encounters Gilbert, a former knight who was injured in battle and is now a mercenary. Gilbert reveals he heard about Flora's situation from a former superior who regrets the injustice done to her. He expresses his belief that Flora was blameless and that knights should protect their loved ones. Dolph, Barbara, and Gilbert decide to embark on a journey, and Dolph offers Flora a position as their attendant, which she accepts, finding purpose in being needed.
The narrative also delves into the political machinations surrounding Elliott's rise. The Prime Minister's aide expresses his unease about the extravagant celebrations for Elliott and Emily, given the ongoing suffering of the displaced populace. He notes the king's haste in elevating Elliott and sanctioning his marriage to Emily, likely to solidify his loyalty and promote the image of divine favor. The aide also recalls his former friend, the former Knight Commander, who resigned his prestigious position to return to the northern front, a decision the aide deems foolish but understandable given the circumstances.
The chapters conclude with a glimpse of the victory banquet, where the holy sword is presented. Some junior knights notice the sword appears less radiant than it did on the battlefield, a detail that goes unnoticed by most. The story also shows Dolph, Barbara, and Flora preparing for their journey, with Dolph offering Flora a position to help them, and Gilbert expressing concern about the danger of their destination. The narrative highlights the stark contrast between the public perception of heroism and the underlying personal betrayals and injustices.
