บท 54: Count Theo
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The crisp mountain air filled my lungs as I stood on the edge of a small yet high cliff staring down at the vast expanse of the lake below. The water shimmered under the late afternoon sun with its surface reflecting the hues of the sky.
The once wild and untamed waters were now held back by a massive dam of dark brown wood that seemed to have appeared out of thin air.
"Incredible" I couldn't help but mutter as I marveled at the immense structure.
It was hard to believe that just a few hours ago this place had been nothing but a chaotic torrent of water and debris.
"Yes she is" The Duchesses voice rang out beside me with her gaze fixed on Nessa.
The Duchess's smile was warm as she looked toward our companion who was the cause of such a scene. I followed her line of sight and saw a beautiful white haired girl who's long pointed ear's stuck out straight. Of course it was Nessa that was standing near the base of the dam, her hands raised as a soft and almost calm looking green aura surrounded her.
The magic she wielded gave off a palpable aura even from this distance. Behind her, Ella stood vigilant as always with one hand resting on the hilt of her sword while she constantly scanned the surroundings.
It had been a few weeks since Leon had become an 'unofficial' member of our party. Though I seldom saw the dark skinned man his presence lingered in the back of my mind. His skill was undeniably valuable but I couldn't shake the discomfort of having him around.
"I'm sure the count will be happy" I said shaking away my thoughts and focusing on the task at hand.
"Yes he will owe you as well" The Duchess respond making me glance at her.
"I didn't decide to help out to make him owe me" I countered frowning slightly although she only raised her sharp eyebrow at me.
"Yes Hero but that doesn't change the fact that he does" The duchess made a small smile.
"It's always good to have friends even in places like this." Her words left a bitter taste and yet I still knew she was right which is why I could only let out a soft sigh.
"Perhaps" I looked to my side meeting her gaze before turning my attention back to the scene below.
"I think Nessa's finished up" I said seeing Nessa and Ella had started making their way back up the path towards us.
The Duchess smiled not speaking before she stepped closer toward the edge of the cliff, She glanced back at me one last time before simply stepping off. Her body disappeared downward gracefully as if she were weightless before a black aura seemed to appear around her as she landed softly on the ground.
'This woman' I thought with a mixture of admiration and exasperation as I Nessa and Ella waving at her.
Taking a deep breath I didn't hesitate and leapt off the edge. I relished the rush of wind against my face before channeling mana through my body and slowed my descent landing softly just beside the Duchess, Although before I could even move I saw a blur and felt something squishy press against my arm.
"So how did I do?" I looked down slightly and saw Nessa asking me eagerly as her hands gripped my arm searching for for praise.
"Amazing" I decided to go along with it as I brushed a strand of hair from her face causing her cheeks to flush a delicate pink at my touch.
"The newly engaged couple can't stop flirting can they?" the Duchess sighed dramatically with a smirk etched upon her plump lips making me feel slightly embarrassed.
"Let's head back" I ignored her looking at Ella to my side who nodded in agreement.
The lake was used as the nearby city's water supply so the distance wasn't far enough for us to camp for the night. We made our way until the sight of buildings surrounded by a tall wall appeared in our view, And it didn't take long after entering before I could see a large path winding through a lush landscape.
The grand silhouette of a large two story manor came into view. It was an impressive sight with walls lined of white and grey brick, although not quite as magnificent as the Duchess's own estate in comparison.
"Hero welcome back" My gaze moved away from the manor and toward a voice that spoke respectfully.
Just in front of us was a neatly dressed young man with long hair tied that was tied up in a ponytail, He was slightly handsome with a more academic feeling. Wether it was his clean and wrinkle free blazer or the black glasses that framed his composed eye he looked like a scholar more then anything.
"Count" I greeted him as I nodded my head in his direction.
"Please I already told you to call me Theodore" The count or Theodore bowed his head slightly with a small smile.
"After all you are now not only the savor of Yearwood but also my benefactor" His words held an obvious thankfulness in them that made me glad I offered my held.
"I'm not the one who is your benefactor" I waved my hand before gesturing to my side where Nessa stood.
"Of course" Theodore didn't hesitate with a light nod as he bowed toward Nessa who squirmed slightly from the attention.
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