As I rode on the horse, taken from the now decimated and smoldering bandit camp, I leisurely made my way along the winding, sandy road. The rhythmic pounding of hooves echoed in perfect harmony with the distant sounds of nature, creating a soothing soundset that accompanied my journey back to the grandiose mansion. The excursion had turned out to be unexpectedly fruitful, providing not only a clear understanding of Baalkaroth's fighting style but also an opportunity for me to delve deeper into my understanding of my soul projection. As I traveled, taking in the beauty of the surrounding landscape, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction at settling my debts with Baalkaroth, whose demeanor had surprisingly shifted to one of joviality after his recent "meal."
It's must be true what they say, you are not yourself if when you are hungry....
As I stood before the breathtaking beauty of the scenery, my mind was interrupted by Baalkaroth's sly voice. He always had a way of disturbing me from my peaceful reverie.
"So, tell me," he began, "what do you have in mind after this? I suppose a reckless bastard like you cannot stay put in one place for too long."
I let out a deep sigh, trying to shake off his words. "Believe it or not, that is exactly what I desire," I replied. "But unfortunately, circumstances will not allow me to rest and relax as I please. So if you're worried about not getting any more souls, don't fret. There will be a fucking banquet for you soon enough." A dry chuckle escaped my lips as I thought about all the events that are soon to happen, even though it was more a self-deprecating laugh
As I approached my destination, the sounds of armor clanking and voices shouting reached my ears. It was clear that the garrison had been alerted to my arrival.
"The young master has arrived!" One of the guards bellowed, causing the others who had been lounging around to snap into action. Even before I reached the gates of the grand mansion, they swung open and Rox, the head butler, emerged with a group of men in tow.
I could see the concern etched on Rox's face as he neared me. Two guards flanked him, offering their hands to help me dismount from my horse. But I declined, choosing instead to jump off myself before patting my faithful steed and handing the reins over to the guards.
''What has transpired?'' I questioned, my hand gently patting his shoulders as I saw the worry in his gaze
''Young master, you had informed the count and countess of your return in a day's time, but it has been three days already...the entire county has been turned upside down in search of you.'' The old men's voice answered as he looked at each inch of my body to see if I was wounded
''Well, it is a good thing I am here now. I shall make my way to my parents and offer my sincerest apologies. After all, I will be departing again in less than a week.'' I replied as I gazed at the mansion
"Make sure my new personal horse is cleaned and cared for," I instructed them as I gave one last affectionate pat to the animal. After a full day's ride, I couldn't help but feel attached to it. Perhaps I should give it a name.. but that can wait. Right now, I needed to see what my father wanted from me.
I chuckled, shaking off Rox's words as I led the way into the mansion, the grand structure looming over us as if it was watching our every move. We entered the receiving hall, where Count and Countess were anxiously waiting, their faces paling at the sight of me.
"Favian!" The count exclaimed, rushing towards me. "I thought something terrible had happened to you! We've been frantic with worry!"
''There is was no need to worry about ; just as I said I had some business to take care of '' I replied with a smile as I embraced my parents. My mother's arms tightened around me with relief.
''As long as it is not dangerous''Father sighed , as I noticed the black hue around his eyes, seems like he had trouble sleeping. Maybe the expedition took its toll on him too, just like for me....
''Where have you been, my dear?'' Mother asked, gently stroking the back of my head.
I returned her embrace before signaling for her to release me. ''Just wandering through the countryside to fulfill some debts I owed. As promised, father, there was no need to worry about any consequences. However, I do apologize for miscalculating the time it would take.''
My father let out a heavy sigh as soon as he saw me, rubbing his hand over his weary face before turning to address me as he changed topic ''It's a good thing you came at least, the preparations for the carriage have been completed, soon you are to depart . Now listen to me closely, Favian. You will be representing our county at the upcoming event. Your mother and I will not be able to attend, so it is crucial that you behave.''
I raised an eyebrow in confusion and asked for clarification on what exactly he meant by "behaving".
''Just don't start any fights and please refrain from drinking too much,'' he said with a worried tone, his gaze fixed on mine. I couldn't help but roll my eyes inwardly at his concern.
"Well, I suppose I can handle that much," I assured him with a casual shrug.
''Very well then, I trust you to behave accordingly."
My gaze shifted towards Sir Roy and Sir Caen standing nearby, and I added, "By the way, I would like for them to accompany me as well." But before he could respond, I interjected, "Oh, and Father? I also have something important to discuss about Sir Roy." His brow furrowed in confusion as he asked me what it was about.
I took a deep breath before explaining myself, "Well you see, Father, I had given him some orders to follow and promised him a small farm and knighthood once they were completed. And now that he has fulfilled them with perfection, I believe it is only right for me to fulfill my end of the promise. So I would like you to enfoiffe Sir Roy with a small farm."
My father's piercing gaze lingered on me for a moment, his brow furrowed with worry. He finally nodded, but his thoughts seemed to be elsewhere, lost in his own musings. "A small farm will be no big deal," he said absentmindedly, as if trying to convince himself.
"Very well, if you allow me, I would like to retire to my room. I am simply dying of exhaustion," I stated, my voice betraying the weariness that had settled in my bones.
"Of course, darling," my mother responded softly, her hand reaching out to give mine a gentle squeeze
With weary steps, I trudged to my room and collapsed onto the plush mattress of my bed. As I sank into the softness, a sense of relief washed over me, lifting the weight that had been pressing down on my shoulders all night. The evening's events had drained me completely, and I knew that sleep would be my only escape.
I closed my eyes and allowed myself a moment to catch my breath. These past two weeks had been a whirlwind of chaos and recovery, leaving me with no time for rest or peace. Back then even the slightest movement brought back flashes of pain from my injuries. Reaching out with trembling fingers, I conjured a small flame and used it to light the candles beside my bed.
Finally settling under the covers, I let out a deep sigh as the soft blankets cocooned me in warmth. It was time for an early night's rest, something I desperately needed after all that had happened. As I drifted off into slumber, my mind grateful for the respite, I couldn't help but wonder what tomorrow would bring.