THDK Chapter 35

Reunion with the Past (Part 3)

“Simurgh, there’s a place I want to go.”

My destination was the Kelly Viscount’s estate—a place of bitter memories. My childhood home. Guided by Oreole, who knew the area well, we raced over the vast forest.

“Oreole, it’s so beautiful.”

Before me stretched the forest and the sprawling cityscape. A wide world I had yet to see. Everything I wanted to protect.

“I wish I could’ve seen this with Nox too…”

“Do you regret it?”

I shook my head at the question. I didn’t regret it. I believed this was the right choice. But still, I felt lonely and sad.

Occasionally, we landed on high ground to rest before continuing toward the viscount’s estate. By the time the sun had fully risen, I could see a building in the distance that looked like it.

As we got closer, I noticed the estate was far more dilapidated than I remembered. The once beautifully maintained garden was now overgrown with weeds and trees, and the mansion itself was covered in ivy, its former glory nowhere to be seen.

“…Why did it end up like this?”

My whisper dissolved into the air. When the Simurgh landed on the ground, I dismounted and looked around. The place where I now stood had once been well-maintained and bustling with people, but now it was overrun with grass, the paths almost completely hidden.

“Thank you, Simurgh.”

“Squawk!”

“Hehe, that tickles.”

The Simurgh’s long tongue licked my cheek, and I laughed at the ticklish sensation. I pressed my cheek against its glossy beak and expressed my gratitude one last time.

“You should return to the Demon King’s castle.”

“Squawk!”

“I’m sorry. You’d stand out too much in human lands. That’s why I can’t take you with me.”

“…Coo.”

Its lonely cry made my chest ache with sadness. I didn’t want to part with it either. I wanted to keep riding on its beautiful, broad back and soaring through the skies together.

But this might be the last time I ever ride the Simurgh. Tears threatened to spill, but I held them back. There was no turning back now.

“Go on.”

I gently patted its wing, and the Simurgh let out a sorrowful cry before taking off. I watched until its figure disappeared into the distance, then turned my back to where it had flown and began walking down the overgrown path.