Chapter 520 - 405: The Bustling Black Stone Territory
Chapter 520: Chapter 405: The Bustling Black Stone Territory
「Afternoon.」
Raylo and Avril said their goodbyes to Marquis Orlando.
They went to the plaza outside the castle, where a single whistle brought Baofeng swooping down from the sky.
"Let’s go home."
Raylo helped Avril settle onto Baofeng’s broad back.
"SKRAW!"
Baofeng let out a shrill cry and, with a powerful beat of its wings, shot into the sky, carrying the pair north toward Black Stone Territory.
The high-altitude wind, carrying a hint of the ocean’s salty humidity and the dry freshness of the mainland, was invigorating as it brushed against their faces.
Baofeng flew steadily above the clouds, its tawny Iron Feathers glinting like metal in the sunlight.
Below, rolling hills and sprawling plains unfolded like a giant green carpet, receding slowly beneath them.
Avril leaned against Raylo’s broad chest, settling into a comfortable position.
She watched the ever-shifting scenery below, a serene smile on her face.
The feeling of soaring freely through the sky together filled her with an immense sense of peace and happiness.
"What are you thinking about?"
Raylo lowered his head and asked softly.
"I was just thinking about when we’ll be able to travel just like this, without a care in the world."
Avril tilted her head back to look into Raylo’s eyes, a hint of longing in her voice.
"To see the Hanhai Desert in the east, the Frozen Snowfield in the north, and all those legendary landscapes that exist only in books."
Raylo’s heart stirred at her words.
’It’s true,’ he thought. ’Ever since I came to this world, it seems I’ve been constantly rushing around—striving to survive, to become stronger, to protect my territory.’
’I’ve been to many places, but every time was for a specific purpose, filled with battles and schemes.’
’I’ve never once been on a real journey.’
"That day will come."
Raylo tightened his arms around her and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead.
"Once we’ve dealt with all our problems, and once the Duchy is completely at peace, I’ll take you anywhere you want to go."
"Mm."
Avril closed her eyes blissfully.
The journey home was long and peaceful.
They encountered no further trouble.
By day, they flew above the clouds, admiring the magnificent landscapes below.
At night, they would land in a secluded valley or by a lake, light a bonfire, roast the jerky they’d brought, and cuddle together while gazing at the starry sky.
The three little ones—Moonlight, Coal Ball, and Lightning—also took the rare opportunity to enjoy the leisurely time.
The little ones chased each other playfully through the woods or dove into the lake to catch a few plump fish for a late-night snack.
Sun, on the other hand, preferred to lie by the bonfire, seeming to relish the warm and peaceful feeling.
This continued for several days.
When the familiar, unbroken range of black mountains appeared on the distant horizon, Raylo knew they were home.
The closer they got to Black Stone Territory, the more Raylo could feel the burgeoning vitality within his domain.
The roads had been widened and smoothed, and occasionally, caravans laden with goods could be seen moving slowly along them.
Vast new tracts of farmland stretched out on either side of the roads, where hardy, cold-resistant crops grew strong.
Newly built villages were scattered picturesquely across the plain, with wisps of smoke curling up from chimneys, filling the air with the scent of life.
When the majestic and Solid Black Stone Castle, built from giant black stones, came into view, the joy of homecoming also appeared on Avril’s face.
"We’re back," she said softly.
However, when they actually flew over Black Stone Castle, the sight below left them stunned.
At that moment, Black Stone Territory was as bustling as a giant marketplace.
The open ground outside the castle was densely packed with over a thousand colorful tents, forming a massive temporary encampment.
The encampment bustled with activity. Knights were everywhere, clad in various kinds of Armor and bearing different crests.
Some were polishing their Weapons, others were sparring with companions, and still others gathered in small groups, talking and laughing loudly as they discussed the upcoming tournament.
The air was thick with the aroma of roasting meat, the rich scent of ale, and that distinctly masculine air of Knights—a mixture of sweat and hormones.
"Good heavens, where did all these people come from?"
Avril covered her mouth in astonishment, gazing at the sea of people below.
A surprised expression crossed Raylo’s face as well.
He knew the terms he had offered were enough to attract a large number of Knights.
But even he hadn’t expected the turnout to be this massive.
By his estimation alone, there were probably already several hundred Knights gathered in Black Stone Territory for the tournament.
And by the looks of it, a steady stream of people was still pouring in from every corner of the Duchy.
Baofeng let out a resounding cry as it slowly descended into Black Stone Castle’s Central Plaza.
Its arrival immediately drew the attention of the surrounding Knights.
"Look! The Lord is back!"
"Is that Count Raylo’s mount, the Storm Griffin King? How majestic!"
"The Lord has returned! Does that mean the tournament is about to start?"
The Knights quickly gathered around, their eyes fixed on Raylo. Their gazes were filled with awe, adoration, and a hint of fanaticism.
To these common Free Knights, Raylo was a living Legend.