Beneath the sunlight that wasn't overwhelmingly harsh, a figure glided above the heads of the trio. This being had a large physique, adorned with stunning blue scales and a length that defied measurement.
Aksa estimated that it might be 10 kilometers away, and that's what he pondered. To the other two beside him, the sight no longer stirred wonder. After all, this dragon—the creature they beheld—was Freya, an entity worshiped by the dragon race from time immemorial.
Soaring through clouds, the dragon made its way towards the peak of a towering white spire that punctured the heavens.
Vivia clarified.
"In that tower dwells the dragon deity. Legend has it that anyone who scales to the top can marry her, and she will grant a single wish of theirs."
"What's the point of marrying a dragon? You'll likely end up as its meal," Heliet pouted, puffing out her cheeks.
Heliet feared that Aksa might attempt to climb the tower, leaving her alone. However, Aksa didn't care about such myths at all.
His sole purpose here was to live leisurely and embark on adventures. Marriage could wait, he figured.
After feasting on the fish dish he had prepared, Aksa rose from his seat.
"I'm heading back now. What about you two?" he asked.
"I've still got things to do later; go on ahead."
"Then I'll cook dinner."
"Sure, prepare some tasty meat for me."
"I need to do a patrol around the vicinity first, see you back in the city."
With no backward glance, Aksa walked away. Once out of sight, Vivia sighed deeply, then looked at Heliet.
"Haven't you told him the truth yet?"
"I don't want to worry him. Besides, I enjoy his company."
A little smile crept on Heliet's face, prompting Vivia to shake her head repeatedly—it was the first time Vivia witnessed such genuineness in that smile.
"Sooner or later, it will come to pass... The reason I stay in Antares city is also because you can no longer protect this place."
Vivia stood up to leave, but after a few steps, Heliet called out.
"Thank you for that time. If you hadn't come, Antares might no longer exist."
"It's okay, consider it a favor from a friend. Unfortunately, I didn't finish off the dragon of destruction; one day, it might return here."
After their brief exchange, they parted ways.
The gentle breeze played with Heliet's hair, as the grass and wildflowers fluttered around her.
"After living nine hundred years, I suppose I have no regrets left."
***
Returning to the guild for my fishing bounty, Lulu cheerfully handed over a pouch of coins that seemed excessively generous.
"Fifty silver coins."
"Miss Lulu?" I inquired with surprise in my voice.
"You've got a bonus... Aksa, you've been diligent in defeating the slimes which is why the guild awarded you extra."
"I've only been beating slimes, though. It's nothing extraordinary."
Lulu dismissed the idea with a wave of her hand.
"The truth is, slimes have been multiplying near the town, and that's because no adventurers hunt them anymore. Since you've come along, Aksa, it's no longer an issue, and we can maintain control over their population."
Still puzzled, I chose to accept it graciously.
"Thank you."
"If you're really that grateful, maybe we could go on a date?" Lulu teased, winking naughtily.
"I'll think about it," I replied, which only led her to pout with inflated cheeks.
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