The Demon and the Hero - Chapter 2- Confession

Lenora has been granted the noble title of a Duchess. However, her status as the Hero demands her presence in the capital most of the time. As such, she seldom returns to her hometown.

Everyone knew her as the Hero of Justice or something around it, rather than as a Duchess. As such, Lenora knew that this person was the same. Not to talk about it, she suspected him to be a demon.

She could smell the demonic aura from very far and this being in front of her was reeking of the same scent which she once hated.

She still hates demons, but not all of them. After she went to the other side she realized that the demons are so much like humans. They have homes and families. They work to afford their necessities, and they also have festivals. It was just the Monarchs ruling over them that were the reason why the Demons became a race to be feared.

That’s why when she sensed the demonic presence of this boy, she didn’t immediately pick up her sword.

Looking at him she found herself becoming a little curious, as she asked, “What happened to your head? Are you injured?” She could see the dark patches of blood on the bandage, signifying he was injured recently and the wounds were still green.

From behind the mask, the boy shook his head and shyly exposed, “It’s…actually, I heard humans hate demons that’s why…I plucked off my horns.”

Hera’s eyes widened hearing that as she covered her mouth. Lenora was shocked as well, as she narrowed her eyes and asked, “Aren’t horns a sign of pride for you people? Not to talk, your horns are an extension of your cranium…didn’t it hurt?”

Lenora stayed there for a few weeks and got to know about their customs and beliefs. Not to talk about, when she slaughtered a demon, they always begged her to not touch their horns.

Then…

“Ah-haha…it did hurt. I cried for a long time but I didn’t stop since my determination to come here was greater than any pain or pride.” The voice, which began with playfulness, soon turned serious near the end, signifying how determined the boy was.

Lenora couldn’t help but feel that the boy was quite courageous…and slightly foolish.

Leaning back in the seat, she crossed her hands on her bountiful bust and asked, “What about the mask? Do you carry any scars?”

The boy shook his head before he slowly unwrapped the fabric and told her, “It’s…my face…that attracts unnecessary attention.”

Lenora’s lips parted slightly while Hera, who was a devoted wife, blushed seeing the face that revealed itself from behind the fabric.

He was a young man of striking beauty, with eyes that were a deep, rich brown—sharp and intense, as they could see straight through to your soul. His long, dark hair fell over his shoulders in smooth, midnight waves, framing his face in a way that made him seem almost otherworldly.

There was a quiet elegance in his gaze, softened just enough to make you feel drawn to him, yet powerful enough to hold you spellbound. He carried an air of mystery and allure, each small movement seemingly crafted to captivate and charm anyone who had the fortune of meeting his gaze.

Lenora has seen so many charming people during her journey that she never thought she would freeze upon seeing someone ever again. However, upon gazing at his face…all she could mutter was,

“Beautiful…”

The young man lowered his gaze, a soft blush adorning his cheeks as he felt his heart flutter upon being complimented by the lady.

Lenora soon collected herself, before she coughed, bringing her dear childhood friend out of the daze as well.

“Uh…tea…yes…tea…I shall bring it!” Hera hurriedly turned away and made her way out of the room.

Lenora, now much calmer, stated, “I understand why you hide your face. With such allure, you will attract quite a lot of women.”

And even some men—she held herself from saying that.

The boy nodded before he respectfully asked, “Shall I keep my face covered or…”

“Up to you…not like you made me flustered or anything.” She shrugged as she took the water from the table and took several big gulps.

After a few moments, Hera arrived, her face slightly moist—must be because she washed her face to extinguish the heat—before placing the beverage on the table.

“Please have some tea.” Lenora offered before the young man nodded and very carefully took the cup.

He gently blew over the tea, letting the warm steam rise around him. He paused to breathe in its delicate aroma, each movement smooth and captivating, as if he were made to enchant anyone watching. His eyes closed softly, revealing long, dark lashes that framed his calm expression.

He took a slow, thoughtful sip, then let out a quiet, contented sigh that seemed to linger in the air, effortlessly drawing everyone in.

“*Cough*” This time it was the blond maid who had to help her friend.

Lenora rolled her eyes, pretending that she wasn’t staring at him just now, as she casually asked, “So why are you here? Some sort of revenge you want to take on me?” From his features, it could be said that Riphez belonged to a noble demon. As such, she assumed he might be here to propose a death match or something.

Hearing her words, Riphez smiled before shaking his head, “My intent of coming here isn’t hate, rather, it’s the contrary. “

Lenora failed to realize what he meant; however, before she could have asked anything, she saw Riphez getting up on his feet and brushing down any wrinkles on his clothes with a calm, practiced motion.

He then took out a small rose from his jacket and under Hera’s widened eyes, confessed,

“I am in love with you, Lady Lenora.”

*****

A/N:- Unexpected? Maybe not. Drop a comment…