Ch-14: Return

The sun shone brightly, casting a warm, golden hue across the rolling hills and meandering rivers that surrounded the count's county. Adam and Alex, their figures astride their horses, finally came to a halt before the imposing iron gates of their destination.

"Finally," Adam exclaimed, a wide grin spreading across his face as they approached the gates, eager to step foot into their homeland once more.

The guards stationed at the gates, as well as the maids going about their duties nearby, were momentarily taken aback by Adam's transformed appearance. Whispers and gasps escaped their lips, their gazes lingering on his newfound charm, causing a faint blush to color the cheeks of every female who laid eyes upon him.

"Cough Alex, who is this young man?" inquired the guard in charge, his voice tinged with curiosity.

"Hehe, Lord Adam, it seems you're going to be a lady killer soon. Even the guards can't recognize you, while every female gazes upon you with hunger in their eyes," Alex playfully teased Adam, a mischievous glint in his eye. Adam scratched his head in embarrassment, a mix of amusement and bashfulness washing over him, when he noticed that women were looking at him with desire in their eyes as if ready to pounce on him in the next second

"This handsome man beside me is Lord Adam," Alex introduced his friend and lord with a swell of pride evident in his eyes. The guards and maids working nearby were left utterly gobsmacked upon hearing Alex's words.

"That's right, this is the reaction you should have. I felt exactly the same way when I saw him for the first time in months. I still can't believe someone can undergo such a remarkable transformation," Alex thought to himself, a sense of satisfaction washing over him.

"Hmph, Alex, don't joke with us," snorted one of the guards, who was familiar with the previous frail figure of Adam. However, the man standing before them now exuded a different aura—a robust physique bursting with power.

"If you don't believe me, why don't you take a closer look at him?" Alex challenged, urging the skeptical guard to observe Adam more closely. As the guard approached and examined Adam, his eyes bulged out in disbelief, recognizing the striking similarities.

"L-Lord Adam, is that really you?" the guard asked, his voice filled with astonishment. The other guards and maids, drawn by the commotion, took a closer look and shared the same reaction.

"Indeed, it's me. Open the gates, and please, do not inform my parents. I wish to surprise them," Adam declared in a calm, neutral tone. Upon hearing the familiar voice of their young lord, all doubts vanished, and the guards swiftly swung the gates open, granting Adam passage.

As the wrought iron gates of the count's estate swung open by the guards in charge, revealing a grand driveway lined with towering oak trees, a sense of awe would wash over any visitor. Adam and Alex climbed out from their horses and handed the reigns to the guards near them

The gravel path beneath their feet crunched softly with each step, leading them toward a magnificent large mansion standing proudly at the end.

The mansion exuded an air of opulence and grandeur, its impressive façade adorned with intricate stonework and elegant columns. The exterior walls were draped with ivy, adding a touch of natural beauty to the regal structure. Sunlight played upon the walls, casting a warm, golden glow that accentuated the architectural details.

As they approached the entrance, they were greeted by a flight of marble steps leading up to elaborately carved double doors. The doors, polished to a gleaming finish, stood tall and imposing, adorned with brass handles and intricate designs. The visitor's eyes would be drawn to the intricate stained glass windows on either side of the entrance, depicting scenes of noble heraldry and historical events

Adam pushed open the door upon reaching the entrance

Entering the lavish living room of the count's stately house, one is immediately struck by the atmosphere of aristocratic elegance. The room is adorned with exquisite details and opulent furnishings, reflecting the refined taste and distinguished status of its inhabitants.

The living room boasts high ceilings, adorned with intricate crown moldings and adorned with delicate chandeliers that cast a soft, warm light throughout the space. Ornate pillars and archways add a touch of grandeur, dividing the room into distinct areas without sacrificing its open and airy feel.

In one corner of the room, a grand fireplace serves as the focal point, emanating a gentle crackling sound and casting a cozy glow. The fireplace mantel is adorned with carefully selected artwork and family portraits, hinting at the rich history and heritage of the count's lineage.

Nestled on a luxurious sofa, a distinguished man and an elegant woman engage in an animated conversation. The man, dressed in a tailored suit that accentuates his refined demeanor, exudes an air of confidence and intellect. His posture is upright, indicating his noble bearing and grace. The woman, dressed in an exquisite gown that drapes elegantly around her figure, exudes grace and poise. Her gestures are graceful, emphasizing her every word.

Suddenly, both figures ceased their conversation and turned their attention towards the two newcomers standing at the doorstep, their curiosity piqued.

"Ah, Alex, you've returned. How did the test go? And where is Adam?" the man inquired, a hint of amusement playing on Alex's face.

"And who might this young man be?" the man continued, his voice tinged with a touch of envy as he took in Adam's strikingly handsome face and well-toned physique.

"Why does fortune favor him so? Why couldn't I possess such charm in my youth?" the man silently lamented, a pang of jealousy simmering within him, while Adam met his gaze with an air of arrogance.

When Adam's gaze fell on the woman, and saw her current expression cold sweat immediately started flow down his back

' Shit' Adam cursed under his breath

" KYA, ADAM"