Lord Summoner's Freedom Philosophy: Grimoire of Love

The dawn sky was streaked with hues of pink and orange as Lyan finished packing his belongings. The courtyard of the palace was quiet, save for the occasional clink of metal as Julius, Borton, and Arnold helped secure his gear. Shadow, Lyan’s imposing black horse, stood nearby, its eyes gleaming with fierce intelligence and restlessness.

"You’re really heading out, then?" Julius asked, leaning against a stone pillar. His red hair glinted in the early morning light, and his easy smile masked the underlying unease at seeing such a reliable guy departing, leaving the dangerous capital to the crown prince.

Lyan nodded, adjusting the straps of his pack. "Yes, it’s time. Grafen needs rebuilding, and there’s much to be done. Besides, my girls in the city of Arkansas are waiting for me."

Arnold grunted in agreement. "Arkansas, eh? That’s a city that never sleeps. You’ll fit right in, Lyan."

Lyan chuckled, a sly grin playing on his lips. "Perhaps. It’s been a while since I had a good challenge. And a great night,"

As they chatted, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed through the courtyard. They turned to see Erich approaching, his royal attire catching the light. The prince’s usually composed face was flushed from the brisk walk, and he held a rolled parchment in his hand.

"You idiot," Erich called out, a smile tugging at his lips. "You almost left without something important."

Lyan raised an eyebrow, feigning innocence. "And what might that be, Your Highness?"

Erich thrust the parchment toward him. "The written decree from the royals. Your official recognition of nobility and the grant of Grafen. You can’t exactly start ruling without it."

Lyan accepted the parchment with a laugh. "Ah, the formalities. I knew I was forgetting something."

The group shared a hearty laugh, the tension of departure easing for a moment. Erich’s eyes sparkled with amusement, but there was also a glint of concern. He clapped Lyan on the shoulder, a gesture of both camaraderie and authority.