Chapter 288: The Summoner’s Homecoming
Lyan approached the gates of Arkansas, his horse’s steps steady and purposeful. The city stretched out before him, its stone walls and bustling streets evoking a strange sense of nostalgia despite his relatively recent arrival. The irony of feeling such attachment to a place he’d only known for a short time did not escape him. Arkansas had been a city on the brink, teetering under the pressure of corrupt nobles and internal strife. Now, thanks in part to his efforts, it stood revitalized and strong, a beacon of hope in a land that had seen too much darkness.
As he walked through the familiar streets, the townsfolk greeted him with a mix of awe and respect. Whispers of "That’s him, the new noble," and "He saved us, you know," followed in his wake. It felt surreal to be recognized and revered, a stark contrast to his days of anonymity and constant travel. The title of noble was still new to him, a mantle he wore with a mixture of pride and discomfort. Titles had never mattered much to him; actions did. And his actions had brought him here, back to Arkansas, with a duty to protect and serve.
The House of Roses loomed ahead, its elegant façade a testament to the strength and grace of the women within. Lyan quickened his pace, anticipation bubbling within him. The House of Roses was more than just a base of operations; it was home, and the women there were his family.
As he pushed open the heavy door, a chorus of exclamations greeted him. "Finally!" "He’s here!" "Lyan!" The room erupted in movement as the women rushed toward him, their faces alight with joy and relief.
Xena was the first to reach him, her strong arms wrapping around his neck in a fierce hug. "You took your sweet time getting back," she chided, her voice thick with emotion.
"Had to make a grand entrance," Lyan replied with a grin, his eyes scanning the room. Each familiar face brought a rush of warmth—Ravia, Raine, Belle, Josephine, and the others. And there, standing slightly apart, were the Valkyries: Serena, Emilia, and Alicia.
Belle joined the embrace, her eyes sparkling. "We missed you," she said simply, her words echoed by the nods and murmurs of agreement from the others.
Lyan laughed, a deep, hearty sound that seemed to fill the room. "Missed you all too. It’s good to be home."
The women competed for his attention, each wanting to share their stories, their excitement, their relief at his return. It was a chaotic, beautiful mess of laughter, tears, and jostling bodies. Eventually, they settled into a more orderly gathering, the Valkyries taking seats near the back, observing with quiet amusement.
"Alright, alright," Lyan said, holding up his hands to quiet the room. "One at a time. Tell me everything I’ve missed."
Ravia started, her voice strong and clear. "We’ve been busy holding things down here. The city’s safer, stronger. But it’s not just us—you’d be amazed at how the people have rallied."