Chapter 393: The Hint of War
Lyan blinked awake as the early morning light streamed through the windows of his grand bedroom. The rays fell upon the oversized bed that had grown larger over the days to accommodate his ever-increasing family of women.
He could hardly remember the last time it was just a modest, normal-sized bed. Now, it was a grand sleeping arrangement that could comfortably fit twenty people, and even then, it sometimes felt just about right. Lyan chuckled to himself, careful not to disturb the sleeping forms that lay nestled all around him.
The peaceful expression on each of their faces made Lyan’s heart swell with warmth. Last night’s "activities" had been more than a little intense, and now, the entire room was enveloped in a cozy atmosphere. He took a deep breath, his gaze shifting from face to face—Surena, Belle, Wilhelmina, Althea, and the others, all lying sprawled, limbs entangled, their chests rising and falling in the gentle rhythm of sleep.
(You certainly enjoyed yourself last night, Master.)
Cynthia’s voice chimed inside his head, her teasing tone unmistakable.
(Indeed, such indulgence is befitting a man of your status. But honestly, your appetite is ridiculous.)
Hestia’s haughty tone echoed, but there was amusement there too.
Lyan tried to hide the grin that threatened to stretch across his face. He slowly maneuvered his way out of the bed, careful not to wake anyone. The room was vast, much like everything else in this castle, which had been modified to suit the new occupants. He grabbed a loose robe, wrapped it around himself, and made his way towards the large balcony, opening the doors gently.
The fresh morning breeze greeted him as he stepped outside. Grafen was laid out before him, bathed in the golden hue of dawn. The city had changed so much since he’d first arrived. What was once a neglected territory was now thriving. The streets were bustling even at this early hour, and from up here, Lyan could already hear the faint sounds of merchants setting up their stalls, people greeting one another, and children running through the narrow alleys.
(It’s peaceful, isn’t it~?)
Azelia’s gentle voice filled his mind, and Lyan found himself nodding in agreement.