Chapter 415: The Night Before The Storm
Lyan stood quietly amidst the slumbering figures of his companions. The soft glow of moonlight spilled through the curtains, illuminating the serene scene. The grand room was filled with a sense of intimacy and quiet contentment, despite the chaotic array of bodies scattered across the plush carpets and comfortable couches. He took a deep breath, letting the sense of peace wash over him for just a moment before he started his task.
Each of his companions lay in various states of rest, exhaustion finally catching up after a long, passionate night. Xena, her usually mischievous expression softened in sleep, was curled up on a rug by the fireplace, her breathing steady. Beside her, Alina and Belle were sprawled across one of the oversized sofas, their limbs tangled in a comfortable mess. Josephine, Raine, and Ravia were gathered near the large bed, their heads resting on pillows, with Clarisse stretched out next to them, her arm thrown lazily across Raine’s back.
The mountain tribe women—Lara, Tara, and Sigrid—lay close to each other on a makeshift bedding of blankets, their expressions relaxed and content. Tesha, the little halfling, had curled up in a small nook beside the window, her small body hidden under a thick, warm quilt. Of course, she is not invited in the passionate night, but she slips in and watched without him knowing.
This girl’s sneaky skills has gone quite a lot, isn’t she?
Wilhelmina, Solia, Emilia, Surena, and Alice were scattered across the remaining couches and floor space, each one lost in a peaceful slumber.
Lyan moved carefully through the room, lifting each woman in his arms and placing them in more comfortable positions. He gently picked up Xena, her body limp and relaxed, and laid her on one of the large, plush sofas. Her eyes fluttered open for a brief moment, her gaze meeting his. She gave a sleepy smile before drifting back to sleep, her body sinking into the cushions.
He repeated this with each of them, his movements tender and deliberate. He took his time, making sure each one was settled comfortably, adjusting pillows and blankets as needed. When he reached Belle, he paused for a moment, his gaze lingering on her face. Her brows were slightly furrowed even in sleep, and he smoothed them gently with his thumb, a soft smile touching his lips. "Thank you," he whispered, his voice barely audible. "For being by my side."
He continued, picking up Tesha from her nook by the window and placing her in a more comfortable position on a couch, tucking the quilt around her small form. He brushed a strand of hair away from her face, his heart swelling with affection for each of them. These women had chosen to follow him, to support him, and he knew that he was incredibly fortunate to have them.
Alice, who was usually full of energy and witty remarks, looked almost childlike as she slept, her face relaxed, her breathing steady. Lyan gently lifted her from the floor, cradling her in his arms for a moment before laying her down on one of the beds. He looked down at her, his expression softening. "You always manage to keep us all in line, don’t you?" he murmured, his voice filled with affection.