Chapter 13- Lyraea

Chapter 13: "Echoes of Simpler Times"

The gates of Ravaryn loomed before us, a masterpiece of craftsmanship that whispered power and demanded reverence. Arched high into the skies, the black iron gleamed like obsidian in the sun, etched with symbols of unity and war. As we crossed the threshold, I couldn't stop my lips from parting in awe. Ravaryn wasn't just a desolate town—it was an entire city.

A sea of people moved purposefully, their synchronized strides and clipped conversations creating a buzz of energy. Soldiers, scholars, and engineers. The sheer magnitude of it was overwhelming. Towers spiked upward, connected by winding bridges. Flags of different Legions rippled in the wind, their sigils stark against deep crimson backdrops.

"Holy shit," Leo muttered beside me, his golden eyes gleaming with amusement. "This makes our training camps look like a farmyard."

He wasn't wrong. The polished stone underfoot reflected our figures, and the air smelled of steel, parchment, and the faint tang of sweat. Dane peeled away, saying something about checking on logistics, but my attention was snagged by a familiar voice calling my name.

"Lyraea!"

I turned just as Joan emerged from the crowd, her buzz cut catching the light. Her blonde hair was almost white in the sun, but it was her pink eyebrows and inked arms that made her unmistakable. She strode toward me with that unshakable confidence, her grin splitting her face.

"Joan!" I couldn't help but grin back as she engulfed me in a bone-crushing hug.

"Shit, it's been too long. Five years, huh? Damn, you look good, Rae," she said, releasing me. Her eyes flicked over my armor with approval.

"And you look ridiculous," I teased, pointing at her eyebrows.

"Hey, Cathy likes them. That's all that matters." Joan smirked, referring to her girlfriend, who was off in another Legion. "Speaking of which, if the gods are kind, maybe her company will get stationed here. I'm about ready to claw someone's eyes out from missing her."

We both laughed as Leo sidled up, hands in his pockets and his usual devil-may-care grin in place.

"Well, well, if it isn't Joan the Magnificent," he drawled. "Still kicking asses and taking names, I see."

Joan raised an eyebrow at him, the corners of her mouth twitching. "Leo. Still spilling secrets you shouldn't?"

"Only the fun ones," he said, winking.

"Oh, easy there, Captain. Keep talking, and I might have to file a report on you," Joan shot back, her tone light but teasing.

Leo feigned a gasp, pressing a hand to his chest. "You wouldn't dare!"

"I absolutely would."

The banter flowed naturally, pulling me into its warm embrace. For the first time in what felt like years, I felt light—like the weight of everything I carried had been lifted, even if only temporarily. We reminisced about the grueling days of training, when survival meant outsmarting instructors who were always one step ahead. Joan teased Leo about his constant sneaking off to drink, and Leo shamelessly recounted his escapades, which always seemed to end with him climbing out of windows or sneaking into forbidden quarters.

"So," Leo said, his grin wicked, "Joan, how about being my wingman? If I win a fight, powers and all, you're on board."

Joan rolled her eyes but smirked. "Fine. But you better not lose. My reputation's on the line."

Laughter burst from me, a sound I hadn't heard in so long it felt foreign. For a moment, I let myself sink into the ease of their presence.

Dane returned then, his expression softer than usual as he observed us. "Good times," he said quietly, his eyes distant. "Back when we were just kids in training. When things were simpler, even though we knew what was waiting on the other side."

The wistfulness in his voice tugged at something inside me, and I nodded. "Yeah. I miss that, too."

Before the moment could stretch too far, a sharp voice echoed across the square.

"Attention!"

Nyssa, our Legion commander, stood at the center of the massive courtyard, her crimson cloak billowing around her as she surveyed the crowd. The chatter died instantly as all eyes turned to her.

"The second Legion, Davin's Legion, will be joining us here at Ravaryn Camp One. As you know, Ravaryn is divided into four camps, with the other Legions settling into Camps Two, Three, and Four. Together, these camps form the heart of our rebellion."

Her voice grows stronger, carrying pride and purpose. "Ravaryn is not just a city—it is a sanctuary. Here, those with powers long discriminated against are treated as equals, free to live, thrive, and contribute. This is our stronghold, the symbol of what we are fighting for."

She pauses, letting the weight of her words settle over the crowd. "I expect unity, discipline, and respect. Any behavior that jeopardizes this will not be tolerated. Remember, this city represents the future we are striving toward. Let it remind you why we fight. "she announced, her voice carrying with the authority of someone who didn't tolerate nonsense. "Al of leadership will be required shortly to discuss next steps. The rest of you will be oriented to your quarters and familiarized with the grounds. I expect civility, camaraderie, and discipline. Lack of hospitality will be met with consequences. Is that clear?"

A chorus of "Yes, Commander!" rang out.

As she spoke, Davin's Legion began filing into the square, their banners flying high. The soldiers were as polished and formidable as our own, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Consolidation meant something big was coming. Something dangerous.

Nyssa continued, her tone clipped but clear. "This consolidation is part of a broader strategy. Ravaryn holds four camps, and each will house Legions. This is the start of a new era. I expect nothing less than excellence from all of you."

As the crowd began to disperse, Joan nudged me with her elbow, her grin back in place. "Well, Rae, looks like things are about to get interesting."

I met her gaze, a small smile tugging at my lips. "Aren't they always?"

Inside, though, unease curled in my stomach. Ravaryn was impressive, yes, but it was also a reminder of what lay ahead. And I wasn't sure I was ready for it.