Jason looked around the town as he waked beside Seraphina and her horse, looking at the new buildings. He remembered when the town was still small. The blacksmith was a third of the size, the bakery was more of a small kitchen, the stable only held four horses, the list went on.
Now? Now everything was bustling and larger. There was a large market area, the stable looked large enough for over two dozen horses, the blacksmith had several people working, the bakery was it's own building and even he could faintly smell the fresh bread and sweets floating from it.
Gotham was absolutely thriving. He never imagined such a small town could be like this. And he was still here to see it.
He walked slowly beside her, taking in all the new sights. She smiled down at him as she guided her horse slowly to the large manor. It was midday and the entire town was busy, filled with so many people, every store and stall was busy, and the different scents of everything mingled together.
She guided her horse to the manor stable and hopped down, unstrapping her bags. He grabbed his and stared as a stablehand to undo the saddle. She thanked them and grabbed his sleeve, tugging him towards the manor.
He trailed after her, still looking around as he pulled her inside. "What the hell has Bruce been doing around here? It's so... busy."
She tilted her head slightly. "He's been making deals with local lords and getting Gotham on the map. It's in a surprisingly good spot for trade routes and a good rest area for travellers. Took him a few years, but look at it now. It's fantastic."
He nodded slowly. "Yeah, it's.. wow."
She giggled softly, smiling widely at him. She tossed her bags in her spare room before turning down the hall. He stared at the paintings on the walls, some of them piquing his memories. He stopped at one, still holding her hand and making her stop.
She looked at him and turned to look at the painting. A young Jason smiled brightly, blue-green eyes practically shining mischeviously, and small freckles decorated tanned cheeks. Bruce stood behind him, one hand on his shoulder as if to keep him in place, and a small, soft smile gracing him as he looked down at the boy. The artist had seemingly captured them in a fond moment, freezing it in time.
"Seraphina, I see you've returned. I do hope you aren't dirtying my floors."
Jason turned at the accented voice, several memories coming to the forefront. Alfred smiled politely at them, his hands behind his back as he walked to them. Alfred seemingly hadn't aged a day despite being human.
Seraphina smiled and gently tugged his hand. "I wiped off my boots, don't worry."
Alfred nodded and looked at Jason, tilting his head slightly. "And, who is this? Or, rather, what is this? Enchanted armor of some sort, it seems."
Seraphina hummed softly, tugging Jason closer. "Well, technically his soul is bound to his armor."
Alfred hummed, staring at the floating orbs. "Well, I do hope he enjoys his stay. Alfred Pennyworth, caretaker of Wayne Manor first and foremost. I was about to prepare lunch, if you'll excuse me."
Jason suddenly stepped forward, one gloved hand reaching to him. "Alfred!"
Alfred blinked and straightened up, staring up at him. "Yes, is something the matter?"
Jason curled his fingers and nodded slightly, stepping closer to him. He lowered his voice and softly said, "I'm finally home."
Alfred stared at him, a small frown tugging at his lips. "I apologize, sire, but I... Jason?"
Jason nodded again, his orbs shimmering. His voice cracked slightly as he spoke again, "I'm home."
Alfred sucked in a breath and stepped forward, raising his hands to tug the hood down. He softly mumbled, "Jason. You're home."
Jason nodded and shifted before tugging the smaller man into a hug, gripping his shirt. Alfred slowly returned the hug, clenching his eyes shut. Alfred gripped the shoulder straps tightly, pressing his face into the tough leather.
Seraphina smiled softly and quickly wiped away a stray tear. Jason was finally home again. Home and with family again.