Lord Summoner's Freedom Philosophy: Grimoire of Love
Chapter 207: Trouble at The Second City (End) The Decision

Chapter 207: Trouble at The Second City (End) The Decision

Amid the accusations and the escalating chaos within the city, the group from the noble’s territory swiftly intervened to quell the ruckus. They proclaimed an Astellia Kingdom spy as the culprit behind the magical provocation, their words echoing with a gravitas that suppressed the unrest.

Lyan’s perceptive gaze captured the Duke’s man, recognized by the distinct cloak he donned, using a stealthy spell to retrieve the magical orb that was about to wreak havoc. Realization struck Lyan like a lightning bolt as the truth unraveled—this ominous artifact was indeed affiliated with the Duke. The noble’s ploy and their quest to hide their involvement in the turmoil became evident.

The uproar and the accusatory murmurs fueled a frenzied manhunt for the Astellian spy. The city’s once-celebratory spirit was now mired in distrust and suspicion, causing an uproar that ricocheted through the alleys and squares.

Lyan guided his companions through the labyrinthine city, deftly avoiding the flurry of searches and ensuring they remained undetected. Whispers and accusations had turned the once-vibrant streets into a maze of suspicion, forcing them to remain hidden from the frenetic searches of the enraged crowd.

The Duke’s incitement of chaos for his own gains was a menacing revelation, casting shadows over the peace of the empire. Lyan’s strategic mind recognized the escalating peril of staying within the city. He shifted his thoughts to his comrades’ safety, considering the best course of action amid the whirlwind of chaos.

As the chaos and confusion reigned around them, Lyan guided his companions stealthily through the intricate, shadowed alleyways. The uproar of the crowd made conversation difficult, but the urgency of the moment spurred his inner thoughts.

"We need to find a way out of this," Lyan murmured to himself, his tone threaded with concern. "The city is a tinderbox, ready to ignite at any moment."

Solia, Wilhelmina’s partner in her slavery history, glanced at him, her eyes filled with apprehension. "Lyan, what’s our plan? How do we get out of this?"

"We need to keep moving and stay out of sight," Lyan replied, his voice firm but controlled. "The Duke’s involvement changes everything. The city’s too volatile now. We must reach a safe place, regroup, and plan our next move."

Wilhelmina, usually brimming with suggestions, seemed lost in thought. "This is beyond what we expected. How do we avoid being caught in this chaos?"

"We have to lay low and avoid drawing attention," Lyan answered, scanning the darkened corners for a path that would lead them to safety. "There’s no time to lose. We must act swiftly and smartly."

Tesha, usually quiet, gripped Lyan’s cloak tightly, her eyes wide with worry filling her eyes. "I’m worried. What if they find us?"

Lyan crouched down to her eye level, trying to reassure her. "We’ll make it through this. Stick close to me. We’ll find our way out of here, I promise."

Inwardly, his mind raced through the possibilities. "I need to get us out of this situation. We can’t afford to get caught in the crossfire of this escalating conflict. Our safety is paramount."

With a resolve that emanated from the pit of his being, Lyan decided to change their trajectory. "We leave," Lyan ordered, a firmness coloring his tone as he led his group to navigate the city’s alleys to the outskirts. His eyes bore the weight of responsibility as he made this decision, ensuring the safety of his companions amid the city’s spiraling turmoil.

The decision to evade the furor gripping the city guided them through a concealed passage leading outside the boundaries of the agitated metropolis. Lyan maintained a vigilant watch over his group, making certain they escaped the chaos unscathed.

Reaching a secluded corner beyond the city’s perimeter, Lyan halted, his back leaning against a moss-laden stone wall. The turmoil of the city they’d left behind echoed in the distant commotion. Tesha and the other girls huddled near Lyan, their faces reflecting a mixture of trepidation and curiosity.

"We’re leaving the city?" Wilhelmina inquired, her voice tinged with a tinge of worry.

Lyan’s gaze fell upon them, a reassuring aura enveloping his demeanor. "The city is in disarray. It’s safer to depart and not get embroiled further in the Duke’s machinations."

Tesha interjected with a mix of fear and curiosity, "But what about the orb? And the commotion...?"

"The orb has become the Duke’s plot now. It’s not our battle," Lyan stated, masking his inner concern with an air of assurance. "We must head to the capital. The Duke’s ploy hasn’t reached there yet."

At his command, the group, their nerves tinged with uncertainty, followed Lyan as they ventured on the road out of the city. His decision to bypass the other cities and head directly to the capital was unwavering, driven by the certainty that it was a safer alternative. The Duke’s grip on the outlying cities might be firm, but the capital was yet unscathed by his schemes.

As they trod along the dirt paths that led away from the turmoil-ridden city, Lyan stole glances behind to ensure they weren’t followed. Wilhelmina, although understanding of the necessity to leave, held a worried countenance, her thoughts veiled by the darkness of uncertainty.

"We’re skipping the other cities?" she questioned, seeking clarity in their course of action.

Lyan’s attention remained on the path ahead, his focus resolute. "It’s crucial we reach the capital. We can’t afford to get entangled in each city’s chaos along the way. It’s the safest route to avoid the Duke’s ploys."

The journey toward the capital was shrouded in apprehension, yet an air of determination enveloped the group as they traversed the winding trails, leaving the city’s tumult behind.

Throughout their escape from the city and into the stretches of the open road, the group’s banter was interspersed with lighter moments amidst the shadow of uncertainty. Tesha, despite the ordeal, attempted to lighten the mood with her witty jokes and teasing jibes, Wilhelmina’s occasional chuckle breaking through the tense atmosphere.

"I hope the capital will offer some respite," Tesha chirped, her youthful enthusiasm punctuating the otherwise somber journey.

Wilhelmina nodded, a flicker of hope in her eyes. "Hopefully, the capital will be different from what we’ve seen."

The conversations between Lyan and the group morphed from light-hearted exchanges to subtle discussions about the ever-unfolding events and their repercussions. Lyan took this opportunity to delve into his companions’ experiences, gauging their observations and ensuring their understanding of the complexities of the empire’s political landscape.

The sun’s descent cast a warm hue over the landscape, painting the surrounding fields and woods in a medley of golden hues. Lyan, acknowledging the growing darkness of the impending night, chose a sheltered area to set up camp, ensuring safety in the cover of trees and away from prying eyes.

"Let’s rest here for the night. The journey to the capital continues at first light," Lyan commanded, indicating the area for their encampment.

The group, relieved to find temporary solace, prepared for the night ahead, setting up a watch rotation while Tesha was engrossed in sparking a small campfire.

Gathered around the crackling fire, their silhouettes flickering amidst the shadows, the group engaged in casual conversation. The faint flicker of the flames cast a soothing ambiance that momentarily alleviated the strain of their journey.

Wilhelmina, gazing at the stars beginning to dot the night sky, spoke softly, "The empire’s web of politics is as intricate as the constellations up there."

"Yes, and we’re barely scratching the surface," Lyan mused, his voice carrying the weight of experience. "The Duke’s reach is far, and it’s evident he’s making moves to tighten his grasp on the cities."

Tesha, fiddling with a small twig near the fire, chimed in, "Do you think the capital will be different?"

"It’s hard to say," Lyan replied, casting a glance toward the vast expanse of the night sky. "But we’ll soon find out. For now, let’s rest. Tomorrow is another day in this journey."

As the group settled in for the night, the tranquility of the open road seemed to envelop them, momentarily providing solace from the chaos they had left behind. The night wore on, and the glimmering stars seemed to offer a sense of guidance, marking the passage of time as the group prepared to resume their journey to the capital at the break of dawn.

___________________________________________________________________________

Name: Lyan Arkanium Evocatore

Occupation: Mythril-ranked Mercenary

Money: 3,797,710,950 Elnes / 3797 gold 71 big silver 9 big coppers 5 coppers

Weapon: Magic Glaive, 1 (Decent) One-handed Sword, 2 (Good-Quality) One-handed swords, 1 (Decent) bow

Equipment: Black leather cloak, Leather Armor, Breastplate, 2 Health Potions, 2 Poison Vials

Grimoire’s Companions: 8 High Spirits, 3 Valkyrie, Shadow Goblin Lord (Lv. 5), Papilio Slime (Lv. 45), Galewing Butterfly (Lv. 45), Rock Golem (Lv. 50), Deadlight (Lv. 63), Moonlight Butterfly (Lv. 45), Ice Golem (Lv. 50), Acid Ant Queen (Lv. 9), Magma Bear (Lv. 1), Fey Mammoth (Lv. 1), Arcane Retriever (Lv. 1), Winter Wolf Alpha (Lv. 12), Fenris (Lv. 1)

Grimoire’s Army: 6 Shadow Servants, 800 Skeleton Army (24 Goblin Champion Skeletons, 226 Hobgoblin Skeletons, 550 Goblin Skeleton Army, 20 Acid Ants Workers, 10 Acid Ants Soldiers, 4 Female Winter Wolves)