Lord Summoner's Freedom Philosophy: Grimoire of Love
Chapter 210: The Last Camp Before Capital

Chapter 210: The Last Camp Before Capital

In the aftermath of the clandestine meeting, the southern nobles dispersed, each carrying the weight of the Duke’s ambitions and the looming uncertainty of their futures. The intricate dance of politics unfolded in the shadowed halls of the citadel, setting the stage for a grand manipulation that would reshape the very fabric of the empire.

Lyan Arkanium Evocatore, unbeknownst to the Duke and his assembly, continued his journey towards the capital. His surveillance network of acid ants subtly weaved through the empire’s landscape, tracking the aftermath of the orchestrated chaos. The tendrils of influence, meticulously established by the Duke, were now spreading like a sinister vine, ensnaring the hearts and minds of the nobility.

The Duke’s plans were far-reaching, extending beyond the mere turmoil in the Astellia Kingdom. His calculated maneuvers aimed to exploit the vulnerabilities of the Astellian crown prince, turning him into a pawn in the larger political game. The southern nobles, though aware of the risks, found themselves entangled in the Duke’s intricate web, forced to navigate the treacherous waters of loyalty and ambition.

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The rhythmic crunch of the wagon’s wheels against the snowy terrain harmonized with the soft padding of four winter wolves and the steady hooves of a black horse. A small entourage of figures, draped in cloaks concealing skeletal forms, trailed alongside the moving caravan. These were Lyan’s skeletons, once human, now transformed into otherworldly sentinels. The color of their bony structures had shifted to a haunting light bluish-black, a testament to the battles they had endured.

Lyan could sense the subtle hum of ice mana emanating from his skeletal companions. Their evolution was evident – not only had they grown stronger, but they had also developed a level of autonomy. They now executed tasks without explicit commands, efficiently handling the aftermath of skirmishes.

Grimclaw, the imposing Deadlight inside the Grimoire, voiced his discontent. The creature harbored a desire to personally safeguard Lyan, of course Lyan appreciated his thoughts. Yet, summoning a monster exuding such a dense death aura during the journey seemed excessive and potentially hazardous. Thus, Lyan had opted to utilize the more discreet and versatile skeletal guardians.

Grimclaw grunted in reluctant acknowledgment, the hollow sockets of his eyes narrowing with a mix of irritation and understanding. The Deadlight’s immense power, laden with a palpable aura of death, had its time and place. However, the journey through various terrains and civilizations required a more delicate approach.

(I guess he’s getting fed up being treated like a servant by Griselda and the others) (Lyan)

The skeletal guards, though bereft of expressions, carried out their duties with uncanny precision. They skillfully removed remnants of battle, their movements synchronized and purposeful. Lyan couldn’t help but marvel at their progression. What was once a basic cadre of reanimated bones now exhibited traits of strategic thinking and adaptability.

As the wagon continued its trek through the snow-laden landscape, Lyan surveyed his surroundings. The cold, crisp air bit at his skin, and the looming shadows of pine trees cast elongated silhouettes on the pristine white canvas. A palpable sense of solitude pervaded the wintry scene.

Lyan, feeling the tranquility of the snow-laden landscape and considering the strategic importance of their location, raised his hand, signaling the entourage to halt. The skeletal guardians stopped their meticulous tasks, and the wagon came to a gradual stop as the Winter Wolf Alpha gave the sign to his pack with a single gaze. The stillness of the winter woods enveloped them, the only sounds being the soft crunch of snow underfoot and the occasional hooting of an owl in the distance.

"We’ll make camp here," Lyan declared, a note of finality in his tone. "This is an ideal spot, it should be our last camp before reaching the capital,"

The skeletal guardians efficiently set about the tasks of securing the perimeter and preparing a makeshift campsite. Their eerie but precise movements in the silent snowy woods seemed almost ethereal. Wilhelmina and Tesha disembarked from the wagon, stretching their limbs after the long journey.

"Indeed..." Wilhelmina uttered under her breath, her eyes scanning the surroundings.

The location provides a clear vantage point, and they could see any potential threats from a distance, and teh dense forest provides a natural barrier. Plus, it’s strategically positioned, giving them the advantage if they need to leave in a hurry. It’s interesting how Lyan, who originally only observing the movement of his skeletons and his winter wolves, could suddenly sense and chose to halt and managed to miracolously pick the perfect spot for them to camp.

(The magic never ends with this guy, huh?) (Wilhelmina)

As the skeletal guards erected a small barrier with their bony limbs, creating a makeshift perimeter around the campsite, Wilhelmina added, "It’s a good call, Lyan. I feel safer already."

With a nod of appreciation, Lyan motioned for everyone to gather around the campfire. The skeletal guards, now stationed at key points around the camp, served as an eerie yet effective deterrent against any unwelcome surprises. Meanwhile, the winter wolves, perhaps sensing the predominantly female company, transitioned from their stoic vigilance into a more playful demeanor. The alpha winter wolf, resembling a slightly oversized dog, approached Lyan for a stroke before diverting its attention to Tesha, engaging in a spirited play. The other former slave girls, captivated by the wolves’ endearing antics, were momentarily lost in their charm. However, Solia and Wilhelmina, despite being drawn in, swiftly regained their composure and resumed their watchful gaze on Lyan.

Observing the winter wolves and the surrounding camaraderie, the aggressive black horse approached Lyan with a snort.

"Heh! What? You want some affection from me too, you perverted horse?" Lyan smirked. However, as the horse closed the distance, it executed a swift move, standing on its hind legs and attempting to strike Lyan with its hooves.

WHOOSH!

"Lyan!" Solia and Wilhelmina exclaimed in alarm.

Anticipating the black horse’s aggression, Lyan deftly dodged the attack. While it might seem like an act of rebellion, Lyan could discern a peculiar expression on the horse’s face, as if it sought to convey something beyond mere aggression.

’I’m tired of hearing that annoying wolf mating with his mates one after another every night. So give me some mates as well!’

Reading the horse’s intentions, Lyan chuckled. "What are you acting smug for, huh, you dirty horse!?" He retaliated with a well-placed kick to the horse’s lower body, prompting it to sprint in a full circle, its movements driven by the pain.

Onlookers, including the amused girls and Tesha, burst into laughter at the banter between Lyan and his spirited horse. The atmosphere lightened, and the group, momentarily forgetting their challenging circumstances, embraced the camaraderie of their unconventional journey, finding joy even in the midst of a perilous adventure.

The campfire crackled, its warmth cutting through the chill of the winter air. Lyan, seated on a small rock, gazed into the dancing flames, his mind momentarily lost in thought. Wilhelmina and Tesha settled nearby, their expressions reflecting a mix of weariness and curiosity.

"Tomorrow, we’ll reach the capital," Lyan began, his voice carrying a note of determination.

Wilhelmina, nestled in the confines of the wagon, cast an occasional glance at Lyan. Her eyes, a shade of deep blue, reflected a mixture of gratitude and curiosity. "Your companions have become even stronger," she remarked, her voice carrying a hint of awe.

Lyan nodded in agreement. "Their evolution has been remarkable. It seems the battles we’ve faced have accelerated their growth. It’s a joyful piece of news."

Tesha, seated beside Wilhelmina, chimed in with youthful enthusiasm. "They looks like they are going to keep growing! It feels so safe with them safeguarding us together with the Winter Wolves! Would they obey my commands too, master?"

Lyan offered a small smile. "They serve their purpose well. In our journey, adaptability is key. I appreciate Grimclaw’s sentiment, but we need to traverse various territories unnoticed. The skeletons provide a discreet means of protection. But I’m afraid they only want to obey the command of someone stronger than them, little girl,"

The Winter Wolf Alpha, lay nearby, his fur blending seamlessly with the snow-covered landscape. His eyes, a piercing shade of icy blue, fixated on Lyan, as if understanding the conversation. Lyan could sense Fenris’ loyalty, a bond forged through shared battles and mutual survival. As if understanding Lyan’s thougth, the Winter Wolf Alpha approached him and acts as a sofa for Lyan as it wraps Lyan from behind.

"Hahaha. Thank you," Lyan uttered as he took a comfortable position.

"Our destination is near... I guess tomorrow will be the deciding factor whether I will stay at the empire or not..." Lyan uttered as he stared at the flame of the firecamp lit before him.

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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)