Lord Summoner's Freedom Philosophy: Grimoire of Love
Chapter 250: The Valkyries and The North (End) Fill Me In

Chapter 250: The Valkyries and The North (End) Fill Me In

"She’s just as incredible as ever," Surena said, her voice filled with admiration.

"Absolutely," Emilia agreed. "It’s like she hasn’t missed a beat."

"Come on," Alicia said, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Let’s go find her."

The three of them made their way to the participants’ quarters, eager to reunite with their former master. The corridors were crowded with fighters, spectators, and tournament officials. The Valkyries navigated through the throng, their determination driving them forward.

As they reached the entrance to the participants’ quarters, they were stopped by a stern-looking guard.

"Participants only beyond this point," the guard said, crossing his arms over his chest.

"We need to see someone," Surena said, trying to keep her impatience in check. "We’re looking for Wilhelmina."

The guard raised an eyebrow. "A lot of people want to see the fighters. You’ll have to wait until the tournament’s over."

"Please," Alicia interjected, her tone pleading. "It’s really important. We’re old friends of hers."

The guard hesitated, clearly torn between his duty and their earnestness. Before he could respond, a familiar voice called out from behind him.

"Let them through. They’re with me."

The guard turned to see Wilhelmina approaching, a warm smile on her face. "Lady Wilhelmina," he said, stepping aside. "Of course. My apologies."

The Valkyries felt a rush of relief and joy as they stepped into the corridor. Wilhelmina led them to a quieter corner of the participants’ quarters, away from the hustle and bustle.

"Lady Wilhelmina!" Surena exclaimed, unable to contain her excitement.

Wilhelmina smiled, her eyes shining with warmth. "It’s so good to see you all," she said, embracing each of them in turn. "I’ve missed you."

"We’ve missed you too," Emilia said, her voice thick with emotion. "We’ve been searching for you for so long."

Wilhelmina nodded, her expression growing serious. "I know. And I’ve been trying to find a way to contact you. There’s so much we need to talk about."

Alicia looked around, ensuring they were alone. "Are you safe here? What’s been happening?"

Wilhelmina sighed, glancing down the corridor. "It’s a long story. Let’s find somewhere private to talk."

She led them to a small, secluded room, closing the door behind them. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation as they settled in.

"First, I need to know," Wilhelmina began, looking each of them in the eyes. "How did you find me?"

Surena took a deep breath, recounting their journey. "After we dealt with the bandits, we tried to track you down, but there were no leads. We promised Lyan, our new master, that we’d catch up to him, but he’s been moving fast. We heard about the tournament and came here, hoping to find him. Instead, we found you."

"Lyan?" Wilhelmina’s eyes widened.

"Hm. You know him too?" Emilia asked.

Wilhelmina nodded, her expression thoughtful. "Lyan... he’s been a mystery to me too. But we’ve got a long history here at Redania. Let’s start with what happened after the war."

The Valkyries listened intently as Wilhelmina recounted her tale. After the war at the Kasmira Kingdom, she attempted to defend her territory along with her family but was defeated and became a slave. After years of enslavement, they finally managed to flee through the Northern Forest at the border of the Redania Empire. However, their bad luck led them to encounter monsters—the frost giants. But Lyan then showed up and helped them, deciding to take them with him to the empire to help them settle.

Emilia leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. "What have you been doing after that? What happened until you entered the tournament?"

"It’s a long story," Wilhelmina said, a hint of sadness in her eyes. "After everything that happened, I needed to lie low for a while. This tournament was a way to gather information, gain recognition, make connections, and earn money."

Alicia’s eyes widened. "And have you found anything useful?"

"Some," Wilhelmina admitted. "There are whispers of unrest within the empire as well, factions vying for power that joined hands with an Astellian. But more importantly, about Lyan. You mentioned that you’re here because of him. But he’s already gone to Arkansas. One day, he suddenly got information about trouble there and left immediately with a grim face. It looked like his important people were being threatened. Since he needed speed, he went alone."

"He’s already gone to Arkansas?" Surena said, a note of concern in her voice.

"That’s too quick. But why didn’t we cross paths with him? Did he use another route?" Alicia asked.

Wilhelmina nodded. "He might have. Lyan is resourceful and often takes unexpected paths to avoid detection. He’s not one to leave anything to chance, especially if people he cares about are in danger. I can’t fathom that man’s thinking."

Wilhelmina then recalled a memory with a pout. "He’s kind of a pervert, though," she muttered, remembering Lyan’s interactions with Aisha and Solia.

"Lady Wilhelmina," Surena’s expression grew serious and resolute. "Do you have any intention of reclaiming your territory, your kingdom?"

The question was heavy, enough to make the warm atmosphere tense.

"Indeed. There’s no way that thought hasn’t crossed my mind," Wilhelmina sighed. "But in my current situation, what can I do? I don’t have the wealth, influence, army, or connections to accomplish it. I need to be realistic," she shrugged.

Surena, Alicia, and Emilia noticed her change. Maybe it’s because of her encounter with Lyan; she had become slightly more playful and much more relaxed.

"We’re happy as long as you’re happy, Lady Wilhelmina. For now, what is your plan? I mean, where do you intend to go after this tournament ends?" Surena asked.

"Before we discuss my plans, I would like to ask the three of you. It seems your connection with Lyan is rather peculiar as well. Care to fill me in?" Wilhelmina asked with a playful grin.

"Well," Surena squinted at Emilia and Alicia and saw them both nod. "There’s a long story on our side as well."

The Valkyries then recounted their journey to find Wilhelmina, becoming mercenaries, the goblin king’s subjugation and meeting Lyan, and how they were saved and formed a mana oath with Lyan, becoming his followers.

"Wow. So you made the mana oath with him? Well... I can imagine that," Wilhelmina said with a chuckle. "So? Do you plan to follow him to Arkansas?"

Surena glanced at Alicia and Emilia, but neither seemed to have an immediate answer.

"We finally found you after searching for years," Surena began, her voice hesitant. "It seems foolish to leave you again so soon. Our biggest fear is losing you once more."

Wilhelmina looked at them, her eyes softening with understanding. "If the three of you are going to follow after him, I’m in. The martial tournament is interesting, but the rewards I got for entering the semifinals are enough for now. I owe Lyan a debt, and it would leave a bad taste if I couldn’t help him when he’s in trouble."

Alicia’s eyes sparkled with gratitude. "You’d come with us?"

Wilhelmina nodded. "Yes. Lyan has done much for me, and it’s time I repay that kindness. Plus, it’s clear that we’re stronger together. Facing whatever lies ahead in Arkansas will be easier with all of us united."

The Valkyries exchanged relieved glances. Emilia spoke up, her voice firm. "Then it’s settled. We’ll prepare for the journey to Arkansas. We’ll make sure we have everything we need and leave as soon as possible."

Wilhelmina smiled, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Thank you, all of you. This journey won’t be easy, especially with winter making travel harder, but together, we can handle it."

They began to discuss their plans in detail, mapping out their route and listing the supplies they would need. The room buzzed with a sense of anticipation and resolve. They were ready to face whatever challenges awaited them.

The next morning, they set out to gather their provisions. The marketplace was bustling, filled with the chatter of merchants and the scent of various goods. They moved efficiently, securing food, warm clothing, and additional weapons. The harsh winter outside made their task more urgent, each breath visible in the frigid air.

At the armory,

they carefully selected weapons that would best serve them in the harsh conditions ahead. Swords were sharpened, bows were strung, and they ensured they had plenty of arrows and other necessary equipment. The armory’s master, an old man with a grizzled beard, eyed them with curiosity.

"Heading somewhere dangerous?" he asked as he handed Wilhelmina a finely crafted dagger.

Wilhelmina nodded. "More dangerous than you can imagine maybe?"

The old man gave a knowing nod. "Just be careful out there. The winter’s cruel, and the path to Arkansas is treacherous this time of year."

"We’ll be careful," Surena assured him, her voice steady.

Their last stop was the stables. The stable master, a gruff but kind-hearted man, helped them choose strong, sturdy horses capable of handling the snowy terrain. He gave them advice on the best routes to take and which areas to avoid due to the risk of avalanches or frostbite.

"These horses are your best bet," he said, patting the neck of a chestnut mare. "They’re tough and sure-footed. Just make sure you keep them well-fed and rested."