Chapter 777: The Lord of War’s Master
A solemn silence fell upon everyone in the longhouse. The implications were clear, and the weight of them settled heavily in their hearts.
If Antorus had been the only one corrupted by the alien power, then perhaps there was still hope—his death might have ended the threat. But if the corruption had spread to others, hidden deep within Valhalla, then things were far more dire.
And the worst part was that even the Empress, a Lord, could not sense the presence of the alien influence unless they were actively using its power. That meant these entities could slip unnoticed into the most sacred halls and powerful institutions of Valhalla.
Even Vlad found himself briefly lost for words. He had faced open enemies, armies ten times the size of his own, and impossible odds before. But this... this silent corruption, creeping unseen, corrupting even the proud and honorable Vikings—it was unlike anything he had dealt with. The True Depravita of Wrath had to admit, if only to himself, that he was at a loss.
"Ahhhh..." The Viking Empress exhaled a soft sigh, her voice strained by worry. She gently handed the rusty sword back to Freya. "It’s a powerful weapon. If you can unlock its full potential, it could one day become a Lord Weapon. But be warned—it carries a heavy risk of corruption. Be cautious."
Freya’s gaze sharpened. She gave a respectful nod, taking the sword with renewed determination.
The Empress’s warning was not taken lightly, but Freya was not the same woman she once had been. After inheriting a shard of Vlad’s soul, sharing his memories, and becoming a Depravita herself, her will had grown ironclad. No external corruption could bend a soul as rooted and resolute as that of a master of sin.
"I will now guide you to the Interstellar Teleportation Formation so you may return to Graecia," the Empress said, rising to her feet.
Vlad allowed a small smile to cross his face and gave a short nod of gratitude. He had the means to return to Graecia on his own, but the cost would have been astronomical. The Empress’s offer was both generous and appreciated.
"Should we stay a few more days to ensure everything is in order?" Freya asked softly before they departed.