Chapter 330: The Valkyries and The Training Grounds
The early morning mist hung low over the training grounds, a vast expanse of dirt and grass, still untouched by the trampling boots of soldiers. Lyan’s army, a growing force under his command, was preparing for another day of rigorous training. At the edge of the field, rows of soldiers stood in line, their armor gleaming faintly in the soft light of dawn. The army was divided into units—each designed for a specific purpose, from heavy infantry to mounted cavalry and archers.
Supervising them from a nearby platform were three of Lyan’s most trusted commanders: Surena, Emilia, and Alice, three Valkyries who not only held power on the battlefield but in strategic planning. Each of them had their unique approach to leadership, and as they watched the soldiers begin their drills, their conversation began to take shape.
Emilia, her tall, muscular frame resting on the railing of the platform, glanced over the soldiers with her sharp crimson eyes. "They need more discipline," she remarked, her voice direct. "The way they’re holding their shields... I could break through that formation in a heartbeat."
"Discipline comes with time," Alice responded, her tone measured, her platinum-blonde hair falling gracefully over her shoulder. "We need to focus on the basics first, then reinforce them with advanced techniques. Not everyone can be a natural soldier like you, Emilia."
Surena, standing between the two, grinned, her expression mischievous. "Discipline’s important, sure... but maybe they could use some motivation." She cast a glance over her shoulder towards the castle. "I mean, Lyan always knows how to motivate us, doesn’t he?"
Alice chuckled softly, not missing the chance for a witty retort. "Oh, I’m sure he does. Especially during those long nights. But we’re talking about training soldiers, Surena, not..." She trailed off, allowing her smirk to say the rest.
Surena’s grin widened. "Hey, I just think a little reward system could go a long way. Train hard, fight well, and... who knows what could come their way?"
Emilia rolled her eyes, though there was a trace of amusement in her voice. "You mean like the reward system you’ve got going with Lyan? I’m sure the soldiers will find that very motivating."
"Don’t pretend you haven’t dreamt about it," Surena teased. "The other day, you were muttering something in your sleep. Was it... ’Don’t stop, Lyan’?"
Emilia flushed slightly but maintained her composed expression. "Focus, Surena. We’re not here to discuss our personal lives."
The banter between the Valkyries had become a regular part of their routine, though it never distracted from their duty. As the soldiers continued their drills, the three women shifted their conversation to more pressing matters—the training and organization of the army.