"Fjords of The Ylgrs" (Flock'⁴⁴/ııı)

## Plot

Episode opens with the D-Company members, including Jonah, Hazel, Margu Dumas, Jerrard E. Forestier, Horace L. Gorman Collin, Louis Blau, Sonia Kristiansen, Muriel Belgardette, Kleo Hermannseck, Tailleur V. "Taylor" Sanderson, Sergeant Trace Washington, Ellie Levi, the children, Mrs. Lilly, Ilina, Nora Halvorsen, and Nora's grandfather, Oskar Halvorsen, sailing on Captain Hagen's boat, accompanied by his crew, in the magnificent fjord. As the rest of the D-Company members peacefully slumber on the boat, Sonia awakens and is captivated by the enchanting sight of the aurora dancing in the sky above the forest. Morning arrives, and they finally reach their destination and set up camp. Margu, filled with concern, begins searching for Ilina, joined by Muriel and the children who eagerly assist in the quest to find their missing companion. Amidst the towering trees and the absence of snowfall, Margu leads the way into the woods, while Sonia, drawn by her determination and the urgency in their search, decides to join the group. The dense woods surround them, with gullies and a distinct lack of snow, creating an intriguing atmosphere. Meanwhile, Captain Hagen and his skilled crew diligently work on fixing the boat, ensuring their means of transport remains in pristine condition. With each step deeper into the woods, Margu, Muriel, the children, and Sonia continue their tireless search for Ilina, calling out her name and scanning the area for any signs of her presence. They navigate through the forest, their footsteps creating a gentle symphony with the rustling leaves and distant bird songs. The air is crisp and filled with anticipation as they press on, hoping to reunite Ilina.

While Hazel and Jonah were engaged in fishing, Hazel raised a question about supplies and safer locales, with a mention of the north. This led Jonah to think about Margu's request to Trace for joining the front-line fighting team. Upon reaching the fishing lake, Margu shared with everyone that Sebastian was maturing, understanding the world's harshness. Jonah had reservations about Margu joining the fight, considering her lack of training. He recalled Margu approaching him in Olso, expressing her wish to train. Despite this, Hazel decided to train Margu, being the group's most skilled gunslinger and the one with the highest IQ. He considered himself a child prodigy; at age eight, he had reconstructed his own 1M119 in just two days and even drove a car, much to Jonah's surprise. Hazel assured Jonah he meant no disrespect, and Jonah accepted, also ensuring he meant no offense to Hazel. Though Jonah knew that each woman had the right to choose for herself, sometimes being emotional and sometimes being tough, he was proud of Margu for being a tough woman and mother. Their conversation about Margu was overheard by Louis, who had arrived at the lake with them. Louis addressed Jonah, advising against training Margu. He wanted to keep her away from the battlefield, fearing for her safety. He was Margu's teacher, tasked by Beau Dumas to ensure her safety. Jonah confided in Louis, expressing that Margu, as a grown woman, should make her own decisions. Although Louis understood, he still worried about his son, Sebastian, and his student, Margu, whose safety was his responsibility. Jonah wanted to convince Louis that Margu was tough and independent, having taken care of Sebastian for months. She was ready to move on to the next chapter, relying on herself. Louis, however, was reluctant to accept this, deciding to discuss it with Margu later when she was ready.

As Hazel spotted a figure spying on them from behind a tree, he quickly opened his guns and ordered Jonah to take Louis to safety. Hazel began firing at the trees, revealing the figure who was riding a motorcycle and armed with a rifle. Hazel jumped onto the top of the motorcycle and started shooting at the figure, but the figure skillfully avoided the bullets and retaliated by opening fire at Hazel to disarm his guns. Angered by this, Hazel threw knives at the figure, who used a shield and golden gauntlets to protect themselves. The figure then threw a knife with a black flag at the ground, signaling to Hazel that they wanted him to surrender. Realizing the meaning of the black flag, Hazel decided to surrender, but not before using the shield and golden gauntlets to throw more knives. Hazel recognized the figure with a brown jacket adorned with the Brazilian Expeditionary Force shoulder sleeve insignia, featuring a smoking snake on the right shoulder. The figure sped towards Hazel, jumping off the motorcycle and landing near him. As they removed their aviator goggles and balaclava, it was revealed to be Jerome Luther. Jonah and Louis returned to the lake, with Jonah expressing surprise and happiness at Jerome's presence. However, Hazel couldn't help but feel suspicious, knowing that Jerome was part of the manhunt for D-Company. Jerome remained silent, and Hazel realized that Jerome hadn't joined the manhunt because he often worked alone, searching for Himmler, who was still alive and in hiding somewhere. Hazel asked if Jerome knew anything about Himmler's whereabouts, and Jerome shared that he had captured a Nazi guard in Paris, indicating that Himmler had been there before heading north. Jerome simply wanted to warn Jonah and Hazel about Wulf, who was somewhere alone in the north searching for someone who could confront him. Jerome revealed that he had encountered Wulf numerous times and knew that even Jonah was no match for him. Louis became uneasy upon hearing this, prompting Hazel to share his concerns with Jerome. Jerome confirmed that Wulf had been seen in Olso, wearing a black Schutzstaffel uniform. Wulf had managed to eliminate half of the Norwegian forces in Olso, leading to the surrender of the Norwegians. He was incredibly powerful, instilling horror in the U.S. and U.K. forces, who actively avoided him. Jerome revealed that Wulf had secretly planned to create an upcoming apocalypse, shocking Louis, Jonah, and Hazel to their cores.

As Jerome continued his quirky explanation to Hazel, Jonah, and Louis, the nervousness in the air was palpable. Jerome revealed that Wulf was not just any ordinary being, but the true Old Emperor, a dangerous Eldritch being who possessed immense power. He explained that Wulf was a Pleiadian male, carrying the telekinetic force of his kind, which immediately sent a shiver down Jonah's spine. Jonah recalled witnessing Wulf's telekinetic abilities firsthand during the D-day incident, where Wulf effortlessly destroyed airships with his sheer strength. Hazel chimed in, explaining to Jerome that even Hazelites like himself, who had managed to defend the Old Emperor, possessed the ability to defend against the Old Gods easily due to their roots in Eldritch beings. However, Jerome cautioned them, pointing out that Hazelites wouldn't have enough power and strength to affect Wulf. Their abilities were limited to fighting against Eldritch shapeshifters and not the Old Emperor himself. Jerome warned that if Hazel were to engage in a battle against the Old Emperor, the injuries he would sustain would be even worse, potentially leading to his demise. This revelation left Hazel feeling unsettled and angry, as he realized that despite being a powerful Hazelite in America, it seemed unfair that he couldn't match Wulf's strength. Jonah, still processing the information, mustered up the courage to ask just how powerful Wulf truly was, but Jerome remained silent, leaving him speechless. Louis, not one to back down, demanded that they find someone else with magical or cursed powers to defend Wulf. However, Jerome dismissed the suggestion, stating that Wulf had zero effect on him. Hazel, understanding the magnitude of Wulf's power, couldn't help but feel a sense of doom looming over Europa. Jerome, pressed for time, quickly hopped on his motorcycle and revved off into the woods, promising to return someday if he encountered their location.

In the aftermath of Jerome's departure, Jonah remained silent, lost in thought. Hazel, wanting to lift his friend's spirits, gently reassured him that Wulf was currently in Norway, urging Jonah not to dwell on it. With a renewed sense of determination, the three of them returned to their camp, ready to face the challenges ahead.

As they venture further, the forest's mysteries unravel before their eyes. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting ethereal patterns on the forest floor. A chorus of woodland creatures accompanies their journey, creating a harmonious backdrop to their search. The beauty of nature envelopes them, offering solace and a sense of unity even amidst the uncertainty. Margu's determination is unwavering, and the children, inspired by her spirit, eagerly follow her lead. Sonia, ever the observant and resourceful member of the group, utilizes her keen senses to spot any trace of Ilina. Their collective efforts create a strong bond, as they share stories, laughter, and encouragement along the way.

Meanwhile, Captain Hagen and his crew work diligently in the background, their expertise ensuring a safe return for the entire D-Company. With their combined skills and dedication, the boat is being meticulously repaired, ready to resume its journey once the group's mission is complete. As the search party continues deeper into the woods, their determination remains unyielding. They navigate through rocky terrain, cross babbling streams, and overcome any obstacles that stand in their path. The forest, though vast and mysterious, feels strangely comforting, its ancient wisdom guiding them forward. With every passing moment, hope fills their hearts. They know that finding Ilina is not only crucial for their mission but also for the unity and friendship within the D-Company. Their unwavering belief in each other and their shared purpose fuels their quest, providing strength even in the face of uncertainty.