"The only clue is in the underground world."
"As long as we search that area thoroughly, we are bound to find clues. It's also part of our long-term plan."
Frieren wouldn't miss the treasures of a new map. She had been interested in the Eternal City for a long time, as Sellia, Town of Sorcery and the Magic Academy were both deeply connected to it, their origins profound.
"Has the Nox civilization been destroyed? In a physical sense, probably yes."
"But their legacy endures."
Hearing the silver-haired girl's decisive judgment, everyone felt slightly relieved. As long as they weren't completely clueless about the Land of Shadow, it would be fine. Otherwise, an enemy lurking in the dark would be a nightly terror.
"This is not the main focus of this meeting. Even if we explore it later, I will lead the charge. Your task is to manage your respective armies and prepare them."
Frieren always enjoyed grand adventures and journeys, let alone a place that hid secrets from the Lands Between's past.
"Are you considering military action against the underground world?" Edgar asked cautiously.
"Yes,"
"Because the Mohgwyn Dynasty is underground."
At the very least, Mohg, who has amassed a heavily guarded stronghold, warrants a large-scale punitive expedition. He surely holds vast armies of Albinaurics and accursed blood monsters.
The last time Frieren clashed with him during the Great Caelid War, his forms weren't particularly strong. But since those were merely duplicates, his true body must be far more formidable, perhaps even reaching the peak Demigod tier. Moreover,
as a Shardbearer, he wields the power of an Elden Ring shard, making him a foe not to be underestimated.
Furthermore, there have always been rumors of an Outer God's influence behind the Mohgwyn Dynasty.
What if Mohg, facing defeat, were to fuse with an Outer God's power in a desperate act? The combat tier would undoubtedly become far more terrifying. Even Frieren must prepare; she cannot always conquer these challenges alone.
Stepping back, at the very least, confirmed intelligence states that the Mohgwyn Dynasty commands vast armies, requiring us to engage them as a sovereign power.
"Understood."
Edgar added, "The Southern Army is relatively close, and will primarily be stationed in Caelid."
"Make it swift. I estimate Mohg is located beneath Caelid."
Moongrum, not to be outdone, volunteered, "Your Majesty, the defenses for the Altus Plateau are now steadily secured, and with the Farron Undead Legion standing guard, we in Liurnia
are fully capable of deploying an army to join the expedition. Since we are facing the might of a Shardbearer who has been preparing for years, we should commit as much as possible, leaving no opening for opportunity."
"Very well. You may begin preparations."
"However, our distance is considerable, so it will likely take some time. If Your Majesty is in a hurry, we can mobilize a small contingent of elites…"
Do not forget that Frieren and Ranni's high-profile cooperation last time provoked the Two Fingers, and this mastermind is relentless, continually dispatching their minions to harass us. They must be eliminated swiftly.
Putting aside the Empyrean status and the Law of the Stars for a moment, as she herself does not know how she will mend the Elden Ring in the future.
Only the Moon Princess's claims matter.
The stability of the Carian Royal Family's influence relies on Ranni's safety. This is plain and simple. In other words, attacking her directly undermines the stability of the Southern faction.
You deserve to die.
Frieren was very interested in seeing what the Two Fingers, purported envoys of the Greater Will, were truly capable of.
Therefore, it would be best to first follow Ranni's plan to hunt down the Two Fingers, eliminate these concerns, and incidentally unleash the combat potential of a Demigod sorceress. Why not? After that, we can consider the
Mohgwyn Dynasty's conquest.
However, this calculation is not something to be shared with outsiders. Let's keep it confidential for now.
The topic of the underground world quickly passed. Then, Edgar nudged Jerren, signaling that he should say something. At this, the elder cleared his throat and replied:
"Your Majesty, the Redmane Army has completed its reorganization."
"Details?"
"Their numbers have been streamlined to 70% of their original strength. Half of those who left chose to be free, becoming soldiers or instructors... essentially remaining within military affairs. The other half are engaged in production work in the South,
essentially having left military service."
Jerren sighed, "Everyone is weary. It's truly time for them to rest from their heavy burdens, Your Majesty."
"Please rest assured, Your Majesty. The streamlined Redmane Army is sufficient for local patrols and can cooperate with the Southern Army's main force in garrisoning the region."
"Are they satisfied with their new lives? After all, the changes are significant."
"The changes are great, but they are changes for the better. Before, we fought corruption-afflicted beings day and night, either dying or being assimilated. It felt like an endless nightmare. Now,
everything has ended. So, most people feel more fortunate, cherishing their current lives, and are grateful to Your Majesty."
Frieren nodded, looking relaxed, upon hearing this.
That's good. If their influence were to expand further, that would be troublesome, requiring a mental effort to reorganize and re-divide them. For a ruler, an army that is entirely outside the main system and not directly loyal can be
difficult to manage.
The Liurnia army, fortunately, joined the Church of Vows battle mid-way to pledge their loyalty, and with the connection to Ranni, they remain trustworthy.
It is well known that the Redmane Army's loyalty lies entirely with Radahn.
She could not care less; after all, no matter their allegiance, none could outmatch her in combat.
The leadership, deeply representing the interests of Limgrave and Liurnia, was concerned with the balance of power. Rather than developing the Redmane Army further, it would be better to absorb their elite forces and dismantle their original influence,
reduce their functional rank, and simply have them patrol and defend key cities.
Opportunities for military merit and troop training should be given to others, especially the soldiers from Limgrave. Kenneth Haight would likely be most enthusiastic about this.
"If Liurnia is training its troops in the Ruined Mining Tunnels, how can we fall behind?"
Frieren chuckled, "Very well, let's proceed with Lord Jerren's proposal. The opportunities to defeat enemies and gain Rune enhancements should be reserved for the two main forces. With good division of labor, we will be efficient.
From now on, the Caelid region will be managed by the Weeping Peninsula Army forces, rotating out the Limgrave army for rest and recuperation."
"…As you command, Your Majesty."
In a sense, the most significant decision of the meeting had been reached, effortlessly dividing a weighty cake.
There were no superfluous disputes; a single command from her was enough to settle everything. Such was the authority bestowed by absolute power.
Jerren's face showed a touch of emotion, but he ultimately accepted.
relieved.
In any case, the former Starscourge General's fiefdom had long been a phantom of its former self. Now liberated, there was no harm in moving forward with a new mission. At least the burden had been lifted; it was much easier than before, and the power…
"From now on, Redmane Castle will display your banner and portrait, and statues of you will be erected."
"That's not strictly necessary... but never mind. Whatever. I'll go with the flow."
The change of allegiance had already been completed during the War of the Four Empyreans, but only today had Frieren fully assimilated it, giving both sides ample time to adjust.
"Hail, Your Majesty."
"Hail, great Soul Cinder King!"
All present promptly offered their greetings and blessings. The silver-haired girl, as the protagonist, responded with a professional smile.
Whether her territory was large or small truly mattered little to her. The crucial point was that her subordinates now had new avenues for reward and territory. That was what truly mattered. The various substantial resources now encompassed within Caelid would suffice for centuries,
and the incentive it provided to the entire Southern faction was more significant than the victory of a major war.
Two Highs
Edgar murmured, "I once witnessed Limgrave being conquered as a Storm Knight, ushering in the Golden Order's rule…"
"Now, the system of fiefs established by King Consort Radagon in those days has crumbled. How times have changed."
His lament represented the feelings of most. At this moment, there was a sense of profound history passing, as a new dawn unfolded under Frieren's leadership. The future was bright, and everyone believed
in it.
Kenneth Haight was the happiest of all, nearly laughing out loud.
Jerren made no further comments; he was already content with the current situation. In fact, he was effectively in a state of retirement, unless a day came when he would need to lead an army into another great battle.
Seewan, Torrance, and others from the Academy faction had no interest in political affairs, at most providing technical reports that only arcane experts could understand.
The latter half of the meeting.
The discussions focused on more advanced details, concerning nothing more than personnel allocation, fiscal revenue and expenditure, and production and construction. These were left to the professional technocrats, and Frieren only listened
briefly to get the gist of it, knowing a general overview was enough.
If not for Melina's advice, "Just treat it as memorizing magical knowledge, commit it to memory," she would have left much earlier.
All in all, the meeting concluded smoothly.
The changes that had occurred in her sphere of influence during her slumber were clear at a glance.
After a round of discussions, the management teams of the three fiefdoms coordinated their efforts. Their respective territories, which were now recovering and even flourishing, would collectively cooperate, elevating their resource levels even
further.
"Meeting adjourned."
Towards the end, Frieren finally waved her hand, as if liberated, dismissing the attendees. Such complex tasks were bearable only once or twice.
Before leaving, Moongrum warned, "Your Majesty, it is said that the Church of Vows remains untouched because all who tried to disturb it met their end. Please be careful."
"That's why I'm going to the Roundtable Hold to get equipped."
After standing up from her main seat, the silver-haired girl strode rapidly towards the teleportation point.
Everyone was accustomed to Frieren's swift and decisive actions, knowing that she was likely collecting on long-term commissions for the Roundtable Hold. Although her faction now had no shortage of blacksmiths or spirit tuners,
she still chose the Roundtable.
Perhaps the Tarnished's approach better suited Her Majesty's sense of ease, making her feel like a true adventurer.
The Roundtable Hold.
Before, there were many idle Tarnished freely coming and going. Now, it was a bit quieter, likely because Stormveil's guild had taken on a significant portion of the commission work. According to Kenneth Haight's report,
it was becoming increasingly popular.
Most of them were busy with commissions, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship with the Southern Army.
Brother Corhyn, the Incantations master, greeted her and asked, "Lady Frieren, have you inquired about Master Goldmask for me? Where is he?"
"Intelligence suggests he is in the Altus Plateau."
"Indeed."
"In your opinion, does this master possess the knowledge to unravel the mysteries of the Elden Ring and find a way to mend it?" She stated bluntly, "If not, I have no interest in vacuous
philosophical theories. Such things cannot save the Lands Between."
"The master's insights are profound, but I don't know precisely how profound. We can ask him when the time comes."
"By the way, I wanted to ask you about someone, Vyke…"
However, Brother Corhyn did not know much. Beyond incantations and Elden Ring-related academia, his knowledge was limited, and the other Tarnished also seemed unfamiliar with him.
Frieren thought that experienced frontline Tarnished like Rogier, D, and Nemuri should know, but unfortunately, they weren't present. Perhaps it was because the guild she supported had too many commissions, and they were
occupied.
However, one of the Roundtable leaders was always present.
The silver-haired girl entered the various rooms along the corridor of the Roundtable Hold.
Upon seeing the master, Frieren immediately greeted him and asked, "Sir Gideon Ofnir, what do you know about Vyke, the Roundtable Knight?"
Even through his helmet, he, who was typically engrossed in his studies, displayed a rare, subtle emotion. It was truly uncommon to see the Lands Between's foremost intelligence broker in a nostalgic mood.
"That's an old story now…"
"…I apologize, I don't know exactly what happened to him, but it is connected to the Frenzied Flame. You would do best to stay away."
Frieren, leaning against the doorframe, remained silent, as if she hadn't heard the refusal.
Sir Gideon Ofnir saw the silver-haired girl's expression — a look that said, "Do you take me for a fool? You definitely know more, don't hold back" — and understood she was not satisfied, trusting deeply in her own intelligence-gathering
abilities.
Never mind. It's a small matter, not worth getting on his bad side.
"Vyke was very strong, of noble character, and widely renowned. He earned the favor of Ancient Dragon Lansseax, capable of wielding the power of the Ancient Dragon. In my mind, he was the Tarnished's
archetype, upholding the Roundtable Hold amidst turbulent times."
Frieren showed no particular reaction, but noticed a subtle hint of displeasure emanating from Melina's spirit beside her.
The most exceptional Tarnished should be her companion. For Sir Gideon Ofnir to say such a thing to her face seemed provocative, or perhaps he was simply too deeply immersed in the past.
"And what else?"
"I am not privy to the details, but the result was that Vyke became tainted by the Frenzied Flame, his true body sealed within the forbidden city's Forbidden Gaol, and even the woman he deeply loved unexpectedly perished… likely the price of understanding some truth of the Golden Order Erdtree. Even a Pre-Lord of pre-Lord caliber can face insurmountable trials."
He stared pointedly at the silver-haired girl.
"If I am not mistaken, Vyke must have been unwilling to let his Maiden make the ultimate sacrifice, choosing to bear the burden alone. Unfortunately, no matter his choice, it was ultimately the wrong one."
"Indeed."
There was no need to discuss further. They were both intelligent individuals; a hint was enough.
Sir Gideon Ofnir clearly issued a warning, implying that he did not encourage a Pre-Lord to further meddle with the Golden Order Erdtree, suggesting instead to maintain the status quo. But Frieren would not listen. What needed to be done,
she would do anyway. She just found it difficult to press for more details.
Upon hearing the topic of the Maiden, Melina's expression darkened. Frieren decided to hold her questions for now, knowing that the truth would eventually come to light.
Most importantly, she didn't trust Sir Gideon Ofnir.
"Thank you."
"Frieren." Suddenly, he called out to the silver-haired girl as she turned to leave, warning her solemnly, "One day, when you face a choice, do not easily let emotion sway your judgment."
But she left without a backward glance, closing the door behind her, offering no comment.
A truly formidable individual possesses their own pride. If easily swayed, a king would cease to be a king.
"I thought you would press further."
After leaving Sir Gideon Ofnir's room, Melina expressed surprise to Frieren. It was well-known that Frieren liked to get to the bottom of things and uncover the truth, yet she had suppressed her curiosity.
"Firstly, he is not to be trusted. Secondly, don't I have the person who knows most about the Maiden's death right here beside me?"
"You have always hidden things from me, but never anything that would endanger me. I don't mind. Who in this world doesn't have a few secrets? Besides, in the end, everything comes to light."
Her usual straightforward and optimistic remark left Melina unsure how to respond.
"Actually, I'm now also having some doubts about the Greater Will…"
"As long as there's no internal conflict, that's fine. Whatever you're considering, remember that I possess the power to choose alternative paths and break established rules."
In the past, she might not have taken it seriously. However, when Melina faced peril battling the Goddess of Rot, the surge of new power she unleashed was terrifying. Though fleeting, it left a deep impression, an overwhelmingly potent aura of both
burning and creation.
She likely had more than just one such trump card.
Thus, Frieren had plenty of confidence. Uninterested in human scheming and intrigue, whether she sought the truth or not, it didn't affect her adventures, always giving her companions a sense of relaxed ease.
The silver-haired girl strode swiftly into the forging corridor, where Hewg was seen vigorously swinging his hammer, bathed in sweat.
"The armor and weapons you commissioned me to refine are ready. They're over there; just take them."
With that, he resumed his labors, showing no intention of further conversation.
The acquired armor pieces aligned perfectly with her light armor, feeling substantial and incredibly sturdy. Its silver-white, form-fitting, streamlined design exuded majesty. Truly the work of a master craftsman.
Frieren tried moving in it and found it very flexible. The cape embroidered by Boc complemented it perfectly, and all traces of previous battles were gone.
Prepared for the next grand expedition.
Afterwards, she greeted Roderika and handed over new spirit tuning commissions for her ashes.
"Wait a moment, why does your expression seem off?"
TY
…She had just considered that the Roundtable Hold wasn't lacking strange occupants, which was why she hadn't paid it much mind.
Of course, if they proved a hazard to the environment, there were plenty of ways to inflict torment while adhering to the non-combat rules.
"Who?"
"I don't know, it's just that a guest calling himself the 'Dung Eater' arrived by chance. Even through a closed door, as a Spirit Tuner, I could hear many souls uttering laments, curses, and terrified wails. Who is this person? What has he done? Even the grafted horrors I've seen didn't possess such an aura…"
Roderika, fidgeting uncomfortably, pressed her legs together, hugged herself with one arm, and her eyes darted nervously.
Nevertheless, after sensing Frieren's reassurance, she proceeded with the spirit tuning in an orderly fashion. For her, the true protector of the Roundtable Hold was this Soul Cinder King.
"Indeed, very peculiar. Is he a fellow Tarnished?"
"Not necessarily. And his demeanor is terrible; he hurls insults at everyone."
"I heard the wailing souls. It's a curse, but this curse isn't designed for harm; instead, it's filled with lingering resentment. Who could harbor such immense hatred?"
The silver-haired girl focused intently on the room on the other side. Out of respect for the Roundtable Hold's sanctuary, she didn't casually use large-scale detection. Yet, as a soul sorceress, it was hard for her not to notice that surge of energy.
So, I'll go myself.
Since Roderika was worried, it wouldn't hurt to probe a little.
Seeing her rise, the Spirit Tuner cautioned, "Don't cause any conflict. The Roundtable Hold cannot endure too much upheaval."
Frieren nodded, then entered the corridor at Sir Gideon Ofnir's end. The once-closed door was now open, revealing an additional life presence inside. It was clearly a red phantom guest,
sitting cross-legged on the floor.
However, his appearance was truly bizarre:
His entire body was encased in bulky armor that covered even his head. His abdomen was particularly protruded, showing no weakness. The surface of his dark-hued armor was covered in swellings, emitting a foul odor.
It was less like clothing and more like a form of contaminated skin, unsettling to behold.
Fortunately, she had seen her share of monsters and demons, so she could tolerate it.
Even Frieren, who usually suppressed her emotions, frowned deeply. The last time she had been so unsettled was in the Maggot Room of the Painted World, a place filled with terrible memories. For one person to make everyone
they met instantly dislike them, that truly was a kind of skill.
Out of courtesy, she restrained her discomfort. At the very least, she needed to show sufficient respect, preferring diplomacy before force.
"Have you ever felt a curse? That life-long affliction, feared and detested by all? That hideous blessing? I've heard of you, Frieren. The moment I saw you, I knew you harbored a formidable curse within you, though you suppress it rather well."
"You know me, but I do not know you. Could you introduce yourself?"
"Hmph, you are still a child, ignorant of defilement, and utterly unaware of your own ignorance. There's nothing more to say to you. I rarely find peace; do not disturb me."
"I want to know why you are here."
The Dung Eater let out an impatient huff, but ultimately held back the venomous words on the tip of his tongue.
For a vast, abyssal pressure enveloped the confined space, like monstrous waves, and he was but a small boat, swaying under Frieren's might. With but a thought, she could claim a person's
life.
No infighting? Whose rule is that? The greatest rule at the Roundtable Hold now is the Soul Cinder King. Moreover, she surely doesn't lack means that leave no trace.
"I will spread my wisdom, so that more may embrace the curse…"
"That doesn't sound like a good thing."
"But I have a premonition. I might be able to find a Rune that can mend the Elden Ring, revealing a path…"
The Dung Eater kept explaining, hoping to sway the motionless Frieren before him. But she remained unmoved, her gaze fixed deeply on the ground, unbeknownst to him, observing the player messages:
[The Eighth One is a key character, I suppose. He can determine a type of Rune for mending.]
[No, that's the worst ending.]
[I tried it for completion's sake, and I felt even the narration couldn't hold up.]
[This is perfectly reasonable. For the Tarnished, everyone and everything they encountered along the way either died or scattered. What's left? Since the Lands Between never showed me a good side, then no one should have it good.
This wretched world should just be destroyed.]
[I don't know, I just killed him because I found him annoying. And that one too, the strange-looking one, I killed him off as well.]
[Exactly. You're the Elden Lord. You can kill whoever you want.]
[If one follows this questline, are there any preparations needed?]
[No need to rush. Wait until the Altus Plateau. Once you enter the Altus Plateau, several questlines will advance rapidly. Make sure to complete any desired plot
points before then.]
[Deal with the Dung Eater later.]
Frieren checked the messages and found that this fellow wasn't exaggerating. Although she didn't know the exact details, he indeed had the potential to create a Rune for mending.
It could be unused, but it couldn't be non-existent. So, leaving him be was fine; she would deal with him later.
"Behave yourself. If any residents of the Roundtable Hold are disturbed, I won't hesitate to maintain proper order."
Her icy tone made the Dung Eater nod like a garlic press.
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