Land of the Attached Stars?
Frieren was, of course, no stranger to the super meteorite that fell after the War of the Four Gods; she was the first to notice it, and its unsealing of the stars finally carved out a path.
She speculated, "Could it symbolize a change in the power of Astel, Naturalborn of the Void?"
"Hard to say. It is, after all, a great creature cast down by the Greater Will."
Ranni dared not speculate lightly, lest it lead her allies and Blaidd astray with misjudgments; that would be truly disastrous. Better to investigate and summarize as they go.
The puppet led the guest to the highest floor of the sorcerer's tower, while Iji, of course, remained at the entrance to guard and, while he was at it, clean up the battlefield. Iji glanced up at the tower, nodded slightly, and was greatly relieved.
The two gradually developed a tacit understanding, which was good news; at least they shared a common language in terms of magic research.
The host, Ranni, gently waved her hand, causing a pile of books to float before the silver-haired girl. They contained various styles of script and writing characteristics from different eras, yet they shared one commonality: records concerning Nokron, the Eternal City.
Although destroyed by monsters from the stars, what a great civilization left behind was not easily erased by the passage of time.
Unfortunately, a considerable portion of the writing was in scripts Frieren hadn't had time to learn.
Fortunately, Melina was very familiar with them and explained each one:
"Here, it mentions the drainage system of the Eternal City, quite intricate, describing their construction of complex, elevated aqueduct structures. There are also colossal statues, temples, Dragonkin Soldiers, Ancestral Spirits..."
It was clearly dry memoir literature, yet Frieren read it with relish; even if it was a recitation of a recitation, it didn't matter.
It was fascinating to read.
She ravenously absorbed the knowledge from ancient times, satisfying her desire for exploration.
More importantly, it exuded encouragement: the Lands Between were resilient enough to endure until the next era of glory, and her actions would create an even greater potential for them.
Though it was a lost civilization, it instilled confidence.
The situation below ground was much the same as above. If the surface could be restored, why not the underground world?
Frieren conjectured, "Perhaps the main structure of the Eternal City isn't severely damaged; we could directly utilize its past legacy to quickly rebuild. The Nox civilization may have vanished, but its inheritors still live, and myriad connections continue to expand.
Even if it's an empty ghost town, we must move people in to revive it. As long as the right environment is created, civilization will always flourish. What do you think, Ranni?"
"Feasible. After all, you've already created miracles."
The blue-haired puppet mused for a moment, then sighed to her eager guest, who was already seeking solutions:
"You see the hope of revival in your eyes, while others dwell on the past and interpret trends of decline; Astel is insurmountable..."
Both master and servant knew that Seluvis was already trouble. Furthermore, the Greater Will's control over the Shadowbound Beasts might affect...
"The disparity in human mindset is truly vast; even more disparate than the power of a king is the heart of a monarch."
"Because I, too, have witnessed many failures, and I can somewhat empathize."
...affect Blaidd. We must prepare to cleanse our ranks, and mentally prepare for it.
"I need to restock all my arrows, medicinal materials, throwing knives, and such. If you have any spare energy, you'd best keep an eye on the stars and ensure victory."
"I know, but you still believe." Ranni nodded. "So the Eternal City will surely open its arms."
Such knowledge was enough. The rest must be measured with footsteps and sight, especially that monster rumored to have destroyed a civilization.
On the surface, at least, she could call for support, but underground, it would be different. Even Frieren needed to prepare for an adventure in a completely new environment. It was very challenging, but adventurers welcome challenges most of all.
Ranni called out to Frieren and handed her a small doll charm.
Similar items had been seen during the War of the Four Gods; originally carried by Blaidd, it was now entrusted to another confidant.
"The craftsmanship isn't bad. Did you make it?"
The silver-haired girl, still absorbed in her study of ancient texts, meticulously examined the doll's details right in front of its owner, causing the host's calm expression to falter slightly.
"The key is that it can serve as a medium for communication, and even summon my Demigod avatar. Guard it carefully, don't lose it."
"Yes, put it away quickly." Even Melina chimed in with a reminder.
Frieren heeded their advice and hung it by the waist of her armor. The doll's power had only recently been demonstrated in Caelid, proving exceptionally effective. If combined with her own magical supply, it would only be twice as effective, with even more potent results.
Having gathered everything she needed, she no longer lingered. She waved her hand and headed for a Site of Grace.
After a surge of magic, the silver-haired girl vanished.
Coming and going in a rush, always so decisive and swift. In a world where time was least a concern, she was the one always rushing, yet always full of drive.
A little later, Iji came to report: "Your Highness, everything has been cleaned up."
"You've worked hard. Please, rest well."
"As our plans progress, the Two Fingers will undoubtedly intensify their pursuit and blockade. Targeting Her Majesty Frieren is a good choice for them, and the underground world will be very dangerous. I suggest you relocate to the Raya Lucarian Academy; it's safer there."
"No need. My animosity with the Two Fingers has already involved too many people; let's not expand it further."
Iji cleared his throat. He knew that Ranni wouldn't even want to borrow the power of the Soul Kindling King if she could help it; he blamed himself for being so useless, so weak.
Ranni understood this truth as well. Her previously closed heart was gradually willing to open; perhaps the Full Moon Queen's gradual recovery and meeting with General Radahn had put her a little at ease. The solace from her family and the support from her allies cleared away her isolation.
She claimed it was the result of her Soul Magic training, but the reasons went far beyond that.
"Understood, I will remain vigilant."
"Also, as Frieren progresses with her exploration of the Eternal City, some hidden dangers should be dealt with. Restless elements shouldn't be kept around for critical moments."
Ranni's profound words made Iji nod deeply.
Fort Haight Site of Grace.
This was the shortest route to the land where the stars fell, and the efficiency-minded Frieren chose this warp point first.
Having finished her long journey, she unconsciously scanned her surroundings to avoid any attacks, yet she found a bustling town, vibrant with human chatter. As the capital of Fort Haight's domain, it was vastly different from before, completely transformed.
The Site of Grace she was at was atop an altar, drawing much attention.
It was very much his style; he even had flowerbeds planted around the altar, clearly well-tended year-round, emitting a rich and fragrant scent.
Passersby first gave way, then erupted in a chorus of cheers, expressing a warm welcome.
"Your Majesty, you've finally remembered the first domain you saved! The residents of Fort Haight's domain have long awaited Your Majesty—"
"Oh, is that so? Right."
Frieren, who had been about to stride off to the land where the stars fell, could only nod.
With the atmosphere set, she couldn't just slip away; that would be too rude.
At the same time, Melina whispered in her ear, "Checking the status of your domain is also a monarch's duty. You might as well respond to them, treat it as playing your part. It is a place of great significance, after all, isn't it?"
It was widely known that Fort Haight's domain was the birthplace of the Soul Kindling King; this was indeed true, and with the lord deliberately promoting it, it became widely known.
The residents were proud of it from the bottom of their hearts, and many simply came to see for themselves.
The first batch of original inhabitants, also called "the First Blessed Souls," though they served as experimental subjects for Frieren's innovative magic, the results were good, and the first step to conquering zombification began from there.
Without their courageous cooperation, the healing from soul magic would have been delayed somewhat.
History was destined to give rise to this invention, but their contributions were also very important. Some of the faces even made Frieren feel—
"Are you from the logging village in the Demi-Human forest?"
"Your Majesty still remembers!"
"After all, that's where I gained the authority of the Demi-Human Queen." The silver-haired girl asked, a reminiscent look on her face, "Speaking of which, are you no longer involved in logging?"
"No, actually, demand has increased, and we're now processing timber."
It turned out that the former logging village had become a pure raw material production site, with timber then transported to Fort Haight's capital for refined processing. This effectively created a division of labor for efficiency, gathering skilled artisans in one place, and productivity continued to increase.
Beyond this, Frieren also met with Fort Haight's vassal; the two parties had, by chance, met once before.
"Unfortunately, the lord wasn't here, otherwise he would have been delighted to see Your Majesty."
"Since I'm already here, I'd like to replenish my supplies."
Although she might not necessarily need them, she was keen on preparing a variety of provisions; only a plentiful supply of resources brought her peace of mind.
Frieren also revealed some news about the underground world, warning the neighboring Fort Haight's domain to prepare for any potential repercussions, as no one knew how much commotion would be stirred up down there.
The vassal, carefully noting down the orders, suddenly had an idea:
"Your Majesty, why don't we spread the word and invite Tarnished and mercenaries to join the exploration? That could be a huge treasure trove!
First, they can scout ahead and help gather intelligence. I hear Tarnished like Rogier and Nepheli Loux, who are active in this area, are quite capable and should be interested. It would also increase efficiency, otherwise, exploring alone is too slow.
Secondly, our Fort Haight's domain could serve as a transit point and experience another wave of prosperity, offsetting the dangers of the nearby entrance."
"Please consider it."
"The news will get out eventually. If we don't actively set standards and issue a call, all the secret passages leading underground will become chaotic, causing trouble sooner or later.
It would be better to have the prospective monarch's name endorse it."
The vassal spoke while presenting specific plans, detailing how to hire, call upon, and establish regulations...
Other administrators also offered suggestions, and the whole scene turned into a meeting.
The plan was feasible.
Frieren didn't bother with detailed management, but she knew this 'adventure guild' approach would work. Many of their ideas inspired her. Isn't this just a 'Dungeon Kingdom'? Using exploration to generate fringe value and profit.
Truly befitting a domain that fostered half of the Southern Faction's core talents, it proved that the team under Fort Haight's governance had no shortage of talent.
The Lands Between, ravaged by war, didn't need this kind of cleverness. But as the situation gradually stabilized, they had to offer strategies, otherwise the domain...
"But there's one thing I must warn you about."
The silver-haired girl's serious tone made everyone immediately fall silent, listening intently.
"The Two Fingers recently launched another attack. They advocate for Astel, Naturalborn of the Void's punishment of the Eternal City. In other words, any attempt to excavate is an act of betrayal. Beware of their retaliation. If you wish to seize this benefit, you have chosen a side."
"Have you thought it through?"
As a monarch, she had an obligation to share high-level information. Besides, Frieren had no airs and felt that some situations ought to be publicly known. Don't let your subordinates be kept in the dark, otherwise, they won't be able to help you at critical moments.
She also wasn't sure what level the legendary extra-terrestrial monster was. In case of a fierce battle, it might inevitably affect the surrounding areas.
Although, according to Latas's intelligence, the so-called Astel, Naturalborn of the Void, might have been summoned by a hidden mastermind leveraging the Greater Will's name, its strength should not be underestimated.
Frieren always measured her enemies by strict standards.
If the mastermind retaliated indiscriminately, also targeting Fort Haight's domain for supporting underground exploration, wouldn't the losses be disastrous?
"The choice is yours."
"No, Your Majesty, our opinions have never truly mattered."
"Why?"
The people exchanged glances, and then a knowing smile spread across their faces, some relieved, some somewhat resigned. Then the vassal replied:
"Whether the common people of the Lands Between are affected hinges entirely on a single thought from the monarch. The most important thing is whether you can protect us. As long as you act, even if we die, you'll still avenge us. Besides, souls blessed by you will surely return safely to the Erdtree, so we are not afraid; there's no point in being afraid."
"What we think doesn't matter. What matters is, can Your Majesty and Lady Ranni kill those troublesome Two Fingers?"
They are already on the kill list.
They threatened the safety of her allies and covetously eyed her own forces. In Frieren's eyes, grudges didn't matter; she didn't take any of it to heart anyway. The key was the threat; unstable elements must be eliminated.
Regardless of whether they were conspirators who sent assassins or monsters that destroyed civilizations, they all deserved to die.
"Your Majesty, our fates have long been intertwined, for better or worse. If you're not afraid, what do we have to fear? The Tarnished brave enough to explore the underground will surely have courage; let's trust everyone."
"I thought the Two Fingers would be more feared in everyone's eyes."
"Indeed, they are frightening. But what is that kind of fear—fear of scheming manipulators—in the face of a monarch's majesty? The Lands Between venerate Godfrey, the First Elden Lord, a king like Your Majesty. What's so great about someone who gives orders from behind the scenes? Exactly, the Two Fingers didn't save the Lands Between. When something goes wrong, they don't know where to turn! What's the use of mere deities grandiosely announcing standards for seeing the Elden Ring?"
These words expressed everyone's true feelings, not without a hint of sarcasm: "If only you were a little useful!"
But what happened?
Now it's Frieren who's diligently cultivating the land, restoring the entire South without even resorting to law. This is different from what the Two Fingers said.
The silver-haired girl replied solemnly, "Since you all have the resolve, then let's do it."
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