The Full Moon Queen's Grand Library.
Since the Academy of Raya Lucaria had been newly repaired, this place was no longer sealed off. Young sorceresses, created by Great Runes, now moved among the various bookshelves, organizing records and compiling incantations.
Under the miraculous healing of Raya Lucaria's new master, they were able to move freely, accompanying their creator with greater liberty.
Compared to the strange and stifling atmosphere of the past, it now appeared much more welcoming.
Whoosh!
A vast wave of magical power surged from a Site of Grace. The person hadn't arrived, but their presence was already felt.
Only after a thorough scan of the environment did the light particles coalesce into a human form: none other than the silver-haired maiden cloaked in borrowed attire. Her familiar aura caused the apprentices to bow in greeting; Her Majesty was as bustling as ever.
Frieren glanced left and right, and the attendants nodded, retreating. In moments, only two remained in the Grand Library.
As a fellow top-tier sorcerer, the Full Moon Queen had long since detected her visitor. She was gently stroking an amber infused with Great Rune energy, channeling her magic in preparation.
There was no need to guess the purpose of this sudden visit.
Sure enough, she took out a prime piece of Larval Tear material, which had undergone some energy enhancements that even Frieren herself didn't fully comprehend, yet they were undoubtedly correct. She wouldn't find a more perfect Larval Tear.
"I implore you to create a physical body for Melina. I will reward you handsomely."
A clear light emerged in the Full Moon Queen's formerly clouded eyes, and her expression slowly regained a subtle depth from its previous dullness. Ever since the last great battle at the Academy and seeing her daughter, this once-unyielding Demigod sorcerer seemed to be recovering her spirit.
"You have already helped me so much; it is I who should be grateful. If you insist on a reward, then help Ranni overcome her destiny."
"When you decide to seek her out, simply do so. Follow your intuition, trust in fate."
If anyone else had spoken with such cryptic divine pronouncements, Frieren would have rolled her eyes. But the Full Moon Queen, whose stargazing abilities were unparalleled, certainly had her reasons. Frieren simply made a mental note.
Ranni adventuring alone was indeed out of the question. Given the Two Fingers' conspiratorial nature, a one-on-one duel was impossible.
She pushed aside her thoughts and focused on the Larval Tear in her hands.
"...I'm very worried. Will the sealed part of me contain danger? Lady Rennala, how much can your stargazing abilities perceive?"
Moongrum and his retinue hastily arrived at the loft, quickly bowing to the silver-haired maiden upon seeing her.
"I can see nothing."
"Oh?"
"Your destiny is already tightly intertwined with Frieren's. Her station is beyond my sight, so I cannot discern where this 'fog of destiny' will lead."
The Full Moon Queen lowered her gaze, her tone regretful, for Ranni was the same.
"Regardless, Melina, you must hold firm to your heart and trust in your current thoughts and feelings; do not waver. Though you rely on your Tarnished, and she is strong—enough to contend with all these schemes—she still needs your assistance. Otherwise, she cannot become a proper ruler."
Frieren nodded and said, "It's fine. I'm simply creating a body for Melina. It will be finished in a while. At that time, my Witch will appear before everyone, and some of my duties will be handed over to her for you all to manage."
"Is Your Majesty granting authority?"
"Yes. You are to respect my Witch just as you respect me. Many plans have always stemmed from her suggestions."
The gathered individuals exchanged glances, then immediately nodded in agreement.
Everyone knew that aside from exploration and magic books, this monarch's mind didn't dwell much on interpersonal relations. Yet, she emphasized Melina's existence repeatedly, making it clear how high her status was.
"A king who knows how to govern."
In a short while, Frieren was already examining the newly added tomes in the Grand Library, looking around with keen interest.
Plot dialogues and such weren't that important.
In the end, it always came back to defeating so-and-so anyway.
The second-in-command of the Southern Faction had already been decided; no one could compete.
While that was true, they didn't pay it too much mind. Ultimately, The Lands Between spoke through strength; the higher the position of the executor, the more they needed strong methods.
The acting Witch ought to be very weak.
"Even so, don't let yourself be swayed too much by emotion, don't become like me." The Full Moon Queen sighed, then changed the subject: "Melina, you've already established a soul connection with the Larval Tear. Come when you feel the time is ripe."
After all, a Demigod couldn't just appear out of nowhere, could they? Anyway, her own strength was what mattered most.
"Your Majesty, we have received some news from the Eternal City." Moongrum said, taking out a map to report:
Frieren turned her head and said, "At that time, it will be the soul infusion step, primarily carried out by me. Only once that's done will everything truly be safe."
"We explored the underground elevator entrance in Liurnia, defeated the guardian Golem, and opened a new path."
"The Ainsel River underground entrance?"
"Alright, I must continue cultivating this Larval Tear."
As she spoke, Rennala lowered her head and embraced the Larval Tear, emitting a warm magical glow.
"Comparing our intelligence with Limgrave, we've found this place to be deeper, but also more dangerous. It's quite cold inside, with attacks from insectoid monsters. After some research, we believe it's the ruins of the Uhl Dynasty?"
Using life sorcery to create such a significant outcome after so long felt rather good.
"Furthermore, continuing to explore the Eternal City requires caution regarding Astel, Naturalborn of the Void. It is a monster sent down by the Greater Will, possessing the immense power to stomp The Lands Between into oblivion."
"I recall there are statues of them on the surface of Liurnia, correct?"
"Yes, over the passage of time, parts of those ruins have become exposed in the lake region. They are also remnants of an ancient civilization."
Learned that from the Soul of Cinder long ago.
The two completed the preliminary processing.
A simple magical resonance, yet it generated an astonishing aura. A surging wind echoed through the Grand Library, flipping pages, making the edifice tremble.
The majestic aura immediately informed the Academy's defenders that Frieren had returned.
"Should we go pay our respects?" someone suggested.
Moongrum shook his head, dissuading them: "Since Her Majesty didn't notify us, it must be something more urgent and personal… I sensed the power of three Great Runes converging. It must be that body-creation experiment."
"I thought so too," Serie echoed, "There aren't many experiments left that would demand her full concentration."
"So, all we need to do is strengthen our vigilance."
"Understood."
Hearing the chief Carian Knight's conjecture, everyone finally felt relieved. Connecting it with Frieren's spectral Witch, they understood most of it.
Her Majesty had promised her partner; she would certainly see it through.
The Eternal City likely yielded unexpected gains, which was why she rushed back without delay to conduct this experiment. Perhaps what they truly needed to prepare for was the arrival of a tangible first confidant for their soon-to-be monarch, an indisputable senior minister.
Within the Grand Library, the magical concentration surpassed its critical point, transitioning from gaseous to liquid, solidifying into trickling streams.
They guarded the most radiant and steadfast core: a shard of the Elden Ring.
The initial resonance was complete, and contact had been established with the Larval Tear. Everything was foolproof, ready for the next step. Rennala and Frieren exchanged glances and nodded.
Activate!
The two Shardbearers unleashed their power simultaneously.
The most supreme and majestic power of The Lands Between responded to the magic, together enveloping the Larval Tear, rapidly shaping it.
Initially, it was merely a blob-like Larval Tear. Then, ripples like water disturbed its surface, clearly the traces of awakened magic. But the spellcasters did not give it further form, instead reinforcing its essence.
"Frieren, I'll take the lead now; you assist by guiding the magic."
"Understood."
"The core of life sorcery lies in the physical body, lacking a spiritual soul. Your magic can complement this aspect. Use that flame."
Even before she finished speaking, the silver-haired maiden drew forth a faint flame, yet it contained immense power.
"It's your turn, Melina."
Upon hearing this, the Witch injected her magic. As expected, the separated soul, nourished and strengthened by the flame, effortlessly merged with the Larval Tear. Melina herself felt a subtle, new sensation.
At this moment, she gradually understood just how audacious the plan truly was.
Using Great Runes to create an environment similar to a Life Crucible to temper the Larval Tear, transforming it into a life modeled after Melina. But the process had to be controlled, as it was crucial to seize the opportunity to introduce her soul, thereby creating a body free from rejection.
Each step required immeasurable magic; a single Great Rune might not even withstand the consumption. Thankfully, there were enough.
This was a miracle.
Even more crucial was the spellcasters' own magical prowess. They had to completely control the entire process, like carving and painting on a grain of rice, while also controlling the rhythm amidst chaotic magical flows.
Rennala was responsible for using life sorcery to guide the body's formation and solidify its strength.
Frieren was responsible for using soul magic to adjust the compatibility, ensuring the spirit body could smoothly merge with it.
Each performed their duties, a powerful collaboration.
The Lands Between could not possibly assemble another research team of such caliber. The scene left even Melina stunned. Was it truly necessary to use three Great Runes?
Then, she watched as the Larval Tear began to take on the outline of a body—the curves identical to her own, only a size smaller and quite delicate. Was this the result of two Demigod sorcerers' combined healing efforts?
To remedy Melina's lack of a body, this was truly a painstaking effort.
"Slow down the magic input. First, remove one Great Rune."
"Alright."
Since the Full Moon Queen was the primary caster, Frieren only needed to cooperate. As things were still proceeding smoothly, she proactively withdrew Godrick's Great Rune.
"Maintain the shaping until it stabilizes; no need for immediate full formation. High-level life sorcery should allow for growth."
"I will gradually slow it down."
Their conversation was crisp and efficient, and their movements were even more practiced. They swiftly guided the Larval Tear into a new form: indeed, a smaller version of Melina's body, sleeping in a contracted state. Skin, blood vessels, and strands of hair were clearly visible; aside from the Larval Tear's silvery sheen, there was almost no difference.
And with just one glance, Melina felt a powerful resonance, like a reunion after a long separation.
Thump!
A heartbeat, full of youthful vigor, actually emanated from it.
It was too exaggerated. If she didn't know its former state was a Larval Tear, she would almost believe her original body had returned.
In a sense, the body jointly created by Rennala and Frieren was even more compatible than her original, and superior in power.
It was a phase complete.
As Melina's body-Larval Tear fully formed, the magic transmission slowed further.
Another Great Rune was withdrawn, leaving only the Full Moon Queen to perform deep adjustments. The silver Larval Tear gradually assumed a normal skin tone, its face flushed, eyes tightly closed in sleep, only its size remaining smaller.
She murmured, "It just needs a period of growth; it won't take too long. In the meantime, you all can continue your work."
"The Larval Tear is best kept in the Grand Library."
The guarantee of The Lands Between's foremost life sorcery grandmaster was highly reliable.
Frieren responded with a relieved sigh, wiping her forehead as she mused, "It's been a long time since I focused so intently on an experiment. It's good that it went smoothly. At least on the soul aspect, I can guarantee, Melina, you and this body are absolutely compatible."
"Thank you both."
Even she, whose expression was usually stern, showed excitement, her pupils shimmering as she gazed deeply at the Larval Tear in the Full Moon Queen's arms. She felt a strange sense of familiarity.
It was hard to imagine that it was the product of three Great Runes and two Shardbearers working together in full cooperation.
"Speaking of which, I had a feeling before, and it became clearer while creating Melina's body… You and I have a blood connection."
Melina was slightly stunned.
"This is a judgment based on destiny: you and I have a fated connection. If viewed from a bloodline perspective, you are very close to Radagon's lineage."
"I don't know. I only recall a mission and vague karmic ties from my past. I do indeed have a mother, but she also sealed away most of my power and memories. I couldn't even perceive it before…"
"No matter. Your destiny must be revealed by yourself."
Melina hung her head, her brows furrowed, uneasily looking at Frieren beside her.
What if the Tarnished, who already distrusted the Golden Dynasty, were to think a pawn had been planted by their side? Wouldn't that shatter the trust they had built up until now? The hard-won rapport would instantly crumble, leading to estrangement and wariness.
Unexpectedly, Frieren responded with an expression that already seemed to know.
"Interesting."
"I can't pinpoint who exactly in the Golden Lineage you're related to, but entrusting Torrent to me proves you're no small fry. We've discussed this topic before: the Tarnished comes for the Elden Ring restoration plan; it's quite normal for them to be someone's pawn."
"You said I trust others easily? That's right, Melina. I have the confidence to trust you."
The silver-haired maiden touched the Spirit Steed Whistle.
"It's not based on information, but on power and intuition," the maiden said with a relaxed tone. "You truly are capable."
The Full Moon Queen nodded.
"A monarch's trust is a form of authorization. To be the strongest in The Lands Between, one must possess the tolerance to trust and bear the consequences. Continue on your path. In the future, the Elden Lord and the acting Finger Maiden, there has never been a case that reached its conclusion in the world. Let you two trailblaze."
"Lady Rennala, do you know more information about me?"
"I do have some conjectures, for instance, you most likely have a connection with Queen Marika, carrying out some plan. Or, for that matter, which of us Demigods isn't somewhat related?"
"That's true."
Frieren interjected with an expression of one observing gossip.
The more top-tier the Noble circles, the closer the relationships; it's not surprising. The Lands Between are complex, yet also very easy to navigate.
Melina had always admired her partner's optimism, her utter lack of worry despite being caught in the thick of it all.
Frieren possessed the domineering power to shatter all schemes and machinations, and a magnanimous capacity to encompass everything. But that didn't mean the Witch could thoughtlessly accept the issues surrounding herself. She had to be responsible for Frieren, and for their cause.
"I will keep that in mind."
After relaying the last piece of information, the Full Moon Queen activated a barrier, protecting the Grand Library to the fullest extent, and also issued a dismissal.
Seeing this, Frieren walked out of the loft room.
She gazed towards the perilous Southern Star-lands, raising an eyebrow. By distance, was the Eternal City's depths not in the Academy's vicinity? Was the entire area a lowland? Could this be Astel's doing?
Anyone with even a slight understanding spoke of its terror; if one were to face it, they would have to exert their full power and be truly serious.
The silver-haired maiden shook her head, casting aside miscellaneous thoughts.
We'll see when the time comes.
"Melina, do you think there's anything about your past that's worth investigating?"
"...My powers and memories. All questions would be resolved then."
"That's good. It makes things much simpler."
"In any case, I need some quiet now."
The mysterious Witch dispersed her form, returning to spirit. Now, Melina's heart was constantly suspended between anticipation and anxiety, worried that knowing more about herself might turn her into a stranger.
Her only interpersonal connection was with Frieren, the Tarnished. If a rift formed, even the proof of her existence would—
That wasn't entirely true. She almost forgot there was a place in Caelid called "Melina's Lake."
Frieren also sensed this emotion, and at the same time heard another voice:
"Mother and Witch truly are complicated, huh?"
The Mimic Tear had actually woken up a moment ago, absorbing a heap of information. It was now savoring it, finding it endlessly fascinating and worth careful consideration.
"Don't make a fuss. Just rest quietly."
The Mimic Tear's actions, watching the drama unfold without finding it too much trouble, were like those of a child – simple, understandable, and irresistibly amusing.
Upon hearing its mother's command, it resumed its slumber. Fully digesting the abundant energy would take some time, and this fragile period was safest spent with the strongest sorcerer.
"Your Majesty!"
Moongrum considerately explained the relevant history.
The more Frieren listened, the more excited she became, practically rubbing her hands together. She hadn't expected another map to add to her collection.
The underground world was far more than just the Eternal City; the Uhl Dynasty also existed. She wondered what had happened in those ancient times to cause one ancient civilization after another to decay and wither? No glory could be seen.
What a pity.
"Actually, our investigation of the Ainsel River hasn't been smooth. Progress is much slower than with the Siofra River; a force of merely a hundred can't take it."
"If we are to deploy further reinforcements, it would require Your Majesty's approval."
They naturally knew that the Star-Gazing Grounds had already gathered troop-level combat power of thousands, unwilling to fall behind.
"Forget it. The Ancient Ruins Valley Mine still needs your garrison and vigilance. Haven't some serpent monsters infiltrated that area? Let's divide our forces conservatively. Establish a thousand-man outpost at the Ainsel River entrance and take it slowly."
"Understood. Then, would Your Majesty care to review the progress made during this period?"
Everyone watched as the silver-haired maiden, with a tired look, was about to refuse, but then she glanced at the seemingly empty air beside her, hesitated, and finally agreed.
Ah, she wanted to slack off, but was stopped by Miss Witch.
At least Melina was quite useful when it came to urging Her Majesty to fulfill her administrative duties. Otherwise, this elusive provisional monarch, who teleported all over the world, would be impossible to catch.
Seize this opportunity to get work done.
The group proceeded to the loft office, where Frieren typically handled official duties. As expected, paperwork was piled mountain-high.
After all, a multitude of decisions required the monarch's personal judgment. Otherwise, aside from procedural issues, without their endorsement, subordinates might not listen. In The Lands Between, only a powerful leader's decree carried enough weight; otherwise, it was non-negotiable.
Just as some reports on the desk mentioned, the exploration of the Valley Mine was proceeding smoothly.
Basically, the Farron Undead Legion had gone on a rampage, slaughtering the monsters hiding within. They were brutally purged with no resistance, and the formerly chaotic valley was now much quieter.
If they kept this up, wouldn't they ascend to the Volcano Region?
And then fight Aldrich?
Adding to the grudge Frieren had left it with, that region was probably going to get quite lively in the future.
She ordered: "Temporarily suspend exploration in the Mine Region, and pull back troops. There are very troublesome monsters there. Volcanic eas—"
"During this period, have their harassment campaigns with the Altus Plateau escalated?"
"Quite the opposite, they've eased. Both sides have withdrawn troops. According to intelligence, Volcano Manor is researching new monsters, while Leyndell has mobilized more Knights."
"I'm familiar with Aldrich's methods. Don't expect a lump of mud-like fused monsters to amount to anything. Soldiers without will, what victory can they speak of? We won't allow a monster faction to run rampant again."
"What about the Golden Royal Capital?" With Margit's personality, he wouldn't easily back down, especially against enemies without reason, would he?
"In fact, Leyndell is rapidly awakening Hero Gargoyles, Ancient Dragon Knights, and other combat forces."
Moongrum also handed over some related tomes, including records of these existences in The Lands Between, all of which surpassed the level of ordinary Heroes.
Among them were many divine beings, second only to Demigods and Gods.
Furthermore, if he merely provided intelligence, Frieren might have refused to learn too much, citing "I'll have to fight them eventually, don't spoil it for me." But if it was presented through tomes, then she would accept.
Whoosh!
The silver-haired maiden swept through a thick stack of pages almost like a gust of wind.
Her reading speed was incredibly fast; a single glance was all it took. Theoretical knowledge, no matter how detailed, was never as good as practical experience.
However, the alternative powers mentioned, such as Hero corpses fused with Gargoyles, and powerful Ancient Dragon Knights, were indeed special and intriguing.
The Royal Capital's hidden depths were unexpected.
As far as Frieren knew, the Three Fingers of the Frenzied Flame were also hidden within, though their current state was unknown.
"Furthermore, a rumor has suddenly emerged among the Golden Lineage nobles." Moongrum's tone was unprecedentedly grave: "They yearn for the return of the First Elden Lord, Godfrey. This is certainly no mere rumor; there are no simple rumors in The Lands Between."
"Nothing inconvenient about it. Are you implying the First Elden Lord might return to the Royal Capital?"
"Legally speaking, you all once swore fealty to Godfrey, so it would indeed be rather awkward. But it doesn't matter. Even if any of you were to defect to the other side tomorrow, I wouldn't mind."
The Carian Knight and the assembled sorcerers looked astonished. They hadn't expected Frieren to state it so directly, utterly unconcerned.
She would also never exact revenge.
"Is Your Majesty even prepared to contend against the entire unified Golden Dynasty?"
"Because I believe my plan is the only way to create an Age of Abundance. I won't try to persuade those who don't believe; we'll just see who prevails."
"That is why we trust Your Majesty in this regard."
-
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