The Godskin Apostle's little interlude could not affect Frieren's pace of exploration in the slightest. She went straight from the middle of the bridge to the main body of the Divine Tower of Liurnia. As always, it stood grand and awe-inspiring, a towering mountain.
The closer she stood to its base, the more magnificent and beautiful it felt, truly exquisite, with its carved murals giving it an epic atmosphere.
Only when standing within it did she truly grasp how consistently exceptional the architectural aesthetic of "The Lands Between" was.
The silver-haired girl stepped onto the elevator.
As the mechanism groaned, her view continuously ascended, climbing towards the tower's summit. Even at such a rapid speed, it ascended for quite some time, indicating its immense height. When the platform finally stopped, the room was illuminated by the bright glow of two braziers.
Stepping off the platform, she found the "Divine Tower of Liurnia" Site of Grace.
"Hmm!"
A momentary surge of light spread around, and that inexplicable guiding magical energy permeated its surroundings. High in the sky, free from the misty haze of the lake below, the entire ecosystem was clearly visible.
On one side lay the picturesque scenery of the Liurnia region: high plains, lush trees, a verdant landscape guarding the Raya Lucarian Academy.
For now, it was Frieren's favorite view.
Even standing in the Grand Library's attic couldn't offer such a magnificent sight; only a wonder like the Divine Tower could truly overlook the vast land, making even the Altus Plateau to the north seem less imposing, almost within reach.
Of course, the Erdtree also pierced the sky, weakened over the years but still majestic, its radiance full of warmth.
On the other side was the endless ocean, waves crashing against cliffs, creating white foam at the edge of "The Lands Between", reverberating with constant echoes.
Further still, only a veil of mist remained.
"They call it the land beyond the fog, "The Lands Between". It truly lives up to its name."
"As the chosen Tarnished who came from beyond "The Lands Between", you would also sigh like this," Melina said curiously. "Did you not know where you were going at first?"
"Indeed. That's why it signifies the start of a new journey. I was quite shocked when I first saw the Erdtree." Frieren said, stepping onto the stairs.
"Even now, for me, it's a continuous stream of surprises."
"You accepted the Tarnished's mission immediately upon arrival. You're very good at finding motivation to push yourself; no wonder you're always in such a hurry. What were you like before this?"
"I suppose I've just grown accustomed to it."
The two chatted as they reached the very top floor of the Divine Tower. There, revealed before them, was a circular platform, and in its center lay a charred corpse.
Tall and slender, even in this state, her perfect bone structure was evident, and a hint of power still lingered within. Demigods are difficult to truly kill; even a body without a soul stubbornly retained a trace of magical energy.
Seeing this, Frieren gravely bent down to observe, her senses covering it with the highest precision.
"So this is Ranni's discarded body? And this aura is what Destined Death left behind?"
"Precisely. Only the Rune of Death can truly kill a demigod."
"What a pity. It's beyond healing."
She tried various healing methods, all failing without exception. Not even a flicker of life could be stirred, as if it naturally conflicted with the energy within the body.
A more cost-effective approach would be body reconstruction, like Melina's, but it would require a successful precedent.
"Truly dangerous."
Since the damage caused by Destined Death couldn't be reversed, it meant Maliketh, the Black Blade guarding it, was highly threatening. At the very least, regular healing magic wouldn't be able to replenish any lost health. Facing him, it would be best not to get injured at all, or things would become very difficult.
Whose status was higher, her own flesh or Destined Death?
Frieren wasn't willing to test that answer. Research was one thing, but tempting fate was another. The specifics of the battle could wait; in any case, she would eventually have to claim Destined Death.
She continued to examine the wounds on the back of the corpse. They resembled a centipede in a crescent shape, with radiating, thin cracks like feelers.
[Cursemark of Death]
[A mark carved onto the discarded body of "Lunar Princess" Ranni, also known as the incomplete Centipede's Mark.]
[It is imprinted when a demigod dies for the first time.]
[Normally, it would be a circular ring. However, there were two initial demigod deaths.]
[Thus, the mark was split into two incomplete Centipede's Marks.]
[Ranni was the initial casualty in terms of body.]
[While the Prince of Death was the initial casualty in terms of soul.]
She picked up the mark and found it to be an existence somewhere between materialized and ethereal, very peculiar, surrounded by a dense death curse, as if harboring profound hatred towards the deceased.
The death of a demigod was a major event in "The Lands Between", directly shaking the "immortal system" created by the "Elden Ring", leading to a series of calamities.
Later, Marika's shattering of the "Elden Ring" further complicated matters; it was utter chaos.
"No wonder."
It was no surprise that such a significant death left behind the Centipede's Mark; it was a rare collectible.
Frieren carefully put it away.
Others might find the Cursemark of Death ominous, but after all she had been through, she was beyond caring. A mere curse threat was nothing to worry about; perhaps these collectibles would have unexpected uses in the future.
She had a feeling: Ranni's Centipede's Mark held some secrets; otherwise, she wouldn't have specifically entrusted it to Frieren before her departure.
Next was another talisman, with relatively less magical energy:
It depicted a small girl holding a staff, pointing towards the stars, with a backdrop of frozen stars and moon. Although the image was simple, it perfectly conveyed that desire for exploration.
[Legend of the Stargazer Girl]
[A talisman engraved with a legend about the queen, which can increase Intelligence.]
[The stargazer girl walked, gazing at the night sky.]
[She embarked on a journey, constantly chasing the stars.]
[Then she met the Full Moon, and became a queen.]
So it recorded how Rennala became queen. Quite fitting, as in terms of stargazing, she was indeed peerless in this era.
Frieren wasn't skilled in magic related to prophecy, deduction, or foresight. Although her title could be "Stargazer," she was essentially a battlemage and didn't understand astrology.
"Just a minor collectible, then."
The negligible increase in Intelligence was useless to her; she'd just keep it as an artifact for now.
"Since Ranni's body has her mother's talisman beside it, I'll keep it safe for her for now. We can discuss it further once everything settles."
After another thorough check for anything she might have missed, the silver-haired girl stood up, surveying the vast land around her. Water vapor from the Liurnia of the Lakes region ascended, stirring a breeze that carried a fresh scent.
Originally, it had not been so vibrant with flora and fauna.
Years of cultivation had not only failed to damage the forests but had further developed the region's ecology. Now, Liurnia was teeming with life, unlike the devastation of the Shattering War.
"The mark possesses a unique power. Godwyn should also have a piece of it on him. What would happen if they were combined?" Frieren murmured.
"You're already thinking about the Prince of Death?" Melina was accustomed to her partner's leaps of thought. Frieren would always link things to various treasures, never missing anything related to collecting.
Since the Cursemark of Death was only half, it was natural she'd start thinking about how to complete it.
"It needs to be dealt with eventually. After all, it's the source of Those Who Live in Death. The corruption must be cleansed."
"It's speculated that the Prince of Death's body is at the base of the Erdtree. Ordinary means won't get you there." Melina shook her head.
"We'll take it one step at a time. The underground world is vast; we'll know more once we investigate thoroughly."
"What's next?"
Frieren, chin in her hand, pondered for a moment before replying, "In any case, the Divine Tower business is done. Next, we'll rendezvous with Ranni. According to Miriam, there should be clues at Renna's Rise."
"Then we'd better hurry. If the Empyrean who holds the Law meets with an accident, that's one less option for us."
"Let's go then."
"It's best to first inform "Moongrum" and the others. Deploy a portion of our forces to the Ainsel River. At least that will control the situation and provide some insurance."
Taking Melina's advice, she first made a trip to Raya Lucaria to issue orders.
Her sudden visit was met with gravity by those in the Academy's courtyard.
Although their Majesty was notoriously elusive, teleporting everywhere, she rarely directly demanded an assembly order. She must have discovered some crucial clue; otherwise, she wouldn't act so hastily. Therefore, they had to prepare for war.
The situation in "The Lands Between" was tense, especially with so many eyes fixed on the presumptive King. They couldn't afford to ignore it.
"I've obtained Ranni's Cursemark of Death."
That blunt statement made the "Carian Knights" and the Magic Professors blanch with shock. So, the scouts reporting activity at the Divine Tower of Liurnia was because of this.
An entrustment like this was a prelude to action. It seemed Her Highness had braced herself.
"Too dangerous."
After hearing the full story, "Moongrum" nodded and said, "Your Majesty's choice to go to Renna's Rise is correct. I recall there's a portal there, which might lead to where you need to go, perhaps the Ainsel River."
"Speaking of the Ainsel River, dispatch troops to investigate and secure the location first, to prevent the "Two Fingers"' assassins from passing through en masse."
"Understood, but do you not require support?"
"Why?"
"The Ainsel River leads to the deeper parts of the underground world. It's rumored to be the dwelling of "Astel, Stars of Darkness", brimming with endless destructive magic. Once it moves, the monsters of the underground world will become restless. If the "Two Fingers"' demons are added to that, Your Majesty will be facing an army."
"It's fine. You only need to guard the Ainsel River entrance and prevent others from entering."
From start to finish, Frieren remained nonchalant, showing no fear whatsoever.
Everyone guessed that the Soul Lord was likely planning to fight the legendary Beast of the Outer Stars. If she truly got bored, the entire underground world wouldn't be peaceful.
"What of it?"
This matter also concerned Ranni's safety. There was no avoiding it, so she might as well go all in.
If successful, wouldn't the Southern Faction gain an Empyrean no longer pursued and a powerful monarch? The two of them combined would take them one step closer to the "Elden Ring".
They finally nodded in assent.
"Your Majesty, ahead in the Ainsel River are the Uhl Palace Ruins and the Lake of Rot. You must be careful."
"Don't worry, I know my limits." Frieren changed the subject. "Also, tell the Limgrave army that once they've established their outpost, they should pause their exploration and wait for me to eliminate that most troublesome fellow first."
With that, she waved her hand and walked towards the main gate.
She was likely going to use the Academy's teleportation point to directly cross over to Caria Manor.
"Whoosh!"
After a ripple of light, the silver-haired girl's figure vanished.
The people left behind felt no relief at all. Instead, they exchanged glances, holding their breath. The looming major event had finally arrived. Yet, they couldn't be on the front lines to witness the battle against the "Two Fingers"' forces, which only made them more apprehensive, simply waiting for the outcome.
"No time for us to waste," he declared. "Send word to Fort Haight immediately, then organize the troops. I will lead them to the Ainsel River."
"Our objective is to clear all monsters in the vicinity, establish a perimeter, and allow no other enemies to enter."
"All obey!"
As the orders were issued, the entire military force within the Raya Lucarian Academy rapidly mobilized.
Benefiting from its usual role as a frontline fortress defending Leyndell, Royal Capital, it had accumulated a substantial amount of military resources: weapons, armor, potions, and various items were all readily available.
"Moongrum"'s true confidence lay in the quality of his soldiers.
Even when the Academy was in disarray, the "Carian Knights" never grew rusty. Moreover, with subsequent actions like the Liurnia War and continuous clean-up operations in the Ruins Valley, soldiers were constantly rotated, familiarizing everyone and cultivating discipline, organization, and morale.
That's why he felt they could assist Frieren in battle. Unfortunately, efficiency was paramount in this fight, and a large army would only slow them down.
So, he would be responsible for the rear.
Academy Gate Town.
The sun shone brightly, the mist had dispersed, and a long breeze ruffled the Black Sun Fire Ring banner.
The 1000 elites gathered here were ready to depart, few in number but superior in average level, their morale high.
By now, the Academy Gate Town had become an excellent training ground and rallying point, gathering half of Liurnia's bravest and most skilled top warriors. Their armored figures stood tall, their determined gazes fixed on "Moongrum".
He rode his horse to the front of the ranks and spoke loudly:
"Your Majesty requires us to guard the path to the battlefield, at least in this direction, absolutely not allowing any assassins or spies to meddle in the deep underground."
"Our target is the dangerous Ainsel River: cold and damp, narrow terrain, numerous monsters, unsuitable for large-scale troop operations."
"That's why I chose you."
"You are battle-hardened veterans, the sharpest blades capable of piercing enemy lines. You are the most suitable candidates. This is an honor, but also full of danger. We will clear the Ainsel River entrance. Depart!"
"Yes, sir!"
The mighty army advanced towards the other side of Liurnia of the Lakes.
As their horses' hooves passed by the lake water, it seemed to stir up waves, their momentum like crashing thunder, like a sharp arrow pointing towards the entrance elevator.
"Moongrum" knew the intelligence they possessed wasn't sufficient, but when did a war ever wait for you to be fully prepared? This stationed force would maintain contact with the surface, forming a controllable occupied zone, at least guarding the Ainsel River entrance.
The "Two Fingers"' assassins' assault on Caria Manor would not be tolerated again. This was the limit.
Inside the Academy.
A second, larger army was gathering. They would be responsible for the surface operations, coordinating with "Moongrum", and a large number of mages were assigned to them for contingencies.
The leader of the mage corps was "Thops".
She examined the map and said, "Fortunately, Frieren has already dealt with the remnants of the Village of the Fire Witches. We'll use this as a temporary base to set up an outpost. Be vigilant; even without stargazing, I can feel that the "Two Fingers" are very restless."
"Understood. We will maintain reconnaissance and give those spies no chance to act."
"Another point: maintain contact with "Moongrum". Once we've established a foothold, continue exploring forward and see if we can rendezvous with Frieren."
The Academy's undisguised massive movements stirred the hearts of many. A lot of people didn't even understand why they were suddenly marching.
However, more felt excitement: the King would bring new conquests.
Top floor of Renna's Rise.
Standing before a newly opened chest, Frieren picked up a robe. It was entirely white, with a furry cloak and a large, mysterious-looking hood.
"So this outfit Ranni usually wears is called the Snow Witch Set, and it's her master's attire?"
It was rare to find clothes that were not too different from her own size.
Unfortunately, it offered no significant stat bonuses, so she'd just treat it as a collectible. Since arriving in "The Lands Between", she had collected no shortage of outfits.
Moreover, her royal tailor, "Boc", occasionally had new creations, which were then used by the servants as ceremonial noble dresses for various occasions.
For example, for meetings or experiments, the maids always made sure to dress up nicely.
"If only it had attribute bonuses," she mused. "Otherwise, the Snow Witch Set fits a mage's aesthetic and has good stats."
"Mother," the "Mimic Tear" said, "Perhaps I should wear it?"
"No, you don't need to."
"Then it's good that my equipment matches yours! Yes, that's how it should be." The "Mimic Tear" was as lively as ever, flitting about and making a few comments, curious about everything.
Melina reminded her, "We're not here for collectibles like this. Go check the attic."
"It's getting really lively around here," Frieren mused. "It's a shame the doll Ranni originally gave me has run out of magic. Otherwise…"
Frieren took out the blue doll; it had gradually withered after losing its energy.
She then placed it into the Snow Witch Set's chest.
The attic.
Sure enough, an inconspicuous portal stood there. A powerful magical energy was contained within the vortex, its swirling light creating a visual pull. Where did it lead?
Even Frieren had to be cautious when facing an unknown area; after all, strange dangers always seemed to appear during exploration.
"Are you two ready?"
"I'm always by your side, no need to specifically ask for my opinion," Melina replied softly.
The "Mimic Tear"'s voice seemed to grow more excited: "Always ready! Mother, I just thought, how about this: if you face multiple enemies, leave the lesser foes, those who aren't bosses, to me. I'll help you create a one-on-one environment…"
Hearing this, the silver-haired girl's lips curved upwards, and she nodded.
"Because I feel like it's finally the three of us," Frieren said. "We're becoming more and more like a complete team. In any case, let's go."
She reached out and touched the portal, allowing its rippling gravity to pull her in.
"Whoosh!"
At the same time, Melina and the "Mimic Tear" also felt space rapidly shifting, and a chill aura emanated from ahead, prompting them to heighten their guard, ready for battle.
The next moment, Frieren stood in a lush, watery area, with the sound of muddy streams by her feet.
Ainsel River Main.
Compared to its somber atmosphere, the scenery was actually quite beautiful, and it was rare to find no signs of monster activity, welcoming this uninvited guest with tranquility.
Not far away, a shimmering light glowed within an open coffin, a treasure map marker indicating something.
"Strange, what could be inside a coffin?"
Walking closer, Frieren discovered a doll the size of her palm. It was "Miniature Ranni", and even more exquisitely crafted, strikingly lifelike. Her eyes seemed to genuinely look back, connecting two minds.
The item description showed "Miniature Ranni," which was fitting. It also gave her a special sense of connection. Was there some hidden mechanism?
The silver-haired girl examined it as she walked to a nearby Site of Grace.
From the faint guidance of the Site of Grace's energy, she should explore forward, which must be Rennala, the Full Moon Queen's, request to "help my daughter when fate arrives."
"Got it."
She had just put down one Ranni doll and now found a new one. It must have a similar function.
"Why doesn't it respond when I use magic to activate it?"
Frieren furrowed her brows, rubbed the doll's face, then shook its witch-like hat. A barely perceptible flicker of emotion seemed to cross it, a hint of a tear, and it actually sparkled.
"You're watching me, Ranni."
"I got the Cursemark of Death. It has a truly terrifying aura, so this undertaking must be very dangerous. I also saw Rennala. She said I should have come when I decided to, to heed fate's guidance."
"But I don't think that's right. We're here to break fate. I just hope I'm not too late. What do you think?"
That deeply hidden magical energy still offered no response.
"Are you really going to stay silent just because you keep saying you're walking a dark, solitary path? Refuse to help?"
Suddenly, Frieren had an idea. With a knowing look, she took out the Snow Witch Set.
"Since I have a doll to compare it to, I'll have to see if this new mage's robe is accurate enough. Both this oversized robe and the doll's clothes should be carefully checked…"
"I didn't expect you to be so… playful." "Miniature Ranni"'s eyes lit up, and finally, a magical voice responded, her tone carrying a hint of wry amusement.
"Or perhaps, the venerable Soul Lord has a habit of talking to dolls?"
"Yes."
The silver-haired girl nodded back, sharing the jest. Their playful banter warmed the chilly Ainsel River Main by several degrees; it was no longer the silent, gloomy atmosphere it had been upon their arrival. It was rare for the usually cold Lunar Princess to joke.
Perhaps stress made one inclined to relax.
"I originally didn't intend for this form to be revealed," the doll said. "Since you've found me out, don't expect to leave unscathed—"
"I need your help to find and eliminate the "Shadow", the bane that shadows this land."
"You made "Ranni the Witch" reveal herself. I won't allow you to refuse."
After saying this, she looked at Frieren with a hint of nervousness, unsure why the words had just tumbled out. She wouldn't normally be so talkative or forceful. What if Frieren refused? That would be awkward.
"I accept."
She then stood up, placed the doll on her shoulder, took out the Sword of Night and Flame and Lusat's Glintstone Staff, and stood ready for exploration. Regardless of this warning, she could already sense a gathering of monsters ahead.
The abundant magical energy and years of accumulation in the Ainsel River had become a breeding ground.
There was no telling how much filth had accumulated; it couldn't be left unchecked.
"What a straightforward answer, Frieren. You always seem to be waiting for all kinds of challenges. Aren't you nervous?"
"Of course, I get nervous. It's just… I'm used to it. Besides, nervousness only applies beforehand. When the difficulties you have to face actually happen, you can't worry about it anymore; you immerse yourself completely. Sometimes, I quite enjoy it. It sharpens my senses and makes me feel truly alive."
"Indeed, there are very few people in the world with your mindset. I'm still worried about the "Two Fingers"' schemes…"
"Are you hunting the "Shadow"?"
"Yes, but it's maneuvering through the underground world's layout, playing games with me. It's very troublesome, which is why I need your help to clear out its pawns."
"So, in short, just move forward, right?"
"Go ahead," Ranni replied. "I feel that fate is not far off. We'll stay in contact."
Then Ranni watched Frieren stride off like a comet.
"Take care."
After her words, the magical energy of their mental connection gradually faded, and it likely wouldn't respond again for a while, as they both had difficult environments to face.
-
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