Melina looked at the covenant between the future God and King, silently nodding. The Tarnished's grand endeavor now had an anchor.
Yet, a void settled in her heart.
As if a large piece was missing, but the reason was unclear...
Frieren, meanwhile, was pondering the differences among various Laws.
In a certain sense, Miquella's Pure Law was actually more suitable, encompassing all things to create a gentle utopia.
But others could not find him.
Moreover, Radahn's dying words, clearly expressing 'jealousy towards his half-brother,' proved that the creator of the Haligtree might not be as simple as they seemed; the Law of the Stars, which she understood better, felt more reliable.
Earlier, she had already seen discussions in player messages regarding the Law of the Stars, with many differing interpretations...
None of them were correct.
Because, objectively, the emergence of a Soul of Cinder, representing herself, indicated that The Lands Between had already begun to integrate external powers, and under this new context, the Laws should have different interpretations.
New circumstances meant the Laws would undergo new adjustments.
The abstract theories Ranni had just spouted didn't truly concern her; everything depended on practice.
Ultimately, it was about restoring freedom to everyone.
Then, with a divine foundation bearing the Elden Ring's great power, and the King's strength watching over the world, it was certainly a viable path. Sweeping away the stagnation, perhaps even letting the Golden Dynasty—or what was yet to be the Golden Dynasty—emerge from its wounds and welcome the next glorious era.
Moreover, Frieren had never fully relied on the power of the Law from the start, tirelessly researching various healing solutions.
At a time when no new Law provided healing, hadn't the greatest disaster—the Undead—already been resolved? Even the Scarlet Rot and Those Who Live in Death were being successively suppressed.
Her confidence stemmed from a multitude of simultaneous healing approaches.
The last meteor shower in the sky disintegrated and exploded, and Astel's afterglow faded completely.
The fear propagated by the Civilization Destroyer completely vanished, replaced by the narrative of its defeat at the hands of the Soul of Cinder, becoming a stepping stone. This death adorned the public debut of God and King, making for a fine tale.
The two gazed at each other for a moment.
Finally, Ranni broke the silence and suggested: 'Let's return to the Sorcerer's Tower. I want to rest for a bit and also prepare to inform everyone in Liurnia.'
She was aware of the huge commotion she had caused and felt it was her duty to explain, and naturally, to officially announce it to her supporters.
Frieren nodded and replied: 'Then I'll escort you.'
'Let's go and return quickly. It's a good opportunity to have Adula carry us.' The Glintstone Dragon, inexplicably drawn into this, its large eyes glimmered. Logically, it had always feared this Dragon Slayer.
Never mind.
Now, it should be happy for Your Majesty's affairs. Everything has settled. No matter how much it feared Frieren, it would have to spend more time with her in the future. If things continued this way, perhaps it could even visit the Capital and behold its splendor; it was no ordinary dragon, its value soaring.
The eager Adula carried the two into the sky, swiftly flying towards Caria Manor in the north.
The long wind swept Frieren's hair, causing her to smile and murmur: 'Speaking of which, I've fought many dragons, but this seems to be the only time I've properly ridden one.'
'Then have you ever encountered a Dragon Knight?'
'Of course. The one who left the deepest impression on me was known as The Nameless King, the Firstborn of a God. His battlefield was atop a cloud-swept land, very tricky to deal with...'
'But you won.'
'Yes, though it was a perilous and arduous battle.'
'Your experiences are far richer than I imagined,' Ranni's eyes sparkled.
As she came to understand her more deeply, she realized that her ally, with whom she was destined to share the throne, remained mysterious—not in a deliberately secretive way, but simply because her experiences were so vast, they could never be fully recounted.
Thus, the information Frieren usually revealed seemed but the tip of an iceberg; there was no helping it, the sheer volume was too immense.
Fortunately, neither party lacked time.
After some time, Adula easily arrived at Caria Manor.
Someone was already waving from below; the giant Iji was quite noticeable, his wave easy to spot. Beside him was another familiar face: Blaidd.
Whoosh!
As soon as the dragon landed, Ranni hurriedly dismounted, an expression of disbelief on her face.
'You're actually unharmed!'
The Half-Wolf replied with lingering trepidation: 'Indeed, even while sealed in the Gaol, I felt intense mental control, but the Two Fingers couldn't reach my soul. Thanks to Her Majesty Frieren's protection, otherwise I would have become a puppet. After facing death, I was completely liberated.'
'It was mostly thanks to yourself; your will overcame the Two Fingers,' the silver-haired girl said nonchalantly.
At this moment, Iji and Blaidd's gazes fell upon the Dark Moon Greatsword on her back. Of course, whenever she acquired a new weapon, she would toy with it for a while.
She was probably already practicing with the legendary weapon on the dragon's back.
Everything was clear.
The two retainers understood the significance of bestowing the Dark Moon Greatsword upon the Carian Royal Family. Seeing Ranni unconsciously caress the Dark Moon Ring on her right hand, it was clear that standing before them were the future God and King.
To witness such history was an immense honor, and they too would receive commendations.
Iji suggested: 'Your Majesties, why not hold a celebration right here at Caria Manor, to revive this long-sealed place?'
The two looked at each other for a moment.
'Since it's your family matter, you decide, Ranni.'
'To the Carian Royal Family, you are no longer an outsider. In any case, let's proceed as Iji suggested.'
'I was just wondering, why is there the aura of a corpse here?' She pointed distantly. 'So you killed Seluvis before leaving? It's certainly quiet now.'
'That traitor is not worth mentioning. Besides, his treasures are also stored there; I've opened it for you.'
'What?'
'A very useful talisman for sorcerers.'
Frieren rushed over with great strides, leaving the space for the siblings to reunite.
The two, who had thought they might part forever, were reunited—a rare occasion. Coupled with the joy of victory, it was truly worth celebrating. For Ranni, not only were grievances settled, but her trusted retainers were also present, marking a complete triumph.
They chatted lightheartedly about their respective adventures, which were thrilling and spectacular.
Arriving at Seluvis's corpse, there indeed lay a talisman imbued with the aura of Dark Moon magic, and in addition, some Spirit Ashes.
It was raining loot, so to speak.
True to her meticulous nature, Ranni, after eliminating the rebels, completely stripped their resources and directly handed them over to the future King. Good treasures ought to shine in the hands of their rightful owner, not be associated with some strange puppet fanatic.
Frieren first picked up the talisman and indeed felt her magic enhance. For someone at her level, the proportional amplification effect was even more terrifying, truly a perfect fit.
[Magic Scorpion Talisman]
[A talisman possessed by assassins who employ strange means of sneak attack.]
[Fashioned after a scorpion, its pincers gripping a magic-hued heart.]
[Increases magic attack power but lowers damage negation.]
Good, it's rare to find such a useful one.
Talismans suitable for sorcerers are already few. Now, with the Graven-School and Graven-Mass Talismans, plus a flexible slot for situational adjustments, her talisman slots are basically filled.
Theoretically, one could endlessly add talismans, but the most effective setup is certainly 4 slots, which is now complete.
A pleasant surprise!
A dead Seluvis is more useful than a living one; he's at least made a contribution.
Frieren felt no ripple in her heart regarding his purge; rather, it was a testament to her mental fortitude that she endured his actions for so long. His puppet-making antics were truly repulsive, such as the Spirit Ashes placed next to his corpse.
[Therolina's Puppet from the Deep Slumber Area]
[Messenger of Finger Maiden Therolina.]
They had no exceptional combat capabilities, much like the Jellyfish Spirit Ashes. The reason they appeared was because Seluvis...
She shook the Spirit Calling Bell and took them, perhaps not very useful, but strengthening them might reveal other clever uses.
In any case, with the Mimic Tear, she no longer cared how strong other Spirit Ashes were.
The rest were merely Bell Bearings, armor sets, Larval Tears, etc., none of which compared to the talisman. It seemed his possessions ended here; he was just a minor character, and his story ended now.
Those who are not discerning will face retribution.
'These new Spirit Ashes are too weak,' the Mimic Tear criticized their strength, 'they're no help to Mother at all. Useless!'
The Mimic Tear, as always, criticized their strength with a sharp tongue.
'It's just for collection. Besides, after the Eternal City opens up, we can find more Grave Gloveworts, and further strengthening the Spirit Ash army should have other uses.'
Melina asked: 'It seems Ranni is someone who will consider your needs. She is trustworthy, the best candidate.'
'Exactly. At least we don't have to agonize over the choice of Empyrean anymore.'
'I think we should continue to observe. Those people have tested Mother several times. We are also your confidantes, so we must pay close attention. Moreover, Ranni has a connection to Radagon, and he is too mysterious; who knows if there's a conspiracy.'
The Mimic Tear pursed its lips.
In its view, the Lunar Princess had not been open enough before, and now needed more observation to be truly reliable.
'In any case, things here are settled,' Frieren put away the talisman. 'Caria Manor will surely become lively now, won't it?'
'Yes, I love lively places,' the Pale Maiden nodded in agreement.
'I will introduce you to everyone.'
Melina also showed her support: 'Exactly. Letting people know there's one more Demigod-level combatant will put them at ease. I expect many are still quietly uneasy about Astel's death; they need reassurance.'
'They can rest easy. The ones who truly can't rest easy should be the Capital...'
Frieren looked up towards the Altus Plateau, the first land bathed in the Golden Order's radiance, resplendent with golden brilliance. The Collapsing Stars she and Astel had created had now visited distant lands.
The Capital.
Various scouts and informants bustled about, moving through the golden-domed buildings, heading straight for the Throne Room.
Even within the sturdiest, grandest, and most prosperous city in The Lands Between, they couldn't help but feel fear, repeatedly looking up at the sky. The aftershocks had vanished, but the fear was deeply etched into their minds, constantly recalling a single image:
The Soul of Cinder's Sunlight Spear pierced through the meteorite, tearing the firmament, crippling even Astel, Stars of Darkness with the blast—truly the strongest attack in history.
It was an attack capable of obliterating civilizations, yet she had destroyed it head-on and counter-killed.
Furthermore, various signs indicated frequent movements by the Southern Faction, likely portending nothing good for the North.
Therefore, they quickly arrived at Morgott's chambers. Surrounded by his trusted Night's Cavalry, there was no need for hesitation. The King of Grace, Morgott himself, looked grim.
'On one side, the Volcano constantly harasses us, and on the other, the Southern Faction has been accumulating strength. It's truly difficult.'
Morgott turned his head and asked: 'Has there been any further confirmation of the news?'
Everyone saw Astel, Stars of Darkness, falling amidst its cries. What's important are the subsequent actions: Is it truly dead? What about the Two Fingers? Is the Empyrean still alive?
It had only been a short while since they stopped watching Frieren, and she had already caused such a huge incident; she couldn't stay quiet for a moment.
'My Lord, it's the worst news---'
'Astel is confirmed dead; its corpse is being preserved as a specimen. The Two Fingers are confirmed killed by Ranni; their remains, marked with a hundred-legged scar ring, are also on display. Furthermore, Frieren has accepted the Dark Moon Greatsword, and this battle has catalyzed the cooperation between God and King.'
'Not only did they fail to kill either of them, but they also advanced the severing of the covenant.'
'Caria Manor is being renovated and is expected to host a celebration. Currently, representatives from Caelid, Limgrave, and Liurnia are all heading there.'
'We can assert that the Southern Faction has put forth their third-generation Elden Lord and God.'
His subordinates were silent.
Some people wanted to speak but hesitated, intending to refute such outrageous claims, but upon reflection, Frieren had followed the procedure perfectly.
Within the Two Fingers' discourse, she collected two Great Runes and covenanted with an Empyrean.
In the presence of the people of The Lands Between, she killed Astel, achieving glorious military feats.
In terms of her conduct, she researched Soul Magic to heal the Undead; despite suffering from Scarlet Rot herself, she actively purified Caelid; and Those Who Live in Death were so suppressed they vanished from the South. These three accomplishments, though less direct than military might, had a far greater impact.
She was beyond reproach.
From start to finish, she was forthright and open. Even when her reputation was at its lowest, she challenged Godrick openly and without concealment.
The people of The Lands Between were greatly pleased by this; in their minds, Frieren was a King beyond reproach.
Morgott murmured: 'I hear some people are already calling her a god. Even His Majesty Radagon is still referred to as King Consort. The Soul of Cinder's achievements are undeniable, but she doesn't want the Golden Dynasty; she has openly rejected it and hasn't chosen the Golden...'
'Then it's a contest of different choices.'
Although he also cared for the world, he was dedicated to upholding the system of the Golden Order, which brooked no challenge. In Morgott's view, this was the only correct path, with no other choice.
If Frieren had chosen the Old Dynasty system, the two of them might have been able to directly transfer power.
What a pity.
'Why would such a heroic figure choose the Law of the Stars? If that's the case, then she can only be an enemy.'
'My Lord, I heard that the First Elden Lord might return. Is that true?'
'I have already contacted His Majesty's emanation, and sent people to search; it won't take too long. That War-King is destined to return.'
'That's great!'
Upon receiving Morgott's firm response, everyone breathed a sigh of relief, instantly gaining a backbone. The Soul of Cinder's current ascendant might could only be restrained by the First Elden Lord, who also possessed higher legitimacy.
In any case, she could not possibly be Godfrey's opponent, especially once he regained Grace.
For the Golden Order system to continue existing, it would certainly entrust even greater Rune Power to this strongest individual.
'What do we do next?'
'It is we who must adopt a defensive stance,' Morgott said. 'Strictly guard the passages leading to the Altus Plateau. Moreover, the Southern Faction cannot easily expand for now; don't forget there are still many troubles in the underground world. Following Frieren's style, she will secure one area before advancing.'
Morgott looked towards the distant magma-flowing volcanic lands.
That's where the danger truly lies.
Volcano Manor.
'Oh dear, what incredible news. It's truly her; she can cause a huge stir wherever she goes.'
Patches watched the letter from the heretics with interest. There was no shortage of Volcano Manor's deployed subordinates across The Lands Between; they could act as informants, delivering intelligence instantly.
His lips curled at the long-awaited news of his old friend.
'So the value of our trades is growing,' he mused. 'Perhaps I can exchange more treasures with Frieren, but I'll have to pick the right moment.'
'Although she hasn't blasphemed the Golden Order, she has clearly taken an opposing stance,' Bernahl murmured, stroking his sword.
It reminded him of sparring with the new Tarnished, teaching them Weapon Skills—a rare period of ease. That inconspicuous silver-haired girl had become a prominent figure, even ranking first among the Quasi-Kings.
Roar!
From deep within the Volcano, Aldrich's roar echoed once more: 'Damn you, Ashen One! A mere Ashen One!'
Upon hearing news of Frieren, he grew even more crazed. Patches, understanding the deep-seated hatred between them, grumbled, 'How troublesome. He'll probably send more monsters to the Ancient Ruins now.'
If not for this conflict, they could have easily joined forces with the Southern Faction.
'What a pity. Otherwise, we should have planned an assault on Leyndell with her.'
'We are not of the same path.'
'Why? Don't you two get along? Even Frieren admitted you're a Weapon Skill teacher.'
However, Bernahl shook his head and replied: 'The people of Volcano Manor are filled with hatred and have deviated too far from the righteous path; we cannot get along with them. At the very least, Caria views us with great caution.'
'Isn't Rykard considered one of the heirs?'
'No longer. His act of defilement was too severe, utterly wicked. However, this very determination perhaps allowed him to retain a shred of sanity.'
'Gentlemen,' Tanith walked over and urged, 'the Capital has pulled back its forces; we can attempt another assault.'
Accompanying her was also a spirited Crucible Knight.
The few of them nodded to each other. It was a hard-won wait for the Capital's forces to withdraw. How could they not seize this chance to achieve some military gains?
They might not be loyal to Rykard, but they were certainly happy to cause trouble for the Golden Dynasty.
The Altus Plateau wouldn't know peace.
Moreover, the mad Rykard would not stop. Having formed a blood feud with the King of Grace, he would continue fighting, especially now that he had Aldrich's support...
Roar!
From deep within the Volcano, a crawling tremor could be felt, as if a heavy object was sweeping across the earth, making one's soles tingle, a sense of...
'No way? Is a Shardbearer going to personally mobilize?'
Tanith said coldly: 'As you can see, after hearing that the Capital repeatedly pulled back its forces and that the Southern Faction was gaining momentum, he couldn't hold back anymore. He might personally act; he won't be satisfied until he devours some Leyndell Knights.'
'If the King of Grace defends the city and doesn't come out, then we'll create disasters and harass the outer regions.'
'If he dares to dispatch Demigod-level combatants, like Margit, the Fell Omen, show no mercy. For such a blasphemous entity, a direct, all-out assault is warranted.'
Bernahl's expression immediately turned grim. Once it involved the deployment of Demigods, the situation became unpredictable and hard to assess.
The God-King Covenant undoubtedly stirred the ambitions of various opportunists; it was bound to get lively.
In any case, they had to prepare for a large-scale war.
Underground World, Mohgwyn Dynasty.
Mohg held his trident, gazing longingly into the distance.
There was a colossal cavern there, estimated to be over a thousand meters in diameter. It tore open the false starry sky, letting golden light pour down onto the world. Torrents of water descended, converging into the underground Ainsel River and Siofra River, then, in a cycle, turning into mist and rain, falling once more upon Liurnia.
It formed an utterly magnificent waterfall cavern; there was no need to guess that constructing a path to the underground would now be far more convenient.
Even the temperature rose somewhat, and the stagnant, ancient magic flow slightly improved.
It had to be admitted that Frieren and Astel's war permanently reshaped the terrain. The harsh underground environment changed in an ironic way. The sinful dark-headed fiend fell, a new monarch rose, even gaining an unshakeable foothold and unparalleled prestige.
'You're truly formidable.'
Mohg said, half with emotion and half gritting his teeth, his emotions complex.
Damn it.
'Doesn't it make all his years of effort seem like a waste of time?' He turned his head, only to see the blood-soaked cocoon still motionless. Miquella had not responded from beginning to end; it was too slow.
In the past, he could have slowly bided his time, accumulating forces, but his coordinates had already been exposed to Frieren.
Now, there was also an additional underground cavern passage, allowing for large-scale troop deployment, which was truly troublesome.
'Your Majesty, have you made a decision?' Ansbach asked.
'There's no avoiding it now. My new and old grievances with Frieren must be settled,' Mohg ordered sternly: 'Mobilize the army, strengthen our defenses. We will defeat the Southern Faction here on our home turf.'
'At your command. I also believe they will come knocking eventually. That Soul of Cinder despises any unstable elements.'
'But she found an Empyrean.'
'Your Majesty, you too... but Miquella always gives me a sense of danger.'
Suddenly, Mohg turned his head. He wasn't sure if it was a delusion, but he felt as though an arm extended from the cocoon had beckoned. He looked at Ansbach, who also wore a surprised expression; it wasn't a delusion, Miquella had responded to him!
He quickly rushed closer. He heard no sound, yet a thought inexplicably emerged in his mind: 'Frieren must be killed.'
'That's right, it perfectly aligns with my own thoughts.'
'As long as I achieve God-King cooperation with you, those Shardbearers will be insignificant. Perfect; I'll just wait for her to deliver the two Great Runes to my doorstep—killing two birds with one stone.'
'What?'
'Ansbach, we will use the power of the Formless Mother and go all out to eliminate her.'
'Your Majesty, don't you think Lord Miquella's suggestion is somewhat dangerous?' His tone was uneasy. 'Since we're fighting on our home turf, we should be more conservative. We could slowly wear them down with troop numbers. Relying on the power of an Outer God might be premature.'
'I have my reasons. Just carry out the orders.'
As he left, Ansbach looked back several times. In his eyes, the arm extended from the cocoon of slumber had not changed at all. Just moments ago, there was only a faint magical fluctuation, and then His Majesty suddenly leaned in.
What just happened?
Unfortunately, he had no time for further thought and had to set about preparing.
The Mohgwyn Dynasty would enter its highest state of alert, to prepare for the inevitable arrival of the Soul of Cinder's army. That was bound to be...
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Unfortunately, two of our stories were removed... so I created a new account to post them: MikuDayo.
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I'm counting on your support <3 the director was very sad and scared by what happened...
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