Meteorite Crater.
The giant crater, once gouged out by a meteorite, had transformed into a small town, or perhaps better called Starswept Town. It originally served as an outpost for exploring the Underground World, attracting a large number of Tarnished, adventurers, and mercenaries, with visitors from all corners of the world, all for the riches of the Eternal City.
Now, the excavation of ancient civilization treasures had to be temporarily halted. At least, it could no longer rely on the regular army. Because the Southern Army was rapidly assembling, forming one encampment after another surrounding the entire Meteorite Crater.
Seeing the endless Black Sunfire Ring banners, even Kenneth Haight put away his smile. According to the commanders' reports, he meticulously checked the rosters, as confusing the formations directly impacted command efficiency. Five hundred percent attention was required.
However, he was only responsible for logistics. His colleague was so busy he had to shout orders:
"Disassemble and transport large equipment to North Warehouse Number Four. Handle with care."
"Too many Dragons are assembling. Don't stay on the flat ground; go to the mountain camp."
"Only Troll caravans can use the main road. Everyone else, use temporary paths. Be mindful and yield to heavy convoys."
"Naturally, the more warhorses, the better."
Edgar, under pressure, meticulously deployed his troops. Beside him was Irina, diligently taking notes. Thanks to his darling daughter's constant organization, things hadn't devolved into a complete mess, especially since the town was to accommodate 40,000 regular troops.
It was exaggerated.
The Lands Between had not seen such a massive military buildup, united under one banner, in a long time. It should be noted that this was under the premise that the Liurnian Grand Army was not convenient to mobilize. In actuality, given ample time and less pressure on the Northern Front Line, patching together another 30,000 wouldn't be difficult, but there was no need.
Frieren's, or rather, Melina's troop deployment strategy (under Frieren's name):
Liurnia would provide elite vanguards.
Limgrave would provide the main army.
And Caelid would provide the Redmane Army as reinforcements for the entire force.
Success required each to fulfill their duties and cooperate closely. The most difficult step was not even initiating combat, but ensuring provisions moved first before troops. Although the people of The Lands Between generally possessed superhuman physical qualities and longevity, this didn't mean they no longer needed heavy supplies. Considering the complex composition, including Dragons, Trolls, Misbegotten, and Demi-Humans, organizing them also presented a significant challenge.
Thus, Edgar, overwhelmed by various information, wore a troubled expression and sighed: "It's truly difficult. No wonder the Royal Capital attack back then had to be in the form of an allied army."
"Father, are you very tired? Do you want to rest?"
"No, Irina, I am very happy. I thank Her Majesty Frieren for giving me the opportunity to challenge my limits."
"What?"
"Which knight doesn't want to be a general? Which general doesn't want to command armies on an expedition? Will the Southern Army's training reach its limit first, or will my command ability reach its limit first? I want to see how far I am from those strategists in the history of The Lands Between."
"Given Lady Frieren's development trend, there should be 100,000 troops attacking the Royal Capital in the future."
Irina exclaimed in surprise at such an exaggerated number.
If not for Soul Sorcery and Great Rune Graces healing a large number of animated corpses, gathering so many high-quality, intact soldiers would be difficult. Note: they must be high standard.
Even if the three Southern regions revived, they could still gather these non-animated corpse forces, but victory would be out of the question. Deceiving oneself wouldn't fool Leyndell's towering city walls.
This 40,000-strong regular army is backed by prosperous lands that were among the first to emerge from the disaster of the Shattering War. Therefore, heavy losses were not even permitted. They had gathered the essence of the Southern Lands' might. The reason for mobilizing such a vast force was to allow as many people as possible to participate, as a significant portion had just been cured from being animated corpses and were undergoing training.
Untrained recruits will always remain recruits. Everyone is just one war away from becoming a veteran.
In the future, this batch of people would attack Leyndell, and the Royal Capital's garrison were all seasoned veterans. Not to mention the material disparity like Smithing Stones, their experience alone would crush them.
"Couldn't everyone be trained in batches, one by one?"
Irina suggested.
"You still don't understand enough about military matters," Edgar shook his head. "Training in large-scale combat and small-unit combat training are completely different. Large equipment, multi-racial and multi-branch coordination, large-bodied enemies, and area-of-effect magic that destroy swathes can only be truly witnessed on a high-spec battlefield."
"Those who haven't seen it will get weak knees, tremble, and lose courage, which will then break the entire formation."
"While Demigods are strong, the building of morale cannot be ignored."
"Suppose Her Majesty Frieren single-handedly breaks through the Royal Capital and wins, who then will implement her ruling will? Yes, everyone will obey you all the same, but if you don't have subordinates with whom you've had long-term cooperation, communication, and trust to execute, will you just sit on the throne and do nothing?"
Hearing this, Irina had a sudden realization.
In truth, Frieren herself probably didn't care, but as more and more interests became tied to her, everyone hoped to ascend to the Royal Capital with Her Majesty. In short, this army was to be built to a standard that would deter all four corners of The Lands Between in the future.
"Father, I will do my best to help you. Leave these accounts to me; it's no problem."
As he spoke, a small squad swiftly arrived. They were not soldiers, but a batch of officers had been sent to better fit the grassroots command. Currently, what the Southern Army lacked was not absolute numbers, but junior officers capable of relaying orders to the lowest levels, and the Redmane Army had no shortage of such talent.
"You're finally here."
"General Edgar, it seems we're not late. Let's fight together."
"Mmm, for Lady Frieren."
Seeing them arrive, both father and daughter finally relaxed a bit. The more experienced commanders, the better. The more intricate details were actually harder to handle, causing immense headaches. Now, with help, it was much easier; more energy could be dedicated to troop deployment and strengthening combat power.
At the same time, Kenneth Haight excitedly ran over: "The lift expansion is complete! It can now transfer the army in sequence."
"How long will it take?"
"If it operates tirelessly day and night, at least a week. After all, we can't create a super-lift marvel like the one on the Altus Plateau, unless Her Majesty is here to help."
"Lady Frieren is busy with central coordination and the Carian Knights, so she can't attend to this side."
"Right. So I suggest we start the transfer early."
The two consulted and decided to seize the stability of the Meteorite Crater. Their orders spread, mobilizing Dragons, Trolls, and Misbegotten to accelerate construction. Chains extended from the surface down to the Underground World. Giant platforms repeatedly linked up for transport, in a continuous stream, tirelessly moving the army inside.
The prelude to the war against the Mohgwyn Dynasty had already begun; the rest was just a matter of time.
Leyndell, Royal Capital.
"Are you saying a scion of Marika just inexplicably appeared? And she's Frieren's Maiden, the one who granted the Spectral Steed Whistle, and has been operating with the future King Tarnished?"
"Absolutely true, my lord. We could never mistake that Golden Lineage bloodline reaction."
Morgott, in his throne room, rested his chin on his hand, his face full of doubt. His first reaction, of course, was disbelief.
But it wasn't baseless. In actuality, Melina's identity had long been speculated upon in The Lands Between, being the one closest to the Soul-Cinder Lord, it was impossible to avoid studying her. Every Shardbearer causing trouble deserved high attention, especially with such a special Maiden beside her.
What in the world?
The Leyndell nobles who learned this news wore perplexed expressions. How many hidden chess pieces had Lady Marika left? Now, her relationship with Frieren was hard to ascertain, full of mysteries, leaving everyone bewildered.
Fortunately, the statements made during the banquet quickly circulated. Evidently, Melina's own memories were a mystery, and she harbored doubts about her mission, which was even stranger.
It wasn't important. What was important was that despite various doubts, she firmly supported the Tarnished, and Frieren gave her the greatest trust.
It was truly a beautiful tale.
If only they weren't enemies.
Morgott murmured, "Perhaps Mother had other considerations, but at least for this moment, we must react appropriately to Frieren's actions. We cannot allow the Southern Army to rampage... Regarding the Mohgwyn Dynasty, what have your investigations revealed?"
"It can be confirmed that the ruler, Mohg, Lord of Blood, holds a Great Rune, and is an Omen. His identity is very special."
His subordinates glanced at each other, unable to offer any substantial information. Everyone present was a confidant of Morgott and more or less understood the situation, making it truly inconvenient to speak. They even found it hard to believe that their elder brother knew nothing of the situation; perhaps he had simply turned a blind eye before.
"How has Volcano Manor been acting lately?"
"Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy has been active in the outer regions, causing considerable losses. Fortunately, the Draconic Tree Sentinel led the interception, and the front line has stabilized."
"And Aldrich, Devourer of Gods, continues to release monsters towards the Ruin-Strewn Precipice, probing the Southern Army's movements."
Truly worthy of being the top-tier, most frenzied faction in The Lands Between, led by two madmen. They were actually harassing the Royal Capital and Magic Academy territories simultaneously. Precise weighing of pros and cons did not exist in their minds; only rampant hatred. One was towards the Golden Order, the other towards the Soul-Cinder Lord. Something big was bound to happen sooner or later.
The good news was that the front line was strongly controlled.
"My lord, combat power is currently stretched. I propose negotiating with Godefroy the Grafted, who is sealed in the Gaol. He, having had Stormveil Castle occupied, has a basis for cooperation with us."
Hearing this, Morgott's heart stirred, and he considered it carefully.
This person is a Golden Lineage scion, one of the Demigods, and also one of the commanders who attacked the Royal Capital during the Shattering War, also using Grafting techniques. In terms of capability, he surpasses Godrick and is sufficient to suppress the younger brother. Back then, Godefroy was active in the Storm-King's Domain. Hearing matters related to Frieren made him furious.
A common enemy meant a common basis for cooperation. Now, strengthening combat power was necessary.
After all, Demigods in the Southern Army were emerging one after another.
Exaggerated.
Leaving aside the Soul-Cinder Lord herself, there were also the Undead Legion, the Mimic Tear, and Melina – these formerly unknown powerhouses. In terms of high-end combat power, they exerted considerable pressure.
Although Leyndell had won against allied armies composed of multiple Demigods before, whenever people thought of Frieren, they had a subconscious thought: She was different; she was the exception.
Morgott replied, "Negotiations with Godefroy can be revisited. First, let's observe the changing situation."
"You may withdraw. I need to think carefully."
Hearing this, the knights bowed and left. Everyone could see that the Blessed King was somewhat distracted, likely pondering Mohg's situation, and was inevitably uneasy.
Morgott, left alone in the room, paced back and forth, thinking. Since even a rebel commander could be negotiated with, then his own brother should also be discussed. At the very least, he needed to thoroughly understand what happened; he couldn't turn a blind eye.
With that thought, he headed to the depths of the Royal Capital. He passed through the gloomy sewers where Omens were once imprisoned, traversed the labyrinthine terrain, and continued downwards.
With the agility of a Demigod, he easily leaped over the jagged terrain of the sewers. Within his sight, countless withered figures gradually appeared. The population density here was extremely high, so they were piled on top of each other, lying haphazardly, barely clothed. They struggled in the narrow spaces, perpetually devoid of sunlight, but this was their rightful judgment. This group of imprisoned individuals was considered part of the Frenzied Flame faction, loathed by all in The Lands Between. The Golden Lineage had rounded up all those involved, suppressing them in the deepest part of the Royal Capital, leaving them to their fate.
Thus, it should have another name:
The Subterranean Shunning-Grounds.
A melancholic musical instrument sound drifted through the air, a tune spread by Nomadic Merchants. Coupled with the hoarse harmonies from broken bellows, it added to the eerie atmosphere.
More terrifying than the countless dead was that some were still alive.
How long must the living suffer in this horrifying land? The thought alone was terrifying.
Morgott strolled through the Subterranean Shunning-Grounds. The prostrate, withered figures around him slowly raised their heads as if standing at attention. Not a word was spoken, the music paused, and all was silent, save for a voiceless aura of hatred.
They were resentful, despairing, hateful, yet now they lacked even the strength to raise a fist, able only to glare.
Indeed, there was a connection.
But one could never be too cautious when guarding against Frenzied Flame. Not only were they imprisoned here, but there was also a Demigod bound by a mission. Theoretically, he should still be there...
Entering a church-like room, he distinctly found the Omen wearing a black, luxurious robe.
"This must be a clone, right? Mohg, your main body is in the Mohgwyn Dynasty."
"Long time no see. You've been quite busy, haven't you? Is it because you were always up there that you didn't notice my situation? Or chose not to think about it?"
He sneered covertly.
"You should worry more about your own affairs. Let's not talk about your deceptions and petty actions. The main point is that the Mohgwyn Dynasty has become the Southern Army's primary target. I hear the Empyrean Miquella is also with you. Are you ready?"
Mohg's horn rose when the achievement of abducting the Empyrean was mentioned.
"You don't need to concern yourself, Morgott. Just be a good Blessed King, then wait for me to take the throne."
"Don't accuse me of nagging, but you'd best think clearly. This time, the Southern Army is deploying three Demigod-tier combatants and elite main forces. Even with your home ground advantage, it won't be easy. If Frieren wins too easily, it will cause even greater trouble for the Royal Capital."
However, Mohg shook his head, striding away as if leaving.
"You came at a good time. Consider this my farewell to you. After all, the Mohgwyn Dynasty has many matters to attend to, and it's best if I preside over them. So, this clone will be recalled to ensure the integrity of my power."
"Thank you for your contribution in the Shattering War, and also for guarding the Frenzied Flame Seal..."
"Hm."
"In return, I will support you."
At Morgott's unexpected words, Mohg paused. Their eyes met silently, overwhelmed by mixed emotions and conflicted thoughts.
Morgott spoke with resolve, hoping only to communicate more with his brother. After all, it was an internal matter of the Golden Lineage. With Frieren pressing now, wasn't today much like when the Lordly Alliance besieged the city back then? Although Mohg subjectively loathed the Golden Lineage and was unwilling to help back then, objectively he did splinter the besieging army, creating an opportunity. Morgott was probably touched by that cooperation.
"Ridiculous."
Mohg snorted coldly and shook his head. The Mohgwyn Dynasty had too many things that shouldn't be seen, especially by Morgott. There were too many differences and conflicting ideologies between them.
Unexpectedly, Morgott continued to persuade: "I will dispatch a clone of the highest strength. It will absolutely not hinder you. It will see what it sees as if it didn't see it, hear what it hears as if it didn't hear it, and will not comment on your Dynasty. We simply chose different paths."
"Perhaps you believe we will eventually be enemies, but at least not now, right?"
Even Morgott didn't notice the hint of sorrow in his tone.
The identity of the Omen had deeply torn the two apart. Even now, resentment lingered, and trust was impossible.
"You're not yourself."
"I have always been myself. It's just a pity we've communicated so little, Mohg."
At this point, Morgott had to consider the feasibility. After all, the Mohgwyn Dynasty was indeed under immense pressure. Being stubborn was one thing, but claiming no uneasiness was false, given the Southern Army's massive operation.
In The Lands Between now, only a handful of factions were capable of organizing such forces, let alone being commanded by the renowned future King. Both sides were poised for a decisive battle to determine victory. Both clearly knew they had a murderous intent towards the enemy, settled since the Caelid Battle. Today's conflict was merely a continuation of yesterday's, and it had to be resolved.
Additionally, he had to admit his heart stirred. How could he feel nothing when faced with his brother's plea? Especially here, underground, in the quiet place where the Omen Twins had always endured difficult times together. It was filled with hatred, yet also memories, leaving him with an unsettled heart.
Time had soothed the pain. Moreover, the frequently occurring disasters in the Golden Lineage had allowed Mohg to vent his frustration.
Good riddance.
So the hatred had lessened slightly. If it had been a thousand years earlier, perhaps he would have attacked his brother, who represented the Royal Capital, on the spot.
Never mind. Let them cooperate once more to create a miracle.
"Alright, it's a good chance to show you the great Mohgwyn Dynasty." He then handed over a blood-rune-stained map. "The coordinates and route are for you. It's the fastest and safest."
"It's a promise. I'll definitely arrive before the great battle. You must hold on."
"I'm glad you're coming, but I never expected you to be useful from the start. Just witness it. Let me show you how I will defeat the future King and wield the most Great Runes."
"I regret not sharing the joy of victory with you when I repelled the Lordly Alliance last time, fearing it would only enrage you. This time, enjoy it thoroughly."
"See you then."
With that, Mohg's figure dissipated, leaving Morgott facing the empty room.
He glanced towards the Frenzied Flame Seal, letting out a long sigh. Regardless, no one would guard it anymore. That energy seemed to be exulting, restless, happy for this chaotic world?
But he would absolutely not allow it to continue. First, he had to stop the rampaging Southern Army and curb its expansion.
The Blessed King turned and walked towards the surface.
In the Mohgwyn Dynasty Mausoleum, Mohg's body was covered in a layer of blood-red, his aura surging several points beyond before. The long-awaited return of his clone fed back to his main body, bringing his magic to its peak, even subtly surpassing his previous state. After all, neither his main body nor his clones had neglected their meditation, all for this complete state upon reunion, coupled with the Formless Mother's ample power.
"Your Majesty, the army has assembled. We have built walls around the Mohgwyn Dynasty; we can utilize our home ground advantage."
Ampach reported.
"Be prepared. By the way, a Demigod from the Royal Capital will come to assist me."
"Such a thing!"
Ampach, his chief Sanguine Knight, had his suspicions, but feigned ignorance. It was indeed shocking.
It was good news, adding another layer of certainty to their victory.
Mohg waved his large sleeve and loudly commanded: "Hold fast and defend! We will fight a defensive battle here against the Southern Army, then use the Mohgwyn Dynasty's accumulated power to annihilate them, severing the divine link. I will begin deploying larger-scale summons of the Formless Mother's power."
"Understood."
After everyone left, he looked resolutely at the Empyrean's Cocoon and murmured: "You will understand that I am the best choice, Miquella."
The outstretched arm seemed to bloom like a fragrant water lily...
Unbeknownst to him, far away, Ampach was observing from behind a stone pillar. He bit his tongue, gripping his blade until his palm bled to dispel a hint of illusion. Sure enough, that fellow had constantly been casting Hypnosis Magic.
At such a critical juncture, he dared to interfere with His Majesty's grand undertaking!
More terrifyingly, he didn't know when it began, nor Miquella's motives. He knew nothing.
He felt a chill run down his spine, then loudly cursed.
Could it be that the liege he had always followed was about to be betrayed at this crucial moment? Absolutely unacceptable. At this instant, a terrifying gaze fell upon him from the shadows. It was too late. Given the situation, Ampach strode out from his hiding place.
Mohg looked slightly surprised and questioned, "What are you doing with that weapon?"
"Your Majesty, you have been deceived by Miquella! He has constantly been casting Hypnosis Magic! Today, I will break it, even if it costs me my life!"
The Chief Sanguine Knight, resolved to die, charged towards the Empyrean's Cocoon.
Simultaneously, a small squad was at the edge of the Great Blood Lake. Comprising Redmane Knights, brawlers, Horned Folk, and more, all were experts. The aura of heroes and strong individuals was unmistakably evident. Working together, they moved unhindered, easily reaching the high ground overlook.
Leading them was a figure in white robes, who slowly removed their hood, revealing an unblemished, beautiful face.
Cleanrot Knight Finlay shielded her brow with her hand, gazing into the distance. That immense, blood-red energy mass in the distance was impossible to ignore; it was too dazzling, like a blood-sun. It was estimated that Mohg, Lord of Blood, was performing a dangerous Outer God summoning ritual.
This added to the unforeseen complications.
Freyja asked, "The situation isn't good. Do we need to change our itinerary? Should you return to the Haligtree first and wait for news?"
"Although Lord Miquella's power allows us to teleport via Grace like the chosen Tarnished, it cannot be used frequently. Moreover, the plan has reached this stage; we should be patient and observe. The outcome will not be shaken."
"Given the current situation, Mohg might repel the Soul-Cinder Lord."
"Considering the difficulty of a defensive battle, it's highly probable it will drag on repeatedly, perhaps even heavily damaging the Southern Army through home-ground advantage... ...But Lord Miquella will act."
"Sister Lei's" firm words dispelled everyone's doubts. The most mysterious Demigod should be capable.
In any case, they just had to wait. No additional actions were needed before reaching the Land of Shadow. They could simply quietly enjoy this great battle that would shake the balance of The Lands Between.
______
New History: A heart of Ice With a Romance System.
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