Stormveil Castle Throne Hall.
Although Frieren had been away for a long time, the hall remained clean and tidy. The brightness from the floor-to-ceiling windows and the red carpet on the floor imparted a sense of solemn dignity.
Usually, it served as the brain of the south, issuing various political decrees. Today, it finally welcomed its master.
The first thing that caught her eye was a sand table map. Edgar, along with a group of military officers, was gathered around it, engaged in a lively discussion, not daring to be lax. The emblem representing different units advanced continuously...
"Your Majesty, you've finally arrived!"
Compared to the various etiquettes of the civil officials, Edgar, who had always followed her in battle, clearly behaved more familiarly.
"If you were my support, mobilization would be very difficult."
"What is it?"
"A large number of corrupted creatures have been discovered around the Wall of Fire, even corrupted flying dragons. They can spew corrupting breath and are very troublesome."
"I understand. You don't need to worry about this. I will either take the lead or clear out those strong enemies myself."
Frieren was greatly interested in the mention of flying dragons wielding the power of corruption. In a way, they were both practitioners using Scarlet Rot; an exchange of experiences should be beneficial for her experiments.
The infected cannot be left alive.
The Abyss Watchers, to expel the power of the Abyss, did not hesitate to destroy a nation.
Now, Frieren too had to show such resolve.
The military officers looked at each other. They had thought a long-term plan was needed, but unexpectedly, Her Majesty had taken it upon herself.
"So you've decided to head out first?" Edgar asked.
"Yes, just like in Liurnia."
Everyone was very familiar with this tactical arrangement. It had proven effective in the lake region. Since that was the case, there was indeed nothing to worry about, especially with Frieren clearing the path.
"Next, we need to consider the mobilization of the main army. Your Majesty, it would be best if you first understand the general route..."
Having cooperated several times, both parties were well-versed in the process. With Edgar's clear explanation, even Frieren grasped the general idea, especially the current number of deployable troops in the south:
Thirty thousand.
Overall, it was roughly the same number of participants as in the Limgrave war a few years ago.
Back then, everyone in Stormveil Castle during wartime had felt the immense scale. Now, to spread out for a field battle – how magnificent would that be?
"So many!"
"Your Majesty, actually, I left most of the troops in their home territories; otherwise, the number would be even larger."
Logically, with the population recovering from Hollowing, resting and recuperating, and expanding the army, it shouldn't be so few. In fact, the apparent "small number" was a source of relief for the commanders. Quality over quantity was paramount.
During Godrick's era, a large number of mercenaries and Hollows joined the army. Their quality was uneven, and commands were difficult to convey.
It was like a rusty machine that no one could get moving.
The officers who took over decided to tear it down and rebuild.
Those who had previously filled ranks without competence were all cleared out – disbanded if necessary, reorganized if possible. The army was largely rebuilt with ordinary humans as its foundation.
Their morale was high, their physiques strong. They strictly followed orders and had an increasingly beautiful homeland worth protecting. Most importantly, they possessed the fighting spirit to rally under Frieren's banner, fearing nothing.
They had a reason to fight.
This point alone surpassed countless armies in the Lands Between. One should not underestimate morale; the larger the scale of the battlefield, the more crucial organization and morale become.
Moreover, the thirty thousand troops Edgar mentioned were mobile combat forces, not affecting home defense.
The designated expeditionary force was well-equipped, outfitted with some armor and weapons captured from the Royal Capital Army, as well as martial arts accumulated over many years in the Limgrave armory. Of course, it also included their two trump cards: the Grafted Nobles and the Dragon Communion adherents.
Auxiliary forces included Demi-humans, Trolls, Wyverns, and Misbegotten.
Their composition was complex, but thanks to years of deep cultivation through soul healing arts, their conditions were stable and they were highly capable.
"...And that, is the expeditionary force we have prepared," Edgar said, his heart surging. "We will eradicate the corrupted creatures."
"The troop strength is more abundant than I anticipated," Frieren praised.
The south's development had exceeded her expectations. She had initially been prepared to clear out the corrupted creatures alone, but unexpectedly, they had assembled an army of thirty thousand, and all of high quality at that.
In terms of war potential, it wouldn't be difficult for Liurnia to field another forty thousand after a period of recuperation. And what if the resources from a restored Caelid were added in the future?
Wouldn't that easily amount to an army of a hundred thousand?
Moreover, the style in the Lands Between was to require little to no supplies; once equipped, they set off. The requirements for auxiliary forces were very low, achieving a terrifyingly high participation rate of nearly ninety-five percent for a large contingent.
It wasn't like her own world, which required cumbersome configurations of militia for transport, cooks, medics, and so on.
No wonder the allied lords of old fought such world-shattering battles. How could it not be tumultuous?
Even though she had inherited a land ravaged by them, Frieren still felt astounded. The military strength was truly substantial.
But there was a weakness.
"I hear there are powerful dragon swarms in the cemetery regions, places even heroes find difficult to tread." She hit the nail on the head. "A lack of foundation is reflected in an abundance of mid-to-low-tier troops."
Edgar nodded. "Indeed, we are severely lacking in high-end combat power. The bad news is that they are frequently active. It will surely become inconvenient to march soon, and that will be troublesome."
"They are indeed disgusting."
"It's rumored that the shadow of blood-related forces was behind the collapse of the allied lords' army back then. These fellows are most adept at coercing large armies and disrupting their deployments."
"Why does the Mohgwyn Dynasty want to interfere? Has it been investigated?"
"My apologies, Your Majesty, I do not know. But the conflicts at your level are not just those few."
Indeed.
It was most likely for the Great Runes. Who the opponent was didn't matter; what mattered was that they were an enemy, and one must be vigilant.
Hearing this, the military officers breathed a sigh of relief, their brows relaxing. After all, news about them was increasing, and under Her Majesty's repeated enhancements, they had practically become a hero-level army. Suppressing the coercive Bloody Fingers wouldn't be a problem.
Since that was one less concern, the remaining minor details weren't troublesome.
"Your Majesty, we will arrive in batches. There are too many people to move together; otherwise, overextending on the main battlefield would hinder command."
"Do as you normally do, Edgar. I trust you. We'll meet again in Caelid."
"Is Your Majesty departing now?"
"Mm."
"May we observe the healing of the corrupted soil?"
Frieren had anticipated this question, so she skillfully took out a sample and demonstrated for everyone the method of using Aeonia to actively absorb the corruption, then digesting it with her own mana.
The entire process was smooth and fluid, yet nerve-wracking, especially when she placed the thoroughly reddened flower on her head.
No matter how one looked at it, that thing seemed desperate to break free and erupt right there in Stormveil Castle. What kind of immense fortitude was needed to withstand such a shock!
"So, you used your own mana to completely eliminate the Scarlet Rot?"
"You could say that."
Receiving an affirmative answer, everyone couldn't help but twitch their lips. This meant the "Rot King's" body could resist the mutation of the crimson flower. It was simply miraculous. One had to know that even the Starscourge General had been beaten into a state worse than death by this move.
Regardless, they were relieved and believed that the Caelid region would surely experience a rebirth.
To be honest, they had no emotional attachment to the land of Scarlet Rot; it had long left the impression of an apocalyptic wasteland. But as neighbors, they couldn't help but worry, as they could be infected at any time.
"I've basically understood everything. I'll head off first."
"Wait, Your Majesty."
Seeing Frieren about to leave, Edgar quickly stopped her and said solemnly:
"It is indeed right for the soldiers to protect their homeland; it's enough to inspire their fighting spirit. But this is Your Majesty's army. They come for the banner of the Soul-Kindling King. They need a tangible symbol, a representative, a monarch. It has been a long time since they last saw you. Please, go and meet them. Your Majesty, even though I have led troops in battle numerous times, it does not affect their souls' allegiance to you."
It's not just about the superior taking credit; it's also about letting me sing your praises. Otherwise, who exactly is leading this conquest? Not even Godfrey's partner, the Lion Regent, was ever so fully responsible. Most of the time, the king himself fought alongside them.
The silver-haired girl stroked her chin, thinking for a moment.
"My first step is to attack along the Fort Gael line. After we rendezvous, we will clear out the corrupted creatures together... You're right. Let me see the changes in everyone."
Edgar smiled with relief, little knowing there was one thing she absolutely couldn't resist:
Research.
Frieren's mind was consumed with the thought of personally witnessing the soil of Scarlet Rot.
It was Melina who persuaded her.
"General Edgar has already explained everything clearly, so I won't repeat it. You are not just an adventurer, Frieren. As a monarch, you must respond to everyone's expectations, especially your legion."
"The Leyndell Knights, as the core foundation, brought about the Golden Conquest. Then, the Southern Army will bring about the New King's Conquest for you."
"If it were in the past, I wouldn't have admonished you like this, because there was no need. But now, the Southern Army already possesses sufficient spirit. Don't let them down."
Melina believed the once weak soldiers had long since been thoroughly transformed.
Frieren readily agreed.
Guided by a line of military officers, she walked out of Stormveil Castle and arrived at an adjacent highland, where an encampment stretched for several kilometers.
Wooo—
The melodious sound of a horn awakened the camp area. People quickly assembled. With each command, they formed neat ranks with visible speed in a matter of seconds, perfectly aligned, their momentum like a rainbow.
The crowd, like a tide, was yet filled with order, their steps steady, heads held high.
The ground beneath their feet rumbled; the hillside highlands trembled. Dust rose to the sky, like rolling thunder.
Even the city felt the tremors.
Residents couldn't help but turn to look. After all, they had seen plenty of drills, but such rapid formation as today's was indeed rare. Moreover, the banner of the Black Sunflame had been raised, indicating Her Majesty was among them.
"Are they finally preparing to attack? To sweep away the corrupted creatures?"
"We can't let the danger in Caelid fester any longer, or we'll definitely suffer."
"I still have acquaintances there..."
The soaring killing intent made people realize the impending action, but it was more anticipation, hoping to witness the grand occasion of the unified south.
Frieren, riding Torrent, was at the very front of the officers, overlooking the forest of spears. Various siege engines exuded a considerable sense of pressure.
Very good.
The atmosphere from the Battle of the Church of Vows continued, and had even intensified.
Meanwhile, Edgar beside her explained the tasks of each unit, a cramming session of sorts, telling her details like "which part is responsible for sieges, reconnaissance, fortifications," and so on.
He was responsible for the objective introduction. Melina, behind him, offered evaluations, comparing them to the Redmane soldiers, Putrid Knights, and others she had seen.
My mind is being baptized with new knowledge.
The two, with their wealth of experience, poured their insights into Frieren, this new master. It was fine; they trusted her talent. As long as she had a minimal understanding of the army and wasn't completely in the dark, she could continue to be an invincible demigod powerhouse. The rest could be left to them.
The silver-haired girl nodded thoughtfully, simultaneously witnessing a live drill of these troop types.
It was an eye-opener.
She hadn't experienced many large-scale wars, but those she had were all of immense significance. At least her judgment was sound.
Even in the battle at Northwind Fortress in her own world, the combined human and demon armies couldn't compare to the current imposing Southern Army, which was sufficient to flatten a kingdom.
She had indeed neglected this aspect of knowledge before.
Melina felt proud for her and said with emotion, "Do something, say something. This is the best mobilization."
Frieren, her heart stirred, raised her staff. Mobilizing all her mana, even mingling a trace of the First Flame's power, a dazzling light instantly bloomed. It enveloped the entire camp, dewdrops descending, nourishing all things.
An unprecedented enhancement of Grace.
One spell drained her body of mana, forcing her to drink a flask to replenish it, but her imposing aura only grew stronger.
"Praise Her Majesty!"
Everyone could feel energy surging from their chests, their spirits soaring. Roars of passion were carried far and wide by the winds of the hills.
"Everyone, I will make this blessing bloom in every corner of the Lands Between!"
"Starting from Limgrave, to the Weeping Peninsula, to Liurnia, to Caelid, and in the future, to the Altus Plateau..."
"You've suffered enough in this age of Shattering, haven't you? We will end all this. After all, the era will arrive with our footsteps."
She rode her horse past the front ranks of the army, her gaze sweeping over the thousands of troops. Behind her, flags filled the sky.
"The Scarlet Rot of Caelid will end. I will depart ahead of you. We will rendezvous when necessary, annihilate the corrupted creatures together, and let the entire south be purified."
"Her Majesty is eternal!"
Although Frieren's words were brief, they all hit the sore spots, addressing the most pressing crises.
The entire army was filled with anticipation for a moment, rubbing their fists, eager for action. Subsequently, Edgar and a group of officers gave specific orders, agreeing to meet her along the Fort Gael line, with other matters to be considered later.
"Then, we shall meet again in Caelid."
The silver-haired girl waved goodbye, leaving behind an eager silhouette, advancing towards the crimson-tinged sky.
The soldiers on the highlands watched her depart for a long time, somewhat reluctant, looking forward to fighting alongside Her Majesty once more. It would be a legend of ancient myth, their own myth.
After leaving Stormveil Castle, Frieren felt a gust of wind rush towards her.
Stormhill.
Gazing into the distance, the Warmaster's Shack from days past had been repaired, even further improved into a relay station tavern, possessing a rather lively atmosphere. The small hut where she had once met Roderika had also been renovated, becoming a guard post, complementing the Stormgate.
Things remained, but people had changed. The changes were so vast that she looked around with a sense of nostalgia.
She herself had long since changed, learning to measure time through change, rather than purely like the elven race, treating everything as fleeting clouds.
"Back then, I advised you not to attack Stormgate," Melina appeared主动现身. "In the end, you dismantled the fortress. Now, it has been rebuilt into an even taller checkpoint."
"It's become sturdier."
"This time, I won't advise you against it. You were right, Frieren. Adventurous experiences are what make one stronger."
"You mentioned before that the underground river entrance in the Mistwood also leads to a sealed area. If the stars begin to move again, would that mean a super-large labyrinth has opened its path?"
"A labyrinth? That truly fits your way of thinking. Indeed. Underground lies an Eternal City, and even older civilizations."
"How old?"
"The specific time is no longer verifiable. But you will find some very large skeletons or statues, within which are hidden the vicissitudes of time. It is said that in even more ancient times, humans were strong and tall. Now is the result of weakened power."
She took out a map, on which were marked the reconnaissance findings of the Southern Army over many years.
The first target:
"Ekzykes, Dragon of Corruption." (Literal: "Step into Corruption" Flying Dragon Ekzykes)
It had been doing fine staying within Caelid and could have lived a while longer. Yet, it chose to rampage on the edge of the Wall of Fire, causing considerable losses to the border troops.
Its appearance had forced the Southern Army to delay their troop deployment, having to send elite units to the front lines first.
No need for such trouble now. Frieren decided to clear the way.
With a whistle, Torrent, the spirit steed, appeared. She fed her good companion some Rowa Fruit to sate its hunger. After chewing for a moment, it reared its head and neighed, its hooves pawing the ground, poised and ready.
"Let's go."
Before her voice faded, it broke into a run, heading towards the land of Scarlet Rot, like a whirlwind.
Melina, seated sideways on the saddle behind her, felt uneasy. After all, various reports indicated that enemy forces were also gathering in Caelid.
Hopefully, everything will be safe.
While traveling, Frieren continuously teleported using Sites of Grace, thus her speed was extremely fast, practically flashing all the way to the Limgrave border.
Even so, it took three days.
Although the Sites of Grace appeared dense on the map, they were actually far apart. Regardless, it was a journey across an area equivalent to a country; traversing Limgrave in such a short time was already considered efficient.
The journey was very smooth. Along the way, she passed through several villages, as well as patrolling troops or Tarnished.
Without exception, they welcomed her. Both sides greeted each other amicably and exchanged intelligence: small contingents of southern reinforcements to Caelid were temporarily returning; preparations for the Combat Festival were underway.
Castellan Jerren: (This line seems to be a header for information Frieren received, not direct dialogue FROM Jerren at this moment)
"Limgrave seems to be developing well." Even the usually aloof Melina couldn't help but comment, "Everyone is living and working in peace and contentment. This is probably the best life achievable after the Shattering."
"It will get even better."
"What you are doing now is not just vying for power through Great Runes, but also for saving lives. In thousands of years, among countless powerhouses, no one has possessed such a heart."
"You praise me too much. I simply can't stand it."
"Your stature is higher, and you possess greater spirit. You are destined to surpass the peak in the future. So, what I mean, Frieren, is that anyone who stands against you is a stumbling block to the world's path to recovery. Eradicate them without mercy, no matter who they are. Do as you see fit."
Melina rarely reached such a firm conclusion. She had come to agree with what the Tarnished was doing from the bottom of her heart.
With the Erdtree waning day by day and the lingering poison of the demigod wars' influence, only one person diligently strived for the fate of all living beings.
Then she rightfully embodied the world's greatest justice, a bearing truly befitting a king.
The flame maiden's heart, that slight wavering, was shifting from an unwavering faith that the Erdtree could save everything to an equal faith in Frieren's path. Both were almost equally important.
Several disastrous elements after the Shattering—were being resolved.
Hollowing had already been declared conquered. If Scarlet Rot was also resolved? Then it would be Melina's turn to doubt whether it was better to be a Tarnished or to follow her mission. By then, how much troublesome contamination would be left in the Lands Between?
"Of course. It starts from here."
Frieren looked forward to the effect of the Flower of Aeonia absorbing the Caelid corruption; that would truly be a new beginning.
"The area ahead is no good place. Look, it's quite lively—"
"ROOOAR!"
The roar of a flying dragon echoed from the edge of the Wall of Fire.
It was clad in scaly armor, but swollen flesh bulged from the gaps, pale pink interspersed with hideous blood vessels. With every movement, it exuded a debilitating power.
The border defense soldiers below stood ready, taking turns using shields and firing crossbow bolts. Another group of men hastily consumed anti-corruption medicine; at least if they could suppress the Scarlet Rot before it breached the body's transformation threshold, there was hope.
However, after a barrage from its Corrupting Roar, Ekzykes was suddenly unscathed.
Its Corrupting Roar battered them, yet Ekzykes was suddenly unscathed, its scales showing only superficial marks.
No, it was hard to say those weren't scales, because flesh and red mist overflowed from within, a veritable source of contamination.
The next moment, a roar swelled.
Damn it!
Sure enough, a breath attack was imminent, but at the same time, a Dragon Communion adherent roared, releasing a poem of flame dragon breath. The two energies exploded and dissipated in mid-air.
They had narrowly escaped, barely neutralizing the Scarlet Rot breath with fire.
The soldiers quickly retreated further to maintain distance.
The tactical discipline they displayed was excellent, truly befitting an elite force entrusted with the heavy responsibility of border defense. Yet, ultimately, they were outmatched.
It wasn't the flying dragon they couldn't handle, but the omnipresent Scarlet Rot.
Ekzykes, having failed in its first attack, surprisingly calmed down and observed carefully, circling around, continuously tightening its radius.
It looked at the flustered humans on the ground as if they were ants, letting out a triumphant cry, immediately brewing its next breath attack.
WHOOSH!
This time, it fell vertically. It was too late. Spreading out, it was impossible to dodge.
What awaited them was a fate worse than death.
Although a swift horse charged in, the moment Torrent was unsummoned and returned to its ring, white frost, wrapped in a fierce wind, forcefully swept up the scarlet miasma. The latter instantly died down.
Storm Stomp!
The most iconic Ash of War of the south suddenly bloomed, blocking Ekzykes while lightly tossing the endangered person a safe distance away.
Unsurprisingly, the silhouette of a silver-haired girl with twintails waved at them.
"It's Her Majesty! She's finally here!"
_____
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