The black-cloaked girl gently stroked her mount, murmuring softly, "Don't worry, Torrent. We've finally found them. This person will surely seek the Elden Ring too, even if it means defying the Golden Order..." She dismounted, appearing friendly—otherwise, she likely would have attacked on sight.
Frieren took the initiative. "Hello. You mentioned the Elden Ring just now. What is that?"
"Tarnished, you've forgotten even that? Your memory loss must be severe."
"You could say that."
It wasn't just changing games; even starting a new playthrough in the same game or after a major battle, she sometimes experienced memory lapses. But it didn't matter, as long as her combat skills remained intact. Forged through countless trials, every past experience armed the elven mage, leaving her fearless before any challenge.
"That's a long story," Melina said. "Before we get into it, I have an offer for you. Allow me to serve in place of your deceased Finger Maiden. I can help you strengthen yourself with Runes. What do you say?"
"Like a Fire Keeper? Of course."
"Then we shall journey together towards the foot of the Erdtree, and I will explain everything..."
Frieren then learned the girl's name was Melina. Her origins remained shrouded in mystery—she wouldn't elaborate when asked, likely hinting at a side quest unavailable for now. Frieren set the thought aside. As the first seemingly normal person she'd met in this Ring world, she resolved to help her partner overcome any troubles they faced.
The crucial part was the world's lore. Combined with the opening cutscene, she finally began to grasp concepts like the Lands Between, the demigods, and the Golden Order. What a mess. It seemed even worse than the demon invasion back home. These Shardbearers were essentially warlords, their constant warring scorching the land and leaving almost no place untouched by conflict. Perhaps, given time, the demons would wreak similar havoc on her homeland.
Still, it was arguably better than the world of Dark Souls. She had no desire to replay that game; achieving full completion was enough. Constantly living amidst apocalypse tended to foster negativity. This new game seemed promising so far.
They exchanged names, formally becoming partners, destined to journey together through this vast world for a long time.
"So, Lady Frieren," Melina asked, "do you believe the Lands Between can be saved?"
"From my perspective, it's merely the decline of a regime called the Golden Dynasty," Frieren replied. "Its influence was vast, certainly, but it's hardly the end of the world. So yes, there's hope for the Lands Between. Even if the answer isn't found within the Golden Order, some corner of this world will eventually give rise to a new civilization. There was an Age of Ancient Dragons before; there will be other ages after."
"Are you not drawn to the Elden Ring, then? To becoming Lord?"
"Why wouldn't I be? It's my goal, especially since you all keep emphasizing it. Besides, no matter which age dawns, one should firmly grasp the reins of power. That means controlling the Ring."
In reality, Frieren wouldn't be nearly this proactive; elves are generally quite laid-back, after all. But games were different. Without setting a goal, wouldn't she just wander aimlessly like a headless fly? Better to follow the guidance provided.
While typically uninterested in the fleeting dynasties of short-lived humans, longevity seemed more attainable in this world. The Golden Dynasty itself had lasted millennia, a timescale more suited to elven sensibilities. Perhaps trying her hand at being a monarch wouldn't be so bad. Previously, as an Ashen One or a Hunter, she'd been decidedly low on the totem pole. The chance to rule a world that could potentially flourish was not one to pass up—even if the game likely wouldn't have an epilogue, possibly ending the moment she ascended the throne.
Melina's eyes lit up. "Excellent. It seems you are a Tarnished of firm resolve, Lady Frieren. You possess the qualities recognized even by the spectral steed. Therefore, it is only right that I entrust this to its master." She held out a ring.
Wait, I can ride a horse? This game offered more options than before; her Game Magic seemed to be evolving. "Thank you. I look forward to working with you, Torrent."
"Neigh!" Although Torrent clearly felt some trepidation towards the immense power within Frieren, it didn't prevent the steed from showing allegiance. Indeed, it might be impossible to find a more exceptional Tarnished.
"Speaking of which, what exactly does being recognized by Torrent signify?"
"The spectral steed's previous master was no ordinary individual," Melina explained. "And it possesses the eye to choose a Lord—meaning, it recognizes the potential of only the most exceptional Tarnished. To reach the foot of the Erdtree, such strength is indispensable. That is why I have made this pact with you."
"So if I succeed, I'll be your 'Promised Lord,' then."
"Who you become Lord for, Lady Frieren, is a matter of grave importance, concerning all life in the Lands Between. Please consider it carefully. In time, you will understand the deeper meaning of the God-King system."
Of course. The deeper the secret, the more satisfying it is to uncover it yourself, like an adventurer exploring every corner of a labyrinth. The silver-haired girl nodded.
"Please follow me. It is time to leave the Chapel of Anticipation. Let us head that way."
"A fine name," Frieren remarked. Only now did she learn the name of the place she'd been in. It sounded suitably grand; no wonder humans and demons alike favored such imposing titles.
"Then please, begin your journey on the path to becoming Elden Lord. I shall be with you, Tarnished."
As soon as she finished speaking, Melina vanished. Simultaneously, Frieren felt an unfamiliar yet gentle soul merge with her own. With her keen senses, Frieren could naturally tell Melina was a spirit. So, has she integrated with me now?
The silver-haired elf unconsciously patted her flat chest. She seemed to detect a subtle soul-tremor that felt both resistant and shy.
"It's a shame you can't materialize and follow me physically, but no matter. I'm sure we'll find a way eventually."
"You need only become Lord. There is no need for deeper bonds between us."
"Mm," Frieren acknowledged, accepting this for the time being.
Compared to her previous games, Elden Ring clearly had higher expectations for the player, setting the goal as becoming Lord rather than simply capturing targets, slaying monsters, or being a ninja. This demanded a different approach. She couldn't measure the Lands Between solely by combat; the path of kingship itself was important.
As an elf, even living in her secluded village, she'd heard tales of the rise and fall of dynasties, invariably built by short-lived humans. How would a long-lived race rule? Perhaps the story of the Lands Between would offer her enlightenment, allowing her to view reality from a new perspective.
Frieren harbored none of the stereotypical prejudice that "playing games saps ambition." After all, magical experience could be gained anywhere, and she had benefited greatly. Moreover, the games she played felt practically indistinguishable from real-world experiences—like what lay beyond the Chapel of Anticipation.
Message: Breathtaking view ahead.
Bright sunlight spilled across a verdant land, alive with the songs of birds and the scent of flowers. Simultaneously, text appeared at the top of her vision: Limgrave.
The vibrant life pulsing through the landscape felt unfamiliar to Frieren. It wasn't immediately dilapidated like the starting areas of her other games; this place was genuinely scenic for a 'newbie zone.' Even an elf, typically demanding about natural environments, would offer sincere praise.
Just as she was taking it all in, she felt a gaze upon her. It came from a man wearing a white mask.
________
✨ Hello, dear readers of Wancheng Funeral Parlor! 💖 This is the newest release from our beloved Funeral Parlor, a translation we were soooo excited to launch! We're counting on your Reviews and Power Stones to help us on this journey! Yahoooooo! ✨
We'll release an extra chapter 🎁 for every 5 reviews!
Orrrrr for every 100 Power Stones! Come on, come on, come on! The Director has gone crazyyyy! 🤪🔥
Let's go, let's go! 🎉 Want 40 advanced chapters and stories before they hit the web novel? ✨
✨ SUPPORT US HERE! ✨
👇👇👇
💖✨ patreon.com/Walnutchan ✨💖 <- 40 advanced chapters!