Don't Tell Me You Hooked Up with the Soulflame King? (Bonus chapter)

Hearing this, Frieren raised an eyebrow. Was Ofnir mentioning the Valkyrie's technique as an advertisement, or was it a subtle hint?

Sir Gideon Ofnir suddenly spoke, "Over the years, many Tarnished have traveled far and wide, some even coming close to an audience with the Ring... So I do possess some information."

She glanced at the relevant suggestions on the floor. Logically, early on, Sir Gideon Ofnir likely only researched Scarlet Rot and might not know about the blooming. Was there an inconsistency in intelligence? Pondering this, Frieren decided to proceed with the trade first...

"Speaking of which, you call yourself the Soulflame King. Coincidentally, some related individuals from outside the Lands Between have arrived recently."

"Do you have information?"

"I'm not entirely clear myself. I only know they scattered to various corners of the world."

Hearing this, the silver-haired girl's gaze sharpened as she scrutinized him. His expression remained unreadable. She didn't believe for a second he knew nothing; he might have even established contact, meaning some player intelligence was flawed.

Both tacitly dropped the contentious point, engaging in polite small talk while simultaneously writing and exchanging insights at the desk.

Nepheli, being more of a berserker type, couldn't understand the magical discussions and excused herself from the room. The moment she stepped out, a crowd surrounded her, curious about the attitude between the two inside. Would they argue? After all, they were sorcerers.

Instances of sorcerers fighting fiercely over differing schools were innumerable in the Lands Between—like the Academy of Raya Lucaria, where they beat each other's brains out relentlessly, never stopping. As the two top contemporary sorcerers, it was highly possible they would clash verbally and part on bad terms. One mountain cannot contain two tigers; compared to the subtle competition among Tarnished, magical exchange might more easily spark conflict.

"...Everyone, rest assured. They're chatting quite pleasantly, currently trading magic."

Rogier's eyes instantly lit up. "What?"

"Frieren proposed exchanging soul magic for Scarlet Rot-related magic. This shouldn't be a secret."

"I estimate she's more concerned with resolving Caelid's ecological problems than General Radahn's Great Rune. Otherwise, the contamination will eventually cross the wall of fire and erode Limgrave."

"Let's hope so." Even the brave Nepheli shuddered at the thought of Scarlet Rot spreading. It absolutely had to be stopped; otherwise, devastation would surely follow. As mentioned earlier, even the festival of combat seemed less important.

"In my opinion, Frieren's true talent lies in her aptitude for analyzing and inventing magic, while Sir Gideon Ofnir is renowned for collecting all sorts of magic. A collaboration between these powerhouses is bound to be formidable." Rogier's assessment somewhat reassured the crowd. It should work out.

Excluding the delirious Radahn and Rennala, the strongest fully lucid sorcerers were arguably Frieren and Ofnir. One excelled at analysis and invention, the other was a walking encyclopedia—the best combination imaginable. Both being Tarnished, heroes recognized by the Two Fingers at the Roundtable Hold, they should be able to achieve extraordinary results. Or rather, besides them, no one else could likely handle it.

With this thought, the group continued preparing the welcome party. The long-somber Roundtable Hold finally showed a spark of vitality. Even the reclusive Fia and Smithing Master Hewg, who never left his forge, noticed the change. Rare indeed. It seemed the arrival of the new Shardbearer represented a significant morale boost, regardless. Moreover, Frieren's policy of welcoming fellow Tarnished meant Roundtable operations in Limgrave would proceed smoothly—a reciprocation of sorts.

However, inside the room, the two researchers were somewhat displeased—it was too noisy outside. Despite this, it didn't affect their swift exchange of basic magical insights and principles. For top-tier sorcerers, this was tantamount to revealing the core of their exclusive secrets.

"That's the gist. I've told you the basics of soul magic, but some parts don't conform to the logic of the Lands Between. Ask anytime..."

"Rest assured, my lady." Facing Frieren, who was acting like a good teacher, Sir Gideon Ofnir solemnly put away the documents and said sincerely, "The path of magical research is filled with ancient, lost, and alien elements, no less complex than those from outside the Lands Between. Solving puzzles is part of the fun. If I cannot learn it, it's due to my lack of talent, not your fault. That's just how it is."

"I believe the more powerful the magic, the more adaptable it is for universal use."

"Let's set aside differing philosophies for now. My turn to speak. The magic of the Scarlet Rot lineage is represented by the Aeonia flower system. It can continuously contaminate a target, causing attrition..." Having made the deal, Ofnir held nothing back, explaining the principles in meticulous, easy-to-understand detail.

Simultaneously, he produced a thick stack of research materials. It included years of ecological studies on the Caelid region, spanning a vast period and meticulously detailed, practically serving as a guidebook map. Sir Gideon Ofnir wouldn't even show this to ordinary people—not because it was secret, but because fools couldn't comprehend it, fundamentally misunderstanding the work involved. Frieren was different; she could spot the unique aspects at a glance.

The silver-haired girl examined several data files, her eyes glittering. At the same time, she extended her hand.

Bloom!

A flower bud slowly materialized in her palm, golden-red and alluring, emitting a strange, corrosive aura. Fortunately, the room possessed the defenses of a magic workshop; otherwise, it would be dangerous. Only the daring master of the house remained seated calmly, watching the scene with astonishment.

Simultaneously, player-perspective hints appeared in Frieren's mind:

[Malenia's technique as the Goddess of Rot]

[Can bloom a large flower, detonating Scarlet Rot]

[Each time the Scarlet Flower blooms, Malenia rots further]

[The flower has now bloomed twice—]

[And the third time, she will surely become a Goddess]

So Sir Gideon Ofnir wasn't bluffing at all; it truly was the power of a demigod, perhaps even a deity. How did he learn it? Could it be due to some change caused by her own arrival in the Lands Between, prompting him to travel to the Valkyrie's location? Asking would be useless.

She cautiously manipulated the Scarlet Rot instead. Being unfamiliar and daring not to infuse too much magic, she stopped there for now. Best not to experiment within the Roundtable Hold. "Unfortunately, I can't make it bloom yet."

"That's already quite remarkable. Honestly, I'm surprised. Even talented sorcerers often take three to five years to barely achieve blooming... Of course, that's assuming they don't succumb to the corrosion first."

"Wait, does that mean Scarlet Rot carries a cost for the user as well?"

"Yes. I've tested it on people. And for those like us who can fully control it, the cost is much smaller."

"But it seems related to the Goddess of Rot. The more it blooms, the closer one gets to that deity."

"No need to worry. Empyrean Malenia is already watched over by the God of Scarlet Rot; many adherents are devoted to her. Thus, her blooming is a response to the deity, a turn towards It. To mortals, this appears as greater power at a greater cost."

No wonder. Sir Gideon Ofnir would avoid excessively high-risk things. Willingness to trade indicated it was still controllable, hence his generosity towards Frieren. So, lacking the deity's gaze means the power is significantly reduced? Then the blooming Malenia displayed during her fierce battle with Starscourge Radahn was different; the ability learned by successors differs from the contamination plaguing Caelid!

Frieren's face showed disappointment.

"Don't worry. I know you want to resolve Caelid's contamination; it's worth researching, for me too. Whether it's the caster's or the Empyrean's incantation, the fundamental principles aren't vastly different. It can surely inspire us to find the ultimate solution."

"However, I can tell you one thing directly: you likely won't find the answer within the Lands Between. Knowledge from beyond is needed." That's why Ofnir traded so generously and encouraged the newcomer Tarnished. Although he had various schemes, they shared a common interest in countering the spread of Scarlet Rot.

Let's try. Perhaps someone gathering diverse knowledge from outside the Lands Between could bring change. Similarly, the soul magic founded by Frieren gave him many precious ideas; he couldn't wait to start experimenting. He could tell she was more of a humanitarian researcher; he was different, having numerous practical samples for both soul and rot.

Actually, Frieren was also considering test subjects. Scarlet Rot was too dangerous. Even knowing the non-deity version was greatly nerfed, the precedent of Caelid couldn't be ignored. So, who was most suitable for experiments?

Demons. Strong constitution on average, high magic resistance, easy to find. Plenty of advantages, very suitable for developing Scarlet Rot reversal, at least to confirm its feasibility in principle. In research, figuring out "can it be done at all" is half the battle. If feasible, reversing the rot could eventually be researched.

I must go back and consolidate research on various magics. Assistance from elven mages would be best. The accumulation of long-lived races was sufficient.

With this thought, Frieren clenched her fist. The Scarlet Rot bud in her palm crumbled, releasing a wisp of energy before dissipating completely. After dispelling the magic, the residual contamination was minimal—indeed, the mortal version.

"I understand the basics now. Thank you for sharing, Sir Ofnir."

"You're too kind. In truth, what I received is of higher value. Scarlet Rot already exists, while you gave me unique magic."

"As compensation, allow me to share some information about the demigods."

"I'm more interested in the Lords of Cinder."

"Apologies, I know nothing about them." Sir Gideon Ofnir lied. His informants had actually contacted them as soon as Frieren arrived. So he knew this person was worth utilizing, perhaps pushing her to stir things up.

He mentioned a relatively special one: Queen Rennala of the Full Moon. Though lacking golden bloodline, she held an unexpected Great Rune; recommended for acquisition. Additionally, the great serpent Rykard coiled atop the volcano, already mad, was another viable option.

"Not recommending Radahn?"

"Correct. Honestly, I doubt your strength is sufficient to defeat the Starscourge General. A mutually destructive outcome is more likely."

"Many advised me against pursuing the festival of combat. It seems his longstanding renown in the Lands Between is significant. Truly the strongest demigod, as expected."

"Of course. He possesses top-tier combat intuition and magical talent, especially the famously destructive gravity magic, which still seals the stars. Though people often say his condition is poor, don't underestimate a warrior's near-death burst." Sir Gideon Ofnir dismissed claims of Radahn's poor condition.

Fools. Being near death or severely injured is itself a state, neither complete nor incomplete. It only makes the enemy unleash their power more recklessly; a fully intact state might actually impose constraints. Facing today's Starscourge Radahn might not be any easier than facing him in the past. Deficiency isn't an excuse for weakness; the Lands Between is full of flawed individuals, many of whom are strong. Thinking you can exploit a weakness? Don't be ridiculous; such thinking is already inferior.

However, Sir Gideon Ofnir intended to provoke her slightly; seeing two battlemages clash would also be interesting.

"I will attend the festival of combat, but there's still time. I first need Spirit Tuning, smithing, and then exchange Remembrances with the Two Fingers." Frieren didn't commit immediately and made to leave. "That's all for now. Excuse me."

"You are always welcome to discuss further."

The silver-haired girl nodded, pushed the door open, and was immediately met by the enthusiastic Tarnished, pulled away by Nepheli at the forefront to join the banquet.

The lively sounds belonged outside the door; Sir Gideon Ofnir's world belonged to quiet contemplation. Honestly, he initially thought Frieren was no big deal, just a somewhat talented Tarnished. When the Roundtable was first established, similar companions were numerous. Killing the weakest demigod under various conditions was normal; a clever sorcerer should know how to play their hand to the fullest. So, not worth worrying about. But after seeing her in person, he had to discard any underestimation.

Yet, the new friends from outside the Lands Between said Frieren was strong, but refused to elaborate... Sir Gideon Ofnir somewhat regretted not noticing earlier, allowing her to rampage and achieve results beyond interference, potentially disrupting his plans. How many years had it been since such an oversight? It was irrational. Was it because he felt current Tarnished were far inferior to his peers, the Roundtable veterans? Did underestimation cloud his judgment, or did loneliness lead to self-isolation, ignoring reality? Either point was a danger sign. He couldn't let it continue; proactive steps were needed.

Outside the Door.

Tarnished mingled, laughing and drinking merrily. The dazzling array of food gave Frieren a different impression than the noble banquets at Stormveil Castle; some servants who had worked at the Roundtable Hold for years possessed excellent culinary skills.

"I hear the festival of combat is starting soon. Want to join the fun?"

"That 'fun' is too big. I'm afraid a single meteor shockwave would kill me. Limgrave suits me better."

"I'm going to explore Liurnia. Intel says Caria Manor suddenly became active."

Some among them were interested in Starscourge Radahn, while others acted based on various intelligence channels, exploring different locations. Frieren memorized these fleeting pieces of information, gaining something at least. Regardless of strength, her time in the Lands Between was still too short; intelligence was a major weakness.

"My lady, I am a Spirit Tuner now." Suddenly, Roderika excitedly reported the good news, also mentioning consulting with Hewg. As expected, once her heart's knot was untied, she found a place where she could be useful.

"You have a talent for this. Keep up the good work. I'll have many things to trouble you with."

"Ready when you are?"

"Although I have some Grave Glovewort on me now, I only need low-level upgrades." Frieren remembered the player intelligence repeatedly mentioning the strongest Spirit Ash. Best ensure its strength first, saving upgrade materials for the legendary Mimic Tear. For now, Spirit Ashes were mainly used as shields; the requirements weren't high.

______

💥 Goal smashed! 🎉 You guys are incredible! We hit over 30 Patrons! Here are your 10 bonus chapters! 🥰 Seriously, THANK YOU! 🙏

Your super happy director is celebrating another translation release! 🥳 You can find Honkai Star Rail, I can touch Castorice 😉

Want to support more translations and get early access? Check it out here: patreon.com/Walnutchan 😘 - Director Hu! ✨