Sunlight Straight Sword Gifted to Millicent

Such exaggerated power!

The moment she caught the Grafted Blade Greatsword, Millicent rolled away to dodge the ensuing sweep of Moonveil, its edge slicing off a few strands of her hair.

Though surprised, her heart leaped with joy—the parry had succeeded; it worked.

Admittedly, similar parry-and-counter techniques existed in the Lands Between, but none were as clean and decisive as Frieren's execution. This technique was perhaps the only skill on this swordswoman that hinted at a formal school or style.

Millicent pressed her advantage, her Flowing Sword style dancing.

After the previous missed blow, the Grafted Blade Greatsword was stuck in the ground due to its own weight—a perfect opportunity.

As expected, Frieren countered with Moonveil.

However, the softness and flexibility of the Flowing Sword style feared such an environment the least. The red-haired maiden easily evaded while flicking out specks of sword light, covering blind spots from different angles.

Boom!

Suddenly, the opponent stomped on the forked section of the Grafted Blade Greatsword, causing the greatsword to bounce up and sweep horizontally, forcefully blocking the attack. The follow-up move was an upward slash—indeed, the rebound force was so great it sent the blade spinning upwards, its edge nearly grazing Millicent's cheek.

The attack rhythm of the Flowing Sword style was broken; initiative returned to Frieren.

Once she began her offensive, it was a relentless storm, offering not a sliver of breathing room, the frequency terrifyingly high.

Wielding two weapons of different specifications simultaneously was incredibly swift, making her movements, conversely, difficult to predict, as there was no precedent to study.

Sometimes, she would use Hound's Step, carrying the greatsword as she dashed.

Sometimes, Moonveil's sword light would cover the area.

Frieren, moving with effortless grace, didn't seem to be fighting a person but rather performing a solo. Millicent, on the other hand, had to exert all her effort just to avoid a swift defeat.

Crash!

Along the way, sweeping sword energy easily destroyed piles of rubble, leaving a scene of devastation. The already dilapidated Sage's Town became a fighting arena amidst their sword dance—flashing blades, swirling dust obscuring the sky. Yet, as they warmed up, their movements actually quickened, a thoroughly exhilarating exchange.

The sparring match was clearly visible from the camp stationed not far away. To think they'd start sparring after only two days of rest—you two are really on the same wavelength.

"This is bad. Her Majesty has found a good partner with excess energy to go wild with."

"How lively is this going to get? Looks like the training grounds on the city outskirts will need expansion, and the defensive barriers too."

"We should be glad Miss Millicent isn't a sorcerer."

"Never heard of this person before, but her swordsmanship is actually this strong!"

"Will she join us?"

"She doesn't just randomly recruit people. If they're friends, she probably prefers them to be free."

"Speaking of which, Her Majesty's swordsmanship is also incredibly strong. Hey, have you Redmane Army folks seen the Valkyrie? How do they compare?"

"This Millicent and Malenia's sword style seem so similar..."

Although ordinary soldiers could hardly be said to understand or comment on sword styles, they could see the flowing style was very similar. Even if this technique was once popular, it didn't mean two different users would be so alike.

Of course, they didn't think too much about it, only feeling that the unrenowned one-armed swordswoman was indeed powerful, holding out for so long against the Tarnished's offensive was in a league of its own.

Bang!

With a crisp sound, a corner of Millicent's scabbard cracked.

"Would you like me to give you a suitable weapon? I actually have quite a few that would suit you," Frieren stopped her offensive and suggested. "Otherwise, my weapon advantage is too great."

"It's alright. A good swordswoman also protects her weapon while fighting. Let's continue."

Her current state was better than ever before.

Hearing this, the silver-haired girl no longer hesitated, her dual blades becoming even more nimble, her defense impenetrable.

Even so, Millicent could always find an opening, sometimes parrying, sometimes dodging, attacking more and defending less, but she managed to hold on. It was clear that Frieren wasn't holding back in terms of swordsmanship, showing respect by going all out.

For some reason, every clash seemed to make the Scarlet Rot recede, as if a fiery power was dispelling the pain.

It was integrated into her attacks, perhaps without even the user noticing.

Correct.

This very moment was the battle she desired: body, technique, and will in perfect harmony, blood boiling, body growing lighter, attacking on pure instinct.

Waterfowl Dance was activated once more, its speed and range even greater than before.

Frieren first felt her greatsword being parried away and immediately reacted by meeting the attack head-on with Moonveil. Yet, the opponent's unpredictable attack trajectory dodged it. The continuous misses didn't affect her movements; she leaped to avoid one wave, the blade's light grazing her long, pointed ear, drawing a trace of blood.

Another roll to dodge a wave.

Unexpectedly, Waterfowl Dance had another phase, even gathering sword energy from all directions to converge.

This couldn't be dodged. Meet it head-on!

With the determination to inflict heavy damage and force the opponent to heal, the silver-haired girl swung her greatsword, activating its skill to enhance it. Then, like a door panel, it smashed Millicent's sword to pieces, disintegrating it on the spot.

Swoosh!

Legendary weapons were indeed sturdier, but Frieren hadn't anticipated this outcome. She quickly reined in her strength to avoid accidental injury.

She dodged the flying fragments with light movements, leaped onto the Grafted Blade Greatsword, and steadily evaded the blow. The two locked eyes, the atmosphere silent, the spar interrupted.

Just a moment ago, they were fighting with effortless grace, yet it had come to an abrupt halt.

Even if another weapon were found for Millicent as a replacement, she wouldn't be able to return to this state.

"Let's stop here."

The initiator continued to declare, "If we continue, I would lose too. My swordsmanship is still unstable; it needs more tempering. Thank you, Frieren. Your techniques have given me much inspiration. The Flowing Sword style still has new heights to reach."

The red-haired maiden made a gesture to go rest on the other side.

"Wait, I have many weapons. Consider it compensation for just now. How about you choose one?" Frieren hoped her collectibles would be put to use.

However, Millicent repeatedly waved her hands. "You've given me too much..."

"Then, as the price for my weapon, how about you join the combat festival with me afterwards?"

Ranni nodded after a moment.

"I have curved swords, straight swords, great curved swords, and katanas here. What type do you want?"

"A straight sword."

Hearing this, Frieren began to search through her equipment. Those from the Lands Between were ruled out first, as her reserves were insufficient, and high-quality, reinforced ones were as rare as phoenix feathers. So, she chose from the Dark Souls world; there were many straight swords.

Although she felt Millicent was suited for curved swords or scimitars, she also had to consider physique. Being petite, she might not be able to handle blades with a large curvature, making it difficult to judge distance.

Besides, weapon type wasn't that important. No matter what she chose, her collection of fully upgraded, high-quality weapons was strong enough.

Suddenly, a familiar weapon caught her eye.

"This one it is."

Frieren handed a plain, cross-shaped, grey straight sword to Millicent.

The latter weighed it and was surprised to find it imbued with the ultimate forging reinforcement; the resources invested were unimaginable. Moreover, it emanated a sun-like warmth that could slightly suppress the rot.

"The Sunlight Straight Sword is used by a group of knights who frequently help others. I also received much care from them. Now, it's fitting to pass it on to a new comrade-in-arms."

"It contains lightning power and the Oath of Sunlight skill. It will increase the attack power and damage reduction of yourself and those around you."

It couldn't be more suitable.

Players had previously mentioned to Frieren that Millicent had the highest number of assists in battle.

It was reminiscent of Solaire of Astora. Passing on his beloved sword indeed had a sense of legacy. Moreover, this weapon possessed the power of sunlight, perfectly aligning with the First Flame energy she herself channeled.

Yes, in the process of handing it over, she had sent a wisp into it.

The Goddess of Rot and the Kindred of Rot were likely to be persistent ghosts, intending to make an issue of Millicent. It was best to set up precautions in advance. Besides, there was another simple reason:

Fully upgraded.

She had many high-quality, highly reinforced items, but not many were max level.

Coincidentally, the Sunlight Straight Sword belonged to the highest tier. In her hands, it was like a pearl gathering dust. It was better to let a top-tier swordswoman use it.

Millicent performed a few sword flourishes; it felt very natural.

"You've gone to too much trouble... A weapon can largely reveal a person's character. The previous owner must have been strong, steadfast, and passionate—qualities I currently lack. It was also well-kept during your collection; there must be a story behind it."

"Thank you. Please rest assured, I will let it continue to shine in the Lands Between."

"As you said, Frieren, the first stage is the combat festival. I will challenge the strongest demigod, Radahn, with you."

She now yearned for higher-level combat tempering.

"As long as you're satisfied."

Next, after Millicent listened to the explanation about the weapon skill, she went to the other side to rest. After all, she was still a patient afflicted by rot and had just had the Unalloyed Gold Needle inserted; she couldn't overexert herself.

The silver-haired girl, remaining where she was, stretched lazily, also very pleased.

She had both helped one of the key figures in Caelid acknowledged by players and witnessed a new sword style—a plentiful harvest. There were no more troubles to deal with; various matters were getting on track. Next, she just needed to deploy her forces.

Due to the Goddess of Rot, everyone decided to rest a few more days before the festival, then head to the dune battlefield.

Frieren gazed at the skyline. The energy of gravity magic had never dissipated, permeating the firmament.

She wondered what level of war awaited her.

"So, that Millicent has something that makes you value her?" Melina, who had been observing for a long time, asked.

"Yes."

"Specifically what?"

The reason, of course, was the players' recommendations. Since they praised her to the skies, she definitely had skills and was of great importance. It was just that she had to give a different reason:

"You heard what O'Neil said; she's related to the Valkyrie. Moreover, Millicent is indeed highly skilled in swordsmanship. At this stage, having an extra helper is always a good thing; she can be useful later on."

"It's rare for a collector like you to actually give away a treasure."

"I like collecting; I'm not a miser. Melina, when you have a body, I will also give you a gift."

Hearing this, the maiden actually fell silent, because this reply made her previous question seem like she was throwing a tantrum, using it to demand something... Could it be that in Frieren's mind, it was like this?

That day was still far off. Who knew about the performance of the bionic humors of the Eternal City?

"Although the exploration of Caelid is not yet complete, Redmane Castle will be the most dangerous battle. You must win."

"Usually, you'd say to be careful."

"Because I'm gradually understanding that my Tarnished has a domineering streak in her bones. Win after win, filled with a thirst for victory."

"Is that so?"

Having come this far, Frieren wasn't sure either. Let's just assume so. Therefore, the combat festival was an excellent stage. The fighting spirit that had accumulated for so long would be completely unleashed. It was time for the strongest demigod's fame to change hands.

Meanwhile, in the world beneath the Flower Field Wetland, the Blood Dynasty.

The last contingent of the Golden Children's army had finished assembling, along with a large number of accursed blood-infected creatures. The power of the Formless Mother blessed the thousands of soldiers and horses.

Baring their fangs and brandishing their claws, they eagerly awaited a slaughter.

Ansbach reviewed them and muttered, "Sufficient in number, but far lacking in organization."

A Blood Noble said, "Your Excellency Knight Commander, your worries are superfluous. We are not going to fight the Southern Army or the Redmane Army directly. Besides, they have all been worn down once, thanks to His Majesty's planning in the Second Battle of Aeonia."

"There can be no compromises in military matters."

"But we don't have time. No one knows if the combat festival will be held ahead of schedule. Timing is crucial."

"We'll have to make do for now. However, I will conduct one final selection, using only the most elite parts. The rest, who are just making up numbers, are meaningless on a demigod's battlefield. Moreover, the opponent is that Faded King."

"Yes, quickly. His Majesty's projection has become unstable after being injured by Frieren. It's best to start the war while it can still be maintained."

The two seriously discussed specific military strategies...

Very tedious.

In reality, the Blood Dynasty had never planned large-scale military operations. Most of their work involved assassination, harassment, guerrilla warfare, and other intelligence activities. This war machine was not yet experienced.

To put it nicely, they focused on espionage, constantly developing and growing in the shadows.

To put it badly, they were behind the curve.

Ten years ago, it wouldn't have been a problem because, apart from the Royal Capital and the Haligtree, the Lands Between was in a state of military decay, lacking organized and continuously trained armies. Everyone was running on fumes, so no one could criticize anyone else. It wouldn't have been too late for a lively competition then.

Frieren's arrival in the Lands Between changed all this. Limgrave, originally at rock bottom, was broken and rebuilt, rising to a power surpassing the Storm Lord.

Subsequently, she integrated the Academy of Raya Lucaria and the Carian Royal Family, swept away the aging knights, and completed the consolidation of Liurnia.

The revival of these two lands broke the original balance of power.

"...Now it's no longer a competition of which decaying army can outlast another even more decayed one."

Ansbach shook his head.

"The world has returned to an era of true warfare. If the Blood King doesn't catch up, the gap will only widen. How long one stays in the shadows is not a worthy reason; with the rear exposed, one becomes inseparable from the shadows. Right? Your Majesty."

He looked at Mohg's projection slowly walking over.

The surrounding Blood Nobles quickly bowed. Only the First Knight spoke so sharply; if it were anyone else, this arrogant shardbearer probably wouldn't have listened.

"Correct. Therefore, the Caelid war is an excellent testing opportunity. Rest assured, Ansbach, I know a frontal, decisive battle is ultimately necessary."

"Not just because becoming king requires legitimacy, but because I want to defeat Morgott openly and make him realize his mistakes."

Just you wait.

The Golden Dynasty is not worth protecting. Sooner or later, he will understand.

The will of the so-called Grace-Given King now is entirely supported by reminiscing about the peak of the Dynasty. It's the Omen child of the sewers, looking at the dripping bounty of grace, yearning for it, cherishing the memory of it for a lifetime, proactively shouldering responsibility, only to be bound by it.

When the world gets better and better without needing the Erdtree, for example, when Frieren cleanses the Scarlet Rot, what will you think then?

And if you yourself kill the representative of hope, what then?

Mohg sneered, "Make the final checks, Ansbach. Then my projection will lead the army on an expedition."

"As you command."

_____

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