The largest and most conspicuous building in the Magic City was, without a doubt, Jiang Shu Tower.
At its foot sprawled the headquarters building, a continuous hall of white marble—square, imposing, and majestic, appearing like an entire district unto itself on the highland slope.
"This whole area is collectively known as the Academy District."
"Unlike traditional residential or commercial zones that all cities have, the area around the main hall is clustered with numerous mage workshops, usually run by a master and a group of apprentices. Combined with the regular academic exchanges, that's how it earned the name Academy District."
"I love the atmosphere here. It's so harmonious, with everyone busy exchanging magical techniques."
Flamme seemed ready to dance with joy as she spoke of it.
Her fondness was obvious; she had likely drawn much of her inspiration from this place.
In fact, Frieren had sensed upon her arrival that most of the mages were concentrated on the highlands. It turned out they had formed a small academic society.
Our world now has a magic academy as well, different in style from Raya Lucaria. It emphasizes grandeur, openness, and close scholarly exchange—each with its own distinct and unique character.
This felt right.
She had originally harbored a similar vision.
For instance, Elf Town was a decent blueprint, but unfortunately, most of the planning had to concede to commerce. It was better to support Miliardel's long-term plan, so Frieren had buried this inspiration in her heart.
She never expected to see the sight of a magic academy in the distant northern lands, a veritable city within a city.
No wonder mages flocked here; the platform was crucial.
Everyone had their own pursuits. It was the collective wisdom of the masses that propelled the rapid advancement of human magic, the scale of which was turning the wheels of progress.
A long flight of steps led up to the Academy District, reflecting the sun's rays and warming the soles of one's feet. Amidst the midday clamor, a tide of people flowed back and forth, many mages staggering past with heavy tomes in their arms.
A smile appeared on Frieren's face. If the real world were to have a magic academy, this is what it should be like.
She couldn't provide Flamme with this kind of environment.
Looking closely, she saw no shortage of magic apprentices her age, and even some great mages of similar years. At the very least, her disciple wouldn't be lonely; a small town was different from a big city.
Geniuses weren't so rare after all. As expected of a super magic city that gathered prodigies from all four corners of the world, heroes were as numerous as crucian carp crossing a river.
But it was still not quite enough.
By her perception, Flamme was the strongest after herself and Serie. Even at the Association headquarters, teeming with masters, she was a standout, worthy of the title of the pinnacle human mage of an era.
Just as Miliardel had said back then, all this child lacked was the prestige and experience that came with age.
It didn't matter that the academy wasn't founded by Frieren; it was enough for her to witness it. Besides, she could even be considered to have contributed to its development.
Ahead lay the true interior of the Academy District…
"The Vice-President!"
Someone suddenly cried out, and in an instant, all fell silent.
All eyes focused on one person. After all, an elf with long, silver twin-tails was far too recognizable, especially with that immense and unrivaled mana reaction!
There was only one such person in the world. That aura of invincibility could only be forged in the blood of battles between the strong.
In terms of contemporary battle achievements, Frieren was undoubtedly number one, and such a pillar of strength also held a key position in the Association:
"I could feel her presence, but I was so busy I forgot. It really is the Vice-President."
"This is wonderful, I get to see Lady Frieren in person."
"If I recall correctly, this is the Vice-President's first time at headquarters, right? Since the great mage Flamme is guiding her, there shouldn't be any problems."
"I've always wanted to thank you in person. Your Tears of Denial magic saved my life."
Everyone enthusiastically crowded around to greet her. Unable to refuse their hospitality, Frieren had to agree one by one, though she was getting a headache. How did she get surrounded three layers deep, with the crowd only growing larger?
As expected of a major city.
The people at the familiar northern fortress had grown used to her, but this was her first time at headquarters. As mages, how could they not gaze upon the big star? She was an absolute top-tier figure in the industry, world-renowned and famous far and wide.
Her arrival at the Association at this critical juncture sent a thought-provoking signal.
Given her personality, it was unlikely she was here solely because of the Empire; after all, elves were not interested in worldly affairs. But her presence represented a major shift.
Her attitude would determine the direction of the storm.
The Association, boasting two Mythical-Era Mages and dozens of great mages, possessed exaggerated military strength, enough to crush any nation. Its every move was watched closely, with the two presidents at the center of the storm being the most important.
"I've been studying the soul-splitting technique you mentioned to avoid curses. Could you offer some guidance?"
"I originally thought I had a deep understanding of healing magic, but you are the true master. I've decided, from now on, I will use the Vice-President's notes for teaching."
"You don't know? All the chalkboard notes you wrote at the Northwind Fortress have been transported to headquarters."
"I heard the Vice-President is researching barriers, I have some insights…"
The chatter of discussion drowned the silver-haired girl. Finally, she could only raise a hand to signal for silence, and at last, it quieted down.
How exhausting.
It was Frieren's first time experiencing this kind of up-close, encircling adoration. She felt a bit embarrassed; it was too ostentatious. She should have been more low-key. No, that wouldn't have worked either; they would have found her eventually. After all, she was well aware of her own appeal.
Looking back, she saw Flamme nearly being squeezed out. Gritting her teeth, Flamme simply held tightly onto her master's arm, her slender waist, which one could encircle with a single hand, proving to be a suitable anchor point.
Soft, fragrant, and felt quite nice.
With her occupying the closest position, the others naturally kept a polite distance.
But their enthusiasm did not diminish in the slightest.
Just as Frieren was pondering how to handle the situation, she noticed two slightly stronger presences not far away. Among the elite mages of the headquarters, they weren't particularly prominent, but they carried the bloody scent of having killed many people.
Her gaze fell upon an old man in a magnificent robe and a woman in a uniform. Noticing her attention, the two nodded politely.
"That's the Court Sorcerer Barke and the Shadow Warrior Carol."
Flamme whispered, "They've probably finished a phase of talks with the President, and it most likely ended on bad terms. Those guys bully the weak and fear the strong. It looks like they were definitely frightened by master."
As the third strongest in the city, she could easily sense that the pair was tense, their bodies instinctively on guard.
How boring.
She had thought that mages who had seen much slaughter would meet Frieren with a display of oppressive will, yet they reined in their auras and hastily brushed past. Where was their willpower and magnanimity as experts?
Flamme's earlier wariness vanished completely. It wasn't that she had let down her guard, but that she no longer considered them a trial. At this level, they were useless even as stepping stones, worse even than demons who only possessed a killing instinct. The Empire could rely on this lot for political games, but their martial prowess should stay on the sidelines.
The Association had always been an armed organization.
Because the foremost application of academic achievements was military, the mages were anything but weak.
"Is the Vice-President here because of the Empire?"
Someone who had clearly seen the envoy asked, eager for some excitement.
As it happened, Frieren did want to make a statement. If certain things weren't made clear, those accustomed to political maneuvering would think there was still room for manipulation. The world was not as they imagined it.
She announced in a clear voice, "Part of the reason I came to headquarters is indeed because of the Empire's recruitment efforts."
"They are very annoying."
The direct, straightforward, and emotional statement was surprising. If an ordinary person had said it, they might have been considered childish, but the elven race was different; they had always been free-spirited and unrestrained.
Especially coming from a powerful and respected Mythical-Era Mage, she was all the more qualified to speak her mind. Only a great hero can be true to their nature.
Not far away, Barke stopped in his tracks and took a deep breath.
"In fact, I have already publicly opposed it at the Northwind Fortress branch, and everyone was very supportive. The news just hasn't reached you here yet."
"I will reiterate…"
Frieren couldn't be bothered to think of a speech and simply repeated what she had said before.
"In conclusion, the establishment of the Continental Magic Association is based on the dual legitimacies of popularizing magic and resisting the demon race. This is also the source of our independence. To be hijacked by the politics of a single nation violates our original intention. If we betray the principles upon which we were founded, we might as well disband."
"I am well aware that it's impossible not to get involved in their trivial matters. Our principle is idealistic, difficult, and full of challenges—"
"But isn't the path of magic just the same?"
"How capable can an Association that has lost its spiritual will be? Defending our ideals is itself a form of strength."
"Therefore, I object, and I urge everyone to object. All sorts of dirty tricks may appear next. Don't be surprised, stay vigilant, don't be deceived, and if necessary, leave it to me to resolve."
"I reserve the right to take measures of armed self-defense."
The final sentence was laced with a threat, and no one would underestimate the influence of this stance.
It was a threat.
But compared to the Empire's coercion and bribery, was it excessive? It was merely a retort. They wouldn't understand unless it was stated plainly.
Frieren's clear opposition was in itself a form of immense pressure. The decision of a Mythical-Era Mage with distinguished military service could not be ignored. Moreover, this one was famous for her martial prowess and for frequently exercising her power. If provoked, she would surely retaliate fiercely.
Hearing this, Barke and his group hurried past.
He immediately realized the situation had become difficult. Even using the elven issue as leverage wouldn't work, because she was not the type to be swayed by such things.
"Carol, if the Shadow Warriors can capture Minus, we might have more bargaining chips."
"That ferocious elf is very strong; capturing her is harder than killing her. And I believe if the Shadow Warriors were to move on a large scale, she would also get involved."
Don't forget that Frieren's illusion magic surpassed that of a Miracle Worker.
To carry out a covert retaliation would be ridiculously easy. The only obstacle was morality?
Does she have any?
She certainly does, but in her eyes, anyone who obstructs the great cause of defeating the demon race is on the same side as the demons. And how does she deal with demons? To a degree that terrifies even those monsters.
The envoy delegation had to change its strategy. After all, the king never said they should offend two Mythical-Era Mages over a single recruitment attempt.
The congestion at the entrance finally eased a bit.
Frieren's impactful speech cooled everyone's heads, bringing them back to rationality from the excitement of seeing their idol. They couldn't help but ponder the current business at hand; they really should object.
"That's right, I joined the Association to use magic to protect humanity's cause."
"The Empire's mind isn't on the front lines right now."
"I support the Vice-President's decision. As long as Lady Frieren continues to teach magic, isn't that a better deal than anything the Empire could offer?"
"Exactly. And they don't have President Serie's many mythical spells. They're not even close."
"..."
There was no reason to accept, either emotionally or rationally. Especially from a utilitarian perspective, the resources provided by the two Mythical-Era Mages were too exceptional, naturally attracting their peers. Who among those who came to the Association didn't aspire to a higher realm?
If they were willing to accept worldly temptations, they would have joined the ranks of court sorcerers long ago and wouldn't have needed to come here.
So they had already made their choice.
The most remarkable thing about the Magic City was that it had already gathered a group of academically inclined people. While some at the branches might hope to use the Association as a stepping stone to a better position, those promoted to headquarters were, without exception, pure elite mages.
They just lacked a banner to rally behind. Once someone like Frieren made the call, the atmosphere was instantly ignited.
"Quite lively, isn't it?"
A pair of bare feet stepped onto the stairs at the entrance of the great hall. It was Serie, walking out lazily from the main hall, a curve on her lips that could be either mockery or admiration.
"You've spoken my mind, Frieren. You are right."
In truth, she hadn't thought about it that much. Things like responsibility and vision were bestowed upon her by others, but she didn't dislike it.
Well said, so good that the chronic malady of her long-lived heart from the mythical age skipped a couple of beats. Since an outstanding junior had publicly stated her position, Serie couldn't hide in the back either and decided to come out and support her directly.
It would be good to get rid of a bunch of annoying pests sooner rather than later.
A bunch of wastes who possessed only magic and killing intent, but whose heroic spirit had been worn down to nothing.
In her eyes, they were uglier than the dead, not even a ten-thousandth as good as Frieren. That's right, at this very moment, before her was only a massive cluster of mana.
Very strong.
Only face-to-face could one truly realize the terror of the visitor. The wantonly released mana surged like a tornado, shooting straight into the sky, thick enough to easily annihilate the Academy District.
"Strange, this isn't your limit, is it? I feel some fragile shell is constraining you."
Before her words faded, Serie, not to be outdone, unleashed her own oppressive aura. Her mana reserves were faintly superior to what the silver-haired girl displayed—a result of several millennia of ceaseless accumulation. She was lazy on the surface but had never once slacked in refining her mana.
"You see clearly. My body is somewhat special."
Frieren didn't know her own limits either, but she would surely self-destruct before finding them, as her physical body could only contain so much. The mana she was displaying now was the most suitable amount.
Without the enhancement to her physique from Bayle's power, the available mana would likely be far less.
One could not underestimate the pinnacle of the world.
"I've been wasting my breath with words these past few days. My body has gone stiff." The blonde elf shrugged and smiled. "Let's loosen up a bit."
"Alright, but is there a suitable venue? This place is too fragile."
"At our level of speed and destructive power, where could possibly withstand it? Let's just try to fight in the sky. Consider it fireworks for everyone, to celebrate the first full gathering of the Association's top leadership."
"Okay."
The two hit it off immediately, deciding on a world-shaking sparring match in just a few words.
The audience remained silent throughout. Even the imperial envoys who had walked some distance away were horrified. Do you have to be so decisive?
Deciding to fight just seconds after meeting!
"Master, President, are you serious?" Flamme asked in shock.
However, her urgency received no response. The two elven mages were focused solely on each other, having completely entered a combat state. The clash had already begun; any opening would be met with a fierce assault.
They had waited too long. Both wanted to see the rumored powerhouse for themselves. One look at the other's mana confirmed the legends, making their hands itch even more.
"At least confirm the rules for ending it."
"If the city is at risk of destruction, I'll risk my life to break you up—"
Before Flamme could finish, two figures shot up from the ground with a bang. The soundwave, along with the exploding dust, instantly became a black dot that seeped into the clouds, their speed ludicrously fast.
Swoosh!
Two deep craters were left behind, and the long staircase began to crumble, nearly causing a landslide. Seeing this, Flamme scratched her head and could only sigh. Why were none of her close seniors the reliable type?
Was she too mature, or had she made poor choices in company? She seemed to find nothing but oddballs. Or maybe this was just her type?
The red-haired girl stood unharmed, unaware that some of the weaker mages were already dizzy, and some had even fainted dead away.
An excessive release of mana was a disaster in itself.
Logically, nature should not be able to produce such a super-high concentration, large-scale, and high-power mana energy. Yet both Serie and Frieren fit the bill. Once released with fighting spirit, the energy itself would be cloaked in killing intent, no less than a typical mental assault.
Rustle!
At some point, a sandstorm rose on the horizon. Despite being a lush land, a great wind swept through, tearing up trees.
These air currents forcefully blew out the flames familiar to Flamme.
"A preemptive strike?"
Zanne, beside her, concurred, "After all, master heard long ago that the Vice-President is skilled in lightning and fire elemental magic. This is an attempt to suppress her first. If it's a pure energy form without a medium, it would be easier to deal with."
"This wind can't possibly be generated on land, can it? It's practically an ocean hurricane."
Flamme couldn't help but press down a lock of her long hair. At this moment, she felt her body was light and airy; if not for mana reinforcement, she would probably be swept into the sky.
It was too exaggerated. As far as the eye could see, the sunny day had turned into a mass of gray and black. Dark clouds hung low, daylight vanished, and the roaring gale howled like ghosts and wolves, forcefully strangling the sparks that were about to ignite.
If one sensed carefully, they would find it was also mixed with slashes!
Frieren glanced at the Twisting Light Wall on her right hand; an extra scratch had appeared. It was quite sharp, nearly shattering the protection.
And it was sufficiently concealed. An ordinary mage wouldn't expect a deadly attack to be suddenly mixed in. Though it was merely a product of simple mana shaping and aggregation, its power was not to be underestimated.
"A form-fitting barrier?"
Floating not far away, Serie raised an eyebrow in admiration, "A masterful technique!"
She had never seen a defensive barrier that could flexibly conform to the caster's movements, and its strength was also quite solid.
In that case, she would test it with sheer volume. At that thought, the fierce wind carried waves of slashes whistling towards Frieren, instantly striking her body and scraping against the Twisting Light Wall with sparks like clashing steel, as if fireworks were blooming in its brilliance.
But the next moment, she vanished without a trace.
For an instantaneous escape, Miriam's Vanishing was perfect, but immediately after, she sensed a spatial ripple. She instinctively aimed at the location and fired off an unforgiving Soul Stream.
The blue streamline cut through the clouds, pierced the dust, and struck a diamond-shaped barrier directly.
It was only the size of a palm.
Yet under Serie's precise control, it intercepted with maximum intensity, even including mental protection, because this attack dealt more than just magic damage.
"Spatial movement? No wonder you're so fast."
Similar methods of movement could be achieved with Gravity Well, but it involved grasping the three-dimensional laws of space in this reality. It was best to use the magic systems of other worlds less, so Frieren was indeed half a beat slower in comparison.
However, her opponent also wore a serious expression, because this level of perceptual accuracy and reaction speed was unexpected.
She had reacted to Frieren's movement in an instant, before the attack magic Frieren had been preparing in her hand could even be released.
This had to be taken seriously.
An absolute killing blow, more penetrating and faster.
Each one was enough to pierce a city wall, and now they were as dense as a meteor shower.
Frieren's first reaction was to dodge a wave. The moment she swept past, she found the beams of light actually made a sharp turn, without even an arc—they directly refracted to attack—
Bang!
At the critical moment, she parried the closest beam, and immediately, gravity magic lit up around her to deflect the rest.
"It has the properties of light, and it can refract to track?"
The fierce wind caused the high-altitude temperature to drop continuously, eventually condensing into frost. The crystal-clear substance actually coordinated with the light beams for a surprise attack. If she had been any slower, she would have been turned into a sieve. That's right, she could feel this thing could both strike and penetrate the Twisting Light Wall.
The constant peril instead ignited Frieren's fighting spirit. In response, shimmering soul crystals appeared, weaving a dense barrage of bullets.
As if she was the only one who could make magic track its target.
The next moment, crystals and light beams bombarded each other, fighting to the death and exploding into dust in the air.
Even from a great distance, the ground felt a slight tremor. The mana in the air was almost completely drained, all of it redirected under the siphoning effect of the two powerhouses. Everyone held their breath, on full alert lest they get caught in the crossfire.
What was even more terrifying was that even a layman could see they were still in the probing stage, because neither had yet performed a full-body mana infusion resonance, which would signify an all-out effort.
Even the current level of combat was far beyond their reach.
They had no confidence they could survive in such a high-intensity battle. It was a scene from the age of myths.
Swoosh!
Two streaks of light, one white and one gold, used the sky as a canvas, casually sketching lines. In the blink of an eye, they could travel from one horizon to the other and back. High-angle maneuvers, spreading barrages, and magic tracking were all executed with ease. The intensity, speed, and strength were incomparable. It was a complete battlefield.
All that was left for ordinary people to see were clouds of explosions, one after another, and for a time, a rain of ash fell upon the Magic City.
Even first-rate great mages like Zanne and Flamme felt a sudden increase in pressure. The large-scale fluctuation of mana in the surrounding environment triggered their instinctual vigilance. It was the first time they had ever witnessed such a scene.
So, powerful mana aggregators could induce a tide to draw in energy.
They were unconsciously emitting the essence of disaster. This kind of super-energy bombardment alone was enough to break all techniques with sheer force. What fortress could withstand it?
But against a Mythical-Era Mage, it was far from enough.
It was hard to imagine how strong the mana would become after a spell formula was constructed, and what kind of barrier could block it.
Casters who wielded miracles were already on the forefront of redefining cognition. Now, Frieren and Serie were giving them a proper lesson on what the view from the peak was like.
_____
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