Yelena, standing nearby, had long since been so shocked that she could no longer speak. Even though she could not understand what a "Lord of Cinder" or "linking the fire" meant, she knew exactly what gods, kings, heroes, and fourteen thousand years represented!
The Frost Maiden's heart was suddenly swept by stormy waves. She somewhat regretted escaping that embrace. Why hadn't she continued setting her reserve aside?
She looked at the Fire Keeper with growing wariness. An ominous premonition surfaced in her heart.
The Fire Keeper did not even acknowledge her, as though she were nothing more than air.
"Yes." The Fire Keeper's expression was solemn and dignified. "The Pact of Fire Succession decrees that among the royal bloodline of Lothric, one son shall inherit the authority of the mortal realm, one son shall inherit the authority of the Lord of Cinder, and the most outstanding daughter shall undertake the duties of the Fire Keeper. She will wait until the day you awaken."
"Me?" Surtr noticed the specific reference.
"Yes. The Pact of Fire Succession contains an additional clause. When Lothric's descendants are incapable of taking on the position of Lord of Cinder, heroes and warriors from across the land shall be summoned, and the strongest shall be chosen to temporarily assume the position of Lord of Cinder. But even if there is a descendant capable of becoming a Lord of Cinder, the Fire Keeper who guides the ritual will still be selected from among the holy maidens of the Way of White."
"They will imitate the steps you once took, journey across the continent, and defeat the Soul Vessels qualified to be called 'giants.' In the end, guided by the Fire Keeper, they will go to the First Flame and continue the order of the flame. It has been