Defense specialization and formation change.

By the time the second day’s sun had set, all members of [Maple Tree] were at the base.

[Flame Emperor’s Nation] will take time to dismantle and rebuild most of the traps Maple destroyed… still, losing the orb was a blow.

I’m sorry, Sally. I looked thoroughly, but couldn’t find it.

If [Flame Emperor’s Nation] keeps attacking the surrounding areas, it should be fine… still, what do you think?

The reason Maple attacked [Flame Emperor’s Nation] this time was to reduce the number of guilds above [Maple Tree].

To break into the upper ranks, [Maple Tree] now needed larger guilds to act recklessly.

The reason was that small guilds had been expelled earlier than anticipated, leading to increased combat between medium and large guilds. The effectiveness of using medium guilds to harass the field had diminished.

Maple’s goal was to enter the top ten.

The reward remained the same whether first or tenth, so this was the current objective.

Maple currently ranked sixth.

All positions above were occupied by large guilds, making the rank far more conspicuous than first.

"Still, it’s the same as before. The difference in numbers makes it hard…"

"Higher than expected, though. Honestly, I didn’t think we’d reach this far."

Even if Sally returned, climbing to first place from the current position would be difficult.

"It’s still only the second day. There’s no guarantee we can catch up. But… I don’t want to fall further behind."

After discussion within the Maple Tree, it was decided that all would leave for the night battlefield, leaving Iz and Kanade behind.

The team consisted of Sally, Yui, and Mai.

The other three were Maple, Kasumi, and Crom.

"Then, we’re off!"

"Take care. I’ll stay here with Kanade."

Sally’s map was shared among all. They would each strike their assigned guilds and return.

Sally and the others waited concealed in the undergrowth, seeking an opening to attack.

While Maple and the others were away assaulting the Empire of Flame, Sally had Kasumi attack her to test how much her evasion had degraded.

Having sensed she was near recovery, she now joined the assault.

"Phew... good!"

Sally burst from the hiding brush and dashed toward the orb.

"Intruder! Now!"

"Got it...! I see it!"

Sally dodged the approaching assault and slashed at the player, aiming for the orb.

"Encircle! Cut off their escape!"

The players moved to surround Sally, coordinated in swift motion.

"Distraction... something worse is coming..."

As Sally spoke, the player who had been watching her was shattered in one blow by a shockwave.

The players turned toward the disturbance—then were cut down by Sally, forced to focus their attention.

Most players turned from the brush to face Sally.

Yet, to remain distracted thus meant delay in confronting Yui and Mai, who emerged from the brush.

The iron spheres thrown by Yui and Mai struck the backs of players facing Sally, ending their lives without understanding why.

The sight caused the players to tremble violently.

Maple’s inexplicable offensive ability proved highly effective at halting thought.

“Haze, [Shadow Clone]!”

An event drawing attention amid the chaos rendered further thought impossible.

Even as attempts to counter the cloned Sally faltered, Yui and Mai’s great mauls finally struck the players.

The mauls struck with dull impact, lifting several players into the air, then transforming them into glittering light.

“Ah… can’t be real…”

““[Double Stamp]!””

Yui and Mai pressed forward, crushing enemies in succession.

Of course, defeating Yui and Mai would end the threat. But those stunned could not act. Those who could, turned their backs on Sally to attack Yui and Mai. Sally could not remain silent. She received a painful blow from behind and collapsed.

Identifying the player aiming to defeat Yui and Mai was easy for Sally.

Sally protected Yui and Mai in a way entirely different from Maple.

Three who would fall with just one strike, their health reduced to initial levels.

Yet this time, combat was controlled to prevent such a scenario.

“Taking the orb… then let’s try something heavier next time.”

““Yes!!””

The three began walking toward their next destination.

Kanade and Izu had been idle in the guild.

“Guilds around here have given up and stopped approaching… boring.”

“Guilds unaware of us might venture out… oh.”

As if summoned by mention, players began filing in from the entrance.

The players observed their gear from a distance and recognized them as producers and rear guards.

We can do it! No vanguard!

Players with swords and shields begin raising the front line.

Then, let us begin.

Yes.

Izu draws two bombs. Kanade floats a bookshelf.

Maple entrusted only the two of them with defense not out of necessity, but because their focus lies in offense.

Defense is more than sufficient with Kanade and Izu alone.