Defense specialization and raid boss.

Given that the fastest way for the eight of them to move is riding atop Hak, Hak has transformed into a colossal white serpent through [Overgrowth] to reach the raid boss's location. Depending on the boss's appearance, either Shiroppu or Hak is brought in. Anyone who sees the serpent knows at once that [Maple Tree] has arrived.

Some players declare victory already. It is not unreasonable, given the massive mallets floating above the serpent's head.

Having witnessed repeatedly during the event how even a raid boss was literally crushed to pieces, the power of that weapon is widely known.

"Looks like there are quite a few people here already."

"Yeah. We thought we arrived early, but everyone seems to have thought the same."

The bulk of Hak’s form would hinder the group if too many allies were nearby. Kasumi pressed Hak’s head into the ground, had everyone dismount, then returned Hak to his ring.

“Unknown what kind of boss will appear. Better to retreat for now.”

Hak’s combat style was blunt, shaped by his size. He relied on high stats, absorbing attacks directly and countering. Without the agility to dodge, it mattered little when he acted—delaying was acceptable. Even if he could not fight, Kasumi herself had grown stronger. There were always options.

Now only waiting remained—until the raid boss appeared among the many players.

While most discussed strategies with their guildmates or adjusted movements based on monster tendencies, some players approached Maple and her companions upon seeing Hak’s form.

Maple and the others came too! I’m counting on you today!

Hello… Velvet said she’d come speak with us.

Ah, Velvet! Yeah, we’ll all do our best!

Maple glanced briefly at the guild members, then spoke.

I can’t do much myself. If anything happens, I’d be grateful if you’d help Velvet.

The raid boss has strong resistance to status effects, movement disruption, and skill suppression. Without that, even if not as specialized as Hinata, there would still be enough debuff users among us to render the boss immobile and trapped.

Hinata, being more specialized, finds her presence less impactful during raids than in previous joint efforts.

Still, she’s reliable. When Hinata decides something, tell me to attack!

Yeah!

As Velvet and the others continue speaking, a familiar face approaches from another direction.

"Hello. The raid boss is finally nearing its end. Looks like quite a crowd has gathered this time."

It is Lily and Wilbert. Lily holds the banner, and Wilbert wears the butler’s uniform, making her the apparent attacker.

"Looks like quite a few from 【Rapid Fire】 have come as well."

Sally glances toward where Lily walks. The guild members from recent raid boss hunts stand in a tight group.

"Last chance, you know. And... don’t you feel it? Something big is coming?"

The puddle spreading around this raid boss’s location spans dozens of meters—far larger than any seen before. If the boss appears here, it would make sense for it to be strong.

"Yes. Let us remain alert."

Sally, you and your group have better defensive capabilities. We must be careful not to fall easily.

Of course. Still, it’s somewhat entertaining to consider how we’ll face so many players. Oh—look, the Flame Emperor’s Kingdom and the Gathering Holy Sword have arrived as well.

A large group appears in the distance. Nearby, dragons wrapped in light and phoenixes scattering flame stand clearly marked by their guild insignia.

All present in the Seventh Layer are high-level players—each a maximum asset, gathered together, awaiting the raid boss’s appearance.

It’s about time. If we survive, we’ll speak afterward.

Yes, please.

Lily ends the conversation and returns to her guild members. Velvet and the others do the same, waving slightly as they turn back, conversation concluded.

It’s finally happening.

"Yeah. Maple, I'm counting on you for defense."

"Leave it to me!"

As Maple activated Love That Offers the Body to counter the first strike, the water spread slightly, glowing faintly. Ripples emerged from its center. A pillar of water rose. From within it, a giant appeared—massive-armed, wielding a trident, commanding the surrounding water as a torrent. All present felt the stark difference in scale. Above them, a massive sphere of water formed. From it, countless event monsters emerged, summoned in overwhelming numbers.

At the same time, health bars appeared above each creature. The final raid battle had begun.