Defense specialization and engagement.

The members of the Gathering Holy Sword are, by far, the most formidable combat force within Maple's camp. With their departure from the Town, the capacity to defend the base has diminished significantly.

"Alright, let's do our best to hold the line!"

"Affirmative!"

Maple calls out to the nearby guild members of the Maple Tree, then turns back toward the field. She studies the open ground ahead through the high-performance binoculars given by Iz, but sees no sign of enemy players.

"Still, they probably won't attack straight from the front, right?"

"Indeed. We're still in the observation phase, aren't we?"

As with the players Sally encountered, this event allows no room for a single death. Bold movements remain out of the question.

No one attempts the aerial route straight to the palace, despite its unguarded passage. Even if the enemy avoids ground players, it is known that the sheer number of sentries would bring them down before they reach the keep.

"Unless one side moves, no large-scale battle will occur."

"Indeed."

Waiting as they are, a major clash is expected when the Town’s Gathering Holy Sword reaches the enemy camp.

"Still, the others aren’t simply waiting."

Kanade looks down from the outer wall. Several guilds gather below, already poised as if to begin their advance imminently.

"An immense number…"

"They’re preparing to attack now…"

Several guilds had gathered, bringing the total number of players here higher than the advance unit of the Gathering Holy Sword. At this scale, stealth is impossible. A fierce clash, mutually damaging, is likely if they push forward.

“Hmm. Maple. I think it might be better to follow that unit. If so many players move at once, it would be more effective to meet them in motion than to wait here.”

Kanade’s suggestion was sound. Maple’s reason for remaining here was to observe the enemy’s initial movements and to serve as the strongest defensive line should they launch a charge.

Yet not all in their camp shared the same intent. Flexibility was necessary.

A sudden wave of player deaths here would immediately shift the battle in their disadvantage.

"Sally-chan said it was better to go where people were gathered and guard them."

"I wonder if the Town will be alright if I leave..."

"Haha, don't worry. I've prepared as well. If the mechanical god returns quickly, we can buy time."

Kanade takes a book with a pitch-black cover from the floating bookshelf in the center, and smiles confidently.

"Still, we'll need someone to hold them back. If Mai and Yui are there, it'll be fine."

"Please do your best, Maple-san!"

"Be careful...!"

"Relax and go. This place is actually my chance to show off the power of my items."

"Right! Then I'm off!"

With the encouragement of her reliable guildmates, Maple takes a short breath, then springs from the outer wall.

"This should make the Gathering Holy Sword move more freely."

"Yes."

The more scattered the high-threat players are, the harder defense becomes.

Attacking carries risk. But staying on defense alone will not win. If attacking, efficiency matters. Reduce the number of risks taken.

"Then, let me check the defensive equipment again... Shall I help Iz with placing her items?"

""Yes!"

While preparing as much as they can, the four watch Maple leave.

Just moments before, Maple had leapt from the high outer wall. She struck the ground hard, sending up a cloud of dust with a sharp crack. Such a move would naturally draw attention—enemies might see it as a surprise attack. Several guilds in the process of launching their own assault paused and turned back.

Maple walked quickly toward the group, patting her feet as she went. She was glad they had stopped before she disappeared from sight.

"Are we setting out now?"

"Y-yes. That’s the plan."

"Can I come along too? I’m confident in my defense!"

Maple spoke. The gathered players stirred. Those of higher level, who had participated in events up to this point, knew Maple well. That made her presence all the more reassuring.

"Then yes. Take position in the center. There—don’t you have the [Love That Offers the Body]?"

"Yes! Should I explain it in detail?"

"Hmm. If you’re willing, that’d help."

Even allies now might face each other as enemies in the next event. The man who made the offer did not refuse outright, but showed no urgency. Maple, however, spoke of the [Love That Offers the Body]’s weakness—now was the time to be useful.

I see. That explains the design… Be cautious of knockback and piercing attacks. I’ll inform the others. Stay in the center so everyone fits within the range.

Understood!

…And that unfamiliar black box?

Looking at the black cube hovering near Maple, Sally asks about its nature, as another odd object has appeared.

This is a new weapon!

Alright, got it. Use it if needed.

Though most players now know Maple’s skill name and general effect, some still remain unaware—especially those who haven’t joined a party. Informing them this way makes it easier for Maple.

Maple moves to the center of the group, as instructed by the leader. She bows slightly to the players around her.

Good to work with you!

A greeting returns, yet the group remains unsettled, still unsettled by Maple’s arrival.

“Strength has increased! Advance once more!”

“““Ooooh!!”””

A few players, likely guild masters, step forward. They raise their weapons, call out, and stir the ranks.

All respond in kind. The great host begins to move.

“Huh?!”

“I— I’m sorry!”

As expected, Maple at the center falls behind, her slow pace causing her to collide with those behind. Even with 【AGI】 affecting movement speed, no one completely abandons it.

“Man… you’re really slow.”

“Should we bring a cart? Worth the space, even if a few hands are tied.”

“Yes. I have one.”

“Thank you…”

Maple is loaded onto the cart and carried forward without pause.

“Ah… must be careful not to overstep.”

“Indeed. If we’re left behind when we notice, the plan will falter.”

Noting Maple’s vulnerabilities as allies, the group advances together toward the enemy lines.