Defense specialization and operation planning 3.

The operation details solidify. Pain bids farewell to the members of the Maplewood.

"Frederica, find suitable allies. Help me out."

"Yes, yes! See you later, Maple, Sally. I'm counting on you."

The Gathering Holy Sword will remain outside Wilbert's detection range by positioning a high-mobility unit in reserve behind the lines. In case of retreat, or worse.

Normally Dread would handle movement assistance, but this time Frederica's buff will substitute.

"Proceed as planned."

"Yes, I've got it!"

Maple responds. The two exit the training hall.

The remaining Maplewood members begin preparing as best they can, checking equipment and supplies.

"Kanade. Can you double-check one last time?"

"Sure, Sally. Let's confirm it."

“Kasumi, would you join in the warm-up afterward as well?”

“Unnecessary. That is the crux of the plan.”

Once on the field, there is no time for fine checks. Things left undone must be done now, to leave no regret.

“Hmph. Well then, it comes down to whether they respond or not.”

“Yes. But if they’re aiming for it, they’ll be watching closely.”

Maple’s departure was scheduled for just past midnight, chosen after careful consideration of multiple factors. It will force the enemy into a decisive moment.

If they fail to act now, the Unyielding Guardian will reactivate. A powerful barrier will stand in their way—certain, unavoidable. It is a final chance they cannot afford to miss.

“Maple-san!”

“I’ll reach you immediately if danger arises…!”

“Yeah! We’ll do our best to win!”

Keep going!

We’ll watch the surroundings for you.

Where the battlefield lies depends on the enemy’s movements. Preparation has its limits. There is no time to manipulate the battlefield with Iz’s items. We are not at a particular advantage. Still, we will meet them evenly, and surpass them.

After a while.

As the time to launch draws near, Sally finishes her preparations and comes to Maple last.

“Maple.”

“Ah, Sally! Let’s do our best!”

“Yeah. The plan’s okay?”

“It’s fine! But I think you’ll have a harder time…”

Maple says this, her expression faintly uneasy. Sally’s role in the plan is vital, and no one else can fill it.

Sally sees this and smiles slightly.

“It’s fine. That’s why…”

Sally meets Maple’s gaze and speaks with quiet certainty.

“Trust me with your life.”

“Yeah. I trust you! Leave the defense to me!”

“Okay. I’m counting on you.”

Trust is answered with trust. When Sally is in danger, Maple will respond. When Maple is in danger, Sally will respond. That is all. Only belief in one another makes this operation possible.

“Maple, are you ready?”

“Yeah.”

“Then let’s go.”

The two move toward the Gathering Holy Sword’s position, joining the others gathered before the outer wall of the Maple Tree.

“Arrived.”

“Looks ready. Let’s move quickly.”

Time passes. The operation cannot succeed if the sun crosses the sky. No time is wasted. Maple and the others move swiftly toward the enemy lines.