Defense specialization and the calm before the storm.

The field on a night without large-scale combat is wrapped in stillness.

Indeed, it is natural that it is quiet—few players move about.

Walking through this quiet field with his peculiar gaze is Wilbert, and beside him, Lily, serving as his escort.

"Still, fewer players make it somewhat easier. This area is far from Town."

"Daytime was worse. It must have been a heavy burden."

"There was no choice. We had to locate the source of the crimson sparks."

During the daytime battle, Maple's ambush was detected early, minimizing the damage. Had it taken longer, the outcome of the conflict would have been drastically different.

"Nothing in pursuit, then?"

"Not likely. For now, it remains quiet."

They guarded against the enemy forces advancing upon them. They had fled after such a conspicuous display. It was not unreasonable to expect pursuit.

Yet, contrary to expectation, the enemy army had not shown itself at all, even now.

Just as they began to consider the time for departure had come.

“…………!”

“Someone approaching?”

Wilbert, scanning farther than usual—just as he had when spotting Maple from afar during the day—detected the presence of a player far off, within his range.

“Maple and Sally are coming this way… only the two of them are within range. No mistake.”

“Are you serious…?”

Lily frowns at the incomprehensible movement. Even if the battle ended in failure, the memory of having nearly struck Maple down should remain. Yet she is sent onto the battlefield again, nearly unguarded, without the aid of the Unyielding Guardian.

There must be intent behind this.

“Wil, are you certain there’s no one?”

“Yes. No oversight.”

“I see… she’s definitely luring us.”

“Yes. She has a purpose. What shall we do?”

They could pretend not to see and retreat as planned.

Maple and the others undoubtedly have a goal. Still, it seemed unlikely they would come straight to the royal palace.

If the two do nothing, the battle will not occur here.

“Can we strike?”

“…We can wait a little longer. Range is not an issue. But a direct hit is unlikely.”

"Still, we assume Sally will stop it. A frightening thought, yet she might actually do it."

To bring him down safely is difficult. If Wilbert cannot manage it, no one else could.

To bring him down, they must accept the provocation and provoke battle. That was their conclusion.

"Wil. For safety's sake—no one else is there, is there?"

"...Yes. I swear by my eyes."

Lily hesitates, then nods slightly.

"Alright. Let's go. If you can summon a large force to the battlefield from beyond your detection range, show me."

"Understood."

"Sending word. A large number will draw Maple and the others back... an unintended coincidence, perhaps?"

"Maybe."

Lily sends a signal to her own side, calling forth players ready to move.

Draw the two of them in as thoroughly as possible. Wait, still, to leave no room for escape.

"Wait for allies to close in. This may hinder their reinforcements. But if they show signs of retreating, we strike."

It is a chance given by the enemy. It carries danger, yet it remains a chance. There will be no second opportunity. Not one to be lost.

"Prove you can hold them. That is the point."

"Scouting continues. I will report if enemy shapes increase."

"Ah. For now, I rely on you."

The two have settled on their course. Now, only the start of battle remains.

The sense of coming conflict.