Defense specialization and daily routine IV.

Eight intruders are immediately attacked by monsters upon entering the hidden area. Armored figures cloaked in black mist emerge from the darkness, forming a defensive line with shields and swords, attempting to block their path.

““Hah!””

They only attempted to block. The massive mallet swung by Mai and Yui strikes true. The fortified defense means nothing. Shields crumple, flatten, and explode in fragments.

“Good, it works properly.”

“Numerous as they are, they are still vulnerable to a single blow. That presents no issue.”

The strategy of the full roster of 【Maple Tree】 unfolds in several steps.

The first step is to bolster Mai and Yui—the primary attackers—by applying buffs from the entire group, providing support.

This is straightforward and potent. Therefore, begin here. A test to determine whether the monster can overcome this trial.

One strike. That is all that matters.

"Targeting that castle."

"Uh-huh, if we keep this pace, we’ll reach it without struggle."

"Truly unmatched in offense!"

"Literal increase in attacks, too."

The remote control via 【Rescue Hand】 perfectly covered the two who disliked proximity.

"Just a regular monster…!"

"Leave it to me!"

As promised, the approaching monster is crushed. The eight advance steadily toward the castle.

Yet not every monster can be blocked. The large mallet spinning around them creates gaps between its upper and lower parts, and between each mallet.

Yet not every monster can be blocked. The large mallet spinning around them creates gaps between its upper and lower parts, and between each mallet.

They do not strike precisely at that point, but sometimes slip through.

“Double Slash.”

“Burst Flame!”

“Blood Blade!”

Still, this is only the first stage passed.

Beyond the hammer that kills on impact lies the array of Maple’s Tree, waiting. Only a piercing strike through them can bring the fight to the true stage.

Maple’s team, focused on the monsters slipping through, provides thick cover. They must pass this.

Simply put, it is impossible.

The burden is too great. To blame a monster for being blown away is cruel.

Devastation. Annihilation. Brutally crushing everything in their path, the entrance to the fortress draws near. “Ooh… big, huh?”

“If the inside’s built out, it should be spacious. Watch for traps.”

“Yeah!”

The path to the fortress stretches ahead, unbroken. This much must be endured.

“This is where it begins, then? Heh, the basic tactics remain unchanged.”

“That’s right. We still have plenty of items. Buffs can be cast freely.”

“If a strange foe appears, Crom and Kasumi and Sally will handle it. Any foe that takes our attacks straight will be dealt with easily.”

“Indeed. Speed-types and ranged attackers—those we’ll manage.”

Adjust the central attacker based on the situation. Each of them has strengths and weaknesses in combat. Knowing these and using the strengths is key.

The value of fighting as eight lies in covering each other’s gaps and flaws.

A large door adorned with intricate carvings. Maple turns, glancing at the seven behind her.

“Then, I’m opening it!”

Maple touches the door after confirming each one nods. A red light flares. The heavy door creaks open on its own.

Ahead, the innermost chamber awaits. The exploration of the 【Maple Castle】 begins.