Defense specialization and synchronized steps.

Later. Maple and Mizari walked home together from school.

Maple had logged in alone for several days while Mizari’s studies had occupied her more than expected, but today they were to begin exploring the third layer together.

“Frederica came by while you weren’t around, and I played with Yui a little.”

“Good. Glad you weren’t bored.”

“Yeah, we explored a bit. Found a place that felt like a hidden area.”

“Huh. Nice. What kind of place?”

“Um…”

Maple walked beside Mizari, speaking of their exploration.

When their schedules didn’t align, they would veer off the main path to revisit explored areas, hunting for hidden zones or leveling up. If luck held, it might lead to their next enhancement.

“Still, Maple, your circle’s gotten wider.”

“Yeah! Everyone’s really nice. I feel safe with them.”

Not only kind, but every single one is a top-tier player. Just like Frederica, just like Yui—there’s no shortage of allies to lend a hand when trouble arises.

"Anyway, I’m a bit sorry about this, but it feels like you should study more. I can come today, but in the end, you’ll probably have to tackle the middle stages your way..."

"Really?"

Maple looks up, and Risa gives a small, regretful nod.

"Your way..."

"Yeah. It’s best if you enjoy it. That’s why I invited you in the first place."

Risa adjusts her timing to match Maple’s. Ending the ten-layer challenge halfway would leave too much unsatisfied. Risa didn’t want that to happen.

"Then I’ll wait for Risa."

"Um..."

"Hehe, that’s what I meant—do it your way."

Maple paused a step ahead of Risa, her foot hesitating—unexpected, the answer had not matched what she had expected—and turned with a smile.

And besides, Risa asked me to do it—so you have to see it through to the end. Right?

So… yes, that’s right.

That’s right! If you’re going to speak that way, then let’s study together and make sure you’re safe enough!

Yes. Let us exert a little more effort and study for a while longer.

I'm counting on you, Risa.

Leave it to me, Maple.

Risa shook her head sharply, dismissing the thought as a harmful habit.

If one is going to do it, do it until the end with joy. That is what she thought, stepping into the tenth layer only moments ago.

I'll score high on the next mock exam, so just watch me.

Keep going! Risa, if you have the will, you can do anything!

Fufu— I’ll push myself fifty percent harder.

Wasting time in doubt is a waste. Today, we must conquer the third-layer area.

Do both perfectly. If you can, there will be no need to concern yourself with minor details.

"Then today after this..."

"Yeah! In 'New World Online'!"

The two part ways for now. They make a new promise to meet again in the game, as Maple and Sally, and hurry back home.