She really was a high elf true to the image of a knight.
"I leave the rest to you."
"Yes."
I had told Seras what to do in the "worst-case scenario."
The worst-case scenario.
Of course, that was if I did not return.
I had to plan for every possible situation.
Seras stood up.
"I want to say 'please do not say such ominous things,' but... for now, I will just reply 'understood.'"
"Hmph. I am glad to have a capable vice-captain. You take Eve and Liz and hide in that side cave on the rocky mountain. You know which one I am talking about, right?"
The hole we had found when we ran into the cliff wall.
Considering how narrow the hole was, it was perfect for hiding.
It was not that far from here either.
"I will leave the timing of moving to that hole up to you. Soon, there will come a moment when the monsters start moving in a large-scale swarm. You and Eve watch for that moment. That will be the time to move."
"Understood."
"Good."
I temporarily hid Seras and the others in the bushes.
It was not just Eve.
Everyone looked like they wanted to say something.
But they all understood the situation.
They understood there was no time.
Once again, I focused my senses deeply.
They were close.
—It was about time.
If I draw them this far, it should be enough.
"I have to make sure it reaches them, or there is no point."
I sent magical energy to Slei.
A tentacle-like protrusion from Pigi-maru popped out.
"Let's go."
"Pigii!"
▽
I began moving while riding Slei, who had transformed into his third form, the black horse.
"This spot should be good."
I took out the Fly King mask and sent magical energy into the amplification stone.
This would allow me to amplify my voice.
I brought the mask close to Pigi-maru.
"You are the one who will raise the signal for the start of battle."
"Pi."
"Do it."
Pigi-maru swelled up as if straining.
Pigi-maru and Slei were not at full strength.
They were exhausted.
Even so, they were telling me they would do it.
For the sake of their comrades.
The sensation of roots spreading pushed from my neck toward my face.
Behind us was a great swarm of monsters so vast it could only be described as cruelly countless.
A shiver ran down my spine.
A sharp demonic presence pricked my back.
For a moment, I was struck by the strong illusion that I was facing the Golden Demon Zone itself.
My heartbeat quickened, and cold sweat trickled down the back of my neck.
"Status, open."
I displayed the remaining MP...
The black horse's nine legs kicked the ground violently, kicking up mud.
"Now then—"
I increased Slei's speed and glanced behind me.
"Shall we go with an all-out war?"