The 30th floor of Babel Tower had fallen into silence.
Fron and Finn exchanged a glance. This situation had long been within their expectations.
When the Loki Familia first received this information, they weren't doing any better than the representatives seated here now.
The two nodded, and Fron stood up. That single action instantly drew everyone's eyes to him.
"Everyone, don't be pessimistic. There's no difficulty in this world that cannot be solved. After all, there's an old saying, there are always more solutions than problems, isn't that right?"
"Enyo, based on the intel and our analysis of the current arrangement, our enemy… cough, though it pains me to say this as someone from the opposing camp, we must admit that their stratagem truly surpasses human intelligence."
"However, his plan isn't without flaws. Or rather… there are variables beyond his expectations. And by the time he tries to adjust, it's already too late. That is our opportunity."
"Even without mentioning that, everyone already knows, there is no retreat for us. Our only option is to fight with our backs to the wall and seize victory."
"In other words, even if the enemy surpasses human intelligence, we must defeat even such a 'god.'"
As his words faded, the representatives seated around the round table exchanged bewildered looks.
Their expressions were stunned, eyes full of disbelief, staring blankly at the blond youth who spoke so confidently.
Just listen to what he's saying, he actually intends to treat a godlike being as an opponent and even defeat him.
What a joke. Even delusions should have a limit!
Right now, they've been pushed to a dead end. The "bomb" is already ticking. How could they possibly overturn the situation in such a short time?
Clearly, the enemy's overwhelming presence had already taken root in their hearts, an ingrained impression.
But as someone not native to this world, Fron's view of gods was completely different from theirs.
He did not need to fear schemes that surpass human intellect, nor did he fear divine power. He believed firmly, human determination can surpass the skied.
Not to mention, he was a shameless, cram-school-educated shut-in… and a certified cheater.
Seeing the room fall quiet, Finn knew what he needed to do. He stepped forward to reinforce Fron's words.
"Everyone, this battle absolutely cannot be lost. Otherwise, the people and lands we cherish will all be taken by the enemy. The entire world will be plunged into despair, step by step into the abyss."
"So… no matter who our opponent is, we must carry the determination to win. There is only one path forward, am I right?!"
Fron's expression remained unchanged, this had long been decided. The other representatives straightened their expressions, and the fear in their hearts were swept away by Finn's words.
Yes, they were all grasshoppers tied to the same rope. At this stage, it was impossible to seek their own safety alone.
The only way out was to cooperate fully and hope for a miracle, cross the abyss, and grasp final victory!
Even if the enemy is a god, they must defeat him! The path of retreat had been destroyed. Only those who fight will see tomorrow.
The representatives and adventurers nodded, seemingly having made up their minds.
"Well then, next I'll explain the tactical setup and each of your assigned tasks." Finn pulled out a pointer from who-knows-where and began analyzing the hand-drawn map hung between two stone pillars.
"As mentioned before, the E-point on the western route…"
"Um… Braver, if I'm not mistaken, your battle plan means we are attacking the hall on the 14th floor simultaneously, right?"
"That's correct."
"Hey, hey, hey… this plan is insane. Your Loki Familia is really going all-in. From the intel you shared, that 'Fallen Spirits' are way stronger than a Floor Boss, right?"
Finn gave the representative of some "unknown familia" a deep look, then replied in a voice devoid of emotion:
"In the current situation, we can no longer rely on clever tricks or shortcuts. We can only confront the enemy head-on and seize victory with brute force."
As his words landed, silence descended again.
Scanning the room, a corner of his mouth lifted.
"Finn, based on what you said, the enemy has six 'fallen spirits.' If we cut off the chanting source of even one of them, wouldn't the ritual spell fail to activate?"
Seeing someone finally offer a constructive idea, Finn breathed a sigh of relief. Coordinating all the familias for an assault was not an easy task, good thing someone was paying attention.
"Although the truth is cruel, I still have to disappoint you. The mastermind clearly did not leave us any loopholes to exploit. That ritual spell, even if one body is taken down, the remaining spirits will inherit the chant up to that point."
"It buys time, yes, but unless the final body is defeated as well, the ritual will never deactivate. Loki has already confirmed this with Ouranos."
"..." Those who had brightened at Tsubaki's suggestion instantly showed bitter expressions.
"Then… what about the artificial maze route?"
"That part is handled by the Ganesha Familia. Shakti?"
Called by name, the beautiful blue-haired human woman answered sternly:
"The deputy captain and the others are digging with all their might. Ironically, the closer the enemy's ritual gets to completion, the weaker the 'green flesh' monsters become, likely because all the mana is being poured into maintaining the ritual. Thanks to that, excavation is progressing smoothly."
"Oh? Will the timing work out?"
"Yes. With time, the digging speed will increase further. Reaching the target depth before the detonation shouldn't be an issue."
At that moment, Fels the mage also added: "We've also issued mandatory tasks to other familias under the Guild Headquarters' authority. Based on calculations, the schedule should be feasible."
Those who understood the hidden meaning exchanged looks, quietly adjusting their stance.
Even the Guild's authority was being fully utilized to prepare for the final operation, what was there left to hesitate about?
Clearly, the Guild's involvement brought a heightened sense of crisis, and their collective determination solidified further.
This operation, was Orario united against a powerful enemy, and also the city's unprecedented 'adventure' toward the unknown.