The journey to the Demon King's castle was straightforward. After briefly introducing ourselves to the other armed groups stationed in one part of the Abyss, we proceeded into the castle, where we explained the operational strategy to the leaders of each group.

The plan, as Seraphine had described to Ethan and me, was to face the monsters that appeared from the first to the fourth floor collectively, leaving groups like the Holy Knights or the Mercenary Corps to hold each floor as we ascended. This same plan was conveyed to the other leaders, albeit with the details of Seraphine's foresight disguised as predictions from Cerista's prophetic abilities. It wouldn’t do to expose the unique magic of the Third Imperial Princess.

Excluding the Holy Knights and the Mercenary Corps, our side consisted of 11 people, including Ethan and me: the Hero, the Hero’s three-member harem, Luke, Natalie, Thomas, Agnes, myself, Ethan, and, finally, that prince who, at this point, felt too conspicuous to leave out.

"I will protect Lady Agnes no matter what!"

“…Just worry about keeping your own neck intact.”

As expected, Antonio's dramatic proclamations didn't fail to surface. For reference, the academy was currently in the middle of its term. I later learned that he had filed a leave of absence for the second semester. Apparently, the Hero’s side had hinted earlier this year that they’d be making their push into the Demon King's castle around this time, and Antonio had been invited to join them.

Since Antonio’s involvement was a decision from the Hero’s team rather than his own, I wasn’t in a position to complain. While Antonio wasn’t the most reliable combatant, he wasn’t entirely useless, either.