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 …