I hate being in pain, so I think I'll make a full defense build

Itai no wa Iya nanode Bōgyo-Ryoku ni Kyokufuri Shitai to Omoimasu 489

Defense Specialization and at the Tenth Floor

Suddenly, the scenery in front of them expanded. Maple and the others found themselves standing on top of a small hill. Then, when they looked around, the landscape of the 10th floor jumped into their vision. The first thing that caught their eyes was a steep mountain that pierced the clouds and towers in front of them.

—Then, they saw something familiar.

“Is that the machine from the Third Floor?”

“That cherry tree is from the Fourth Floor. If you look closely, you can even see a Japanese-style tower.”

“Is this above the Fifth Floor? The clouds around that part seem familiar... What do you think?”

So far, they’d seen a comprehensive summary of each floor.

If that was the case, the rest of the floors definitely existed as well. Maple and her friends were currently in an area that seemed to be a basic fantasy world full of nature.

In other words, they were in the midst of a deeper landscape.

“It feels kind of nostalgic, Sally.”

“Uh-huh, it’s been a while. Let’s make a fresh start and conquer it. Off to the boss we go.”

“Of course!”

While Maple and the others were talking, a message arrived. The sender was the management team. The contents were the main objectives of the 10th Floor and simple guidelines on how to proceed.

“Uhm, what else...?”

Maple looked over the contents.

On the 10th Floor, a being called the [Demon King] threatened the people. The ultimate goal was to travel to many towns, complete many quests, before finding and defeating the [Demon King].

“Hm, I see...”

There was a particularly large town on each floor, so it didn’t really matter where they established their base. Since the message mentioned that there was a vast array of quest routes, it was possible to explore freely.

“‘There are more hidden items and skills than in previous floors, so keep your eyes open for them...’ Wow!”

“They added more!? That’s amazing! If they went to the trouble of announcing it, it must be true!”

“Perhaps, it’s to prepare us for the 11th Floor...”

If the players became stronger, it was expected that the enemies would also grow stronger to some extent. They’d like to participate in as many events as possible.

“I wonder how many we will miss...”

“But if there are many, I’m sure we’ll come across at least one.”

“I’m looking forward to it!”

“Explorations, bosses, and rare events!”

They’d lend a hand if necessary, and make it a priority.

—Such was the offer from Chrome and the others.

“You’ve helped me a lot during events, and also helped me raise my level every day.”

“It... can’t really be called ‘repaying the favor’, but I still want to support you!”

“If there’s a tough monster, we’ll help you!”

“I’ll show you how useful I am...!”

Having fun in a game should always be the priority. Hopefully, even when they were away.

“Thank you! But... I’ve always been helped by all of you...”

“Haha, it seems that the feeling is mutual. Well, it’s like a renewed declaration of determination.”

“I understand, I’m glad.”

Maple and Sally also gratefully accepted the offer. In order to enjoy it to the fullest, everyone’s cooperation was necessary. Again, the 10th Floor was too vast.

Nevertheless, the overall goal remained the same. The strongest boss that lurked in that 10th Floor... They had to defeat the Demon King. Normally, they’d have to painstakingly explore the map, searching for quests and gathering information, but Chrome and the others said that they’d be proactive in doing so.

“But the important hints are usually found by Maple...”

“Hmm, there’s that.”

“Haha, I mean, considering what has happened so far...”

“It’s not that surprising.”

“Maple sure is amazing...”

“I-I wonder if it’ll really go well.”

“...Ugh, not you too, Sally!”

“Hehe, sorry, sorry. So, what do you want to do, Maple?”

They told her that they’d support her with all they had. In front of them was a vast, uncharted field; full of many undiscovered quests and dungeons. There were many ways to play and places to visit.

“...Well then, Sally. Since everyone has said that, let’s take this opportunity to explore this place together!”

“Haha, of course. I’m honored to have been chosen. I’ll be Maple’s shield and sword no matter where you go.”

“Ahaha, what’s that!? Okay, I’ll be in your care!”

“Yes, leave it to me.”

To enjoy a game however you like. To relax and depend on friends she could rely on.

—Thus began Maple and Sally’s exploration of the 10th Floor.