A Mad Plan, an All-or-Nothing Gamble

Fanny had intended to use the mana gained through her soul contract to restrict the Rusted One's movements, then attempt to access its core and make the final alterations to its technique. Only after trying did she realize that her meager mana was utterly inadequate against the Rusted One's terrifying offensive power.

Her original plan to force her way into its core had reached a complete deadlock after repeated failures.

Just as Marda was trying to persuade the chief designer, who was on the verge of madness, to stop these pointless attempts, Fanny's next proposal left her frozen in place. "So you want me to fly you up into the sky, then drop you onto that tin can during a gap between its attacks?" Marda stared at Fanny in disbelief, as though looking at some strange species.

"Are you sure you can access its core and rewrite the technique in that little time? Rather than getting smashed into a meat patty the instant you land?" "According to my calculations, I'll need at least three minutes to rewrite the technique after gaining access."

"Then isn't your plan just suicide?"

"Without help, yes."

Fanny paused briefly, then, under the puzzled gazes of Marda and Caroline, looked toward a figure who had appeared behind them at some point. She nodded slightly. "But the help I need is here now!"

Marda and Caroline froze, then instinctively followed Fanny's gaze.

The figure at the front, sporting short purple hair and carrying a greatsword half a person's width, came into view.

It was Samantha!

"I already know the situation. If all I need to do is keep this big fellow occupied, that won't be difficult."

Perhaps she had received word beforehand, or perhaps she had overheard Fanny. Before Marda could explain, Samantha walked over and addressed