While undercurrents stirred within the Harem, the atmosphere at the Science Kingdom's base outside was utterly tense.
The team that had successfully slipped back from the Harem on the front lines immediately gathered in the cave base and reported all the recent developments inside to Senku.
After hearing all the intelligence, Tsukasa spoke first. "The situation has opened up completely. We've successfully won over two of the Harem's key commanders."
At those words, everyone's eyes lit up.
Senku tapped his fingertips against the lab bench, his signature smile rising as he let out a familiar low chuckle.
"Kukuku. That's Li Xiang for you."
His tone held approval, his gaze admiration. "Winning over two high-ranking enemies in such a short time-her efficiency really exceeded my expectations."
"Everyone, listen up. Prepare for battle and stand by immediately."
"Our original plan was to wait for Kirisa to hand over the Petrification Device, then launch our full assault once we had that crucial item."
"To avoid any unexpected risks and prevent anything else from happening, I prepared Revival Fluid ahead of time. Everyone gets one bottle."
He gestured for everyone to collect their doses, then continued issuing instructions.
"We don't know where things stand right now. None of us knows how many tricks Thorn has up his sleeve."
"Everyone is to stay put at the village base. Just remain on standby. Whatever you do, don't recklessly launch an attack."
"Without the Petrification Device backing them up, those soldiers don't have the strength to face us head-on."
"But remember, they have an overwhelming advantage in numbers. Fight if you can win; run if you can't. Protect yourselves first. Everyone's safety comes before anything else. Understood?"
Everyone present nodded and acknowledged the orders in unison.
With Shrike covering for them inside the Harem, the Science Kingdom's