With the start of Stage 2, the team faced a drastic shift in their approach. The previous plans had to be discarded as the reality of dealing with “opponent CPUs” set in. These combatants, calculated in real-time by the revolutionary Schalter system, were on par with the average participant in the trials. Their presence added a new layer of complexity to an already challenging situation.

The primary objective now was to claim control of the area, which was heavily contested. They were up against an opposing team with a manpower advantage of more than five times their own. Despite this, the team had some key advantages: specialized personnel and inside information from Sozen, who had been a part of the opposing faction.

“What is the objective anyway?” Hitomi asked, her curiosity piqued by the vague nature of the trial’s goals.

Toru, now the de facto team leader, gathered everyone around to review the objective's description on their screens. The team needed clarity to avoid confusion and optimize their strategy.

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Misty Trenches

Relinquish the Bronze Statue to secure the rusty firearm

The mention of a "rusty firearm" raised eyebrows. Objectives in the peacekeeper exam were notoriously ambiguous. They often referred to one thing while implying another. In this case, the “rusty firearm” was likely a euphemism for valuable materials or a hidden treasure, a trick to keep participants guessing.

Toru outlined their new strategy. “We’re going to split into two teams. Elvis and I will focus on halting their progress. We need to disrupt their operations and slow them down. Hitomi and Sozen, you two will handle utility since you’re both more geared toward that.”

The team nodded in agreement, ready to execute the new plan. Each member knew their role and the importance of their mission. With the stakes high and the challenges mounting, they prepared to face the formidable opponent CPUs and secure their position in the trials. The success of their plan would depend on their ability to adapt and leverage their unique skills and knowledge effectively.