With the night sky blanketing Susukino in a shroud of stars, Shiroe, Akatsuki, and Naotsugu prepared for their return journey to Akihabara with Serara in tow. Chief, his keen eyes reflecting the moonlight, stood by, ready to offer any additional information they might need.
Shiroe, ever the strategist, asked Chief about the situation in Susukino, specifically regarding the player killing and bullying. Chief's expression grew serious as he began to explain.
"The situation here is dire, Shiroe. PKers and bullies have taken advantage of the chaos. They're preying on weaker players, and it's only through the efforts of Liam and his guild that some semblance of order has been maintained. Liam has personally intervened multiple times to protect solo players and fend off attacks."
Akatsuki's curiosity was piqued. "Who is this Liam?"
Shiroe smiled faintly, memories of their time together in the Tea Party surfacing. "Liam, also known as the Shogun, is the guild master of Solo Levelling. He's a Samurai with the Shogun subclass, enhancing his leadership and making him a master swordsman. We were comrades in the Tea Party. He's not just strong—he's a strategic leader who can inspire and unite others."
Naotsugu nodded appreciatively. "Sounds like the kind of guy you want on your side."
Chief continued, "Liam's been crucial in maintaining order here, but it's a constant struggle. Solo Levelling offers a haven for solo players, protecting them from PKers and bullies. But their efforts have made them targets."
Shiroe's mind was already working through the implications. "We need allies like Liam, but our immediate priority is getting Serara back to Akihabara safely. Once she's secure, we can start putting my plan into motion."
Chief agreed. "Liam and Solo Levelling will hold the fort here. You get Serara back safely, and we'll keep in touch."
With that, Shiroe, Akatsuki, Naotsugu, and Serara set off towards Akihabara. The journey was arduous, fraught with the usual dangers of Elder Tale—roving monsters, treacherous terrain, and the occasional ambush by hostile players. But Shiroe's strategic mind, combined with Akatsuki's stealth and Naotsugu's brute strength, ensured their safe passage.
Upon reaching Akihabara, Serara was warmly welcomed back by her guildmates in the Crescent Moon Alliance. The sense of relief and joy was palpable, a stark contrast to the tension and uncertainty that had pervaded their journey.
With Serara safe, Shiroe turned his attention to the next phase of his plan. He gathered his trusted companions, Akatsuki and Naotsugu, and laid out his vision for the future.
"The chaos we've seen in Susukino and the challenges we've faced are just the beginning. We need to establish order and cooperation among the players if we're going to survive in this world. That's why I'm proposing the creation of the Round Table Conference—a council of guilds to govern Akihabara and ensure everyone's safety."
Naotsugu grinned, his enthusiasm evident. "Sounds like a solid plan, Shiroe. Who are you thinking of inviting?"
Shiroe listed off several influential guilds, including Crescent Moon Alliance and D.D.D., knowing that bringing together the strongest and most respected leaders would be key to the Round Table's success. He also mentioned the importance of extending an invitation to Liam and Solo Levelling, recognizing their crucial role in maintaining order.
"We need leaders who can see beyond their own guilds' interests and work for the greater good. I'll send out invitations to the guild masters and arrange a meeting. We have to unite if we want to build a stable society here."
Akatsuki, ever loyal, nodded in agreement. "I'm with you, Shiroe."
Naotsugu clapped Shiroe on the shoulder. "Let's get this started. Akihabara needs us."
Shiroe smiled, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. "Then let's make it happen. We'll build a future in this world, together."
With the invitations sent and the stage set, Shiroe's plan to create the Round Table Conference began to take shape. The journey to Susukino had shown them the importance of unity and cooperation, and now, they would take the first steps towards building a new society in Elder Tale—one where players could find safety, purpose, and hope.