We had departed with high spirits, ready to tackle the challenge ahead. But that didn’t mean heading straight to the Septem Great Labyrinth.

Instead, we first returned to the Adventurers’ Guild and asked Ayla for any documents they had on the Hydra. After a short wait, Ayla arrived with several books in hand.

“I brought everything we have in the guild regarding Hydras, as you requested, Ike. But… taking on a Hydra? I can’t believe that was the reason behind the lord summoning you. Are you sure this is something you can handle?”

“Whether it’s possible or not doesn’t matter; there’s a reason we have to do this. Thanks, these will be a big help.”

After expressing my gratitude, I dove into the material.

The documents detailed sightings from other dungeons, and it was clear the Hydra was a fearsome creature.

Hydras typically have 7 to 9 heads and are known for their potent venom. Adventurers have often fallen victim to the Hydra’s simultaneous physical and venomous assaults, which come from multiple heads at once.

If that wasn’t bad enough, the Hydra’s regenerative ability makes it especially troublesome.

Unless all of its heads are severed, it won’t die. And even then, its heads grow back unless the stumps are cauterized.

This means dealing effective damage requires continuous, coordinated strikes.

After reviewing the data, I turned to my team, who were also studying the material with serious expressions.

“Everyone, listen up. I’ve devised a strategy for taking on the Hydra.”

First, I addressed Flare.

“Flare, you’ll take point as our main attacker. The best way to deal damage to the Hydra is through slashing. Focus on severing its heads.”

“Got it! I’ll definitely take it down!”

Next, I turned to Tetra.

“Tetra, your role is to support Flare. Using blunt attacks to sever its heads is challenging, so your priority is to defend her from incoming attacks. If you see an opening, strike its torso whenever possible.”

“Understood. I’ll give it my all.”

Finally, I looked at Lycia. She would have the most crucial role in this battle.

“Lycia, your job will be the most demanding.”

“Yes, Master. Please, give me your orders.”

“First and foremost, you’ll handle the Hydra’s venom. As we saw with Leen, once someone is exposed to it, it becomes almost impossible to cure due to its curse-like properties. Your priority will be purifying the venom before it reaches us.”

“I see. That does sound rather difficult… but no matter. Even without being told, I would never allow harm to come to you, Master!”

“That’s reassuring.”

But there was more to her role.

“Additionally, I need you to prevent the Hydra’s regeneration. Once Flare severs a head, you must use your black flames to cauterize the stump.”

“A double-tasking assignment, is it? …Though, I must admit, performing two such complex tasks simultaneously may be beyond even me.”

“Is that so? If it’s too much, we’ll need to rethink our plan entirely—”

“Goodness, no! That’s not what I meant.”

Lycia puffed out her cheeks and looked at me with an upward glare.

“I simply need… motivation. If I were to receive a reward from Master upon our success, there’d be no problem at all.”

“Well, if that’s all, consider it done. Think about what you’d like, and I’ll make it happen.”

“!!! Truly?! That’s a promise!!!”

Lycia’s face lit up with an ecstatic smile. Her enthusiasm seemed boundless. I wasn’t sure what she exclaimed at the end, but her determination was clear.

As I glanced at Flare and Tetra, I noticed them staring at me with dissatisfaction.

“Hey, Ike. What about us?”

“Yeah, don’t we get rewards too?”

“…Fine. You both get rewards as well.”

“Yay!”

“Awesome!”

Their cheers of joy left me puzzled, but if it boosted morale, I wasn’t going to complain.

The Septem Great Labyrinth wouldn’t be an easy challenge. With a small party, we’d have to act swiftly and efficiently to succeed.

Thus, with our strategy set, we finally set out for the Septem Great Labyrinth.