Chapter 271

Chapter 271: Charge Forth, Big Sister from Moat Blade!

But which two should be sent beyond the walls to battle?

Philid’s gaze swept across the ant army ahead – a seething dark tide that chilled the soul with its mere presence.

While conversing with that mysterious voice, Philid had continuously cast Identification upon the ant forces. Each revelation made his pulse quicken.

He now understood his initial assessment had been catastrophically wrong. These ants weren’t merely dangerous – they existed on an entirely different plane.

Every specimen before him ranked at Class D or higher. Alarmingly, the crimson-shelled Class C warriors appeared more numerous than their Class D counterparts!

Confronting two Class B humanoid commanders amidst this monstrous swarm… The sheer impossibility pressed upon his shoulders like collapsing mountains.

From his vantage on the battlements, Philid turned to survey the forces within.

Below stood not just his personal troops and the Guard Knights, but also Adventurer’s Guild members who’d rushed to defend the gates. Among them…

The renowned duo Army Lady and Stealth One.

At Class B levels 22 and 20 respectively, their constant skirmishes in Granville Forest had even surpassed Knight Commander Laikalis in raw power.

As for combat prowess? If Miss Lvzi could best Laikalis, these former teammates of hers would surely be formidable.

Yet their proposed opponents stood at Class B levels 35 and 25. Could mere level differentials be overcome through skill?

Still… No stronger candidates existed within these walls.

Guildmaster Grace’s recent absence troubled Philid. Rumors spoke of the man’s growing strength, yet he remained conspicuously absent during this crisis. Had some guild emergency detained him?

But even Grace’s Class B capabilities couldn’t dramatically surpass the two women’s.

"Surrender! We must surrender, right? These monstrosities can’t be fought! What devilry creates those shadow forms? Magic? Skills? This makes no sense!"

"Master Philid! What’s your command?"

"Where’s the lord? The lord must have a strategy!"

"Master Philid! Your silence chills us – what horrors do you see?"

The brutal execution of five humans had shattered discipline. Civilians, soldiers, even seasoned adventurers stood paralyzed by dread.

"I require two champions!"

Philid’s voice cut through the panic like a blade.

He explained the ants’ ultimatum to the hushed crowd.

When he finished, not even whispers remained.

Fighting ant elites before that monstrous horde? Philid’s assurance of spared lives rang hollow. What fool would volunteer? What sane mind would trust insect promises?

Though adventurers crave glory, and "hero" titles could be won through mere participation, none present valued fame above survival.

Besides… Weren’t readymade heroes already present?

The crowd’s collective gaze shifted as one – settling upon a golden-haired maiden in gleaming silver plate, her gaze sharp as unsheathed steel, and a gray-haired huntress in practical leathers radiating lethal calm.

No words were needed. All understood.

With inner resignation, Philid’s eyes too turned toward the women.

"Can both of you confront the ant tribe for our town’s sake?"

"Indeed! With the two warriors from Moat Blade Squad taking charge, our hearts feel much lighter."

Adventurers began echoing Philid’s sentiments as he concluded.

"Moat Blade—ahaha! The name rings true! With your intervention, this crisis shall surely be vanquished!"

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"Do our benefactors recall me? The very man you rescued recently from that pack of Class C Swift Leopards! By the stars, I’d prepared to meet my end—yet you two dispatched them effortlessly! Your valor remains etched in my memory. Should you take arms now, triumph is assured!"

Before the women could acknowledge Philid, a chorus of praise swelled from the crowd.

Among the onlookers stood adventurers who’d witnessed Army Lady and Stealth One’s prowess, townsfolk acquainted only with rumors, and even starry-eyed admirers gazing at the pair.

"Sisters, heed this warning—shape-shifting monsters wield formidable power," cautioned Will, his brow furrowed.

"Precisely!" Sally bobbed her head vigorously. "These sweet-talkers just want to push you into danger."

"We’ll support you regardless of your choice," Mayer added.

Only these three youths voiced concern, while the electrified crowd chanted: "Crush them!" "Show the ants humanity’s might!" "Charge forth, Moat Blade warriors!"

The women exchanged knowing glances.

Stealth One studied Philid’s conflicted expression before stating evenly, "We’ll handle this."

A collective exhale rippled through the armed forces, followed by roaring cheers:

"Ooooh!"

"Drive the monsters back!"

The townsfolk’s premature jubilation echoed like victory fanfare.

"Our gratitude," Philid managed, swallowing promises of rewards unsaid. He noted Army Lady’s keen battle-ready gaze contrasting Stealth One’s serenity—their confidence proved contagious, kindling hope within him.

"Any preparations required?"

"None. Open the gates."

At Philid’s nod, his Psychic Command reached the Magic Crystal guards. The town’s Magic Shield dissolved momentarily as the warriors strode forth. When the Defense Magic Crystal’s barrier shimmered back into existence, it sealed the champions outside—face to face with destiny.