Chapter 67

"More than 500 people? You've gathered that many?"

The old merchant conveys the information he collected in town. Indeed, as expected, the Fontana family has sent troops against me, who attacked the tax collectors, the messengers of the nobles. However, the number of troops exceeds 500. Normally, the number of conscripts from Barka Village is at most around 50, so they have prepared ten times that amount. This shows how determined they are.

"So, what are you going to do, Alus?"

"What do you mean? I think we have no choice but to fight now."

"That's not it. When I gathered information, I found out they've even set up a formidable camp here. Moreover, they've gathered people from neighboring villages. I thought there might be some strategy."

Hearing the old merchant's words, I fall into thought. Our current fighting force has grown to more than 100. In this regard, I think we exceed the Fontana family's expectations. However, the numerical difference is still significant.

I recall hearing that to break through a defensive side using walls and such, you need three times the number of people. Considering this, even if we fortify and prepare defenses here, it won't be enough to hold out. Moreover, the method of fortifying is not feasible. The only condition for fortifying is the arrival of reinforcements. Without reinforcements, fortifying won't lead to victory.

"Looks like we have no choice but to settle this in an open battle."

"Commander, I agree with that. Even if we were to defend, we need proper preparations. We lack the means to defend here."

Vargas, who had been listening to the merchant's report with me, agrees with my thoughts. Vargas, though not a high-ranking soldier on the battlefield, understands through his combat experience that fortifying here is not a good idea. Therefore, even in our overwhelming disadvantage of 100 against 500, it might be better to come out and fight rather than hide behind walls. They must think we are just a bunch of gathered peasants, a motley crew. In a sense, it will be a surprise attack. We will clash and inflict damage before they know we can all use combat magic. We must seize victory before they can take countermeasures. This might be the only method, though it's harsh and unavoidable. We only have one chance. If we can't inflict damage in the first battle, the people who followed us here will likely leave.

My body trembles. Sometimes I wonder if what I'm doing has any meaning. But it's too late to turn back. We've already involved others and crossed the line where we can retreat. To survive and gain freedom, we have no choice but to fight. Thus, I forcibly calm my mind, filled with anxiety and fear, and think about the next steps.

※ ※ ※

The wind blows, and the branches and leaves of the trees continue to rustle. Amid this, many people are lined up on the flat ground. There are two groups. One group is mostly dressed in tattered clothes, looking miserable. The other group is mostly dressed in better clothing. In particular, many in the larger group are wearing metal armor that reflects the sunlight. There must be more than 30 of them.

Based on the information we received from the merchant, we decided to confront the Fontana army. We moved to a flat area a few hours from the river where they had set up camp. The merchant's information was accurate. The approximate number of people and their marching schedule were correct. Thus, we are now facing each other at the intended location.

Both sides are still at a distance where arrows cannot reach. Then, someone comes out from the Fontana army. A person riding a white horse, or rather, a hornless Valkyrie, moves to a spot slightly in front of the Fontana army's front line.

"To the residents of Barka Village, I announce: Surrender immediately and lay down your weapons. If you do, your lives will be spared."

The person paused for a moment after stopping and then began to speak. Is this the final warning before battle? Or is it a speech to boost their morale and demoralize ours? Not knowing what to do, I decide to observe the situation.

"Alus, who lives in Barka Village, has committed a crime. Not only did he ignore the orders of the nobles, but he also harmed tax collectors and soldiers. This is not a matter to be overlooked. However, we do not wish to judge all the residents of Barka Village. If Alus surrenders immediately and everyone lays down their weapons, we promise to return you to your previous lives. Disarm quickly."

Hmm, even though he has come closer, he is still at a considerable distance. Yet, his voice is clear enough for everyone to hear. It must be a voice that carries far. I recall hearing that a good commander on the battlefield has a voice that carries well. As I am thinking this,

"Hey, Alus. Is it okay to just stand there and listen?"

"Father, what's wrong?"

"I'm saying it's not the time to stand around. Hearing such things will shake the hearts of everyone here. We need to respond."

"Right, Commander. The pre-battle speech has started. The battle has already begun."

Following my father, Vargas also speaks. Indeed, such things can significantly impact the battle if not taken seriously. Therefore, I need to say something. With this in mind, I ride my Valkyrie and move to the front of our group.

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