Dark Warlock in the Apocalypse

As for the Green Skins, they would crudely construct siege engines, like battering rams or siege towers. If it were the fifth wave or later, they might even bring catapults.

Since this was still an early wave, as Ethan had pointed out, the most they would have to deal with were ladders.

"With thirty-two pioneers, it's not like we're lacking defensive manpower, but it's a bit short for covering the entire wall," Justin said.

"There's no way to quickly reinforce the number of pioneers, so the best option would be to get help from the citizens," Zachary suggested.

It wasn't necessary for the citizens to fight directly. They could simply push ladders off the walls with all their strength or alert the pioneers when enemies approached from blind spots during the chaos. That alone would be a significant help in defending the city, and it was well within the citizens' capabilities.

"But conscripting the citizens could lead to some problems," Emily chimed in.

"More than just a few," Justin added, a bitter smile forming on his lips.

"Citizens accepted their status under the condition that they wouldn't have to fight. Forcing them into battle now would shake the entire class system."

It was true that Justin could easily suppress any discontent with the power of the pioneers. But doing so would leave a constant source of unrest throughout the society. The argument of being a better ruler than the previous leaders would only work a few times; there was no way he could continue ruling based solely on past experiences forever.

"So, should we just exclude the citizens from the defense and accept the risk?" Emily suggested.

"No, that's going too far," Justin replied. "We only have thirty-two pioneers. Even losing one would be a massive blow. If there's any way to raise the survival rate, we have to try."

"But didn't you just mention the potential problems?" Zachary asked.

"That's only if we forcibly conscript them without any reward," Justin said, a sharp glint in his eyes as he looked around at his officers. A grin slowly spread across his face.

"If there's a reward worth risking their lives for, then it's a different story."

The next morning, Justin summoned all the citizens of the city, including the newly arrived immigrants. The sudden call had everyone in a state of confusion. Up until now, Justin had left most of the administrative tasks to Derek, so it was strange for him to make a personal appearance.

Once all the citizens had gathered, Justin began to speak.

"I'm sure you've all heard the system message yesterday. A monster wave will be starting soon."

The citizens, who had been quietly murmuring among themselves, fell silent, listening to Justin's words with growing tension.

"Some of you may not fully understand what a monster wave is. To put it simply, it's when a horde of monsters ignores the safe zones and attacks every human in sight. This city is one of their targets."

"Ah…!" Some fearful murmurs started to rise from the crowd.

"But there's no need to worry!" Justin swiftly cut off their growing fear. There were times when sowing fear was necessary, but right now, it would only backfire.

"The city walls are strong, and there are far more pioneers to protect you than ever before. None of you will come to harm."

A collective sigh of relief spread through the crowd, as citizens wiped cold sweat from their foreheads.

"However, no amount of preparation is ever enough when it comes to defending against monsters. That's why I'm calling for volunteers to assist in the city's defense."

"...."

"I'm not asking you to fight. Even though we have more pioneers, there aren't enough to cover every inch of the city walls. All I'm asking is for someone to watch the blind spots."

Some of the citizens frowned, suspicion flickering in their eyes. Were they about to be forcibly conscripted? Justin saw the doubt on their faces and raised his voice to reassure them.

"Let me repeat, this is strictly voluntary. There will be no forced conscription. If you volunteer, you'll be well rewarded."

Even with his assurance, no one stepped forward. That was expected. They had finally found a comfortable place to live in, so why would they risk their lives for a few rewards?

But what if the rewards were more than just a few coins?n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

"To those who fully participate in the defense, I will grant the rank of Knight and ownership of a house in the noble district."

"...!"

"Additionally, if you wish to become a pioneer after the defense, I will personally support you. Other pioneers will assist you in hunting until you reach an appropriate level, and once you achieve Level 10, you'll be promoted to full nobility."

The flood of rewards left the citizens stunned. After all, who wouldn't want to become a noble? Some had chosen to become citizens out of fear for their lives, but many of them harbored regrets about not aiming higher. The biggest obstacle stopping them from venturing out to hunt was the high level of the monsters around the city. On Earth, they might have been able to handle a lone goblin, but here, monsters traveled in packs, and a Level 1 citizen wouldn't stand a chance alone.

But now, Justin was offering them the chance to reach a level where they could hunt on their own, with the help of other pioneers. For those dreaming of social mobility, this was an opportunity that wouldn't come around again.

"If the volunteer should die in battle, their family will inherit the rewards. And if they choose not to become a pioneer, they can still keep the rank and the house."

"...."

"However, these rewards will only be granted to those who sincerely participate in the defense. If anyone abandons their post or runs away, they will be punished before they are rewarded."

With that, Justin turned his back on the crowd, as if to show he didn't care whether anyone volunteered or not. He left them to their thoughts but made sure to leave them with one final statement.

"If you change your mind and decide to volunteer, report to the administrator. That's all."

As Justin walked away, the murmuring from the crowd grew louder. Once he entered the castle and closed the door, the noise exploded like a marketplace. Justin didn't pay any attention to the commotion, retiring to his personal quarters for a good night's rest.

The next morning, Zachary approached Justin with a satisfied smile.

"Thirty citizens have volunteered for the defense."

The numbers were promising.