Online Game: Starting With SSS-Ranked Summons

Chapter 215: Expanding

"I want you to speed up the training with our current combatants. We need them ready to start exploring the forest. I want the first fifty kilometers designated as a safe zone—no monster breeding grounds, no ambush points."

He traced a circle on Charles's map.

"This entire area needs to be secured. We push outward until we reach the regions where demons are establishing footholds."

Charles stared at him in shock.

"You're planning to expand already?" He shook his head. "Protector, we'd need our combatants at level 15 minimum to clear that fifty-kilometer range. And it will take time—not many will reach that level anytime soon."

Arthur's eyes narrowed, as he started looking for a solution to the problem.

"Bring me ten people," he said suddenly. "The ten with highest potential in the entire village. Ensure their loyalty is absolute. I'll personally oversee their power development."

Charles's eyebrows shot up. The Protector offering direct training? That was unprecedented.

"I'll definitely do that," Charles said, unable to hide his excitement. "I'll have them ready as soon as possible. I'll inform the goblin king so you're properly notified."

Arthur nodded and turned to leave, his mask already back in place.

"Protector—" Charles called out. "I'm sorry, but I have a question."

Arthur paused at the door, before turning back.

"What is it?"

"That legendary dragon," Charles said, voice filled with awe. "Will it stay in the village?" The thought of having such a powerful creature as permanent protection made his heart race.

Arthur laughed softly.

"Legendary dragon, huh?"

He shook his head. "No, it won't stay in the village."

Charles's face fell.

"But don't worry," Arthur continued. "When you need it, just inform the goblin king. I'll send it immediately."

Charles nodded vigorously, relief washing over him. With the Protector, the drake, and now ten elite warriors about to receive special training, the village's future seemed brighter than ever.

After sorting out the issues with Charles, Arthur stepped out of the mayor's building. Sunlight hit his face as he scanned the bustling village square.

Players were still discussing the duel, voices animated as they recreated his impossible moves with exaggerated gestures.

Suddenly, Lupin's voice cut into his mind.

'Master, the woman Jasmine has reached level 10.'

Arthur's lips curved into a slight smile. Right on schedule. He'd instructed Lupin to monitor her progress.

'Where are you now?' he sent back.

The reply came instantly. 'Eastern forest, near the twin boulders.'

'Perfect. That wasn't far.' Arthur thought.

Arthur adjusted his cloak and slipped through the crowd, nodding at players who recognized his Swordmaster persona. The reverent looks they gave him would be useful in the days to come.

"Swordmaster! That duel was incredible!"

"Can you show me that counter technique sometime?"

"Are you planning on establishing a team, I would be the first to join!"