A NEW AMBUSH and SUMMONING

After descending the mountain, we finally arrived at a fork in the road just as the sun reached its peak. Without wasting time, we continued our journey. However, after walking only about five hundred meters, we were suddenly surrounded by a group of armed men from both the front and rear. Their appearances were ragged and unruly, but when I used my detection skill, I realized there were even more hiding in the woods nearby—perhaps twice our number.

"Leave all your valuables... and the woman, if you want to live," said one of the bandits, who appeared to be the leader.

Hearing that, the IBS members immediately sprang into action. They drew their weapons with swift, practiced motions.

"Is that some kind of mandatory line for every robbery?" Tarma mocked in a calm tone.

"I won't repeat myself. Leave... or die," the leader snapped.

"Miss Luna, could you give us support magic? It seems a fight is inevitable," Tarma whispered to me.

"Of course."