An air of tension hung heavily around Boyka and his men as they finalized their plans. The knowledge of the enemy's presence within their ranks and the danger awaiting them at the hidden base added a heavy weight to their preparations. Boyka's soldiers moved with quiet determination, gearing up as they listened to their commander outline the operation. This was no ordinary mission—it was a rescue that could shift the tides of their war, a step that carried immeasurable risks and rewards.
Boyka, however, felt the need to step away from the group before their departure. He sought out Moyo, his trusted friend and comrade. The two of them had shared countless battles and struggles, and Boyka knew there was no one better suited for the task he had in mind. Together, they walked along a secluded path within the compound, away from prying eyes and ears.
"Commander," Moyo teased lightly, "what's on your mind? We've barely had a moment like this in days, and now here you are, dragging me off for a quiet walk. This feels suspicious," he joked, flashing a grin.
Boyka exhaled sharply. "I'm thinking about what's ahead. About the princess," he admitted, his voice tinged with frustration.
"Princess Asake again," Moyo replied with a teasing tone. "You know, Boyka, if I'm being honest, her return might end up giving you more trouble than solutions. Maybe it's not worth the headache."
Boyka's eyes darkened as he turned sharply toward Moyo. "What the hell are you saying?" he snapped. "Are you suggesting I let her rot in captivity because of personal feelings? That I abandon her to save myself from complications? Never say anything like that again. Do you understand me?"
Moyo raised his hands in surrender, the humor fading from his face. "I was only joking," he said quickly. "I know how much this mission means to you."
Boyka nodded, letting his anger subside. "Good. Now, enough of that nonsense. Let's get to business. I need you to handle something while I'm gone."
Moyo's expression grew serious. "What kind of business are we talking about?"
Boyka glanced around to ensure their privacy before continuing in a low voice. "Michael's intelligence confirmed what I've suspected for some time—there are traitors among us, working with Abbadon. I can't afford to leave them unchecked while I'm away. Your mission is to eliminate them."
Boyka handed Moyo a small device displaying the names and faces of the suspected traitors. Moyo's eyes narrowed as he scanned the list.
"I know this one," Moyo said, pointing to the face of a general who had always been unusually close to Emperor Morris. "I've had my suspicions about him for a while now. This explains how Abbadon always seems to know when and where to strike. Don't worry, Boyka. I'll take care of them. Focus on your mission. And make sure you come back alive," he added, clasping Boyka's hand firmly. "This place is no fun without you."
Boyka gave a rare smile. "Thanks, Moyo. I'll leave this in your capable hands."
---
As the transport plane ascended into the sky, Boyka sat quietly, his thoughts racing. He stared out the window, watching the horizon blur into a mix of clouds and distant terrain. He couldn't shake the image of Princess Asake from his mind. The thought of her in captivity, suffering at the hands of Abbadon's forces, made his blood boil. He clenched his fists, his resolve hardening.
Michael's voice broke the silence. "We're approaching the base, Commander. What's the plan once we're in range?"
Boyka turned to him, his expression stoic. "We land just outside the perimeter," he said. "We can't risk being spotted. Once we're on the ground, we move discreetly. I want no unnecessary risks. And listen carefully, all of you," he said, addressing the entire team. "Your lives are my priority. Follow my orders, stay together, and don't take any reckless actions. This mission isn't just about the princess—it's about all of us making it back alive."
Rahel, who had been sitting quietly, couldn't help but watch Boyka as he spoke. She saw the determination in his eyes, the genuine concern for his team, and the weight of his responsibility. A small smile crept across her face. Maybe he's not as cold as he seems, she thought to herself. He truly cares about us.
Azazel, seated beside her, noticed her expression and grinned. "What's this? The great Rahel finally softening up?" he whispered, chuckling under his breath. "Don't think I won't tease you about this later."
Rahel shot him a glare but said nothing, her cheeks flushing slightly.
---
The plane landed silently in a clearing just beyond the enemy base. The team disembarked quickly, weapons at the ready. They moved in groups of four, circling the base to establish a perimeter.
"Fan out," Boyka ordered. "Stay low and keep your eyes open. Once we're in position, we move in."
The team advanced with precision, their movements synchronized and silent. As they closed in on the base, the first shots rang out. Boyka's group fired with deadly accuracy, catching the enemy guards off guard. Chaos erupted as the guards scrambled to respond, but it was too late. One by one, they fell, their defenses crumbling under Boyka's assault.
Within moments, the area was secure. Boyka led his team into the heart of the base, navigating the dimly lit corridors with swift efficiency.
"Commander," a soldier called out, "we've found her."
Boyka hurried to the cell, where Princess Asake stood, her eyes lighting up at the sight of him. "Boyka," she said softly, a faint smile breaking through her exhaustion. "I knew you'd come."
Boyka's expression softened as he stepped closer. "I'm sorry it took this long," he said. "You're safe now."
Turning to his team, Boyka gave his next orders. "Get her out of here. Have her fed, cleaned, and given proper medical attention. Rahel," he added, looking at her, "you're in charge of the princess. Make sure she's taken care of."
"Yes, Commander," Rahel replied, a slight blush coloring her cheeks.
Asake reached out, her voice filled with quiet determination. "Please be careful, Boyka. I'll be waiting for you."
Boyka nodded, his resolve unwavering. "I will, Princess."
He turned to the rest of his men. "The mission isn't over yet. We have to take down the remaining enemies and destroy the forces that instigated this chaos. Let's move."
Lights out.