Chapter 219 We are Going in

Chapter 219 We are Going in

Akarios Command Center

Vincent's gaze remained fixed on the map projected onto the central screen in the command center. The Broken Cliffs were a deathtrap, a natural fortress surrounded by unpredictable waters and jagged rock formations. If there was ever a place designed to spring an ambush, this was it.

"Commander," Brandt interrupted his thoughts, stepping up beside him. "We've got the Blackhawks fueled and ready. Marcus has gathered his team. We can move out as soon as you're ready."

Vincent nodded, his face set in a grim expression. "I want this operation airtight, Brandt. The Demon Lord chose the Broken Cliffs for a reason, and I don't intend to walk into his trap unprepared."

"Understood, sir. Marcus and his team are running final checks now," Brandt replied before stepping back to relay orders.

Turning to the tactical table, Vincent ran through the mission plan one last time. This wasn't just a rescue operation—it was a high-stakes gamble with the Demon Lord himself. Failure was not an option, not with Elinalese's life on the line and the threat of more demonic incursions looming over them.

Akarios Airfield.

The sound of whirring rotor blades filled the air as two Blackhawk helicopters sat on the tarmac, their engines humming with a low, steady thrum. Soldiers and ground crew moved in a well-practiced rhythm, loading equipment, securing crates, and checking every detail before takeoff. Marcus, the leader of Vincent's elite unit, stood at the foot of one of the choppers, his sharp eyes scanning the scene.

Vincent approached, the brisk wind generated by the choppers tugging at his jacket. Marcus snapped to attention, giving a sharp salute. "Commander, all systems green. The men are prepped and ready to move out."

"Good," Vincent replied, his tone direct. "I'm counting on you and your team, Marcus. This isn't just a rescue mission. We need to gather intel on whatever traps the Demon Lord might have set up. Keep your eyes open."

"All units, this is Commander Stryder," he spoke into the mic. "We are en route to the Broken Cliffs. ETA forty-five minutes. Stay sharp, and remember the mission objectives: secure Duchess Elinalese and gather intel on the Demon Lord's forces."

The helicopter lifted off, the sudden acceleration pressing everyone into their seats. Through the small window, Vincent could see the lights of the Akarios Village fading into the distance. The dark ocean spread out below, its surface rippling under the moonlight.

The ride was tense but silent, the soldiers lost in their own thoughts as they prepared for what lay ahead. Vincent leaned back in his seat, mentally running through the mission plan once more. The Broken Cliffs were a hostile environment, and the Demon Lord would undoubtedly have laid traps. The key would be to move quickly and decisively.

"Commander," came Marcus's voice through the headset. "We've got eyes on the recon drone feed. The cliffs are shrouded in heavy fog, but we're picking up heat signatures near the top. It looks like they're expecting us."

Vincent grimaced. "That's no surprise. Keep those drones in the air. I want constant updates on enemy movements."

As the Blackhawks neared the cliffs, the landscape below shifted from calm ocean waves to jagged rocks and steep cliffs that jutted out of the water like the fangs of a beast. The drone feed showed clusters of demonic figures moving along the cliffs, their red eyes glowing like embers in the darkness.

"Ten minutes to touchdown," the pilot's voice crackled over the comms. "LZ looks clear, but that could change fast."

Vincent turned to Marcus, who was already checking his gear one last time. "We're going in hot, Marcus. I want a secure perimeter as soon as we land. No surprises."

"Understood, sir," Marcus replied, tightening the strap on his helmet. "We'll be ready."

Vincent gave a final nod, then turned his attention back to the window. The Broken Cliffs loomed closer, a dark silhouette against the moonlit sky. This was it—the final approach. The air was thick with tension, but there was no turning back now.

"Brace yourselves," Vincent called out to his team. "We're going in."