From Slave To Queen (by Karyn Anderson) novel Chapter 355

Chapter 355

Michael said firmly, “I am willing.”

Ryker saw his eagerness to die and sneered inwardly. He really thought he was the invincible Lord Osborne.

But this time, they were facing desperate criminals. They would kill without hesitation.

‘If he’s so eager to go, let him have his wish,‘ Ryker thought to himself, a cold smile playing on his lips.

He said, “Very well, I approve. Michael, your identity is special. His Majesty has shown leniency and allowed you to atone through meritorious service. Don’t let me down.”

Michael saluted respectfully and pledged, “I will surely live up to your expectations, General.”

Ryker nodded and gave the order, “Rest in place. Depart at 3 am.”

Then, he selected a small squad to serve as the vanguard and promoted Michael to be its leader.

The morning mist of Azure Gorge had yet to disperse when twenty carts slowly entered the mouth of the valley.

Michael, wrapped in a faded rough linen headscarf, drove the leading mule cart, deliberately letting the wheels crunch over stones, making creaking

sounds.

“Boss, this job’s risky,” the deputy captain, disguised as a bookkeeper, glanced cautiously at the cliffs on either side and lowered his voice. “Beyond this pass lies Taper Path. The path is narrow. If the enemy lies in ambush above, we could all be wiped out.”

Michael nodded slightly. “I know.”

On the way, he had already discussed a strategy with Ryker. Their team would act as bait to draw the bandits out, while Ryker led the main force to block their retreat and flank them, capturing the entire group in one move.

Their team totaled twenty men.

The one speaking was named Ezra Alejandro, an only son. His mother was seriously ill, and he had no other choice but to volunteer for this vanguard mission. The others were in similar situations, either lacking money or gambling their lives for a future.

Michael felt heavy–hearted. He could afford to risk his life, but the others were not the same. Most of them were the backbone of their families.

Staring at the mountain ahead, Michael suddenly ordered, “Rest here.”

Ezra asked in surprise, “Boss, why rest here?”

Jumping down from the wagon, Michael said, “The mountain path ahead is treacherous, and the terrain here is too complex. If we run into bandits, none of us will make it out alive.”

He untied the ropes from the cart and fastened a saddle on his horse.

Realizing what was on his mind, Ezra inhaled sharply. “Boss, what are you doing?”

Seizing the moment he drew near, Ezra whispered, “If you go into Taper Path alone, it’s certain death. And don’t forget our orders from th

If Michael entered alone, the bandits might not even show themselves. This move could cause the entire mission to fail, and they’d still face military punishment.

Michael looked resolutely ahead and said, “Don’t worry. I’ll bring you all safely out of this gorge.”

With that, he yanked the reins and rode toward the valley.

Ezra wanted to stop him but feared alerting the enemy. He had to pretend to be calm and shouted to the others, “Damn it, the azie’s brokent Hurry and fix it!”

The others were puzzled but dared not question orders. They all got down to check the carts.

The clear sound of hooves echoed in the gorge.

In the foliage above the cliffs, more than ten black–clad figures clung to the rocks, gripping their bows.

Soon, a horse appeared ahead.

Their leader raised his hand, signaling to prepare for attack.

But when the horse drew closer, everyone was stunned. There was no rider.

Everyone was confused because they couldn’t see the rider.

Suddenly, a few sharp arrows shot out from nowhere, piercing their chests with deadly precision.

They didn’t even cry out before tumbling down the cliff.

Michael spared only one survivor, pressing a blade to the man’s throat. “Password?”

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