"Of course. All the gold you and Marcus earn is being managed wisely by Zark," Michael reassured.
With Miaomiao dispatched to lead the reconnaissance, Michael took to the skies with his other comrades. Marcus's now-familiar wing beats harmonized with the soft wind, creating a soothing rhythm.
The troops' faces reflected a mixture of fatigue and joy—an earned pride from their victory using an unprecedented attack strategy. As dozens of beasts flew in a line against the crimson sunset, the sight resembled a magnificent painting.
Following the success of the Special Task Force's mission, Michael felt a slight sense of relief. Yet, victory did not grant the luxury of complacency. Suppressing the elation bubbling within, Michael raised his voice to address the group.
"Do not remove your armor yet, and remain vigilant. The enemies we've faced so far were not the Pamir Empire's main forces. Overconfidence will be our downfall—stay on guard!"
No sooner had he issued his orders than a laid-back voice chimed in from behind.
"Sir Michael, don't you think you're being overly cautious? Encountering a significant threat here is highly unlikely—unless one of the Five Great Tribes happens to be nearby. Haha!"
Turning, Michael saw Sir Kevin atop his Hydra, wearing a relaxed smile. A seasoned knight dispatched from the capital to retrieve Marcus's pure blood, Kevin was known for his nonchalant remarks. His Hydra, too, had been lured into service by promises of a salary—thanks to Marcus and Miaomiao's sly tactics.
Michael sighed at Kevin's cavalier attitude. "Sir Kevin, heed my warning. Regardless of past achievements, death can come in an instant."
Barely had Michael finished speaking when a griffon swooped in with a rush of powerful wings, its labored breathing signaling urgency. This griffon was one of the scouts sent with Miaomiao.
"Lady Nefertari has intercepted and killed a Rock Bear Tribe messenger 40 kilometers ahead. According to him, their forces were en route to join the supply unit we annihilated. Upon discovering the destruction of their allies, they have requested reinforcements from another Rock Bear unit. Nefertari advises immediate action, as they await further orders," the griffon reported.
Hearing this, Michael fixed Kevin with a glare laden with reproach. His earlier flippant comments had now been proven disastrously short-sighted. With their presence exposed, there was no avoiding a confrontation.
"Everyone, prepare for battle formations!" Michael commanded. As the leader of the Special Task Force, his authority was absolute.
The troops quickly snapped into action, donning armor and readying their weapons with steely determination. Michael roused Marcus, who was dozing off mid-flight, his wings flapping unconsciously.
"Wake up, Marcus. The enemy is ahead," Michael said firmly.
Marcus opened his weary eyes and grumbled, "I'm too tired… Can't we just avoid them?"
"No," Michael replied decisively. "They've already found traces of us. It's a Rock Bear Tribe unit meant to reinforce the supply convoy we destroyed. From now on, leave some commanders alive for interrogation."
The Rock Bear Tribe, one of the Five Great Tribes, was not to be underestimated. Hailing from the desert, they were renowned for their bravery and their warriors' ability to harness the power of bear spirits. Many could transform into half-beast, half-human forms, and while their full transformations were rare, even their hybrid state made them formidable foes.
Michael assessed the enemy's strength. Approximately 3,000 Rock Bear warriors were stationed ahead—smaller than what might be expected from one of the Five Great Tribes but understandable given their assignment. Resolving to leave no trace of their own forces, Michael led a cautious advance.
"Keep a 1-kilometer distance between groups and follow me carefully," he instructed.
With their movements coordinated, the task force approached the enemy under Michael's command. Marcus, stretching his forelegs to shake off drowsiness, followed the griffon scout. Behind them, dozens of beasts aligned themselves in formation.
In the distance, the Rock Bear Tribe's distinctive banner—a black bear on a crimson background—became visible. Warriors imbued with the spirits of bears were seen patrolling, their massive forms cloaked in coarse black fur. At nearly three meters tall, their imposing figures struck fear into any observer.
Fortunately, few among them appeared to have fully merged with their bear spirits—a state reserved for their strongest warriors, comprising only about 10% of their force. Even so, their sheer presence was daunting.
After completing his reconnaissance, Michael returned to his waiting troops, who had held position a kilometer behind.
"Up ahead lies a force of roughly 3,000 from the Rock Bear Tribe, one of the Five Great Tribes of the Pamir Empire," he announced, pausing to let the gravity of his words settle.
"Their numbers may seem small, but this unit was deployed to support the supply convoy we eliminated earlier. If we execute our plan methodically, this victory will be a significant achievement."
The troops stiffened at the mention of the Rock Bear Tribe, known for their natural strength and courage. Their ability to channel the power of spirits in battle had instilled fear even in seasoned knights. But recalling their recent victories under Michael's leadership, the soldiers steadied themselves.
They trusted their commander—and knew that triumph lay in disciplined execution.
Michael carefully observed the resolute expressions of his troops before continuing.
"Everyone, stay mounted and conceal yourselves in the surrounding area. Identify the exact path the enemy will take, and establish a perfect encirclement. Once Marcus and I give the signal, launch a coordinated attack immediately. Do not miss the signal. Understood?"
The resounding response echoed with confidence, their eyes burning with determination rather than fear. Satisfied with their readiness, Michael nodded.
"This battle will be unlike any previous ones. The enemy is elite and possesses extraordinary abilities. In particular, those who have fully transformed into bears wield immense power. Fortunately, their numbers are few. I will personally take care of them. Each of you, carry out your roles from your assigned positions and fight to survive."
Meanwhile, among the Rock Bear Tribe…
"Commander Sakar, the supply unit we were supposed to meet here appears to have been annihilated. Their goods are gone, and all we found were shattered carts and scattered corpses."
The unexpected report caused Sakar, an elder with crimson-hued skin, to scowl deeply.