The abandoned industrial sector sprawled across three city blocks of crumbling concrete and rusted metal. Perfect terrain for what came next—far enough from the main compound to minimize collateral damage, isolated enough that screams wouldn't draw unwanted attention.

Azrael stood at the center of the largest warehouse floor, surrounded by forty-three bodies. Mortals who'd volunteered. Forsaken guards who needed proper training. The oath-marked exiles who claimed combat experience but had ...