"Move out!" I commanded, my voice carrying across the courtyard where two hundred of my best fighters had assembled. The morning mist clung to the ground, providing perfect cover as we advanced toward Dean's stronghold.

Lucien appeared beside me, his tactical gear pristine, weapons gleaming. "Alpha, all units are in position. The east and west flanks are ready for your signal."

I nodded, studying the fortress ahead. Dean had chosen his defensive position well—high walls, narrow approaches, ...