Dawn broke over the high outer perimeter of the First Citadel, spreading pale morning light across the quiet parapets.
Nox stood upon the eastern watchtower, observing the quiet industrial avenues of District Three through the clear mountain air.
Beside him, Ava adjusted the strap of her modified magitech fire rifle, inspecting the glowing crimson heat sink nestled along the receiver.
"Look across the southern warehouse roofs," the young gunner said, pointing the barrel of her rifle toward the high-tension sky cables stretching toward the residential sector.
"Three heat signatures just latched onto the upper transit lines."
Nox narrowed his eyes, tracking three agile silhouettes cloaked in shimmering silver stealth cloaks gliding silently across the suspension lines.
"Sponsor infiltrators," the commander murmured, his hand resting comfortably on the dark hilt at his waist.
"They want to bypass the ground wards before the morning shifts begin."
