Damien eliminated the ninth target the following night – a military quartermaster who'd been diverting weapons to demon forces. Made it look like he'd been crushed by falling supply crates in his own warehouse, tragic workplace accident.
He returned to the residence before dawn, cleaned up the evidence, and slipped into bed beside Seria and Elara without waking them.
Six more targets. Two more days.
He was on schedule to complete the Emperor's assignment with time to spare.
Then everything changed.
---
The emergency summons came at mid-morning, delivered by an Imperial Guard who looked like he'd ridden through the night without rest.
"Lord Valcrest, High Priestess Lightbringer, Commander Thornwood – the Emperor requires your immediate presence. Crisis development. Highest priority."
