The heavy, reinforced gate of the Iron Fortress base stood before them, a silent testament to the faction's strength. The two guards lay motionless at their feet. The low hum from within the cave now sounded like a challenge.
Julian didn't hesitate. He placed a hand on the massive metal door.
"Emma, on my mark. Aya, high ground, cover fire. Zoe, Celestia, clear the immediate area. Veronica, buff Zoe and Celestia. The rest, support formation," he commanded, his voice a low, clear whisper that brooked no argument.
The team moved with practiced precision. Aya scaled a nearby rock formation with surprising agility, her crossbow ready. Zoe and Celestia flanked the door, one a beast ready to pounce, the other a phantom ready to strike.
Veronica's hands glowed as she cast enhancing spells on the two frontliners. Clarissa and Dori stood ready in the center, with Beatrix and a still-groggy-but-conscious Fey at the rear.
"Mark," Julian said.
