The old mining town was a ghost of its former self, its buildings crumbling, its streets empty. The wind howled through the ruins, carrying the scent of dust and decay. It was the perfect place for a trap.
Axel positioned himself behind a collapsed wall, his weapon trained on the town square. The team was scattered around the perimeter, hidden in the shadows, their eyes fixed on the center of the town where Lena stood alone.
"This is it," Vance said through the earpiece. "He's coming. I've got movement on the north road."
"How many?" Axel asked.
"Just one. He's alone, just like he promised."
Axel's jaw tightened. "Stay alert. This could be a trap."
"He's not alone," Mira said, her voice soft. "I can feel it. There are others, hidden in the shadows."
"I know." Axel's voice was flat.
