"Set the tripod down near the window frame."
Richard Mercer pointed his finger toward the edge of the concrete floor.
Captain Dan stepped forward carrying the military surveillance equipment. He slammed the tripod down onto the frozen carpet of the ruined office building.
The third floor of the abandoned accounting firm offered a perfect vantage point. The shattered glass windows provided a clear unbroken view of the frozen plaza and the glowing titanium gates across the street.
"The optics are locked into place, Mayor," Dan reported. He stepped back and crossed his arms to preserve his body heat.
"Give me a status report on the labor battalions before we begin," Richard commanded.
He unscrewed the cap of his thermos and poured a steaming cup of hot tea.
"The ice wall is sixty perce
