The night exploded into chaos.
From the shadows beyond the heliport, a series of rapid, high-pitched whistling sounds filled the air—drones—small, fast, and armed. Before anyone could react, one of them shot forward, releasing a volley of small explosives toward the guards. The ground shook as the explosions ripped through the perimeter, sending debris flying into the air. The guards scrambled, returning fire as more drones emerged from the darkness, zipping through the air with deadly precision.
Barbara instinctively ducked, her arms shielding her stomach as Lycus stepped before her, his body a barrier between her and the chaos. His cold face remained unreadable, but his movements were swift and calculated. He scanned the area, his eyes flicking from one threat to another as he assessed
