**Morgan Command Center – 5:32 a.m.**
Satellite imagery flickered on the screen. Snow-drenched ridgelines, dense pine forests, and one blinking red dot.
“Durango," Sophie said flatly. “Vargas is hiding in a mountain fortress. Thermal shielding, drone scramblers, power routed through five proxies."
Arthur cracked his knuckles. “Not for long."
Sophie turned to the joint task force. “We divide into three teams. Ghost goes silent entry, Shield handles perimeter security, and Torch—"
“—brings the fire," Arthur finished.
“Rules of engagement?" asked an ex-Bureau sniper.
“Non-lethal unless fired upon," Sophie answered. Then her tone sharpened. “Except for Vargas. I want him alive."
Arthur's jaw flexed. “Barely."
---
**That night – San Juan Mountains**
The operation began under a moonle
