"Check the perimeter!" she commanded, her voice cutting through the chaotic scene. Her team, bruised and battered, sprang into action, their movements swift and efficient despite their exhaustion.
The air was thick with smoke and dust, remnants of the collapsed stronghold clinging to every surface. Ava's estate, once a symbol of power and security, now bore the scars of the Phantom's final fail-safe device. Ava stood amidst the ruins, her eyes scanning the devastation, her heart heavy with the weight of loss.
Liam approached, a grim expression etched on his face. "We've secured the main areas, but the damage is extensive," he reported. "Casualties?"
"Too many," Ava replied, her voice cracking. "We've lost some of our best."
Liam placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "We'll rebuild, Ava. We always do."
Ava nodded, swallowing the lump in her throat. "We need to assess the full extent of the damage. Start with the command center."
