Elsewhere in the facility, the Valorian operatives moved like shadows. Viktor led the team, his expression grim as he scanned the dim corridors. Behind him, Lena and Andrei kept a close watch on their flanks, their weapons drawn and ready.
"They've fortified the cellblock," Lena whispered, glancing at the hastily drawn map in her hands. "The guards are concentrated around the target."
"Expected," Viktor muttered. "We take them out quickly and cleanly. No witnesses."
The team crept forward, their boots silent against the cold stone. When they reached the entrance to the cellblock, Viktor signaled for Lena to scout ahead. She slipped forward, her movements almost imperceptible, and peered around the corner.
"Two guards at the door," she whispered when she returned. "Rifles, but they look distracted."
"Good," Viktor said. "Andrei, with me. Lena, stay back and cover us."
