Page 31 of Gargoyle Defender

Ronen studied the map, mentally charting the path they’d need to follow to reach Victor. The traitor would likely be near the command center, overseeing operations. His fingers itched to close around Victor’s throat, to make him pay for betraying them all. He let out a low growl. For daring to look at Tanner like the disgusting predator he was.

Cassiel continued outlining the assault plan. “Each team will be equipped with specialized weapons designed to counter demonic energy. The Denver lair has brought holy water grenades, and the West Coast team has contributed blessed silver ammunition.” She gestured to a row of gleaming blades laid out on a side table. “These have all been consecrated by Michael himself."

Uriel stepped forward. “Remember, warriors—our objective is not merely to destroy the facility, but to eliminate every trace of their corrupting influence. No demon escapes. No shadow gargoyle receives mercy unless they surrender completely.”

The angel’s silver eyes flashed. “This battle may end the war that has raged since the first holy relic was stolen. Fight with that knowledge burning in your hearts.”

A collective roar swept through the room, gargoyle warriors pumping their fists, shaking their weapons with gusto.

“This is it.” Cassiel straightened again to her full height. “We leave in thirty minutes. Check your weapons, your comms, and yourselves. When we fly, we fly as one.”

The room erupted into motion as warriors dispersed to make final preparations. Ronen remained by the table, taking one last glance at the map, committing to memory the path they would take through the facility. He curled his fingers, the knuckles turning white as he tightened his fists.

“You’ll get your chance,” Cassiel whispered. “Just remember to keep your head. Revenge is sweet but living to enjoy it is sweeter.”

Ronen nodded, his jaw remaining clenched as he stared at the map. Victor was toast. He was looking forward to stealing the last gasp of air from the piece of shit.

“I know.” Ronen sucked in a deep breath. “I won’t lose focus.”

Uriel approached, his massive frame crowding them. “Cassiel, a word.” His silver gaze flicked to Ronen. “Actually, both of you.”

They followed the angel to a quiet corner of the room, away from the bustle of lingering warriors. Uriel regarded them with a grave expression, his voice pitched low.

“Michael has sensed unusual energy fluctuations at the facility. The rogues may be aware that we're coming.”

Cassiel cursed under her breath. “How? I thought Tanner’s infiltration was seamless.”

“We’re not certain.” Uriel’s lips were set in a grim line. “But Michael sensed a surge of dark energy that suggests they’re mobilizing their forces. It could be a coincidence—”

“There are no coincidences in war,” Ronen interjected, his blood running cold. His thoughts immediately flew to Tanner. If the rogues had detected the hack, they might be able to trace it back to its source.

“If they know we’re coming,” Cassiel said, “then we hit them harder. Faster. We take them by surprise even if they're expecting us. We need to move now, not in thirty minutes.”

Uriel’s eyes narrowed. “Precisely. Gather your teams. It’s time.”

Chapter Ten

Ronen flew toward battle with an urgency he’d never experienced before, driven by his anger and determination. Cassiel had warned him about letting his emotions guide his actions, that they could cloud his judgment. But how could he banish them completely? Hadn’t his oath to the Slayers been about emotion? About ensuring that darkness was kept at bay? Now that his mate was added to the equation, he had no choice but to allow his wrath to take over.

The cool night air rushed past him, but he barely noticed, his focus locked on the distant glow of the facility. Fifty gargoyle warriors flanked him in tight formation, their massive wings beating in near-perfect synchronization. The sound was like thunder rolling across the sky.

Soaring ahead, Cassiel led the charge with fierce determination. She glanced back at him, her amber eyes gleaming with battle-readiness, giving him a quick nod.

“Three minutes to target, Cassiel projected into his mind. “Remember the plan. Troop leaders, confirm your positions. Alpha team?”

“Ready,” Hector responded.

“Beta team?”

“In position,” replied Vera.

Ronen flexed his stone-like fingers, the battle fury already building in his chest. The facility grew larger as they approached, its modern exterior disguising the evil that festered within. His wings sliced through the air, every beat bringing him closer to combat.

“On my mark,” Cassiel commanded. “Three... two... one...”

The Slayers dove as one, a silent storm of vengeance plummeting toward their target. Ronen tucked his wings tight against his body, accelerating toward the southern wing. The wind screamed past his ears, but he barely registered it, his concentration absolute.

Seconds before impact, the gargoyles flared their wings, creating a deafening snap that shattered the night’s silence. The southern wall of the facility exploded inward as Gamma team crashed through reinforced concrete and steel, the planned distraction working perfectly as alarms blared and red emergency lights bathed the corridor in crimson.