Ghost stood in front of a small group of men, drawn from various cities in Italy. They owed him favors, their lives, and their unwavering loyalty. “You know what you have to do?” he asked rhetorically. “I don’t know how many are left...” He paused, swallowing hard. “But they are good men. Men who don’t deserve to die. Our mission is simple: first, a rescue mission, then a mission to eliminate the captors.” A twisted smile played on his lips. “Remember, bring all of my people back to me unharmed. Only then can you unleash hell.”

Some of the men nodded in agreement.

Ryder approached Ghost, leaning in to whisper,...