The squads exited the vehicles and penetrated the western edge of the nature reserve surrounding Ashburn Court. Half their number followed the fence on the northern side as the others paralleled the tall wooden wall on the southern side, stationing the troops along the perimeter until the remaining members from both groups met at the far, eastern edge of the neighborhood.

They were ready to repel any armed intruders.

A small reserve from both squads remained in the transports, ready to drive directly into Ashburn Court.

Killcade waited until the squad deployment was complete and kept an eye on the feed from the hovering surveillance drones. Finally, they spotted the...