Ethan and the others assembled in the northern sector of Harbor City, the last stretch of their operation drawing to a grim close. Their forces had moved in a wide, methodical arc, sweeping from the city's southern edge all the way north, sealing streets, flushing out resistance, and leaving nothing unresolved in their wake. By the time they regrouped, the city behind them felt hollowed out, as if something vital had been carved away.
When the final members of their group arrived, Ethan reached into his coat and produced a spatial pouch. The surrounding area fell quiet, an uneasy stillness settling over everyone present.
"Let's get a count," he said, his voice steady as it carried across the open space.
He inverted the pouch.
