Page 93 of Dark Princess Ascending

"This isn't about killing, Drova. It's about control and precision. You need to control your bloodlust."

"Even the Doomers? Can I at least kill them?"

"We need them alive to interrogate. We will take many prisoners tonight, and after we are done questioning them, we will eliminate some and use others as moles. Your services might be further required."

Her eyes brightened at that. "Good thinking. They can feed us more information." She squared her shoulders. "Got it. Quick, quiet compulsion. No excessive force unless absolutely necessary."

"Exactly." He switched channels again. "Status report."

"Two guards down," Jay reported. "Collecting equipment now."

Peter expanded the building schematic. "Memorize the layout. If anything goes wrong, you need to know every exit point."

Lyall spoke up from his station. "The Doomers are still in the basement. Their conversation suggests they're not planning to move anytime soon."

"Good." Peter turned back to Drova. "When you reach them, your priority is preventing any harm to the children. Compel them to stand down and remain still. Nothing else until we secure the area."

She nodded. "Understood. I thought to order them to get on the floor and lie face down."

"That's good," Peter approved.

Thankfully, every Guardian and even the Kra-ell participating in this mission wore earpieces that filtered out compulsion so none would be affected by Drova’s commands.

She lowered her eyes, suddenly looking unsure. "What do I do about the children?" she whispered.

"Nothing. The Guardians will secure them and thrall them to sleep. We will take them to someone who will take care of them."

Drova let out a breath. "You've thought of everything."

"Of course. That's my job." He patted her shoulder. "If the uniforms fit, I'll get Pavel in one of them. Your mother wanted one of hers to make sure you are safe."

"Thank you." She gave him a smile that betrayed how young and unsure she was despite her bravado.

"Who do you want in the uniforms?" Alfie's voice came through.

"Pavel, if he can fit in one of them, and whoever fits into the other."

"Roger that. Approaching the van now, with the comm for Drova."

A moment later, the van's side door opened, and Alfie passed in the comm to Peter.

"Thank you."

His friend saluted and closed the door.

Peter handed the comm over to Drova. "Get ready. Once you're in position, everything moves fast."

Peter watched as Drova efficiently donned the tactical vest and comm gear.

"Remember," he said as she checked the comm, "Quick, quiet, precise. No deviations from the plan unless I give the order. Clear?"

"Crystal." Drova's voice was steady, and her fangs had receded to almost their dormant size.

She seemed focused on the mission now rather than her predatory instincts.

He tapped his comm again. "All teams, prepare for simultaneous execution on my mark."

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