The sun was quickly setting over a private military base hidden deep within the mountains. The compound was massive, large enough to house hundreds of people.
As darkness approached, life inside continued as usual.
Tonight was the scheduled arrival of the month's newest "recruits."
An old, rusted bus slowly rolled toward the heavily fortified gates. Barbed wire crowned the towering fences, while armed guards surrounded the vehicle as it came to a stop before the entrance. They inspected every inch of it, making sure nothing posed a threat before allowing it inside.
The bus was filled with people.
Men, women, and children.
Despite their differences in age and gender, they all wore the same expression — dread.
Their eyes were lifeless. Some bore bruises, while others still had dried blood on their faces. They silently watched the armed guards inspecting the bus before collectively turning their eyes toward the towering gates.
