Chapter 5 - The Escape from the Cellar
The wine cellar had been constructed by Bennett's father decades ago, designed to store rare vintages—and to serve as a fortress in case of an attack. But Bennett knew every inch of the estate's blueprints.
Behind the massive oak racks of vintage wine lay an old ventilation shaft built into the stone foundation, intended to regulate humidity.
Using a heavy brass wine opener, Bennett spent two agonizing hours prying open the iron grating of the vent. His knuckles were raw and bloody, but the image of Clara in danger drove him beyond physical exhaustion.
He squeezed his broad frame into the tight, dusty ductwork, crawling silently through the darkness until he reached the lower level service tunnels beneath the mansion.
Dropping into the dimly lit hallway, Bennett ambushed a patrolling guard from behind, snapping his neck quietly and taking his tactical gear, ear piece, and sidearm.
Fitting the earpiece into his ear, he heard Julian’s voice broadcasting across the syndicate's radio channel:
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"Prepare the convoy. We take the Reed girl to the river docks at midnight. Make sure it looks like an accident."
Bennett checked his watch. It was 11:30 PM. He had thirty minutes to save her.
