Cassius turned, his expression grim but composed. He looked toward the cot where Ted Frin lay unconscious, still strapped down. For a brief second Cassius hesitated.
He then straightened and faced the group. "Let's go and surrender," he said. "We need to buy time first."
Sophia's eyes flicked to Brent but she did not argue. Dr. Farah tightened the strap on her satchel and nodded. Brent hauled himself up from the floor, face pale and eyes lowered.
Together they moved out of the hidden chamber. The passageway curved upward, dimly lit, lined with old concrete and pipes that dripped moisture. Their footsteps echoed, the sound of their breathing loud in the confined space.
Cassius led, his movements swift but measured. Sophia followed with her tablet clutched to her chest. Brent trailed at the back, still wiping his mouth.
