Chapter 9 - Into the Lion's Den
Inside the ranger station, Mark powered up the emergency satellite phone, bypassing local dispatch networks to dial the regional office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
"My name is Mark. My family is under attack by a mercenary team hired by Julian Vance," he stated clearly into the receiver. "I need an armored transport unit to coordinates 43.8, -74.2 immediately."
The FBI agent on the line verified Mark’s identity and cross-referenced the active warrant issued after Detective Vance's tragic death. "Hold your position, Mr. Mark. Federal tactical units are being dispatched to your location. ETA twenty minutes."
While waiting, Elena tended to Mark’s cut hands. "What happens when they take us in, Mark? Julian owns judges, police officers, corporate media. What's stopping him from buying his way out again?"
Mark stared at his reflection in the dark glass of the station window. "Nothing," he admitted bitterly. "As long as Julian operates in the shadows with unlimited money, we will always be targets. Defensive measures aren't enough anymore, Elena. I have to attack his foundation."
"How?"
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"Julian’s power comes from Vance Enterprises’ confidential financial ledger—the off-the-books accounts he uses to bribe officials and pay hitmen," Mark explained, recollection dawning on him. "During my old contracting job at his corporate headquarters, I installed the security vault on the 40th floor. I know how the digital and physical access codes operate."
Elena grabbed his hand, her eyes flashing with wild resolve. "Then we don't just go into protective custody. We take that ledger and destroy his empire from the inside out."
