Chapter 10 - The Breach at the Exit
Ethan reached the base of the ladder first, thrusting the baby upward into Claire's waiting arms before hauling Ryan up behind him. The sound of gunfire echoed sharply behind them as enemy bullets ricocheted off the concrete walls, chipping stone dangerously close to their feet. Ryan pushed the heavy iron grate upward with his shoulder, sending it crashing into the tall marsh grass above. Cool, salty night air rushed into their lungs, washing away the stench of gunpowder and ozone. ""Go! Get in the boat!"" Ethan shouted, hoisting Claire over the lip of the concrete embankment. Ryan scrambled out next, providing cover fire into the dark reeds as shadowy figures emerged from the tunnel exit below. Ethan leaped into the swaying boat, immediately slamming his hand onto the ignition panel. The engine roared to life with a deafening staccato, cutting through the silence of the marshland. As the boat surged forward into the open bay, a barrage of sniper fire peppered the water around them, kicking up angry white sprays of foam.
