Chapter 1110:
Nightingale leaned closer, eyes narrowing. “Do you think it’s salvageable? The chip looks destroyed.”
With delicate precision, Storm adjusted his tools and inspected the fragile chip. “It might be repairable, but I can’t promise we’ll retrieve all the footage.”
A faint voice broke the silence. “Brad… Is he okay?”
Both men turned instantly. Seeing her awake, they abandoned their work and hurried to her side. Storm reached her first. “You’re awake! Brad’s alive, but he’s still in surgery.”
“Surgery?” she echoed, her voice trembling.
Storm gave a brief nod. “East Islet never stood down. They’ve been searching the waters and even tried to board our vessel. To avoid them, we altered course and took temporary refuge in Marinth.”
Nightingale added quietly, “His leg is badly damaged. The doctors recommended immediate surgery, but the ship’s medical bay wasn’t equipped for it. Fortunately, Marinth has the right contacts, so he can be treated here before we plan the journey back.”
Rylie let out a slow breath, relief washing through her. “You both did well.”
She glanced at the damaged gear. “Can it still provide evidence?” The island suit had been custom-fitted with a micro-camera that recorded everything. If restored, it might show how close Brad had come to death.
Storm shook his head slightly. “It’s pretty banged up. I’ll need more time to see what we can save.”
Nightingale leaned in, curious. “You were supposed to evacuate with the Havenridge mercenaries. How did you get out of the water?”
𝘉e 𝗉a𝘳𝗍 o𝗳 o𝗎𝘳 c𝗼𝗺𝗺u𝗇𝗶t𝘆 on 𝘨а𝗹n𝘰𝗏е𝗹ѕ.𝗰о𝗺
Just then, Britton walked in, a faint smile on his lips. “Why the surprise? Corbin said they were surrounded. Before the boss could act, Kari exposed them, surrendered, handed Brad over, and walked away.”
Storm frowned, rubbing his temple. “No wonder she went that route. It might work in theory, but I’ve never seen anyone try it.”
The risks had been enormous, but Rylie had faced them without hesitation. “Can I have my phone?” she asked. “I need to let my grandfather and brothers know I’m safe.”
As soon as the call connected, a mix of anxious voices filled her ear—her grandfather, Selah, and her brothers all talking at once until Sean’s older, commanding voice cut through. When they learned she was unhurt, the Owens family collectively sighed in relief.
Sean’s voice tightened with worry. “What about Brad? I heard his chances weren’t good. Even with the military negotiating, naval forces can’t safely get near that remote island.”
Every word carried concern, a clear reminder of the responsibility he had placed on Rylie.
Rylie kept her tone gentle, trying to reassure him. “He’s stable—I got him out. But his injuries are serious, and he’s still in surgery, so he can’t talk right now.”
Sean’s chest tightened. “I underestimated you, Rylie. I know your skills. Please… save him.”
Rylie’s gaze was steady. “I will.”
Felix took the phone, his tone grave. “Explain everything. Where are you now? Tensions are high, and East Islet is claiming that Brad started the fight and shot one of their commanders. Other nations might exploit this to seize the Emerald Strait.”
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Message from Noa: Lovely Tuesday for you dear readers. God loves you and Noa wishes you all the best. ( • ᴗ – ) ✧
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