Chapter 12
With the federal arrest warrants officially issued and broadcast nationwide, the search for Robert and Julian Vance escalated from a regional dispute into a high-priority federal manhunt. Sarah and David returned to the military base command center, where Colonel Vance was coordinating with federal marshals and state police agencies to monitor transit hubs along the eastern seaboard.
Lily remained safely inside the secure base housing unit under the watchful eye of a trusted family friend, shielded from the immediate tension of the manhunt. But Sarah and David knew the confrontation could not be delayed much longer. Men with Robert’s resources and desperation rarely surrendered quietly; they sought leverage wherever they could find it.
At 3:00 PM, a secure alert flashed on the main command console. Analyst Martinez tracked a corporate credit card transaction originating from a private airfield in rural Maine, registered under one of Julian Vance’s offshore shell companies.
"They’re prepping a private charter out of Bangor," Martinez reported, tapping rapidly on his keyboard. "Destination points indicate a flight plan filing toward the Caribbean."
Colonel Vance stood up from his chair, fastening the top button of his uniform jacket. "Notify the FAA and scramble intercept protocols with the local state police units near the airfield. They aren't getting out of the country."
"I'm going with the tactical team," Sarah stated firmly, stepping forward before the Colonel could issue deployment orders.
Colonel Vance looked at her, his expression a mix of professional hesitation and deep respect. "Captain Miller, this is a federal law enforcement operation now. Your jurisdiction—"
"My mother’s voice is on those tapes, Colonel," Sarah interrupted, her voice hard as steel. "My family’s legacy is tied up in what those men are trying to run away with. I am going."
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David stepped up beside her, placing a steady hand on her shoulder. "We’re both going, Colonel. We finish this together."
The Colonel met their gaze for a long moment before giving a slow, decisive nod. "All right. Transport is standing by at the pad. Don't do anything reckless; bring them in alive for the federal tribunal."
