Chapter 5 - The Sabotage
Before Daniel could switch off the engine, a dark luxury SUV pulled up behind them, blocking their exit.
A tall man in a tailored charcoal suit stepped out, accompanied by three private guards. It was Arthur Sterling—Congressman Sterling’s younger brother and CEO of Aether Maritime.
"Admiral Mercer," Arthur said, forcing a broad, pleasant smile as he walked over. "I heard there was a minor incident with your little girl last night. I came as soon as I heard. How is sweet little Nora?"
Daniel stepped out of his vehicle, his tall frame dwarfing the corporate executive. "Save the false concern, Arthur. You're operating high-pressure core drills in a naval restricted zone."
Arthur’s smile didn't fade, but his eyes turned razor-sharp. "We have full environmental clearance signed by the regional director."
"Your clearance covers low-impact acoustic mapping," Sarah said, stepping out alongside Daniel. "Not tearing into deep-trench hydrothermal vents that release parasitic biological hazards into the public water column."
Arthur looked at Sarah, his gaze dismissive. "And who is this? Your personal nurse, Admiral?"
"She is the medical professional who saved my daughter's life while your illegal drill was poisoning our harbor," Daniel declared. "This site is under immediate federal quarantine."
Arthur took a step back and signaled his guards.
"I'm afraid you don't have jurisdiction over private corporate operations, Admiral," Arthur said quietly. "And unfortunately, there seems to be a severe structural malfunction occurring on the seabed right now."
Suddenly, the crane barge offshore shuddered violently. A massive geyser of black, frothing water shot fifty feet into the air near the pier.
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"What did you do?!" Sarah gasped.
"We're sealing the well," Arthur said with a cold smile. "Permanently. Along with all the evidence down there. It's a pity you arrived just in time to witness an unfortunate workplace accident."
