As Drake sprinted towards the secret passage leading into the mansion, his mind raced with the imminent confrontation awaiting him. As he neared the entrance, he was suddenly intercepted by his co-soldiers, their expressions a mix of confusion and concern.
"There you are, Soldier, where have you been?" One of them demanded, a hint of suspicion in his voice. "We've been searching everywhere for you. The Commander is furious."
Drake took a moment to steady his breath, his mind working swiftly to make up a convincing story. "I apologize for my absence. I received urgent news regarding a family emergency. My mother... she fell very ill, and I had to attend to her immediately after the job order was done."
The soldiers exchanged glances, a palpable tension hanging in the air. "Why didn't you
