Whispers in the storm

Outside, the attackers regrouped for a final assault. Claire shouted from the basement. "The files are almost uploaded! Just a few more minutes!"

Nathaniel cursed under his breath. "We don't have a few minutes."

Eleanor looked at him, determination hardening her features. "Then we make time."

They barricaded the remaining entrances, using furniture and whatever they could find. The attackers began breaking through, their relentless assault shaking the walls.

Nathaniel fired until his rifle clicked empty, then switched to a handgun. Eleanor stayed close, her own weapon ready.

"Almost there!" Claire yelled.

The attackers broke through the front entrance, and chaos erupted. Nathaniel fought with a ferocity Eleanor had never seen, his movements precise and deadly. She fired at anything that moved, her fear replaced by a fierce will to survive.

A sudden beep from the basement signaled the upload's completion. Claire's voice echoed through the chaos. "It's done! The files are out!"

Eleanor felt a wave of relief, but it was short-lived. The attackers were still coming, their numbers overwhelming.

Nathaniel grabbed her arm. "We have to go. Now!"

"What about Claire?" Eleanor shouted.

Claire appeared at the top of the stairs, a determined look on her face. "I'll hold them off. Get out of here!"

"No!" Eleanor protested, but Claire was already moving, firing at the attackers as they closed in.

Nathaniel dragged Eleanor toward the back exit, his grip firm. "She knows what she's doing. We have to trust her."

Eleanor's heart broke as they fled into the night, leaving Claire behind.