Time passed by, and Marcus and the rest of the squad grew increasingly anxious. However, they knew a rescue op couldn't be rushed. They had to be patient and methodically clear the area.
Four high-tensile carbon-fiber tethers were securely anchored to a sturdy metal strut outside the breach. The other ends were carabiner-clipped to the harnesses of four strike team members. Those four pushed back into the dark corridors to search, while the remaining four stayed outside to hold the perimeter and manage the lines.
If the search team fell under the hypnosis again, the perimeter team would physically drag them back out. It was a crude method, but it was safe.
If they couldn't find the Captain within a few hours, they would have no choice but to contact Austin back at Command and request heavy reinforcements...
