His objective was to make his way to the South Tower, and draw soldiers out from its defence. This would make Van’s job so much easier, and give them a chance of completing the mission. He was unable to move at much more than a stagger, but he pushed on, hoping he would get there in time to make a difference.
It wasn’t long before he encountered more soldiers. Advancing slowly through the corridors, he found the defenders spread out and stubborn in holding position. But with growing composure, he battled through the pain and dealt with them ever more swiftly.
Now Zak started to enjoy himself a little. The atmosphere was fantastic – a grim setting, deafening noise, blood and destruction – this was real war! Not that he knew what real war was like.
The thrill was numbing the pain. But he wasn’t so keen on the stench. It smelt like a sewer.
After getting so into it, he was somewhat disappointed when Van called in with news of his progress.
‘Hey Zak, I’ve made it to the top. Thanks for taking some of the heat off. I’m going to burst in, do the business, and hopefully I’ll be joining you with one VIP.’
Zak listened in as Van launched his assault. There was a single burst of machine gun fire, followed by an exchange of fire which lasted a few seconds. Then, a gargling scream, unmistakably Van’s.
‘Van?’ shouted Zak.
There was no reply.
Zak puffed his cheeks. It was all down to him. If he could pull this off…
He continued on inside the castle towards the South Tower, but it took him some ten minutes and several confrontations to reach the base of it. The entrance to the tower led to a wide stone staircase that spiralled upwards.
He looked forlornly at the steep steps. He had used all his energy just to get to this point. But it was the only way to go.
