Chapter 7 - Fire on the Runner
The heavy brass candelabra struck the lead operator square across the chest. Burning wax, melted tallow, and glowing wicks flew through the air, showering the front rows of pews in sparks and smoke. The lead operator grunted, his breath exploding from his lungs as he went crashing down onto the white silk runner, dragging two flower arrangements down with him.
The white silk runner instantly caught fire. Dry lily petals and silk ribbon erupted into a sudden, bright wall of yellow flame that cut cleanly across the center aisle, separating the rest of the tactical team from Julian and the children.
Screams erupted from the pews. Society women in silk gowns scrambled over each other to reach the side emergency exits. Pews were overturned, crystal vases shattered on the floor, and smoke began to billow upward toward the towering chandeliers, triggering the cathedral's emergency sprinkler system.
WSHHHH!
A heavy, torrential spray of cold water erupted from the ceiling high above, soaking the sanctuary in seconds.
The immaculate wedding transformed into a chaotic nightmare of falling water, burning silk, screaming guests, and blinding smoke.
Julian didn't look back. He grabbed Lily’s small, muddy hand in his left fist, shielding her body with his own as he sprinted down the side aisle toward the heavy wooden doors of the north transept.
Behind him, through the curtain of falling water and smoke, Evelyn stood at the foot of the altar. Her white satin gown was completely soaked, clinging to her skin like a wet shroud, her pale blonde hair plastered to her skull, her expensive makeup running down her face in dark, ink-like rivers.
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She looked like a vengeful spirit rising from a drowned grave.
"Find them!" Evelyn shrieked to the remaining men, her finger pointing toward the north exit. "Do not let that baby leave the city! If Clara’s child talks... we are all going to prison!"
