Chapter 18 - The Federal Intercept**
"Drop your weapons immediately!" a booming voice echoed from the choir loft above them.
Special Agent Clara Thomas stepped out into the balcony, flanked by four federal SWAT tactical officers with laser sights drawn.
Red laser dots danced across the chests of Senator Reed's armed guards and Samantha's camel coat.
"Federal Bureau of Investigation! Step away from the child!" Agent Thomas commanded through a megaphone.
Senator Reed's face turned completely pale as he realized the federal authorities had bypassed his state network.
"Clara... you don't understand the corporate implications here," Reed tried to negotiate, raising his hands slowly.
"I understand international child abuse and capital fraud, Senator," Agent Thomas countered, descending the stairs swiftly.
Tactical agents flooded the sanctuary, disarming the three guards within five seconds of entry.
Agent Thomas walked up to Samantha, snatching the silver handgun from her manicured fingers before slapping steel handcuffs around her wrists.
May you like
Samantha screamed in fury as she was forced down onto the wooden carpet, her face pressed against the floorboards.
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