Jaws of Death

Chapter 26

Daredevil was inside. He had sprinted from behind his hiding place like a deer, pruning his ears and nose to guide him on his journey. He had heard heartbeats, footsteps, swear words and gunshots. His nose picked up scent of sweat and body odour. The men were completely diverted by Frank Castle. It had given him enough cover to sneak to the side of the warehouse. He didn't meet anyone on his path.

He had opened the emergency exit door as silently as he could and slid inside. Even the short sprint had left him feeling breathless. It had never happened before. A voice inside his head reminded him of how broken he had become. There was a good chance this was the final war he would be fighting.

For Karen.

His heart beat agitatedly against his ribs. Calming himself, The Daredevil assessed the situation. He gingerly moved and felt a staircase on his side. A flight of stairs climbed upstairs while another went downwards. He had a feeling he knew where the women were kept. Concentrating enough, he could hear voices from down below. Voices of despair and defeat.

The women were in the basement.

But freeing them now, would lead them straight into gunfire. He could still hear gunshots and screams from men outside. Frank was keeping them occupied. What had life become to? He had always disagreed with Frank Castle but here he was, depending on the latter to help him get what he wanted.

Daredevil shook his head. Lives were at stake. Arguing over the morality of individual actions with Frank wasn't going to save these women. It won't save Karen.

Deciding his next move, he stepped on to the staircase and tried to sense what waited for him in the upper floor. He could sense the presence of two, maybe three men there.

Clutching the rails to keep his shivering hands under control, The Daredevil climbed upstairs.