Shadows Within The Past

Chapter 64: Talk of the allies

Ethan said, "Let's interrogate them our way."

Alexander held up a hand. "Wait, lemme ask Emily about our no-torturing policy."

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Really, Alexander? Now?"

Alexander nodded. "Yeah, it's important. Emily's got a soft spot for these things."

Ethan sighed. "Fine, call her. But make it quick."

Alexander dialed Emily's number.

"Hey, kiddo," Alexander said when Emily answered.

"Hey, Uncle Alex," Emily replied.

"Need to ask you something," Alexander said. "Can we... persuade these guys without going too far?"

Emily's voice was curious. "What do you mean?"

Alexander hesitated. "Just need your okay on something."

Emily's tone turned playful. "Last time, Uncle?"

Alexander chuckled. "Yeah."

Emily replied simply, "Yes."

Alexander hung up and turned to Ethan.

Ethan raised an eyebrow. "Well?"

Alexander nodded. "We're good."

Vinnie spoke up, "You know, boss, I didn't realize one little 'yes' from Emily could make someone's life a living hell."

Alexander's expression turned grim. "That's why I asked. She's got power."

Ethan nodded. "Time to get creative."

Alexander thought for a moment. "Let's use Vinnie's tech skills to dig up dirt on them. Blackmail's just as effective as torture."

Ethan grinned. "I like the way you think."

Vinnie nodded. "Already on it. I've got their financials, secrets, and hidden snack habits."

Alexander raised an eyebrow. "Snack habits?"

Vinnie shrugged. "You'd be surprised what people hide."

Ethan chuckled. "Let's use that leverage."

Ethan's eyes narrowed. "You're not cooperating. That's a mistake." Alexander's expression turned grim. "Time to persuade you." He pulled out a knife, its blade glinting in the dim light. The crew member's eyes widened. "No, please!" Alexander's voice was cold. "You're involved with the Eclipse File. We want answers."

With a swift motion, Alexander pressed the knife against the man's leg. The crew member screamed, clutching his leg in agony. Alexander's face remained impassive. "Talk." The man's voice shook. "Okay... okay... we'll tell you." Vinnie looked on, his expression uneasy.

Alexander's gaze never wavered. "About the Eclipse File. Now." The crew member gasped, "It's... a project... hidden facility... experimenting on people." Alexander's grip on the knife tightened. "Who's behind it?" The man's voice trembled. "We don't know... swear... just hired hands."

Alexander's eyes locked onto Ethan. "We need more information." Ethan nodded. "Let's dig deeper." Alexander turned to the next crew member. "Your turn. What do you know?" The man's eyes darted wildly. "N-nothing, I swear!" Alexander's smile was cruel. "We'll see about that."

He repeated the interrogation process, using the knife to extract information.  Each crew member revealed bits and pieces about the Eclipse File, but the mastermind remained elusive. Vinnie's unease grew, but Ethan's resolve never wavered.