"It's in a small village about ten kilometers away from Oakridge Town, or rather, it's in the mountains behind it. The signal is weak because it's far from the power lines."
Why did he run off to such a remote village all of a sudden?
It was definitely suspicious for Nathaniel to suddenly run off to a remote village like that.
How long would it take to drive there?
Lance quickly and efficiently checked the map software.
"We'll have to take the highway if we go by car, and the mountain paths are inaccessible. If we hike up the mountain, we probably won't make it there today."
That would waste too much time.
Elliot narrowed his eyes, swiftly put on his coat, and declared, "Get a team ready and arrange for ten helicopters to be here within half an hour."
He could not wait around, so flying directly was the most efficient option.
Lance opened the computer's 3D map mode and examined the miniature view of the mountaintop using satellite imagery.
"It's doable, Mr. Jenkins. There's a small field on the mountain suitable for helicopter landings. I'll arrange it immediately."
"Good."
Throughout the entire process, Lionel stood still, completely ignored.
He knew he had let his emotions cloud his judgment, so he eagerly took on tasks.
"Elliot, I'll organize a team and prepare for departure."
Elliot turned to glare at him, walking over with a stern expression.
"You'd better pray Nathaniel doesn't run. If your loose lips alerted him and delayed our mission, I'll hold you accountable for this grave mistake, both professionally and personally."
Lionel paled and subconsciously straightened his back.
He understood Elliot's meaning.
Professionally, he would face repercussions at work, possibly suspension or even dismissal from his position as deputy chief.
Personally, facing the Jenkins family's punishment meant that he would likely be summoned to the altar hall for severe punishment, perhaps a whipping.
Since joining the Jenkins family, Lionel had never faced such harsh criticism from Elliot.
Bringing up family discipline indicated Elliot's genuine anger.
If Nathaniel escaped, it would be Lionel's responsibility.
A hint of melancholy flashed in Nathaniel's eyes.
He suddenly remembered the field on the mountaintop.
The helicopters would likely descend there, and they would follow the GPS to find them.
He placed the vegetables he had picked into a basket, returned to the yard of a simple house, and set the basket down.
Then, he told the woman inside, "I have some guests arriving. I'll be back soon."
The woman inside asked, "How many guests are there? Are they staying for dinner? Should we prepare more dishes?"
Her voice was soft and gentle, with a youthful tone.
Nathaniel smiled. "No need. This house is small and can't accommodate guests. Also, there won't be any chance to host them in the future."
The woman continued, "Mrs. Snyder will be back soon, so hurry up with your guests. If you miss dinner time, she'll be upset."
"Alright. I won't be long."
Taking several deep breaths of the fresh mountain air, Nathaniel walked toward the mountaintop with heavy steps.
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