THE OUTER VAULT AREA
A stone fort rises from the center of a spherical cavern, hewn from the very rocks of its surroundings. Avenues of access radiate from it like spokes of a wheel, and weapons of all kinds are stacked row upon row between them; stands of rifles and carbines; and artillery parks of light and heavy cannon. The ramparts of the fort are festooned with banners and battle flags, and two Gatling guns in towers flank the entrance.
Lon strides purposefully down the main avenue his red leather map-case slung over his shoulder.
FORT ENTRANCE
TWO GUARDS, armed with rifles and fixed bayonets, snap to attention and step aside for Lon. As he mounts the stairs that traverse the gate, the MUFFLED CLANG of hidden machinery commences deep beneath his feet and a column begins to rise in the center of the fort.
THE FORT AREA
The column reaches its limit, disclosing another entrance. Lon pauses to check that he is alone before plunging through the opening.
THE FORT ENTRANCE
The two guards again come to attention at Louis’ approach.
LOUIS
(returning their salute)
What’s all the commotion?
GUARD ONE
Commander Turner is in the vault, sir.
Louis tries to push pass them, but they lock rifles and block his way. At this affront, Louis’ knife hand twitches.
GUARD TWO
Sorry sir. No one is allowed in, when the Commander is present.
LOUIS
By whose order?
GUARD ONE
The highest, sir. You can wait here if you like. He shouldn’t be long.
LOUIS
Be pleased to inform the Commander that I beg to see him in the guardhouse.
THE VAULT INTERIOR
Lon deposits his map-case on a shelf of a safe. He swings the door shut, and twists three dials. With a sigh of relief he departs.
THE FORT ENTRANCE
At Lon’s KNOCK, the two guards open the gate to him, just as Jonah and another arrive, suited up for guard duty.
LON
Just in time for the change of the guard, I see.
The guards exchange positions and the original duo are about to march away.
GUARD TWO
Lieutenant Toussaint left a request to see you in the guardhouse.
LON
Very well.
Lon and Jonah warily watch their retreat.
JONAH
All’s secure, sir. The workers have been liberated and are now on the way to the rendezvous.
LON
Excellent. Pass the signal to blow the train entrance. I’ll lock down the vault and throw away their “key,” so to speak. All that after I send our friend Louis away.
JONAH
Why? Why not leave him here?
LON
I know he wouldn’t hesitate to abandon us, but I can’t do the same to him.
JONAH
Let’s hope we don’t live to regret it.
Watch This Space 
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