'Sorry I took so long' Lara apologised 'but I had some business that needed taking care of'.

'I see' 47 replied.

'Shall I take you to the sword?' Lara asked as she began walking.

'Of course'. 47 replied as he followed Lara.

Lara and 47 made there way to the fireplace. Lara reached just under the chimney shaft of the fireplace and activated a hidden mechanism. The fireplace retreated into the wall and moved to one side revealing a secret passageway. 47 followed Lara casually into the dull passageway. The walls were a dull grey and damp with moisture, they were an unwelcoming change from the glamour and beauty of the grand hall. Not far from the entrance the passageway turned left and in the corner was a rickety old wardrobe that looked as if it was on its last leg. Around the corner there was a stairway leading down to a room containing many priceless artefacts. Both made their way down the stairs.

Meanwhile Zip, Alistair and Winston were heading down the motorway to the safe house. Alistair was on his mobile to the British museum.

'Yes… Thank you… Goodbye'. Alistair put the phone down and turned to Winston and Zip.

'I was right' Alistair said. 'The British museum never sent anyone out to Croft manor'

'What now?' Zip asked.

Alistair took out his phone again and started dialling a number.

Back at Croft manor Lara and 47 had made their way into the treasure room and were approaching the podium with Excalibur. 47 was speechless. He had stolen some pretty breathtaking items in his life; but this was absolutely amazing. Laras phone rang.

Back on the motorway Alistair was still trying to get through to Lara

'C'mon! C'mon!' Alistair said to himself.

'Hello.' Lara said.

'Lara! Thank God!' Alistair said with relief. 'Listen I checked with the British museum and they have no record of sending anyone out. He is most likely trying to steal the sword and kill…'

BANG! Beep. Beep.

'Lara? Lara!' Alistair shouted.

Alistair head fell into his hands. Winston turned to Alistair with despair.

'What is it?' Winston asked.

Alistair looked at Winston. 'The lines gohn dead… I heard a shot.'

To Be Continued...