Elena dived beneath the massive oak table while holding the kids.
The heavy wooden tabletop protected them from falling room decorations above.
Water reached up to Elena's waist as she sat on her knees.
She pulled Lily and Tim into a tight, warm embrace.
Both children were sobbing hysterically and shaking from intense cold.
Elena: I have got you, you are completely safe now.
Tim: The water keeps coming higher, Elena!
Elena: Keep your heads above the line and breathe slowly.
Lily: Where is my mommy?
Elena: She will find us soon, just close your eyes tight.
Above them, a ceiling projector sparked loudly and short-circuited.
Bright blue electrical sparks showered down into the dark water outside.
A loud electrical pop echoed across the high ceiling arches.
Guests screamed again as bright lights flickered and suddenly died out.
Only emergency backup lights remained on, casting a dim reddish glow.
Elena held the children even tighter against her chest in the dark.
Water was dripping from her wet hair into her eyes.
She kept speaking soft, comforting words to keep them completely calm.
Outside the table frame, several adults noticed the maid saving the children.
Richard Sterling came wading frantically through the deep water toward them.
His expensive tuxedo suit was completely ruined and covered in mud.
He saw his children safe beneath the solid oak table structure.
Richard: Lily! Tim! Are you alive?
Elena: They are safe under here, sir!
Richard: Hold onto them tight, do not let them slip!
Elena: Get down here and help hold the table steady!
Richard looked ashamed as he realized he had fled without them.
He dropped to his knees in the cold water near the table edge.
Clara arrived shortly after, crying and clutching her wet arms.
She looked at the poor maid who was protecting her precious kids.
Elena was shivering violently but refused to loosen her protective grip.