31.

Zakariah's car rolled to a stop at the designated location, the engine purring softly as he cut the ignition. Stepping out into the cool night air, he surveyed his surroundings with a practiced eye, taking note of every detail. He had meticulously orchestrated this operation, rallying his loyal associates and assembling a formidable backup force to accompany him. Their vehicles trailed behind, maintaining a discreet distance as they shadowed his every move.

As he approached the building, Zakariah was accosted by a group of rebels who promptly subjected him to a thorough frisking. He complied without protest, knowing full well that they would be foolish not to search him for concealed weapons. Yet, unbeknownst to his captors, his most prized possessions lay hidden within the soles of his shoes—a contingency plan born of years of experience and cunning.

Three of his seven weapons were confiscated during the search, but Zakariah remained unfazed. He had anticipated this setback and was p