CHAPTER 9

After the meal, Sani rose from his seat and exchanged a nod with the man by his side before making his exit. He strode purposefully to a chair positioned within the dimly lit room, where four individuals were already seated. Sani's commanding presence was palpable as he addressed the group.

"I was contacted by our man from the other side," Sani began, his voice carrying an air of authority. "He informed me that the rat we're dealing with is a very cautious one." He paused, casting his gaze upon his loyal subject, his eyes unwavering. "We need to flush out this rat swiftly, before he manages to make contact with the other side."

Sani turned to his right, addressing Faruq with a decisive tone. "Faruq, make sure our communication line remains secure. Monitor all calls going in and out of the camp."

Faruq responded with a firm affirmation, "Yes, Sheaku."

The discussion continued for approximately 15 minutes, strategizing on the best approach to deal with the elusive rat within their ranks. Unbeknownst to them, outside the room, an individual was eavesdropping on their conversation. Beads of sweat clung to their forehead as they strained to catch every word. Suddenly, the eavesdropper heard footsteps approaching from behind, and panic gripped them as they realized that no one was meant to overhear this discussion.

Meanwhile, Hamza had been given specific instructions by Sani's second-in-command to meet them at a designated location after 20 minutes. Puzzled but obedient, Hamza made his way to the rendezvous point. As he neared the door, he spotted a figure standing there. At first, Hamza didn't suspect anything amiss, but as he drew closer, he observed the individual pressing their ear against the door, clearly attempting to eavesdrop on the confidential conversation within.

Hamza hesitated, uncertain of how to proceed. Should he retreat or raise an alarm? Their eyes locked for a fleeting moment, and Hamza was about to make a move when the stranger placed a hand over his mouth, signaling for him to remain silent.

In that tense silence, Nurudeen, the stranger, tried to reassure Hamza. He raised his open hand, indicating he meant no harm, and softly introduced himself, "My name is Nurudeen. I am a soldier sent by the military to rescue you and the others."

Hamza, his heart pounding, felt a mix of confusion and relief. He couldn't help but inquire, though in a hushed tone, "When are they going to come to rescue us?"

Nurudeen regarded the boy with surprise at his composure. He scanned their surroundings and cautioned Hamza, "I will return tomorrow. Until then, do not utter a word about this. You must understand the gravity of the situation here. If I am discovered, not only will I be killed, but you and the other children will also be in grave danger."

Hamza nodded understandingly. Nurudeen silently retreated into the shadows, leaving Hamza standing there, his heart racing. As he approached the door, Hamza gathered his courage and knocked, awaiting the response from the other side.