Roadblock

I listened to her instructions and sat down.

"I'm Leader Liliana. I'll keep you safe." Without preamble, she introduced herself.

With those words, she produced a small stiletto from seemingly nowhere and handed it to me.

"Do you have a spot for this? Somewhere you can access it quickly if needed?"

I nodded, "Yes, I do. But I haven't learned to use one."

"Doesn't matter. It's a last resort anyway." Liliana brushed off my concerns.

I tucked the stiletto into the right trouser leg of my new suit, concealing it with a thin material. I could easily retrieve it if necessary.

Leader Liliana crossed her legs, her combat uniform fitting snugly. Her pant legs stopped at her knees and her flat shoes looked comfortable as she adjusted herself.

"If I say drop down, put your hands around your head and curl up. You don't leave this car unless I open the door. Got it?" She instructed, her gaze steady.