Chapter 50: Battle Plans

Olutola's shadow generals dispersed to gather the army, leaving him to strategize the coming assault. The calm of the morning was a stark contrast to the tension that built within him. He stood on the balcony, gazing at the bustling city below, contemplating his next move.

Zara joined him, wrapping her arms around his waist. "What's on your mind?" she asked softly.

"We need to hit Malik hard, but smart," Olutola replied. "We can't just storm in without a plan."

Zara nodded. "We need to know his weaknesses, his strongholds. Maybe it's time to use the network."

Olutola agreed. The network, an underground alliance of hunters, had informants scattered across the city. He had kept his distance from them, preferring to rely on his own strength, but this was too important. 

He made a few calls, arranging a meeting with a key contact. As they prepared to leave, Zara caught his arm. "Be careful, Olutola."

He gave her a reassuring smile. "Always."

---

The meeting took place in a secluded part of the city. Olutola and Zara arrived at a small, dimly lit café, where a man waited for them at the back table. He was an older man, his face lined with experience and wisdom.

"Olutola," the man greeted, extending a hand. "I'm glad you reached out. I've heard about your rise in power."

"Good to see you again, Chief," Olutola replied, shaking his hand. "We need information on Malik."

Chief nodded, leaning back in his chair. "Malik is a dangerous man. He's built a fortress in the outskirts, heavily guarded. But I know a way in."

Olutola listened intently as Chief outlined the plan. There was a secret tunnel that led into Malik's stronghold, known only to a few. It would be risky, but it was their best chance at catching him off guard.

---

Back at his new home in Ikoyi, Olutola assembled his generals to relay the plan. "We'll infiltrate Malik's fortress through the tunnel. It's narrow and dark, but it's our best shot."

One of the generals, a shadowy figure with piercing eyes, stepped forward. "What do we do once inside?"

"We split into two teams," Olutola explained. "One will disable the guards, the other will find Malik. We take him down, no mercy."

The room buzzed with anticipation. Olutola could see the determination in their eyes. They were ready.

---

That evening, Olutola and Zara prepared for the mission. They donned dark, flexible clothing suitable for stealth. Olutola checked his gear, making sure everything was in place.

Zara watched him, her expression serious. "You're ready for this," she said, her voice firm.

Olutola nodded. "We've come too far to fail now."

Before they left, Olutola took a moment to himself. He lit up a joint of Igbo, the ritual calming his nerves and sharpening his focus. As the familiar sensation washed over him, he felt ready.

---

Under the cover of darkness, Olutola and his shadow army moved through the city. They reached the hidden entrance to the tunnel, concealed by overgrown foliage. Olutola led the way, his senses heightened, every sound and movement magnified.

The tunnel was narrow and damp, the air thick with the smell of earth. They moved in silence, their footsteps barely audible. As they neared the end, Olutola signaled for the group to halt.

"Remember the plan," he whispered. "Team A, take out the guards. Team B, with me. We find Malik."

The shadows nodded, their forms blending seamlessly with the darkness. Olutola could feel their readiness, their loyalty. He knew they would follow him through anything.

---

The tunnel opened into a large, dimly lit chamber. Olutola's heart raced as they crept forward. They split into their designated teams, moving with precision and stealth. 

Olutola led Team B through the corridors, his eyes scanning for any sign of Malik. They encountered a few guards, who were swiftly and silently taken down by his shadows. 

Finally, they reached a heavy, iron door. Olutola knew Malik was behind it. He took a deep breath, his hand steady as he pushed it open.

Malik stood at the center of the room, his back to them. He turned slowly, a cruel smile spreading across his face. "I've been expecting you, Olutola."