Chapter 122: A Family Divided
1822words
They went fast. They ran over roads, breathing hard and unevenly. They didn't know the destination; to stay still was not a choice.
They find a secret spot and enter quickly, their bodies aching from the fall. They realize they are safe now, but this hiding will not last a long time. The search for methods of resistance had to start.
They kept going forward even though their bodies felt pain and were very stiff. They had to find a place where they could rest, somewhere everyone could come together and prepare before doing anything else.
They find one old warehouse on the far side of town, not an easy choice but the only option they have. The warehouse looks dark and cold, but still, it gives them some privacy.
While making changes, they discussed what to do next: It was clear that Thorne and his team had to be revealed. But it is still very important to also stay safe themselves. They needed help in this circumstance and discovered the ideal alternative.
They talked to Chief Olumide, explained their issue and asked for his help. At first, the Chief did not look like he wanted to help them. But, when they told him more details about the device and how dangerous it was for everyone in that place, he agreed immediately.
In Olumide's house, a meeting was taking place. Eki and Dapo walked in with both hope and worry inside them; they understood it was dangerous but felt there were no other options left to consider.
Chief Olumide was in the big living room to welcome them. He looked tired and worried but also had a bit of strong will showing in his eyes.
"I am done with the death-announcing trade," she giggled. "Now, I'm just a mother."
Eki and Dapo look at each other with worry in their eyes. They understand very well that talking about the family's past will bring arguments, but it is their final chance. We must speak the truth now.
In the living room, a group of family members came. They did not look the same; they were different in their ages and how they appeared. The atmosphere in this place had a feeling of anticipation. Everyone could sense that something important would occur soon.
"Chief Olumide began to talk. His voice was very serious. He started to explain to them about the things that got stolen, how the curator betrayed everyone and also shared information on how dangerous this crime group can be.
The room became quiet, and the family started to listen carefully. They felt surprise, anger, and disbelief; some did not want to accept the accusations while a few looked like they knew it all along.
A big fight starts, and the family is divided into two sides. The room got very serious and full of tension. Eki and Dapo watched this quietly, feeling a strong weight in their hearts. They had started something very dangerous, like opening Pandora's box, and now they were unsure how to close it again.
The Olumide family, they were not okay. Blames kept increasing and anger kept growing. Eki and Dapo saw with great surprise as the family they respected so much started falling apart right in front of them. It was a difficult thing to see, not normal for Olumides.
The biggest disagreement is about inheritance. Some family members have a very perfect idea of the Olumide clan, thinking it stands for values like honour and honesty. But, it looked like some other people understood the truth in what Eki and Dapo had spoken - truths that were sorrowful but significant.
Chief Olumide stayed still, his eyes viewing the disorder with both sorrow and resolve. He understood that facing reality could be hard, but it is a step the family needs to make.
"Stop!" he shouted, his voice echoing in the room. The arguing stopped and everyone looked at him.
"We, together as a family," he spoke with a firm voice, "carry our hidden truths and unseen mistakes like other families. But we must not let these secrets destroy us."
His words stopped suddenly, and the room became quiet. Family members looked at each other, their faces showing a mix of anger, sadness, and understanding.
"We need to accept the truth," Chief Olumide said. "We have to see our past, even if it hurts." This is when we can start to recover."
Eki and Dapo looked at each other with hope shining in their eyes. Maybe Chief Olumide was now going to speak the truth. They started to uncover the corruption that had been causing problems for their family for many years.
"Let us unite," Chief Olumide said with strong resolve. "We must identify those to blame and make sure they face justice."
Family members showed they agreed by nodding their heads. It is small, but it is a beginning. Eki and Dapo started to feel hopeful. The Olumide family was also ready for a fight. They were ready to confront Thorne and his group with us.
However, they understood that moving forward would be very hard. Thorne was a powerful opponent and he wouldn't hesitate to defend his territory. They must be ready for any condition.
In the end, Eki and Dapo felt very important. They came up with a plan, and everyone else liked it too. So, they were prepared to deal with obstacles that might come up later.
When leaving Olumide's mansion, they turn to look back at the house. It looks like a symbol of wealth and power. They understand what might come next could be hard, but they choose to continue this path. The future is not certain, yet they prepare for it side by side.
"We did it," Dapo breathed, relief washing over him. "We got him to listen."
Eki nodded slightly, a faint smile beginning on her lips as she said, "This is just the start." Afterwards, she added, "But still many distances to go remain."
Their eyes went to a big house, showing richness and strength. But it also suggested a family divided by inside conflicts. They understand the future might bring difficult challenges, but they still choose to face them with courage.
With much urgency, Dapo said, "Ayo knows what to do next: we should find her."
Eki said yes. They needed to meet again to discuss what to do next. Thorne and his companions were not far off, they still carried risk with them.
They think very fast in a car. They need to find a way to expose Thorne and his gang to the law, but also they must protect themselves and the powerful people around them.
"We must be careful," Eki said with worry in her voice. "Thorne will not allow things to go so smoothly."
Dapo nodded and said, "We need to think about what he will do next. We should be in front of him."
In the next few days, they kept hidden, preparing for what was coming. They knew it was important to be cautious but also felt that time was running out.
"We need to collect proof," Eki said. "We require a strong case against Thorne and his group."
Dapo showed he agreed with a nod. "We must find people who can say what we are saying is true," he added
First, they spoke to journalists who are well-known for their work in investigations. They told these reporters a story - about stolen things, a bad curator, and very strong people behind all of it.
At the start, journalists did not show much interest. But after hearing Eki and Dapo's story, everything turned serious. They see there is something very special here—a story with the power to touch people in many places.
They made a promise to assist Eki and Dapo, saying they would "dig into the story" and discover what is true. It was a small achievement, but it showed movement in the right direction.
Eki and Dapo knew that true safety was not possible because Thorne and his group showed they would do anything to protect their secrets. Therefore, being safe meant always staying vigilant - never relaxing or becoming careless.
During the investigation, they understand that their enemy is very strong. Thorne and his group have many powerful connections and have cooperated in secret for many years.
Eki and Dapo worked on the puzzle very focused. Little by little, the picture appeared; it showed a pattern like a spider's web covering everything nearby. Thorne was in its middle - the one controlling all of this.
As they kept investigating, threats began to come. Strange phone calls and messages with warnings of danger became a constant reminder of the risk involved. But, to feel scared was not something they could do. They had to continue, so the truth would come out.
When they were busy working at night time, someone knocked at the door. Eki looked at Dapo with worried eyes, showing her concern. They didn't let anyone know their location.
Eki, very gently and slowly, walked to the door. Her hand almost touched the handle. She looked into the peephole but there was nothing inside to see. After taking a deep breath, she opened the door.
From the other side, a girl came. Her face appeared very tired and she looked pale. Eki felt like he recognized her, yet couldn't recall where they had met before.
"Can I help you?" Eki asked, her voice filled with caution.
The woman hesitated, her eyes darting around nervously. "I... I have information," she stammered. "About Thorne."
Eki and Dapo exchanged a hopeful glance. This could be their big break.
"Come in," Eki said, stepping aside.
She walked into the house, her eyes looking all around. She seemed very scared as if she thought something bad would happen soon.
"I understand," she whispered, her voice very soft like a gentle breath. "I have been watching."
Eki and Dapo looked at each other with confusion. They did not know who this woman was or what she wanted from them.
"I can help you," she continued. "But you have to promise me one thing."
Eki and Dapo nodded, their curiosity piqued.
"Please promise, keep me safe," she said with a voice shaking. "Thorne is very dangerous; he will remove me without a second thought."
Eki and Dapo exchange glances full of bravery because they have encountered peril before, so now they fear nothing.
"We'll protect you," Eki said confidently. "We're ready to take on anything."
The lady's face appeared relaxed, and she gave a nod. "This is nice," she said. "Because I am aware of the place Thorne is concealing himself."
