“I taught myself,” Nolan replied without hesitation. “Libraries, public computers, forums. When the world gives you nothing, knowledge becomes your power.”

Elias studied him, intrigue and respect flickering in his eyes. “If you solve this, you can ask for anything you want. Money, opportunities, whatever you desire.”

Nolan considered it. “Food first,” he said, voice steady, though the faintest grin appeared on his face.

Amused but curious, Elias nodded. Nolan approached the safe and worked with the precision of someone who had solved countless complex problems without guidance. His fingers flew across the keypad, inputting sequences and adjusting cycles. The tension in the room built with every passing second.