Owel's mind was a fog of pain and disorientation. He couldn't remember how long he'd been unconscious, but he was aware of the dull ache in his head and the cold, hard surface beneath him. His eyelids fluttered open, and he was greeted by the dim interior of a moving car.
He tried to move, but his hands were bound, and his body felt heavy and sluggish. The realization of his situation hit him like a punch to the gut. He had been captured and was now at the mercy of Senator Bueno and his men.
The car's engine hummed steadily, and he could hear the low murmur of voices from the front seat. He strained to listen, trying to make out their conversation.
"Senator, what are we going to do with him?" one of the men asked.
"We'll take him to the usual," Senator Bueno replied, his tone cold and
