We're marched through dense brush to a hidden encampment—a scattering of tarps, huts, armed guards. A tall, scarred figure emerges, exuding authority. He introduces himself as Cordero, local warlord.Cordero interrogates us, suspicious of outsiders. Ramirez tries to spin a story about being smugglers forced ashore. Zach and Marta remain tight-lipped, while Elena and I keep glancing at each other, hearts pounding.Cordero's interest piques when he notices Elena's elegance, asking if she's "the rumored woman with a price on her head." She steels her jaw, refusing to confirm. My stomach lurches—word of her identity has spread far. Are we about to become pawns in another lethal game?