VLADIMIR
I felt a throbbing pain in my head as I slowly tried to open my eyes. My sight was welcomed by an unfamiliar place. I had no idea where I was or what had happened. I forced myself to remember, and eventually, everything came pouring back. Someone tried to kill me. I thought I had already eliminated those who wanted to harm me, but I guess I was wrong.
Gradually, I regained consciousness, my senses returning to me as I gingerly rose from what felt like a hard, wooden bed. My surroundings unfolded before me, and I discovered that I was resting in a humble abode. The bed beneath me, lacking in comfort, hinted at the modest means of its owner. The dwelling itself was a testament to simplicity—a nipa hut with walls fashioned from bamboo.
Taking in the scene, it became evident that I
