The leader laughs. But he whistles and collects up his people, and Carver hears a door click. Then silence. Then nothing but Pope's stare on him.

He swallows hard. He doesn't try to move, or untie himself. Pain is a distant thought. His body doesn't feel like his body anymore, just a dream he's having.

"...sir," he tries, voice hoarse. Everything hurts. He's never been beaten like his before. Never.