21: Inside the Walls

Ria stood in line, her heart pounding in her chest as she watched the massive gates ascend, revealing the path into the island fortress. The soldier coordinating the line pushed a prisoner forward, his gruff voice demanding obedience. "Move it," he barked, his tone leaving no room for defiance. Ria's eyes widened in awe as she witnessed the technological marvel that allowed the gates to rise so high above the ground. The sight momentarily distracted her from the impending reality of her new life behind the fortress walls. But the way the soldier commanded the first In line brought her back to the present, and she obediently followed the line of prisoners, her mind racing with questions and uncertainty. The line moved slowly forward, each step bringing her closer to the entrance. Ria glanced around, taking in the maximum security measures that surrounded her. Soldiers stood at every tower and corner, their watchful eyes scanning the surroundings, ready to quell any distu