62 Deception and Retribution

Ria walked alongside the guard, her heart pounding in her chest as she made her way through the labyrinthine hallways of the prison. The weight of the recent interrogation still lingered, but the presence of the guard brought a modicum of reassurance. She knew she was heading back to her cell, to the familiar embrace of her cellmates who had undoubtedly been worried sick about her sudden disappearance. As they approached Ria's section, the guard halted, her eyes meeting Ria's with a mix of understanding and empathy. "You're almost there," she said softly. "Just a few more steps, and you'll be reunited with your cellmates." Ria nodded, gratitude welling up within her. "Thank you," she whispered, her voice tinged with both relief and anticipation. With that, the female guard handed over the responsibility to another guard, a woman who exuded an air of empathy and compassion. The new guard, a seasoned presence in the prison, opened the gate leading to Ria's section. The sound of