The Prison (4)

In that somber corridor, devoid of any presence beyond the imprisoned souls yearning for freedom, a heavy silence hung, punctuated only by the subdued sounds of the inmates' efforts to console one another and express their happiness at being free.

Tears of relief and joy flowed freely, tracing paths down weathered cheeks. They had endured much, but finally it was over.

While marching toward the exit, Captain Lain and the others remained silent while observing Erik's back as he led the way.

Fischer was thinking about a lot of things, but Captain Lain didn't have fewer questions than him.

"What are you planning to do with us?" Captain Lain asked Erik.

"What do you mean?" Erik asked.

"You surely haven't freed us just because of a whim, right?"

Erik looked at her. "That's exactly the reason I did."

That shocked Captain Lain even more. "Why?"