The holding cell fell quiet once again. Seiri let out a slow breath and pushed herself upright from the bunk. She brushed a loose strand of hair away from her face and looked toward the barred door, listening to the faint sounds of footsteps approaching. A few moments later, keys rattled in the lock. **Click.** The heavy barred door swung open, and the guard stepped inside. His eyes briefly swept across the cell, confirming everything was in order. "You've finished changing," he said. Seiri gave a small nod. "...Yes." The guard gestured toward the doorway. "Good." His tone remained calm but authoritative. "Stand up." Seiri placed her feet firmly on the floor and prepared to rise as the guard waited patiently beside the open cell door. The chapter ended with Seiri beginning to stand, awaiting the guard's next instruction.
