9
The stench of excrement, human and other, permeated air that was isolated from the ventilation system. The stone floor, solid steel ceiling, and force field walls kept the prisoners contained, but not isolated from the screams and curses of those being escorted from their cells when their sentencing was being fulfilled. Huddled in the middle of his cage, his body clothed only in what remained of his trousers, Derek shivered. He tried to focus on the chattering of his teeth, the goose bumps on his flesh. These were indications he was still alive. And as long as he was alive, there was hope he would be released.
Twice he had met with the advocate his mother had hired, and twice he was given news that would not sway the judgment in his favor.
“You were seen fleeing the establishment in a
