"Let me out, let me out!"
The sharp shouting echoed through the cold, damp dungeon.
Porfirio felt as if the mountain chill was seeping into his very bones; right now he was wrapped in a tattered wool blanket whose pattern could no longer be made out, shivering as he curled up in a corner of the cell.
He might have come from the lower ranks, but after so many years of comfort and privilege, he could no longer take this kind of suffering.
The many officials and generals imprisoned along with him were nowhere near as spirited as he was; they didn't enjoy the luxury of single cells, but at least that let them huddle together for warmth.
A slit was opened in the skylight of the dungeon.
"Your Excellency President, Clan Leader Juliano sends his regards. He says as long as you nod, Texas will escort Your Excellency and your country's 'mission' safely out of the country with full honors."
