Ryn turned back to the entrance and gave a slight nod, knowing Mira would catch his gesture.
Seconds later, the doors to the storage area opened slowly.
She moved first, slipping through the area with ease into the loading bay.
Mira lifted her hand once, signaling to the rest of the captives. Shapes peeled away from the darkness one by one.
No one ran or spoke; they knew the stakes too well.
The captives emerged onto the abandoned platform in small groups, eyes wide as they took in the rails, the wagons, and the yawning tunnel ahead.
Ryn watched them approach, then spoke.
"Lay down in the wagons," he said quietly. "Don't move."
They obeyed without question.
"I'll cover you with the tarp," he continued. "When we reach the checkpoint, I'll whistle."
He paused, making sure they were listening.
"When you hear it, hold your breath until we pass through."
No one asked why.
Straw rustled softly as bodies settled into place.
