51. Failed Assassination

Two guards escorted a woman toward the cell. One of them unlocked the door and gestured for the woman to step inside. Lyla took just one glance and felt a chill run down her spine.

She wasn't even sure if this person was a woman. The newcomer's physique was broad and muscular, her hair cut short, and her expression menacing. If it weren’t for the fact that Lyla had stolen a few glances to confirm she had no Adam’s apple, she might have believed this was a man.

The woman threw Lyla a cold, challenging look. Lyla stared back, refusing to back down. She knew that any sign of weakness would only invite more aggression. On the outside, she tried to remain calm, but inside, every nerve was on edge. Her hand discreetly slid toward the makeshift weapon hidden beneath her pillow—that rolled-up paper, sharp enough to defend herself if needed.

But the woman made no further move. She simply plopped down on the lower bunk across from Lyla, stretched out, and soon began snoring loudly.

Lyla lay ba