But the silence only fueled the captives' desperation; they began to scream hysterically, their cries echoing in the corridor as fear took hold of them, amplifying the tension in the air.
"Don't worry, we'll come back to rescue all of you," Rafael said, his voice steady yet pained.
He turned to leave, but his words only intensified the pleas of the women, their desperation echoing through the room.
"No, please take us now!"
"Don't leave us here!"
"Please, don't go!"
As the desperate cries of the women grew louder, Rafael and his two bodyguards hurriedly pulled Minerva along, making a swift escape from the cells.
Minerva stumbled a few times, but she didn't complain, allowing Rafael to guide her along without resistance.
Unaware of her quiet obedience which was unheard of, Rafael's focus was entirely on finding a safe way out.
