Ascension II: Thanks But No Thanks

"It's done, he should be released immediately." Estes said after a final hand gesture.

"Good. Very good."

*

The ominous red phaser barrier in front of his cell changed to blue, then the ScrewBot appeared. "Pitcher, Robert J., inmate 245009P, follow me."

"What's this?"

"No questions will be answered at this time."

Pitcher complied and followed the bot through the cellblock, out past the common area and straight to the release portal. There stood the only free human who inhabited the Juno Detention Center - Warden Holmes.

"Looks like your lucky day Pitcher, I received an order to release you, commuted sentence, time served. You must have powerful friends."

"I wouldn't knew em." Pitcher said gruffly as the locklets were removed from his ankles.

"Anyway, through that door is the Prime Meridian Highway and freedom. Come back and see us anytime!"

Pitcher complained, "It's 200 kilometers to Juno Station, ain't hitching and stowing illegal?"

"Like I said, come back and see us anytime, ha ha ha!"