Ep 13. Be Free

As the title suggests, "Be Free" is an episode about new beginnings, confronting the past, and making decisions for the future. The episode opens with a heartwarming scene of Taystee, who is still determined to appeal her wrongful conviction despite the odds stacked against her. She receives a letter from one of the law firms that she had contacted earlier, which gladdens her heart. This motivates her to give her best in her upcoming hearing.

Meanwhile, Piper struggles with the aftermath of her fight with Maria, and her subsequent transfer to Ohio. She is now stuck with her problematic bunkmate Madison, who has a dubious past and a talent for making life miserable for others. However, Piper is not one to give up easily, and she uses her wit to get into Madison's good books, hoping to earn a reprieve from her tyranny.

Back in Litchfield, the other inmates mourn the loss of Daddy and Barb, who were both killed in the raid. There's a sombre atmosphere in the air, as everybody contemplates the senselessness of their deaths. Red grapples with her guilt over her involvement in the riot, and the realization that it had dire consequences for many of her friends and allies. She embarks on a journey of introspection, and reflects on her past, and the forces that led her to a life of crime.

Meanwhile, Blanca is on the verge of being deported to her native country, despite her pleas to stay in the US. She is heartbroken at the prospect of leaving her life behind, and not being able to see her boyfriend again. However, she is given a glimmer of hope when she receives a surprise visit from her lawyer, who brings news of a potential opportunity for her to remain in the US.

As the episode progresses, we see the different characters grappling with their fears, insecurities, and regrets. Frieda, who has always preferred to keep to herself, opens up to her bunkmate about her past, and the roots of her distrust for others. Cindy, who has always found it hard to reconcile with her mother, is forced to confront her history of neglect and abandonment, and the need for forgiveness.

The episode culminates with Taystee's hearing, where she is given one final chance to plead her case. She delivers a powerful speech, where she talks about the injustice that she and other black inmates have faced, and the need for the system to change. Her words resonate deeply with the judges, who surprisingly, rule in her favor. There's jubilation all around, as Taystee's friends and allies celebrate her victory.

Overall, "Be Free" is a poignant and contemplative episode that showcases the different facets of life behind bars. It's a reminder that even in the bleakest of circumstances, there's hope and resilience. It's about redemption, forgiveness, and the need for empathy and compassion towards those who have fallen through the cracks of society. It's a tribute to the human spirit, and the power of friendship and solidarity to overcome adversity.