Re: Chocolate Bars
Hmm...tough call.
We haven't seen a whole lot as to how the Romulans treat prisoners, though, so that's something of an enigma. We do know, however, that the mind probe can be pretty traumatic. Something tells me, though, that if you proved a worthy adversary, that might add some honor to your imprisonment and execution--perhaps make it swifter, less painful.
As for Rura Penthe...that's pretty damn brutal, especially for one with such an intolerance for cold weather like me (I mean, when I can actually have my way, I prefer the room temperature to be between 80-85 F...usually 83). And no doubt the work is grueling and the rations (probably) no good. I suspect it was the work that killed, or one's fellow prisoners, rather than torture from the guards.
As for the Cardassians...talk about knowing how it's going to end. The one "pro" in their direction would be that whatever's going to come, you're probably not going to rot in prison for decades on end (though it may happen if they think you'll be useful in a prisoner exchange? no idea). The torture, however--especially for foreigners, I would guess--seems like they've probably got it down to even more of an art than the Romulans or Klingons, and I have to admit I'd be very afraid of what they might choose to dish out.
I do not know where we saw any hints of "humane" treatment, when it came to the Cardassians, except for the fact that the Chief Archon wanted to make sure O'Brien's appearance was preserved for his little CourtTV appearance. Had that not been a stipulation, it's my feeling there's no telling what he would've faced.
All of these fates look quite ugly. Ultimately...IF my speculation about the honor component is correct, though...the Romulan fate might well be the most preferable, if you've conducted yourself in an upright enough manner to merit a quick and honorable execution.
(Though in my fanfic, there is a place called Lessek on an outworld of the Cardassian Union, where strange things have been known to happen...
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