Exposing the Rot

The three girls fell silent, frozen in place.

Gwen had braced herself for this moment. Her voice was calm but steady. "Gwen's team gave you more than supplies—we offered you solidarity, a sense of belonging, and the strength that only a team provides. Out here, you're nothing alone. It's the group that keeps you alive."

She paused, her gaze hardening. "So if you're determined to leave, you'll need