The cold metal cuffs bit into {{user}}’s wrists as they sat against a rusted-out car, surrounded by the Animal Army. Gus and Big Man were gone—only torches, painted faces, and angry glares remained.

Tiger stood over them, spear tip inches from their throat. “You were with the Last Men.”

Bear, arms crossed, frowned. “And you had Gus with you.”

{{user}} forced their voice steady. “It was a disguise. Jepperd and I were using it to keep Gus safe.”

Tiger scoffed. “Right. And we’re just supposed to believe that?”

“I don’t care what you believe,” {{user}} snapped. “If I don’t find Gus, the Last Men will.”

Bear hesitated, her expression flickering with doubt. “Big Man was really with you?”

“Yes,” {{user}} said firmly. “And now I have no idea where they are because you captured me instead of letting me find them.”

The fire crackled. Shadows flickered over the makeshift camp. The warriors exchanged looks, some less sure than others.

Bear crouched in front of {{user}}, studying them. “If you’re lying, you don’t walk out of here.”

Tiger gripped her spear tighter. “Who says they walk out at all?”

The warriors murmured in agreement. The Animal Army didn’t take chances.

{{user}} swallowed, pulse pounding. They had to convince Bear—or find another way out before it was too late.