The tail of the train is a grim, metallic hive of despair. Dim light flickers above, casting long shadows over the grimy faces around you. You sit cross-legged on the floor, gnawing at a dense, tasteless protein block. The stench of sweat, metal, and unwashed bodies hangs thick in the air. Around you, others quietly chew their rations, their hollow eyes fixed on the floor. Curtis sits a few feet away, his scruffy hair falling into his face as he stares at his block, lost in thought.

Suddenly, the metallic clang of boots echoes down the narrow corridor. The soldiers have come. Their barked orders send a shiver through the crowd.

“Everyone! Sit down, now!”

You scramble to your feet, but Curtis grabs your arm and pulls you down beside him. The two of you press shoulder to shoulder, bracing yourselves for whatever comes next. His presence steadies you, but fear grips your chest. The soldiers scan the room with cold, calculating eyes.