"That's for the best," she offered. "You are more likely to survive that way." Somewhere since her arrival, she had become more cynical and suspicious. It wasn't how she used to be, but it was the only way to feel safe in the village, as though she had some means to protect herself.

"There's an unspoken rule in the village that you have to work and contribute. We trade among each other and share food that we gather, but it's a barter system." Which seemed to suit everyone fine.