The discussion lasted hours.
Some argued for trust — the organization had changed, learned, grown.
Others argued against — too much pain, too many scars, too much risk.
Aiko listened to everyone.
Finally, she turned to Haru.
"What do you think?"
Haru thought about it.
About the doctor's sacrifice.
About future Haru's peace.
About Monica's fading form.
About all the people in this room who had suffered enough.
"I think... we go. Not as subjects. As partners. With conditions."
"What conditions?"
"Transparency. No secrets. No experiments without consent. And the right to leave — anytime, for any reason."
Aiko nodded slowly.
"And if they refuse?"
"Then we know they haven't changed."
Kenji spoke quietly.
"And if they accept?"
Haru looked at him.
"Then maybe... we can finally stop running."