"We can start by sending a small team to assess the situation on the ground," Enzo suggested. "Someone who can blend in, talk to people without drawing attention."
"I'll go," Zara said without hesitation. "They know me there—even the people who were too scared to join our movement will talk to me. I can introduce your team members as friends from Kingston who want to help with community development. It'll give us a chance to gather more intelligence and start building relationships."
Clara considered this for a moment, then looked at Chen. "I want you to go with her," she said. "Your experience with undercover work will be invaluable, and Maya can come along to offer medical support—we can frame it as a health outreach initiative."
Chen nodded, while Maya smiled. "I've been wanting to do more field work," she said. "There's only so much I can do from the clinic here."
Over the next three days, they planned every detail of the mission. Zara worked with Enzo to set up secure communication channels that couldn't be intercepted by The Root's surveillance teams. Isabella helped them prepare cover stories and gather supplies—everything from medical kits and food to educational materials they could distribute to the community. Clara spent hours going over the plan with them, emphasizing the importance of patience and listening more than talking.
"Remember," she said the night before they were set to leave, "this isn't about us proving we can win. It's about giving the community the tools they need to win for themselves. Zara, you know these people—follow your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, pull back. We can always try another approach."