Jasper isn’t wrong- this is cruel. It’s horrible that you’re being put into this situation, and that you have to do this to Spit’s TCPs…and their concern is valid, their points are sound. It really speaks to their kindness and empathy that they’re worried about this, and you appreciate the honesty. You tell them that they can question you whenever they feel the urge, and you’d never punish them for that.
You know that trying to win trust like it’s some kind of prize feels bad, and in most situations, it probably would be. It’s rough, and it’s hard to tell if any charity is really given for Spit’s team’s sake over being given for their own. But the truth of the matter is…Jasper could choose to go rogue at any time. They could leave the team without hesitation, and that’s a significant freedom that Spit’s TCPs will never have.
The alternative to this strategy is to leave them with a sadistic monster who makes them beg for the slightest sliver of affection, and twists their minds to make them think that this is good and normal. She doesn’t value them as individuals with thoughts, hopes and dreams…they have no freedoms, not any of them.
They weren’t even taught to speak aside from Hark, and it’s likely they don’t even know they have any choice in this at all. They’re being kept from seeking help, and frankly, they’re part of a cult. You don’t expect them to know much about cults, but you ask them to trust you- they’re bad news. And not only that, but Spit is willing to consider your team as her enemies, and she does horrible, horrible things to her enemies. Her team is going to try and kill them and everyone they love unless you do something, and god knows the extent she’ll go to.