Some protests.

"Like...Like no social media? or email or anything?" Cassie whined. "You can't be serious? Is this the stone ages or something?"

"It is a simple life," the Mother Superior answered. "It is our life. And for the next year it is your life. Perhaps it will give you an opportunity to consider your life and the path you choose. In any event, you have ****. You will place your devices on my desk before you go to your rooms." Her implacable gaze silenced any further debate.

"And we can't leave? I'd just like to take a hike and maybe see the town or something," Wanda said.

"You can submit a request and if your conduct has been acceptable it may be granted. But not for some time. You have some time to prove yourselves worthy."

The girls sat glum and silent, some of them staring at their feet.

"What if we just leave?" Amber said, a note of challenge in her voice. "What are you going to do? Lock us up?"

"You are free to leave. But if you leave without permission you are forbidden to return. And you will be provided no assistance. My understanding is that you have no money. That was the agreement with your parents. You will have to make your way in the world without assistance, without resources and without help. If that is the choice you wish to make, you are free to make it."

Amber's mouth opened in protest, then closed in horror. The other girls snuck looks of despair at each other.

"Very well," the Mother Superior said. "Sister Mary will show you to your quarters, and will give you your labour for the rest of the day."