[farrenlock]

"I believe they responded to my emotions." Metra gently pet Bastemon's head, more out of curiosity than to give comfort. "Metra, that tickles! You're going to make me drop them if you keep that up!" Bastemon griped back at her as they tried to keep from squirming about.

Alice yawned loudly with arms stretched overhead. She nearly boxes Nicky with the careless movement, but she doesn't appear to notice. Once they arrive in the cave's mouth, the females of the group go about setting up camp. Alice found supplies to make a fire, while Metra brought bedding in the form of a few vine hammocks.

After the last hammock was set up, Metra stand and goes over to Alex's side. Hidden within her satchel was a thin, but smooth bendable branch. She takes his hand and guides him away from the cave, but not far enough to not be seen by the group. "We must talk. Now," Metra says sharply.