Audience: Harrowhark Nonagesimus

[probe]

Comments

[bonetiddies]

But for what purpose would it be testing us?

[probe]

Good question.

The thing doesn't always think the same way we do.

[bonetiddies]

Does it want anything except to feed on us. . . ?

[probe]

I don't know. [a bristle of annoyance.] It does not often give us insights on the things it does. It just does them, and we are left to clean up the messes left behind.

[bonetiddies]

. . . Do you really believe that when it's finished with us, it intends to let us leave?

[probe]

[a little bit of blood drips down from his crown.]

I don't. But I will do whatever I have to in order to get what's mine.

[bonetiddies]

. . . Good.

[She's honestly relieved that he doesn't think so, because that seems like bullshit to her.]

We can't approach this hoping it will all just work out if we indulge enough. We have to be smart about it.

[probe]

You should be prepared to deal with whatever comes next if you want to survive. [so yes. he's agreeing with her.]

[bonetiddies]

How would you suggest preparing?

[probe]

I hope you understand that I'm not going to tell you to work together and make friends. [dryly.] Fight for what is yours. Nobody else will.

[bonetiddies]

I will. But I've decided that what is mine includes promises that have been made to a number of individuals.

[probe]

I am the last person who would argue your right to do that.

[he'd fight for his daughter, after all.]

[bonetiddies]

[She nods! The emotion is respect. Pride is a little more ruthless than she is, but she feels that it is warranted.]

We're approaching the end, correct?

[probe]

I think so. [he shifts.] It got active towards the end the first time, too.