>>5517754 >>5517787 >>5517854 >>5517990<span class="mu-i">I require information. If you could wear my shell throughout your day so that I may observe your daily life, in addition to answering some questions, then it would aid me greatly. Once I am able to begin my undertaking then I will be in a position to return such aid.</span> Slight disappointment leaks out. A pause. 「Ok.」 With that, an agreement is struck.
You attempt to converse more on the return journey, but are interrupted by another transmission. 「Less.」 Your reply is interrupted. 「Quiet. Tired.」 <span class="mu-i">Understood.</span> The creature, Takigi, returns to its nest in silence. It is a single room made out of brown rectangles of plant material, and packed with strands of soft plant material. More soft plant material covers the floor. In the center of the room sits a large container. The presence of ashes and dim coals indicate that it is used for the extraction of heat energy. To the right are mats made of a similar material to the floor, upon which two more creatures sleep. One is much smaller than Takigi, which could be a result of either sexual dimorphism or the creature still being in its growth stages. You will need to inquire later.
Takigi gathers together with the other creatures for warmth and begins hibernating. Initially you are concerned about the length of this hibernation, wondering if it is best for you to return hibernation as well, but it is scarcely a tenth of a day cycle before it rises once more.
<span class="mu-i">Is a tenth of a day cycle your normal period of hibernation?</span> Surprise. Fear. Recognition. 「This short.」 You intend to inquire further, but the other creature rises, and you are ignored once more. The two creatures appear to be close. The second creature starts the energy extractor, while Takigi goes to retrieve combustible material.
<span class="mu-i">What is the nature of the relationship between Takigi and the other creature?</span> . A feeling of love is transmitted. 「Mate. Mother of child.」 <span class="mu-i">Mother. Then that creature is the opposite sex?</span> Confusion. 「Obvious.」
The conversation is continued in bits throughout the morning. You find that Takigi's mate is referred to as Nui, and the offspring Kinzou. While you cannot understand the morning conversation, you do manage to make out the words for "yes", "no", and "ring". It seems that your appearance is being discussed.
After consuming a combination of reheated baked grains and boiled green plants, Takigi departs. <span class="mu-i">Are you performing labor?</span> 「Yes. Rest day. But. Need funds.」 <span class="mu-i">Funds. Is this an item used in place of resources to exchange for needed resources?</span> 「Yes.」 <span class="mu-i">Are all needed resources exchanged for this way, or are some provided by the hive?</span> 「Confusion. Detail more.」
