Lost in more ways than one

Makara had always been good at reading landscapes and uncovering archeological secrets, but she had never developed the finer points of her social skills. Even though Gloom shrunk from her introduction, she looked at her with the same placid, bright-eyed gaze she had for everyone. She didn't alter her behavior much to accommodate the smaller, older female, but she slowed her step so that they were more nearly matched. Gloom's silent agreement to follow her didn't stop Makara from talking her ear off.

"It's always better to have another set of eyes," she continued, more to herself than to Gloom, "I'm an experienced researcher, but there is something to be said for a different perspective! Everyone has something to bring to the table, no matter where they come from. It's all about your history, yes? The sum of your experiences? Your life has taught you certain things that mine has not, and vice versa." Mak could talk the ear off a stone wall, and poor Gloom was no different. "Have you spent much time in Auster?" she continued, this time pausing long enough for her to answer. Makara's eyes were cast down, focusing on the soil ahead of them. The way the earth was disturbed further inland was truly strange. It was as if a great serpent was winding its way beneath the surface, creating small ridges and valleys.

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