12. Explanations

 Ignoring, for the moment, all the weirdness of the people around you (because let’s face it, at least they’re mostly human and helping you), you ask about the deal that the girl mentioned before.

 Lot nods, leaning back. The deal kept them safe, he explains. The people of the settlement were felons, were Antherians, didn’t like their way of life. But his people – the fauns, his small family – were stronger and longer lived. So the deal was made. The humans kept out of the forest, his people kept out of the settlements. Sometimes they traded goods, but there was no contact. It was safer that way.

 Safer and dull, the girl interjects. She doesn’t understand why they can’t beat the humans into submission and rule over them.

 Lot laughs, stroking the girl’s head. So, now you know, will you be going to the settlement?