[IC] The Desert Cave
"Then I will have to take—" Gaja began, but saw something in Increase's expression that stopped her. "...very good care of them. That is a dangerous power to hold." She turned as she spoke, gesturing for Plaga to come in with the others, and shook her head.
"Claire was right. This was my... 'mission'. So everyone I bring, and everything they do, is in my name. I won't order them killed. I have no vendetta, and they are no threat. The dingoes will have their due, or they'll awaken in time to take shelter." She rapped on the cave wall with her knuckles and dislodged a bit of stone, freeing a small stream of shining water. "And if they do, they will survive long enough to recover their strength. They deserve that chance."
"Increase. The bits, please." Gaja held a hand out, palm upturned. She made eye contact, but seemed emotionally withdrawn. It was all the more striking for her typical expressiveness. "Your debt is paid. Vasati's too. And Claire will have my aid on her terms, in her name. Plaga... I've forgotten what we agreed. You can tell me on the way back to the camp. You have all played your parts very well."