Cortex stared at his holes in disappointment before looking up at Researcher,
He stared at the rat mumbling off to the side, brows furrowing.
He didn't know what to make of it as he lowered his head and scampered forward, reaching out to poke the rat before skittering away with his hackles raised, ready to defend himself just in case.
At the mention of a stream, plants, and even dens, Karyo was dashing off in that direction before Researcher had even finished speaking. Their friend did talk a lot, after all, and they were sure they'd have plenty of time to listen later. Oh, don't get them wrong--some of her words were fascinating, and led to whole new adventures! Like the place she'd just discovered! But they wanted to go on the adventure now instead of listening to more words.
True to Researcher's description, there was a large oak shading several half-dead saplings by the riverbend, as well as several patches of grass, which were doing surprisingly well. Or perhaps not, considering they were literally right next to the water. Karyo sniffed at the array of plants, but there was no sign of the people who must have inhabited the dens.
Even the sparse greenery was a refreshing break from the constant heat and wind, though, and Karyo happily flopped over and rolled in the grass. This was a pretty nice place to live! --where were the others? Why weren't they over here enjoying the place with them? "HEY GUYS!" they barked. "COME CHECK THIS OUT!"