With privacy abound, the pieces clicked into place. Her explanation confirmed what conclusion he had slowly been coming to himself.

"Ahh, a way to lead them on a false trail! Aye, their demands for this Bonding is strange, but there does seem to be a wide berth for those who proudly proclaim their partnership."

Well! It doesn't mean he can't be a part of the ruse, too. He turned his claw to properly take her hand and nodded.

"Then for the time being I shall join the act. The folk here may treat us less like outsiders if they presume we've made the leap and perhaps give us more information." Durant needed to think. Think, think... let's look at the rubbish around here, see if anybody threw out something helpful.

"The paired ones wore matching jewelry, a pendant or a wrist guard. Can we fashion something that can be seen?"