“I think it would be a mistake to assume the life forms in here operate a rational food chain.” Dr Ngata countered. “In the Cradle, we recorded almost three dozen different mutations. They varied drastically in physiology, but were for all intents and purposes part of the same organism. Sometimes the different elements would attack each other, like an autoimmune disease in Humans. But for the most part, they were unified in removing foreign bodies from their host. Namely, us. That’s my theory, anyway. Even if the worm said it didn't have 'direct control' over what may lie ahead, that doesn't mean they don't share common programming."

The scientist hopped over a small boulder. They were moving at a fast walk, and while the regular environment suits handled 90% of the exertion, Dr Ngata was still beginning to breathe heavier in between sentences. “It's a shame we didn't get a chance to study the creatures we've found so far in more detail. It's a major development that they harbour a facsimile of intelligence, but we need to study where that intelligence really lies. With them? Or somewhere else.” A distant screech punctuated the xenobiologist’s theorising. All the soldiers raised their weapons slightly closer to a firing position. “Let’s cut the chit chat. Everyone keep your eyes on a swivel.” Thebes ordered. 

They continued walking up the steep dried out riverbed, in silence, for thirty minutes. Eventually, a high, steep cliff face blocked their way, with the sides of the canyon blocking either side. “There are handholds; we can climb this.” Thebes confirmed. Dr Wetherall palmed the wall. “I don’t think this is natural. Something built it.” He looked back the way they’d come, at the steep riverbed. “If it’s meant to keep us out, it’s not doing a good job.” 595 surmised, looking up the side of the sheer face. “Lets scale it. We’re sitting ducks out here.” She grabbed the first hand hold and hauled herself up.