To the forest!

You decide you feel uneasy about this weird culture business, and you've got nothing against a good hike. Plus, who doesn't love a secluded forest cabin?

You and Thomas travel for a little while, up and over a good few grassy hills before you decide to strike up conversation with a question; "Who's your friend?"

"She's a quiet one, reserved to the forest. She gets on fine by herself, certainly the independent type, though I do hear she gets lonely at times." He nods to himself, walking down another hill. Then stops and points a finger in the air, inhaling in thought, "Don't tell her I told you that last part, she likes her privacy."

You nod. "It seems you know an awful lot about her, how did you come to know so much?"

He waves his cane, resuming his original pace, "I've been here and there in my time, met people who've met people, been in the right places at the right times to see things that others prefer I not see, and eventually came to know what I've shared with you so far."

You nod, sensing he'd rather not share details just yet. You have more questions on your mind, but you also want to focus on getting to the forest and thinking about what everything he's said so far really means.