"Maybe the Perimeter Guard doesn't see them as a threat since they don't seem to attack people unless provoked." Billy moves behind Harry to watch his back, arms resting at his sides but ready to whip out his revolver or knife should he need to. There's no sight of any of the parents yet, and Billy doesn't see any subtle shifting in the dirt around them. At the same time, he can't help but notice how awfully quiet it is around this particular area--no birds chirping, or other animals drinking from the river, except for some flying insects hovering over the water. They'd seen some nonthreatening wildlife while they were walking along the river earlier, so why was only this area silent?

"I wouldn't recommend it. Most mothers will fight to the death to protect their young. I don't see her around, but she can't be too far. She wouldn't just leave all these eggs unprotected. Then if she did leave, she won't be gone for long."

Billy's eyes flick in the direction of the river, but there's no disturbances on the water's surface.

"And have you noticed how quiet it is here compared to the places we passed through earlier?"