In a burst of joy, he embraces Tom, who is still standing. Tom kneels from exhaustion.
CLAUDINE'S UNCLE
Now we can hunt much more easily. Finally, we’ll get fat. (laughs)
INT. NIGHT. AT THE FIRE AT THE ENTERANCE HALL OF THE MINE
The group gathers around the fire. Quietness prevails. Outside, the storm subsided. They chew on some meat. Claudine's father is still euphoric. He breaks the silence.
CLAUDINE'S FATHER
Do you know what's important now, the most important thing?
TOM (in wonderment)
No?
CLAUDINE'S FATHER (in a calm voice)
My daughter, Claudine, has reached the age of maturity. I want you to take her. She will be a good wife for you. She will bear you children.
Tom sneaks a glance at the girl who lowers her eyes in embarrassment due to the occasion. Behind her natural shyness, hides a wild girl. Tom has found favor in her eyes from the beginning, but he hasn't dared to approach her too much.
CLAUDINE'S FATHER
Tom, we're going extinct. Do what you need to do.
TOM (hesitant)
I didn't plan to linger here for a long time. Even if I were to stay with you, in the end, I would continue on my own path.
CLAUDINE'S FATHER
Take her with you when you're ready. (Broken voice) Just take care of her.
TOM
Yes, sir.
Tom nods his head softly. The girl’s father signals to her with a slight nod, and she slips suddenly and settles beside him. They steal glances at each other. Then, hesitantly, Tom raises his hand and embraces her shoulder. The girl also approaches Tom. The girl's mother suddenly begins to sing a sad song, while the rest of the small group joins her, trying to move on with the day's routine. Later, the girl decisively rises, extends her hand to Tom, and when he stands up, she leads him into the darkness of the pit. The mother and father look at each other in silence, only the whispering of the burning logs can be heard.