LEADER (impatiently)
Sit down! Sit down! We always welcome guests here.
The leader gestures for them to sit close to him, near the warmth of the fire. They settle amid a group of approximately 15 male and female androids who reside in the tunnel regularly. Two men hang an animal above the fire, which they had hunted before encountering them.
The animal remains skewered on a pole, its flesh intermittently rotating over the fire. The aroma of grilled meat brings satisfaction to Tom, who is abruptly reminded of their hunger. Lara gazes at him, her expression still marked by a trembling expression.
The two androids responsible for roasting start slicing the meat of the roasted animal. They pass a long slice of meat to the leader, who, overcome with hunger, sinks his teeth into the flesh, tearing it apart and chewing with gusto. Mesmerized, Tom observes the leader's mouth, fat dripping from his chin, which he wipes away with the back of his hand.
LEADER
You're fortunate that we succeeded in the hunt this time.
Tom hesitates to ask the leader for an explanation. The leader smiles at him, his face illuminated by the yellow glow of the fire. It's a smile reminiscent of a predatory and unrestrained wolf.
LEADER
We often go to bed on an empty stomach. Undoubtedly, the food you have brought will sustain us in the days to come.
Defeated, Tom and Lara fall into silence. The individuals surrounding them nod approvingly. They, too, partake in chewing strips of animal flesh. An android approaches Tom and offers him a piece of meat, followed by the same gesture toward Lara.
TOM (while chewing)
Let us continue our journey. We have no intention of disturbing you.
LEADER (Smirking with malice)
Enjoy your meal, for it shall be your last.
Tom, astonished, stops chewing. A nauseous taste fills his mouth, leaving him unsure whether to swallow or spit out the meat.
LEADER
Tomorrow morning, at dawn, we shall set you free. A few hours later, we will pursue you on a hunting expedition. There are androids here who need to sharpen their hunting skills. As a gesture of courtesy, we shall host you tonight at our modest dinner. And when we capture you tomorrow, you can partake in our next meal, by way of the fire, of course.