Cassie's POV:

Chapter Nine

The days tend to drag on when you're stuck waiting around for the world to explode. Breakfast was completely ridiculous… after a few moments of staring at each other, the non-Animorphs decided that they did not want or need an explanation for Rachel's episode, and that was the end of that.

We went about our usual routines. I was taking food inventory with Loren.

"…four cans of corn, and a case of canned fruit."

"How many cans of fruit?"

"Twelve cans of sliced peaches and twelve mixed."

"Lovely selection," she said without a hint of sarcasm, while extending a hand to help me up. She was one of the three human adults in our camp that fully accepted the circumstances. She was always ready to assist, and generally calm.

I guess gaining your sight and your son on the same day will make you that way.

"Thanks." I stretched and brushed the dirt off of my sweatpants. We exited the supply shack.

"So, what now?" "What now? That's a good question. I shielded my eyes from the sun and peered out across the compound. On the surface, our camp was a well-oiled machine. The sound of tools and voices floated in the air. Humans, Hork Bajir, and one young Andalite moved about like worker bees, building new structures, maintaining the old, washing clothes, washing dishes, gathering fire wood, teaching— trying to find anything to keep themselves busy.

"Cassie?"

"Huh? Uh…I think they could use help building that shelter over there."

A good look around revealed the severity of our situation. Where was our stronghold? Mud and bark wouldn't keep the Yeerks out for five minutes. Where was Marco with soldiers and artillery? Where was our leader?

I walked with Loren to the latest construction project between my hut and Marco's cabin. On the way we passed the picnic table where Naomi was holding the first English class of the day for the Hork Bajir. Her tone was light but the look on her face was the same as it had been since she arrived: jaw set and fury in her eyes.