[ She hadn't been sure what would happen. But she hadn't expected the bird to... poof into nothing. Her knife lands with a dull thunk, hilt-first, on the rock face behind it and bounces off. Ciri purses her lips. ]

No. We agreed to do a job. Let's finish what we started.

[ A bit embarrassed, considering how easily Hilda had taken the aping birds in stride, Ciri sighs and strides over to get her knife. Doesn't seem damaged, at least. Back to hacking at crystals. ]

Don't worry about it. I was just... startled. Haven't heard that voice in a long time.

[ She hopes the bird won't come back. But now she also feels like she has to answer some of Hilda's questions, or things will just be... extra awkward. ]