Larksong Grotto blame it on the time

It was her belief that things were going well. That she could do this - be a leader, collect some followers and maybe even survive in the grotto. Yes, she had doubts, but she and Reek were getting closer to their goal. And here was this stranger, a potential recruit -- being scared off by the arrival of the hybrid. As soon as the golden-coated Ditty appeared, Tavi shot him a sharp look; not knowing what to expect was one thing, but as soon as he opened his mouth, she felt her fur bristle. Her first thoughts on this encounter (I got this!) quickly dissolved. And the more Ditty spoke, his voice hasty and obnoxious, the less control Tavi felt over herself.

Ditty -- she tried to quiet him with a word, but couldn't get her voice through his thick wave of conversation. Ditty, this time louder, she hoped it garnered his attention. Tavi didn't want to be too overbearing here, or it would make her look weak. Out of control. But, well, she was. The stranger in their company did not need to be barraged by either of their voices.

When there was some quiet, Tavi replied to the interloper's question: Nothing is very easy here. But, if you head south along the ridge you'll find your way. With that said, she looked at Ditty, her expression hardly friendly; hopefully he'd stay quiet.