[ The duckling doesn't flinch away when Clive goes to pet the top of her head. In fact, she seems fine with it and more than trusting despite how meek her current form was.

Clive not only saved her, but protected her, too. What was there not to trust? ]

I am human! Well... normally. [ It was going to be awhile a much more difficult to explain how this world worked. One step at a time! ]

... And yes, I do. But I can't leave— not yet. [ She straightens herself up to address the man, the feathers on the front of her chest puffing up ever so slightly. ]

I came into this forest willingly to find my friends. Something... something bad is happening to the people here, and I want to help.