... I have not the knowledge or experience that Era has.

[ But she listens, for compounds at least is something she understands, if they had access to any such things; to make it work, devise a system, it was science in a way, even if what she lacked was experience in nurturing. An odd passing fancy, but... strange, overall. ]

Whether or not they can survive could serve as an indication of progress. They might be affected by the energy here as well. Perhaps that aspect is worth looking into...