Yeah, I agree! They tell time, but the result had more to do with the sand.

[Were he cleverer, he would start connecting dots, but... nope. Instead he nodded at each reply, and was relieved when she finished.]

It doesn't seem like you lost anything, then. I was worried it'd be like the regular cocoons, born as a blank slate!

[He sighed in relief and ran his fingers through his hair.]

Then my work here is done! I don't know how, but I'm getting a familiar feeling that sand under the clothing isn't comfortable! I won't force you to stand around here feeling really itchy!