I think that is normal. Apparently the coral releases a gas that pacifies people - so far there are only documented effects on the locals, but I think it may serve to keep us complacent as well. Without a large motivating factor, people tend to give up on any investigation efforts. In my case...

[Her hand draws up to her chest, tightening on the fabric there.]

I have many dear friends here who would not be alive back on their home worlds. This is the only life they can have, and I cannot allow it to be taken from them.