[ It was impossible not to watch that lower lip lick, though he quickly glanced aside. Timelines were ... strange and he felt a little self-conscious for having felt a small tug at the unconscious gesture on her part. ]

Sounds like it might be a good use of our time, err ... pardon the unintentional pun.

If I'm hearing you right though, you're saying this red dust has been present during some chaotic moments for awhile now?