The underground river kept flowing beside them as Naviga and Minerva walked in thoughtful silence. The discovery of Aldric Venn's journal had put a shadow over their mood. What had started as an adventure had turned into something far more serious. The knowledge they now carried felt heavy, like carrying rocks in their pockets that grew heavier with each step.
Hours passed in this way. Naviga kept careful track of time using the mental discipline she had learned during her previous life. Four hours became five, then six. Her legs hurt from the constant walking. She could see similar tiredness in the way Lady Minerva's steps had lost some of their earlier energy. They had been moving almost without stopping since entering the ice mountains. They had only taken short breaks for meditation or meals. Even magi at their level of cultivation had limits to how long they could keep going.