Back Through Solania
The journey back took considerably longer than Ludwig expected, although nothing delayed them. For once, there were no armies blocking the mountain passes, no Usurper waiting somewhere ahead, and no desperate race against an approaching calamity. Even the creatures inhabiting the more dangerous stretches of Solania seemed content to leave the group alone.
With no reason to rush, Ludwig did something he had almost forgotten how to do and took his time. They traveled through the mountains without forcing the pace. Sometimes he stopped simply because he liked the view. Other times, he wandered from the path to inspect strange formations carved into the cliffs or stood beside an overlook for several minutes with no purpose beyond staring at the world below.
Tull noticed by the second day.
"You've stopped again."
Ludwig stood at the edge of a ridge.
"Yeah."
"Why?"
"Nice view."
Tull stared at him.
Redd walked past them.
"Vacation."
Ludwig pointed at him.
