In the end, the group became smaller before Ludwig ever stepped through the gate. Tull had no interest in spending his newly earned freedom from Sloth wandering into another abandoned territory Ludwig had somehow inherited.
He had business waiting deeper within the Empire and, in his own words, had already survived enough of Ludwig's "vacation" to understand that remaining nearby was dangerous.
Redd agreed to travel with him.
However, the little fire spirit floated straight through the portal beside Ludwig and Celine without bothering to ask.
The gate closed behind them after they emerged. Ludwig took two steps and stopped, causing Celine to halt beside him while Thomas hovered between them. None of the three spoke as a breeze passed through the grass around their feet.
Actual green grass.
Ludwig slowly looked around. "...What?"
Celine's expression had gone completely still.
