Brian and I follow Mother Safira to the kitchen, where we are given two heavy sacks each. She does not explain but helps us get used to the extra burden. She takes two packs herself, but they seem lighter. I don’t mind, as long as we can get to our Captain’s mate before it’s too late.
“Usually, we go around the mountain, but I will take you a faster route since this is urgent. Please do not reveal yourself. If you do, everything will be over,” the no-longer gentle woman commands as we are about to leave through the door. Once again, we only nod in response. She knows best, so it’s best to get in line. Even Brian, in his wild agitation, understands this.
We walk at a quick pace. Not a marching pace that will last us all day, but one that will get us there fast. I have plenty of endurance,
