5
The return journey was a little longer because we had to stop at every river, stream, creek, and overflowing puddle so I could stick my hand into the water. Some of the waters weren't as glamorous as the pool.
I winced as I slipped my hand into the sixth puddle that day. The gooey mud squished around my fingers. I shuddered when something slithered over my knuckles.
My three companions sat on their horses nearby. One of them, Darda, had a frown on her face as she looked down at my hunched figure. "Must she do this for every puddle we come across? It is very demeaning to My Lady."
"Unfortunately, it is very necessary," Xander answered her with pursed lips. "The five gods may be anywhere in the world, so we must check everywhere."
I drew out my hand and flicked the mud off as I
