Chapter 34

The expeditionary party traveled north without rest. Though the terrain grew increasingly rugged and the temperature dropped with every passing day, the experience itself was not as fraught as they had anticipated. Despite initial hostilities, Riftan and Kuahel formed quite the team.

Both men valued efficiency above politics. Though there was still the occasional battle of nerves, one would always concede if they thought the other's judgment sound. As a result, they managed to reach the northern region of Balto without much trouble.

Maxi's anxiety swelled every day that Riftan ignored her. She stroked Rem's mane as she cast an apprehensive eye over the back of his head. So far, all her attempts at conversation had been met with a reserved manner and the barest minimum of words. It sometimes felt as though he found her mere presence intolerable.