Evening fell as we walked. If we made it near the summit before we camped for the night, we could set out in the morning and arrive back at my workshop before noon.

I made a passable stew of rice, potatoes, eggs, herbal spices and salt for dinner. I was able to finish cooking before sunset.

Judging from the state of her body, nutrition was a concern, but it was clear she wouldn't be able to do it herself, so I fed her by carrying the spoon to her mouth. Perhaps due to the way I carried it to her mouth slowly, without concern for it getting cold, tears began to well up in the eyes of the elven girl.