The windbreak holds. Stone walls tower close on either side, and the storm thunders somewhere far above, softened to a steady hush.
River settles with the team, the fresh tracks on the shelf beyond still visible through drifting snow. The rest of the pack eases, one by one, into the sheltered pocket.
Mack
That is the first good breath we have had in a while.
TicTac
Maybe we are actually through the worst of it.
Harold
The path still matters. But... yes, this is better than a blind push.
Banks
You keep your feet under you. I keep my eyes on the snow. That seems fair.
Joseph Lafayette loosens his stance beside the sled, watching River and Banks with careful attention, but saying nothing.
Ally
We did good back there. I mean it.
Pine
Then we rest while we can.
The team falls quiet, shoulder to shoulder in the shelter, the next stretch waiting just beyond the wind.
✓ Quest Accepted
Hold the team together through the rest of the pass
✓ Quest Accepted
Learn what Banks intends next
“"Did everyone have enough to eat? Not much to do while we wait out the storm."”
SUCCESS (Good Reasoning, rolled -2)
River’s question hangs in the still air, and the shelter answers with small sounds, a chew, a swallow, a tail thump against snow.
Mack
Enough to keep moving, yes. Not enough to waste.
TicTac
I am fine. Really. Better than fine.
Harold
I ate. So did the team. That is the useful answer.
Banks
I had my share, and I will keep watch while you all settle. Fair trade.
Joseph Lafayette glances from face to face, then nudges the food bundle closer to River without a word. Snow taps softly at the shelter mouth, and a few grains slough from the unstable shelf above.
Ally
We were hungry earlier, but this helps. Thank you, River.
Pine
The storm has not moved on, but the pack is still together.
Quest Complete
Learn what Banks intends next