Ankyra Sound There are times that walk from you like some passing afternoon

Ephraim's sentiments were much Raleska's own -- she followed his gaze back down that blackened throat, a shudder climbing her spine in unison. Had it always looked so... diabolic?

She trudged after Ephraim reluctantly as he rose, noting the way his head was slung low. Her posture was much the same -- somehow going back to that hellish pit was akin to resigning to a life in permanent despair.

She ducked her head as they went under, a cold breeze seeping into her skin as it clawed past on its way out to the sound. In some melodramatic way it made her think of her mother's soul leaving at last -- chilling all it came across as it tore from the grotto to the endless skies.

All that was left was to climb down the little precipice to where the chamber was.. Raleska froze, her eyes searching for Ephraim's gaze in the dark. Her breath came in quick little hitches, a queasiness stealing into her stomach and making permanent residence there. They'd decided tentatively that the grotto might be best.. but where? Did they just leave her there, or bury her under stones..?