Silvertip Mountain You will hear music and then you will not

What they found in the caves was not even close to what she had expected. And after seeing the crazed, lost look in Merrick's eye, she wasn't sure if things were any better than finding some intruder, locked in battle with the bear king. She certainly didn't feel any better. Her heart broke to see him this way, and even more when Merrick stated he was trying to speak to Astara from beyond. After everything she had seen and felt within Ursus, she didn't necessarily think speaking to the dead couldn't be done, but she wondered if he was even in the right state of mind for such things. 

Aves stood next to her, blocking most of her view as though he were trying to protect her. But from what? She slowly pushed forward and towards the grieving king. Merrick, she said gently, taking a few more steps before stopping. How long have you been down here? It was dark and stuffy. Maybe she should have checked on him sooner. Maybe we could all go for a walk outside, she suggested. He needed some air and clearly a distraction. Sometimes, taking a break helps me to better see what I'm missing.