[ Although her question would be best directed at Jade, Ace figured that she wasn't necessarily looking for a concrete answer. Reassurance, perhaps? Everything about the melodist’s tone implied that she would be more than happy to reach the end of that particular journey, regardless of what waited there. To part with the nightmares that only grew with intensity the longer she remained in the presence of the crystals, for reasons he did not yet fully understand. ]

Have you noticed how heavy the air has become? That's a sign of progress… would explain your headaches, too. [ Even as he was trying to avoid the subject, it still somehow managed to come up, his voice filled with quiet concern. ]

But if our aim is the planet's core, I don't think we're anywhere close to it yet. Maybe we'll find our shortcut tomorrow- [ An attempt was made at sounding hopeful, and he squeezed her hand very gently. ] -until then, conserve your energy.

[ Not in any rush, he measured his steps deliberately. He did not want to walk away too far from their camp, though there was some comfort in knowing they could always teleport back to it if necessary. ]

… Maybe we could take a better look at one of the frozen lakes we've seen before.