It seems unnatural. No need to risk traversing when we haven't even exhausted our options. [She can't help but think of the ocean vortex, concealing the unknown in the middle of the sea on the way to Swordmarch. Everyone knows not to cross that, too, but its torrent is violent. It rips apart anyone who comes too close. This, meanwhile, is simply...empty. Foreboding. It gives her a sense of unease.

When he catches her staring, further musing on their predicament - and means of egress - pauses.]

Sorry. [She's embarrassed - because of course she should be. Mio rubs at the back of her neck, looking for the words to explain.] I've only seen someone with a face like yours twice before.

[Three times, maybe, if you count the cursory look at the bald man the other day at the town hall.]