[ Man, that little laugh is gratifying to hear. And there's space here for another joke, something about Mace's dastardly, mustache-twirling plot to have Ian bonk his nose on the first stalactite.

But this time all that comes out is a firm, ]

I've got you.

[ Not as cheesy as I won't let you fall, but it's up there and yet Mace absolutely doesn't care. Qualifying for common-law relationship, and all.

They start heading down the tunnel slowly, Mace's right arm linked through Ian's, their first torch held aloft in his left hand, the knife in his pocket. Out of his peripheral vision he catches a snatch of blue glow, knows that Ian's making something as they walk. Multi-tasking wizard man.

There's a pause as he thinks over what he's been piecing together, the conclusion his thoughts had been leading him to, and the best way to phrase it. ]

So, I was thinking. Back in the cave, when the Sun went down, that knapsack disappeared. Maybe there was something in it, like a hint. I dunno, maybe the note on the wall wasn't a threat so much as it was a riddle. A puzzle, like you said back in the cabin, except for real this time. You're not allowed to stab me until after we get the fuck outta here, just letting you know.

[ Another one of those moments when Mace's tone stays uniform throughout the entire conversation, two statements joining together seamlessly. They're almost at the bend now, and Mace stops, turning to look over his shoulder. ]