Luka had been in as good a mood as any when he'd arrived at the base of the mountain. He'd just had an interesting morning meeting Six at the hospital and dining with the elusive Sxicq, and the prospect of reuniting with the remaining Knights was something to look forward to as well.

But then the reality of climbing this godforsaken mountain sets in (that is to say, about four or five minutes into their ascension) and Luka's mood is soured.

"You know," he says aloud to no one in particular. He's nearing the back of the group, slower than average as he attempts to navigate the uneven terrain unaided. "We really ought to have a better mode of transportation up this thing if we have to keep coming here. I'm thinking... a ski-lift?"