Relying on the constant clatter of the horses’ hooves as an indication of progress, Branessu wondered if any time had passed at all. Where they even moving? How did time function inside the cave? Would she get out alive? What about everybody else? Was she the only one there? She asked herself these questions, as the darkness, content with not killing her, began lulling her to sleep.<br/><br/>As she edged closer to the land of dreams she unconsciously settled in the seat. Peppermint. The icy scent burned her nose, and she knew it was very close. Too close. She couldn’t see anything, but she flew upright, and whirled around trying to get an idea of where the smell was coming from. Some loose strands of her hair got in her face then she realized. Peppermint oil.<br/><br/>Taking down her bun, she grabbed a handful of her hair and inhaled, quickly drawing her nose away. Yes, it was her hair, and she remembered rubbing peppermint oil the night before, but she didn’t recall using that much. It was too strong, it made her dizzy. Falling back, she was aware of the metallic scent and moistness inside her nose. Wow, the scent was so strong it injured her. Laughing, she held her nose, to stymie the bleeding. The Lore Master warned them about their enhanced senses, but nothing could’ve prepared her for this.<br/><br/>There was a conversation going on around Branessu, but she ignored it, she already had enough of the tunnel and wanted to leave. “Branessu, me needs ya ta put ta scents sage, jasmine, lavender, all on hankies, please.” Squinting into the darkness, she called. “Lidia is that you? Why? What’s going on?” She was finding it hard to breathe and talk through her mouth so she loosened her grip on her nose, and immediately regretted it.   Blood.. Everywhere. Overpowering. Sickening.  She made her way to the back of her wagon and began mixing the herbs. Sage, Jasmine, Lavender. It was so strong that she added vanilla and rosemary for added benefit. She then took some handkerchiefs and emptied the mixture unto each, immediately stuffing her face in one. “Lidia? I did what you asked, but I can’t see anything. Send someone for the handkerchiefs please.”