The walk back through the dungeon levels was quiet in a way that was different from the focused quiet of the entry. People moved and didn't talk, and the absence of conversation had the specific texture of a group that had too many things competing for the space where words would normally go.
'These softies... why did they show that expression if she didn't die...?'
'My fucking lust... I seem to not be able to let go of the failure, even though it's not my fault.'
'Well... it's just in my nature that I hate losing, especially if I already plan it that perfectly.'
'Those maid bitches are the ones to blame anyway...'
'I need to maintain my composure and concentration... I am confident that my plan, which I executed flawlessly, continues to yield positive results.'
Rex stayed near Aisella, who was maintaining a passive monitoring pass on Kaelira as Apollo carried her through the upper levels.
