Similar feelings here... RP is generally easier in small, detailed scenes than across long stretches of time. I admit I was hoping Ray would take a turn before I did, if only so Blake could get some flavor of response from Riley, but that's a minor point I would be willing to overlook if we just want to refuel the fire earlier rather than later.
I also have no idea what to do with Elric. He tries to be sociable but just isn't very good at it, nor does he care much, and given that we're glossing over a lot of RP time, I'm not sure how to convincingly get him to befriend anyone.