Oh no, I suspect the worry is more regarding inter-party chat possibly slowing things down, vs. pushing too fast. Generally the exposition has cut such times short so the plot speeds to the next point. My instincts are always to go slow, so that's my problem. Since we do post more frequently, at least that's our inclination, maybe we'd just have to be careful not to get places before Saradoc (and possibly Marron if he becomes a PC again) has a chance to meet up with us, or not to go too slow so that the rest aren't hanging around waiting for us? It's a delicate balance really.
I'll be bound you're right about the ring. Although if the dragon ate the shepherd, I'm a little concerned about just how (and where) the ring showed up again. We'd better wash our hands very well afterwards!