Show time passing via environment or social cues:
“By the second shard of Dromar, the tavern had grown quiet.”
“Three moments later, Kaelor stretched lazily as morning light filled the streets.”
“A full shard passed, bringing nightfall over Glyndor.”
Optional: dialogue length can approximate time:
~50 lines ≈ 1 shard
2–3 minor interactions ≈ 1 moment