Fendros responded to Ahnasha with a raised eyebrow. He found it curious, not because the Altmer was so devoted as to lay down his life and the lives of his companions for Hermeus Mora, but because he was so nonchalant about it. He made it sound like an inconvenience, more than anything.

Vera gave the Altmer a dubious look. She glanced to Meesei, and then back to the robed cultists. "I'm afraid I can't just let you go immediately." She laid her fingers, without a sound, on the edge of the table in front of her and spoke with as much poise as she could muster. "Thank you for delivering this message and for your input. You will stay under guard in a single guest room while we discuss your fate. You should hear our judgement before the end of the day, but for now..." Vera inhaled a deep breath through her nose, straightening her back as she did. "We have [i]much[/i] to discuss."

With a wave of her hand and a "Take them away, please," to the guards, Vera had he council room return to its more private setting.

While Vera was rubbing her temples, the others returned to their seats and Darahil spoke to break the silence. "This is likely a better option than most we might have, regarding our exodus. Dwemer ruins are known for their vast available space, strong fortifications and...unique defences." His arms folded into their familiar position. "If Mora has not cut a deal with Vile -- and that is the less likely situation here -- it might save more lives than anything else."

"Moving that many people through Skyrim, and Windhelm no less, will be dangerous," Oswall added. "The mountains are as tall as the Jerrals, if not taller. They are prone to avalanches, infested with wraiths, wisps, and trolls. Not to mention, getting our clan over the border may run us across Imperial patrols." Oswall glanced over to Meesei's pack. "It will not be so simple to sail, either. Not without specialised ships and crew to navigate the floating ice."