No one questioned Meesei's command to step away from the pedestal. It was as much a mistrust of the machines in the ruin as her authority that guaranteed that.

The warband looked on with anticipation at the spinning rings. None of them knew what to expect. Relief outweighed anticlimax as the stairs revealed themselves. Janius stepped forward first to look down and sniff at the new passage. He looked to the rest of his pack expectantly.

Fendros stepped up next. He didn't give Ahnasha eye contact, but he spoke in am mutter. "I promise I won't skive off this time."

Sabine was more inquisitive. She ignored Fendros' insolence and asked Meesei. "Would the Falmer be down there as well?"

While the pack was lining up, Janius peered up at Kaleeth and then down the passage. It would be a tight fit for her at best, by the looks. She might have to transform back and retrieve her equipment. Indeed, Janius believed he could fit, but he would have a hard time manoeuvring.