Marod genially bowed his head. "As you wish, Champion. It is nice to get out and breathe some fresh air every now and then. Have a lovely day, all of you." And like that he folded into the crowd.

Calia had no further words. None even to see off Marod's departure out of courtesy. There was more than enough to keep her distracted, not least of which was the automaton hollowly trundling by. The only credit she was due in retaining her appearances was to keep herself walking straight-backed, evenly, and with her mouth shut.

In contrast, Rossarm had his eyes in every nook and cranny. He frowned at the details around him, sizing the place up. A few errant sights caused his upper lip to curl ever so slightly, though it was anyone's guess what exactly affected him.

"We were far fewer when we arrived here," Fendros said. He rathered speaking himself than walking with the entire group in silence. "Only a few dozen packs from Cyrodiil. Now, this is where everyone goes in Hircine's world. A crossroads, I suppose."

[hr]
In response to Do'rhajul, Sabine nodded firmly. "Thank you."

On the way up the tower, the grey Argonian woman tracked a passing spider with her eyes before looking ahead and asking. "How much should Tarna know about this...vampire?"

"She is very old," Sabine said in a hushed tone. "Very powerful. Strange. Not unreasonable. But...not kind either. Not kind to most people, that is." She glanced back. "Be wary, Tarna, and polite. Be ready to get behind Rhajul. You will not be able to ward her or hide from her."

A hint of fear flashed over Tarna's eyes, but she quickly grew determined and nodded.

They continued up and up until they were halted by the spheres. Sabine and Tarna's heads shot up to look at Hal-Neesa.

Sabine's voice started small. She felt her knees shaking just a little. "Greetings Hal-Neesa." She took another breath. "Um...The scholars are okay. I apologise, Meesei is out right now." She wished she was better at speaking. "We were wondering...would you tell us why you became upset? And what are you doing up there?"