The Tablehold materialized around them in the familiar white surge of medallion travel, the sanctum's dark water and starless void giving way to warm stone corridors and the low amber glow of wall-mounted torches.
After the Sanctum of Veils, the Tablehold felt almost ordinary in comparison, solid ground, visible ceiling. Vi released his shoulder and stepped forward, orienting herself in the main hall.
King was already moving toward Zauron's corridor.
They crossed the hall together and followed the familiar route to the chamber at the end of the side passage. King pushed the door open without knocking.
The sight inside had not changed. Zauron sat in the same hunched position, the seven iron rods still embedded through his back.
He lifted his head as King and Vi entered. The effort it cost him was visible.
"You returned," Zauron said.
"Yes, I have" King replied.
