Nolan had done well to clear the first room, and there seemed to be no objection from their Acolyte leader. The plan would work well, Miro knew it. They just had to go and do things by the book, work efficiently, take a few precautions. Of course, it was a book just written, so there was likely to be a few issues. None so far at least. The wizard and Familiar stepped into the room, the blaze of the lantern casting rays of light against the dusty surfaces. It was mostly empty, at least at first glance.
The true test of it would come from Ender. The icy creature floated casually to the center of the room and searched about for anything that might hint a trap. "It appears to me as if this room is safe. I see no visible threats." The undead had already began to back out of the room, able to see well enough that no immediate danger hide within the looming darkness. He stood in the doorway just in time to receive an offhand comment to keep him in line. In a place like this, where in a moment anything could happen, the lines were always covered in dust.
Acolyte Evelyn Grey continued to explain, and indeed it seemed that all the sought after information was obtained successfully. There were few doubts still there was any information willingly concealed, which was a relief as much as a worry. The Irylid with his lantern was now aside Miro as he prepared to move to the room to his now right. This was the room the Familiar was intent of searching. But before he did so, he turned back in the doorway to look at his party. They were all capable, if not of fighting, then of tact.
The Chained One was unsure what could be down here, or why the soldiers would have fled the place so quickly. If they were anything like this Jepsen and Blake, it was because they were idiots. If that was not the case, and these men were sound of mind, it was because something had scared them off. This factor, along with this other scouting party, it had to mean something. Perhaps the soldiers had witnessed something, something they could not keep their mouths shut about. Information could have leaked, started a rumor, invited this other party.
"Well, the undead thought to himself, "I guess there are a few things still to consider." It was likely there was danger down here. Perhaps of traps, as was a constant fear. But there was something much worse. "I sincerely hope that this place has not become habitat for the beasts of the wild. Wildlife and unstable ruins do not mix well. This structure is not as stable as it once was, and their nesting only furthers this instability. And nobody wants to walk into a room and be assaulted by a family of predators."
Though in truth, this was not a concern of the wizard, not in the least. True, he could lose a party member, even a valued one. That was a risk all knew they were taking in coming down here. Deep in Miro's chest there was a bit of nervous excitement. Tales of mystical ruins, they always included a few things. Dark corridors lined with traps was the most common. Magic of all kinds too, especially magical traps. But the thing that caused anxiety was the last thing, the treasure of the place, often guarded by some final obstacle.
To muse about such things with his party members would discredit him a bit, as he had to remain the expert. Instead, when there came a time like this, he turned to his partner. He spoke to Ender across their telepathic bond. "Hey, Ender, what do you think is in the center of this place? I'll bet that there is some massive room with a priceless treasure on display, but getting to it is not so easy. Something prevents access unless you can prove yourself worthy. Maybe a clever riddle, a massive golem, a deadly trap. Sounds like fun, right?"
"You've listened to one too many stories Miro. This place was built for a practical purpose. It's location, structuring, contents, all of it hint at something. What it is, I am of yet unsure. However, it is likely this place was useful at one time, used for something important. A structure like this, my guess is as good as yours. Who knows for certain. If I had to guess, I'd expect it was used to keep things hidden away, valuable things. Vague, I know, but I haven't much to work with. Though I doubt we will encounter many traps or golems."
It was a fair answer, though it did ruin some of the fun for the Reimancer. If the Familiar was right though, it meant that they hadn't much to worry about. Still worry the undead did though. He was almost tempted to cast a bit of Res, though knew his Djed was of extreme value. Instead he played to this factor and began to open himself to the environment. He allowed his skin to begin to pull in Djed, Leech it from the surrounding air. This slight gain of Djed would only be useful after some time, unless there was by some chance a heavy concentration.
Miro did not leave the room, though he wished to explore things in his own way. It would almost make him happier were he alone with Ender down here. Together they could take their time, have no orders, claim whatever they wished. However this was not the case, they had to behave. And as just an apprentice, there was a short leash upon the wizard's neck. He turned his attention to their leader and spoke to her in a confident voice. "Miss Grey, I do understand what you mean. You are Black Sun, a very important woman. I must admit I have a few concerns."
Now would be the time he played the cards he had drawn. Hopefully they were as valuable as he predicted them. Hypnotism would do him little good here. "You say we needn't concern ourselves of the other party exploring with us, but we do not even know their numbers. The soldiers fled these ruins all too quickly yesterday, but we know not why. There are many factors that point to danger, and I can clearly see my objective now." Doubt were cast, and the goal was indeed clear. "You are our leader, our true task. Please allow me to stay by your side. I'll accept any orders given with grace. But most of all, I'll ensure you are kept safe."
