But no life showed in their dull eyes. No understanding. Only a blind, empty withdrawal.
They turned, trooped toward the wall of the pit ... toward an arched opening that was gaping suddenly.
"The Long Orbit," said the voice in Stuart's mind.
"What's that?"
"Death. As the Aesir feed. They feed on the life-force of living organisms."
"Is that the only way out?"
"The only way open to you. Yes."
Stuart went slowly after the others. They had crossed the threshold now, and were pacing along a tunnel, lit with cold blue brilliance, that curved very gradually toward the left. Behind him a panel closed.
The cloak swayed like a great bloodstain behind him, moving in a motion not entirely caused by Stuart's movements. He tried again to unfasten it, but the clasp at his throat only drew tighter. And the tingling sensation increased along his spine.