Under Vivian and Eirene's supervision, the opening proceeded far more smoothly than most outsiders had feared.
That did not mean it was gentle.
The moment the first lines began moving, the ancient beasts made their presence known again. They simply released enough pressure to remind the gathered multitudes that Lootwell's patience was not weakness and its order was not optional.
That was enough.
The great crowd outside straightened almost as one.
The process began.
Line by line, group by group, visitors approached the outer intake stations. There, trained attendants of Lootwell issued access tokens with polished speed and alarming efficiency.
Entering itself was free.
That surprised many.
Remaining careless, however, would become expensive very quickly.
