I looked back.

Even the ruins had lost their sinister shape; were time-worn, crumbling piles--nothing more.
I saw Ruth and Drake run out upon the ledge and beckon me; made my way back to them, running.
"It's all right," I shouted.

"The place is all right." I stumbled up the side; joined them.
"It's empty," I cried.

"Get Martin and Chiu-Ming quick! While the way's open--" A rifle-shot rang out above us; another and another.

From the portal scampered Chiu-Ming, his robe tucked up about his knees.
"They come!" he gasped.