As they got closer, the size of the ruins became clear. Huge blocks of dark, rough stone, unlike anything Viana had seen in Elysia, formed the bases of what must have been giant buildings. They stopped at the edge of the ruins, where soft, deep sand had piled against collapsed walls.
"We move in pairs," Viana said, her voice clear and strong. "Joel, check the outside. Reyes, take a knight and check the east side. Arden, Kaley, you're with me. We'll look at what seems like the main library or office area."
She looked at Rayne. "Prince, keep your other knight with you. Secure our horses, then check the west side. We don't know what, or who, is inside."
Rayne nodded, meeting her gaze. He trusted her orders, at least for now, accepting her lead without question in this lonely place.
They went into the ruins. Their soft footsteps on the sand and grit echoed in the deep silence. The air inside was still, thick with dust and the smell of old stone.
