Dawn broke gray and heavy over the ruins, mist clinging to the ancient stonework as everyone gathered their equipment for the final approach.
"Everyone remember their positions," Dane said, checking the group one final time. "Idris, you're on the western wall. Corvina and Selene, southern approach, watching for any reinforcements the Architect might summon. Lira and I stay close to Rowan through the entrance. Maren, you hold the ridge, close enough to observe, far enough to stay safe."
"Understood," Maren confirmed, though reluctance still colored her voice at remaining distant from the actual confrontation.
They moved down toward the ruins in careful silence, spreading into their designated positions as the mist began slowly lifting with the rising sun. Rowan felt his pulse quickening
