William and Seraphine arrived at a familiar location within the ruined capital city of Riverdale. The broken streets were silent beneath their feet, while shattered buildings surrounded them like the remains of a forgotten civilization.
Dust drifted lazily through the air, disturbed only by the soft wind that carried the scent of old stone and decaying wood. William gradually slowed his steps before finally releasing the gentle grip he had maintained around Seraphine's hand.
Without saying a word, he walked toward a massive pile of collapsed wooden debris that had been buried beneath layers of broken beams and shattered walls.
Taking a deep breath, he planted both of his hands against the first heavy plank and pushed with every ounce of strength he possessed. The weathered timber scraped loudly against the stone floor as he forced it aside before immediately reaching for another piece. One by one, he continued removing the wooden panels without showing any intention of stopping.
