Lyra's POV
The cottage looked like it had been abandoned for decades. Its roof sagged into the second floor, creating a deep valley in the center. Some windows were sealed with rotting boards while others gaped open like hollow eyes. A patch of withered flowers lay beneath the front wall, surrounded by sparse grass struggling through the barren soil.
Ash let out a string of colorful curses as he stumbled from the car. He surveyed our surroundings with obvious disgust. "What godforsaken place is this?"
"White," came Xander's simple reply.
Both Ash and I turned to stare at him. He lifted one shoulder in a casual shrug.
"My mother's homeland," he explained without emotion. "Mack territory."
I gazed out at the wild ocean stretching endlessly before us. Massive waves crashed against the jagged coastline with violent force. The sight made me shiver. "People actually swim in that?"
Xander moved closer, though still maintaining careful distance. "During warmer months, yes."
