The commander cautiously approached one of the containers. "Royal Alpha, these may be connected to the shrine."
"Don't touch them."
The guard immediately withdrew his hand.
Kade continued deeper into the chamber until he noticed a large stone tablet positioned against the far wall. Unlike the other markings, this one contained an inscription written in an ancient language he had encountered in old royal records. He stepped closer and studied the first lines in silence.
Something in his expression changed.
Kael noticed immediately. "What does it say?"
Kade remained silent for several seconds before answering. "It speaks of an offering."
"What kind?"
Kade's gaze moved toward the containers lining the walls.
"Life."
Kael's face hardened. "Whose?"
Kade looked toward the wooden tablets scattered near the shrine above them.
"The villagers."
The words settled heavily over the chamber.
One of the guards looked confused. "How?"
