As we move toward the center of the Stine Kingdom, we come across an abandoned village. The instant we step into its boundary, the air becomes filled with a heavy, oppressive silence. Everywhere we look, the houses are empty, with windows and doors left open to the elements.

However, there is no crumbling in the structures. There are also no weeds and overgrown ivy that hang on the houses, which means it’s not too long since this village was deserted.

“Pretty bad,” Gezer comments.

“Where are the villagers?” Ruth whispers.

I watch Inanna. She is surveying the area, and her gaze eventually settles on a small home nestled on the...