For some time, the companions explored the complex in silence, taking in the magnitude of their discovery. The branching paths split into more and more tunnels, until Kalann was sure they might spend the whole day in there and still not see everything. Gold coins were scattered throughout the complex, their luster long since faded. Several low-roofed structures, what must have been houses, were carved into the cave walls. Everything was musty and faded like a washed-out painting.
Eventually, they paused in what seemed like a communal dining hall. Rich, faded tapestries hung from the ceiling, and iron tables stood rusting in the chill cavern air. Kilns and forges lined the walls, their coals long since cold. Laura weaved through the tables, running her fingertips through the thick layer of dust on them. "It's unnerving," she murmured, half to herself. "It's like they just got up and left."