As they delved further into the city's heart, the explorers uncovered more than just artifacts; they unearthed the essence of a civilization that had balanced the brink between grandeur and decay. The central square, once a vibrant focal point of daily activity, lay silent, its cobblestones cracked and moss-covered, yet still exuding the city's past vitality.
Their excavation revealed a network of underground passages connecting various buildings, likely used for transport during inclement weather or as escape routes during sieges. The craftsmanship was remarkable, indicating a society advanced in both thought and execution.