The next morning, John arrived at the Royal Library earlier than usual.
The morning mist still lingered over Valenor, softening the outlines of the towering buildings in the Scholar's District. Only a handful of librarians had arrived, and the streets were quieter than he had ever seen them.
As he entered the archive wing, Elena was arranging a cart filled with books.
She looked up and smiled.
"You're early again."
John laughed softly.
"I think I'm starting to enjoy mornings."
Elena raised an eyebrow.
"I'll make a note of that. Lythriel might not believe me."
John smiled.
"She probably won't."
The two shared a quiet laugh before Elena pointed toward Aldric's office.
"Master Aldric and Mistress Miriam are already waiting."
---
When John entered, he found the two elderly scholars standing beside a large table.
Instead of books, the table was covered with various objects.
Fragments of pottery.
Broken arrowheads.
Rusted coins.
Small stone carvings.
