The Isle of Giants appeared on the horizon three weeks after they left Kelmar.
Gabriel stood at the bow, watching the dark smudge resolve into details. Mountains first, their peaks touching clouds. Then forest, thick and green. Finally, as they drew closer, structures became visible.
Not ruins.
Living architecture.
Buildings that towered above the treeline, built from stone blocks so massive that no human labour could have moved them. Towers that reached toward the sky with purpose. Walls that suggested a civilisation still thriving.
"Saints above," Gilbert breathed beside him. "Those buildings..."
"Are built for beings twice our size," Adan finished. He'd joined them at the bow, his usual quiet replaced by visible tension. "This is real. Giants are real."
Tess appeared on Gabriel's other side. "Captain says we'll reach port by midday. The city is called Stoneheim."
