The Buddhist chanting gradually subsided.
Master Jie Nian slowly opened his eyes, his face somewhat pale. It was clear the recent chanting had taken a significant toll on him. Facing the ruins, he bowed once more in respect.
"Everyone, please follow me."
With mixed emotions, the group followed Master Jie Nian and slowly stepped into the forgotten, ancient area.
Before them lay a vast complex of enormous stone structures, heavily eroded by time.
Tall halls had been reduced to crumbling walls. Massive stone pillars lay toppled over, their surfaces carved with faded ancient patterns and images of Buddhas, exuding an indescribable sense of age, mystery, and solemnity.
The faint scent of sandalwood and dust in the air grew stronger, a stark contrast to the foulness of the outside world.
Once inside the ruins, the team, led by Master Jie Nian, found a relatively intact and seemingly safe side hall to use as a temporary resting place.
