Ash stung her lungs as she awoke in darkness. Her wrists ached where rough bindings cut into her skin, and the scent of sulfur and smoke thickened the air. She tried to move, but the ropes dug deeper, and a low, vibrating growl echoed from the shadows.“You’re awake,” a voice rumbled, deep and molten, resonating with an unearthly power.

She swallowed her fear, trying to steady her trembling. “Who… who are you?”

From the darkness, two golden eyes ignited, blazing with heat and ...