Samira didn't say a word on the way. She just held Aurora's hand tightly and guided her through narrow corridors, hidden staircases, and tunnels that smelled of sulfur. The heat increased with every step, until Aurora could feel sweat running down her temples.

The cave appeared suddenly, illuminated by the red glow reflected in the water.

It was a natural pool, formed inside the rock. Steam rose in waves, the air dense and heavy. The surface bubbled in spots, as if the earth were ...