Chapter 39 Into The Inferno

• The air was thick with heat, and the crackling of fire filled Ava’s ears as she descended deeper into the ancient underground tunnels. Flames flickered along the walls, casting long, dancing shadows that seemed to mock her with each step. Her heart pounded in rhythm with the distant roars that echoed through the maze-like passages. She tightened her grip on the dagger Calderon had given her, feeling the warmth of its blade even through the heavy heat surrounding her.
• This was no ordinary trial. The Inferno was a place few ventured willingly—a realm where elemental fire thrived in its purest, most dangerous form. Only those seeking the greatest elemental mastery ever dared enter, and fewer still emerged unscathed. But Ava had no choice.
• After the harrowing encounter with the creatures born of shadow, Calderon had been clear: she needed to face the elemental source of her own power, to survive its crucible and emerge stronger—or risk being consumed by it. The creatures from the Void had sensed her weakness, the instability within her powers, and if she couldn’t control her fire, she would never stand a chance against the forces gathering against her.