The narrow passage twisted deeper underground, its walls slick with moisture. Tian Shi and Huo Tu's footsteps echoed against stone as the desert heat gave way to an unnatural chill that made even the seasoned Sword Saint shiver.
The path opened suddenly into a vast cavern, revealing an ancient structure carved directly into the rock. Wooden platforms and makeshift dwellings clung to the higher reaches, where dozens of people went about their daily routines - cooking, washing clothes, tending to children who played along the edges.
Rather than descend the treacherous path that wound down to the cavern floor, Tian Shi backed up several paces. Huo Tu watched as she launched herself across the gap, landing gracefully on the inhabited platform above. He followed with equal precision, his movements fluid and controlled.
"Tian Shi!" Several voices called out at once. A group rushed forward to greet her, their faces a mix of relief and mild reproach.
