The steam cycle began at exactly 0400 hours.
It started with a low, subterranean rumble that vibrated through the soles of Zane's boots, shaking the rusted catwalk they were crouching on.
Then, a series of massive pneumatic valves slammed open overhead, and the world turned white.
Superheated steam erupted from the vents lining the tunnel walls, filling the drainage pipe with a blinding, scalding fog.
The temperature spiked instantly, turning the sewer into a pressure cooker.
"Now!" Wren screamed over the roar of the venting gas.
She grabbed Kael by the collar of his ruined suit and shoved him forward.
Zane followed close behind, shielding his face with his arm as the steam hissed against his skin.
It was hot enough to blister, but the dense, Essence-infused flesh of his body absor
