*Luca*
The dark streets are quiet when I reach the bathhouse. Tomas walks at my side, still flushed with excitement from teaching Ava’s code. Her idea is catching on faster than I dared hope, but we teach it only to the most loyal rebels who have earned our trust.
I push the door open, expecting the familiar creak, the faint steam, the murmur of voices. Instead, silence greets me. No lamplight, no rustle of cloth. The stone floor is cool under my boots as I step inside, scanning the shadows.
“Ava?” My voice echoes too loudly.
No answer.
I walk through each chamber, my heart knocking harder with every step. The benches are empty.
Tomas frowns. “Where is she?”
“I don’t know.” My tone comes out sharper than I intend. I take a slow breath and force my mind to calm. “Check the streets. A
