Nathan awoke to the sound of crackling fire and the sensation of molten air pressing against his skin. It was like waking up in the belly of a volcano, yet instead of pain, there was an eerie synergy coursing through him. The heat didn't blister—it seeped into him, saturating his blood and bones with raw energy. Every breath drew in the scorching air, and instead of suffocating, it felt empowering, like he was absorbing the very essence of the realm.
He groaned, his voice rasping as he cracked a smirk. "Figures. I finally get a breather, and it's in a goddamn oven. What's next, talking flames?"