The rain turned to snow, light at first but thicker every day. These ruddy spots must be the reflection of fires within the caves--fires which could only be lit by the hand of man. She grabbed the knob again, succeeded in turning it this time, and yanked the door open so hard she tore off the overhead bell. I went sprawling in the dirt face.

A startled look crossed her face and, for a moment, a smile touched her lips.