The Fifth River

A mysterious disease has destroyed almost all life on earth: the air has become unfit for breathing, and the soil has turned to dust. The surviving people have adapted to the new climate and settled in Petersburg, calling it the Five Rivers. Assol is doing her best to be normal — she diligently goes to church, does not speak rudely to elders, teaches at the parish school, and carries out the authorities' orders. But one thing gives her away: no one but her can breathe in the Ancient Houses, which have remained in their pristine form after the catastrophe. How to remain oneself when everyone around considers your gift a curse? Is it necessary to put the common good above one's own happiness? And what lies beyond the Fifth River? Assol still has to answer these questions.