In a blinding flash, James and Joey felt the world tilt beneath their feet. The warm embrace of the autumn afternoon vanished, replaced by a damp chill that seeped into their very bones. Darkness enveloped them so completely that for a moment, panic gripped their hearts.
"JAMES! I'm blind! You've blinded me!" Joey's voice echoed wildly in the pitch-black space.
"I didn't do anything! I'm blind too!" James retorted, his own fear rising.
"OH NO, WE'RE BOTH BLIND!" Joey wailed.
"Wait, Joey," James said, straining his eyes. "Look over there. I think I see a light."
"Where?" Joey's voice quivered.
"There, straight ahead. It's faint, but it's there. Maybe we're not blind—it's just really dark in here."
They clung to each other, small hands gripping tightly as they tried to steady their racing hearts. The initial terror began to simmer down, replaced by cautious curiosity.
"Joey, you've got your status now, and you're always showing it off," James said, attempting a shaky grin. "Does it tell you anything about where we are?"
Joey took a deep breath, closing his eyes to focus inward. Summoning his status was still new to him, like trying to recall a half-remembered dream.
"Okay, let me check," he replied.
A translucent screen appeared before his mind's eye:
Name - Joseph Broadhammer Age - 10 Titles - N/A Achievements - N/A Achievements - N/A Race - Human (Ashen Rank One) Level - 1 (0/100) Class - N/A HP - 155/155 MP - 95/95 Stamina - 147/155 Strength -
3
Dexterity - 5 Agility - 4 Intelligence - 3 Endurance - 4 Charisma - 5 Wisdom - 3 Fate - 2 Inate skill Level 1
******
Level 50 Locked Level 100 Locked Active Skills Passive Skills Affinities ********
"Uh, James?" Joey's voice trembled. "What's a Rift?"
James frowned. "I heard my parents talk about Rifts once. Something about monsters and treasures and 'never again' after one nearly took Dad's eyebrows off. Why?"
"Well, my status says we're in the 'Echoing Hollow Rift,' and we have to defeat something to leave."
"That doesn't make sense," James protested. "We were just in the meadow! How did we end up in a dark place like this?"
"I don't know," Joey admitted, his eyes wide even in the dimness. "Do you think if we wait here, our parents will come and get us?"
James considered this. "Read out exactly what it says."
Joey nodded and recited:
---
**Welcome to the Echoing Hollow Rift**
**Clear Conditions:**
1. Defeat the Shadow Guardian.
**Optional Objectives:**
1. Drain the Main Aquifer.
2. Rescue the Lost Wanderer.
**Rewards:**
1. 1500 EXP
2. ??? (Unknown Item)
3. ??? (Unknown Skill)
4. ??? (Unknown)
**Note:** Instant Rifts cannot be accessed or exited before Clear Conditions are met.
**Good luck, adventurers.**
---
"It doesn't sound like we'll be getting any help," James said quietly his head buzzing.
Joey's lower lip quivered. "What are we going to do?"
Taking stock of their situation, James looked toward the faint light flickering deeper within the cavern. "Well, the wind is blowing from that direction," he pointed. "I think if we go that way, we might find something—maybe even a way out."
"I'm scared," Joey whispered. "This isn't like playing pretend monsters outside."
"I know," James replied, trying to sound braver than he felt. "But we have to do this, Joey. My mom told me that the Words of Power in our status screens can't lie. If it says we have to defeat this 'Shadow Guardian' to leave, then that's what we have to do."
Joey swallowed hard. "Okay, but can't we wait a little while? I've only had my status for a couple of weeks, and you won't get yours for three more days. How can we fight monsters?"
James gave him a reassuring smile. "Do you want to sit in the dark and wait? I have my pitchfork—we were going to use it for spearfishing, remember? And you have your wooden sword. With those, we're unstoppable!"
"Unstoppable, huh?" Joey managed a small grin. "Against what? Dust bunnies?"
"Hey, dust bunnies can be fierce," James chuckled. "But seriously, we have to try."
"Alright," Joey agreed reluctantly. "But if we see any monsters, you go first."
"Deal."
They started walking hesitantly down the tunnel, the walls slick with moisture. The air was cool and carried the earthy scent of damp stone. As they moved, the faint light grew brighter, revealing patches of luminescent moss clinging to the walls and ceiling.
"Well, at least we won't trip over our own feet now," Joey said, trying to lighten the mood.
"Speak for yourself," James replied, stumbling slightly over a loose rock. "I think this cave is out to get me."
They emerged into a vast cavern that stretched beyond the limits of their sight. Stalactites hung from the ceiling like jagged teeth, and stalagmites rose from the ground like ancient pillars. The glowing moss bathed everything in an eerie greenish light.
"Wow," Joey breathed. "It's like we're inside a giant's mouth."
"Thanks for that image," James grimaced. "Now I'm just waiting for the teeth to close in."
They navigated a narrow path that wound through the forest of stone. Strange, echoing sounds reverberated around them—dripping water, distant scrapes, and an occasional rumble that made the hairs on the back of their necks stand up.
"Did you hear that?" Joey whispered.
"Probably just the cave settling," James said, though he wasn't convinced.
"Yeah, caves settle all the time in scary stories right before the heroes get eaten."
"Well, we're the heroes, and we're not getting eaten," James declared.
"Confidence. I like it," Joey said.
They came upon an underground stream that cut across their path. The water was crystal clear, and small, luminescent fish darted to and fro.
"At least someone down here is having fun," Joey remarked.
"Maybe we can catch one," James suggested. "Could be useful."
"For what? Negotiating with the Shadow Guardian? 'Here, have a fish, please let us go.'"
"Hey, you never know," James shrugged.
They continued along the stream, which led them to a small underground lake. The cavern ceiling opened up here, revealing clusters of glowing lichen and mushrooms that cast dancing reflections on the water's surface. Around the lake one could faintly make out a path ringing it.
"This place is actually kind of... beautiful," Joey admitted.
"Yeah, if you ignore the whole 'trapped underground with a monster' thing," James replied.
"Details."
The air inside the cavern felt thick, heavy with the weight of unseen danger. As James and Joey cautiously walked the rocky path along the underground lake, the soft glow from the luminescent moss only made the shadows seem deeper, more alive. The lake shimmered under the glow of the crystals, casting eerie, dancing reflections on the cavern walls. Everything was still, too still, and yet their hearts raced in anticipation.
“I don’t like this,” Joey whispered, clutching his wooden sword a little tighter.
“Me neither,” James replied, his voice barely audible. His eyes darted around, scanning every dark corner, every crevice in the rocks. He tightened his grip on the pitchfork, the weight of it reassuring but unfamiliar. They weren’t warriors, not yet. Just two boys who had stumbled into something far beyond their understanding.
They continued forward, the sound of their footsteps echoing faintly against the stone walls. The cavern seemed endless, its secrets hidden in the shifting shadows. As they neared a bend in the path, a soft rustling sound made them both freeze.
“What was that?” Joey whispered, his voice trembling.
James didn’t answer. His heart was pounding in his ears, his grip on the pitchfork growing slick with sweat. He strained his eyes, trying to see where the sound had come from, but the darkness was impenetrable beyond the faint glow of the moss.
Something falling from the cavern roof slammed into James's back slamming him against the jagged rocks, the sharp edges digging into his skin and knocking the breath from his lungs. Stars burst before his eyes as he gasped, the metallic taste of blood on his tongue. The subterranean cavern spun around him, illuminated only by the eerie glow of luminescent lichen clinging to damp stone walls. Shadows danced wildly, contorting into nightmarish shapes that fed his growing panic.
"Joey!" James wheezed, his voice barely more than a rasp. He struggled to his feet, his legs shaky like a newborn fawn's. His fingers scraped against the slick rock, nails breaking as he clawed for balance. Across the cavern, he caught sight of Joey scrambling up from the ground where he was caught in the fall, the wooden sword clutched tightly in his small, trembling hands. The weapon looked pitifully inadequate against any looming threat.
From the darkness emerged the creature—a monstrous salamander-like beast, its skin glistening like oil in the dim light. It was as large as the boys themselves, its body sleek yet muscular. slithering, low to the ground, barely more than a shadow itself. It moved with unnatural silence. Beady black eyes reflected the phosphorescent glow, devoid of any warmth. Its forked tongue flickered out, tasting the air, tasting their fear.
"What is that thing?" Joey cried out, his voice high-pitched and quavering. His chest rose and fell rapidly, each breath shallow.
"I don't know!" James shouted back, his heart pounding so fiercely he feared it might burst through his ribcage. He tightened his grip on his pitchfork, the wooden handle slick with sweat. His knuckles whitened as he raised it defensively. "Just stay alert!"
The creature hissed, a low, guttural sound that reverberated through the cavern like the rumble of distant thunder. It crouched low, muscles tensing under its dark hide. Without warning, it lunged toward Joey, moving with a fluid grace.
"Look out!" James yelled, but Joey was already reacting. With a desperate yell, he swung his wooden sword in a wide arc. The makeshift blade connected with the creature's snout, a sharp crack echoing as wood met flesh. The salamander recoiled, a snarl escaping its maw as it shook its head violently.
"Good hit!" James called out, a flicker of hope igniting within him.
"It's not stopping!" Joey whimpered, backing away as the creature regained its bearings. His eyes were wide, shimmering with unshed tears.
The salamander's skin began to ripple, its dark hues shifting and blending with the surrounding shadows. It seemed to melt into the darkness, becoming a wraith-like silhouette that was difficult to track. Only the faint glimmer of its eyes gave away its position.
"It's camouflaging!" James realized aloud, his voice tinged with awe and dread.
The boys pressed their backs together instinctively, each covering the other's blind side. The cold, damp air clung to them, making their clothes heavy and their movements sluggish. The distant drip of water echoed like a ticking clock, counting down to an uncertain fate.
"Stay sharp," James whispered, his gaze darting around in search of any movement. Every shifting shadow became a potential threat.
A faint scuffling sound came from their left. Before they could react, the salamander darted forward, its form solidifying as it sprang at James. He swung his pitchfork upward clumsily. The tines grazed the creature's side, but with a sickening snap, one of them broke off, the metal flying into the darkness plinking as it goes.
"Blast it!" James cursed, staring in dismay at his now-imperfect weapon.
"James, behind you!" Joey shouted.
Too late. The salamander's tail whipped around, striking James's legs with the force of a swinging log. His feet flew out from under him, and he crashed onto the unforgiving ground. Pain exploded in his elbow as it struck a protruding rock, a sharp sting that shot up to his shoulder.
"James!" Joey screamed, his voice cracking.
Dazed and hurting, James tried to push himself up, but his injured arm trembled, barely able to support his weight. The taste of copper filled his mouth where he'd bitten his lip. The salamander loomed over him, its jaws opening to reveal rows of needle-like teeth.
"No!" Joey yelled, a surge of determination overriding his fear. He charged, the remnants of his wooden sword raised high. With a grunt, he brought it down on the creature's back. The blade shattered on impact, fragments raining down like splinters of hope.
"My sword!" Joey gasped, stumbling backward as he stared at the useless hilt in his hand.
The salamander turned its cold gaze upon Joey, a predatory glint in its eyes. It began to circle him slowly, each step deliberate, its body blending once more with the shifting shadows.
"Get away from him!" James shouted, forcing himself to his feet. His arm throbbed, but adrenaline numbed the pain. He grabbed a loose rock from the ground, its rough edges biting into his palm.
The creature hissed, momentarily torn between its two prey. Sensing its hesitation, James hurled the rock with all his might. It struck the salamander's flank with a dull thud, drawing a snarling hiss.
"Over here, you ugly brute!" James taunted, trying to draw its attention.
The salamander whipped around, its camouflage flickering. Seizing the moment, Joey retreated toward James, his breaths ragged.
"What's the plan?" Joey panted.
James's mind raced. The broken pitchfork, the shattered sword—both useless in direct combat. But perhaps...
"Remember what my mom said about creatures like this at the pond," James spoke hurriedly, keeping his eyes on the salamander as it began to advance. "They're simple-minded. They act on instinct."
"Yeah, so?" Joey replied, fear and confusion mingling in his expression.
"So we can fool it! Follow my lead!"
The salamander charged, its patience worn thin. James and Joey split in opposite directions, forcing the creature to choose. It hesitated for a split second before veering toward Joey.
"Hey! Over here!" James shouted, waving his arms. He picked up another rock and flung it, striking the creature's side. It hissed angrily, turning back toward him.
"That's right," James muttered. "Come and get me."
He backed up slowly, leading the salamander toward a cluster of stalagmites. The ground here was uneven, littered with loose stones and debris. Perfect.
"Joey, circle around!" James called out.
Understanding dawned on Joey's face. He began to try and move stealthily, keeping to the shadows as he made his way behind the creature.
The salamander lunged at James, snapping its jaws. He dodged clumsily, nearly losing his footing. Pain flared in his injured arm, but he gritted his teeth.
"Now, Joey!" he yelled.
Joey sprang from behind, wielding a long, jagged piece of broken stalactite like a spear. With a shout, he drove it into the salamander's hind leg. The creature shrieked, a high-pitched wail that echoed piercingly.
It thrashed violently, its tail whipping around and catching Joey across the ribs. He was thrown back, skidding across the rocky ground. The air rushed from his lungs as he hit, a sharp pain blooming in his side from a errant rock aimed like a spear to his abdomen.
"Joey!" James cried out, horror gripping him.
But the salamander was wounded now, its movements erratic. Blood oozed from the gash in its leg, dark and viscous. Seizing his chance, James grabbed the broken pitchfork, its remaining three tines sharp like a dagger.
Summoning every ounce of courage, he rushed forward to Joey and helping him up they both started to run. The salamander saw them too late thrashing in pain but when it saw them about to get away it charged after in haste. They reached a narrow passage, barely wide enough for them to squeeze through. Joey went first, his breath coming in ragged gasps as he squeezed past the rocks. James followed, but the salamander was right behind them, slithering through the shadows with ease.
“Keep going!” James urged, pushing Joey forward as they stumbled through the passage.
But even as they ran, James knew they couldn’t keep this up. The salamander was too fast, too relentless. Joey was dripping blood and their hearts were pounding in exertion, his mind racing as he tried to think of a way out. His broken pitchfork dangled uselessly in his hands three prongs left, and Joey’s sword was nothing but splinters.
They were out of options.
Joey’s foot caught on a loose rock, and he fell hard, skidding across the stone floor. James stopped to help him, but the salamander was already closing in. Its body flickered through the shadows, its black eyes gleaming with anticipation.
“We’re not going to make it,” Joey gasped, tears brimming in his eyes.
James felt the same despair settling in his chest, but then something clicked in his mind. His mom’s words echoed in his head: _Creatures like that don’t think like us. They’re not smart, they’re simple. They have one goal, one instinct, and they follow it until the end._
He looked at the salamander, its single-minded pursuit, and realization struck him like lightning.
“Joey, stop running,” James said, his voice firm.
“What?!” Joey looked at him like he’d lost his mind.
“Trust me. Stop running,” James repeated, holding the broken pitchfork tighter in his hands.
Joey, too exhausted and scared to argue, froze in place as the salamander charged forward. James took a deep breath and planted the shaft of the broken pitchfork firmly into the ground, holding it steady like a spear. His heart thundered in his chest as the creature lunged.
The salamander didn’t stop. It didn’t change course. Its body, driven by pure instinct, raced forward—straight into the waiting shaft of the pitchfork.
There was a sickening thud as the improvised weapon pierced the salamander’s flesh, the creature’s own momentum driving it deeper. The salamander let out a final, screeching hiss, its body writhing in agony. It thrashed wildly, trying to dislodge itself, but the shaft held firm.
James watched, his breath frozen in his chest, as the salamander’s movements slowed, then finally stopped. The creature’s body went limp, collapsing against the ground with one last shudder.
For a moment, everything was silent. The only sound was the soft lapping of the lake’s water against the shore and the ragged breathing of the two boys.
"Is it... is it over?" Joey's voice came from behind, shaky and pained.
James turned to see Joey pushing himself up, one hand clutching his side.
"Yeah," James panted. "I think we got it."
Joey tried to stand, his eyes fixed on the fallen beast. "We actually did it," he murmured, a mixture of disbelief and relief in his tone.
James managed a weary smile. "Told you we could."
They both stayed there for a moment, the reality of their victory sinking in. The cavern around them seemed to exhale, the oppressive tension lifting ever so slightly.
"You're bleeding," Joey noted, gesturing to James's arm.
James glanced down at the scrape on his elbow, blood trickling down to his wrist. "It's not too bad," he said, though now that the adrenaline was fading, the sting was becoming more pronounced.
Joey winced as he shifted his weight. "I think i'm really hurt."
James nodded. "Let's find a place to sit for a bit."
They moved away from the salamander's body, settling down on a flat rock near the cavern wall. The glowing moss cast a soft light over them, painting their faces in hues of green and blue.
"That was... intense," Joey said, leaning back gingerly.
"You can say that again," James agreed, flexing his sore arm.
Joey looked over at him, a flicker of admiration in his eyes. "You were really brave, you know."
James shook his head. "I was terrified. But we didn't have a choice."
"Still, you came up with the plan. You saved us."
"We saved each other," James corrected, offering a small smile.
Joey returned it. "Guess we're real adventurers now."
James chuckled softly, then winced as his shoulder protested. "Yeah, though I wouldn't mind a little less adventure for a while."
They sat in companionable silence, the sounds of the cavern filling the space between them—the distant drip of water, the soft rustle of unseen creatures, the steady rhythm of their own breathing.
"Do you think there are more of those things down here?" Joey asked quietly.
"I wouldn't be surprised if there was"