I sat there, in the cold damp cave, with nothing but my rapid breathing to accompany me. All alone, again. I shouldn't be too surprised though, as this should be customary by now. Wherever I go, people die, no question. It's just a matter of how many I take with me.
I passed time, by watching the few shadows bounce along the walls, until my only light source inevitably faded into the darkness. Slowly, I made my way up, knowing full well, I passed my time limit for what should've been a quick break. They could have been catching up, and then I'd be putting my whole family within arms reach from danger.
As I unsheathed my sword, I realized the glimmer on the smooth metal surface, was almost enough to make up for the lack of light, but still another torch would have made a world of difference. Starting with a slow stride, I begin to pace up until I'm running along the rocky surface. Thankfully, the walls aren't as narrow as they had been before, which allowed me more space to breath and avoid the now, sharp jagged surface of their edges.
I calmed myself by listening to the intertwined pattern of my uneven breaths, and the stomping of my feet, until the sound of rushing water joins in as well. I kept on this mindset until I finally came across the source of the noise. There was just one problem. Standing in the way between me and my way out was a large drop off that no one could survive. And even if they did by some miracle, the current of water at the bottom would surely finish them off. As I contemplated my options, I realized my pursuers were closer than I had thought.
Much closer.
