Fear Of The Miner Lineage: Shadow Lineage

Hiroshi approached us, giving his hat a firm smack to knock off the dust. He looked a bit disheveled, his clothes covered in dirt, suggesting he had been on the run like us. Despite the rough appearance, he seemed unharmed.

"Are you okay, Hiroshi?" I asked, concerned.

"I'm fine, kid. The pipes brought me straight to these folks. How about you and the girl?" he replied, his grumpy demeanor still intact, likely due to the unsettling things he had witnessed.

Recalling the recent dangers we faced, I began to explain, "We encountered some dangerous monsters on our way here, but one of the dwarfs helped us escape."

Hiroshi didn't seem surprised by this revelation. "So there are monsters here too, huh?" he said, drinking some water from his metal matara.

"Yeah, they were unlike anything I've seen before. Aggressive and swift in the shadows, but they couldn't come near the light," I shared.

"I can't make heads or tails of these creatures either. Maybe the people here can shed some light on what's going on."

Addressing one of the miners, Hiroshi asked straightforwardly, "Hey, miner. Can you fill us in on what's happening in this place? And what's with all the hidden stuff behind those walls?"

As Hiroshi's words hung in the air, an eerie silence fell over the village. The bustling dwarfs froze, suspicion and uncertainty etching their faces. A strange tension gripped the atmosphere, leaving us with an uneasy feeling in our stomachs.

Perceiving the disturbance he had caused, Hiroshi glanced at us with a puzzled expression. His furrowed brow mirrored our confusion. Something was off, as if an invisible barrier had descended, preventing us from prying into the village's secrets.

Observing the situation discreetly, Will's eyes darted around, assessing the scene with caution. Realizing the need for privacy, he motioned for us to follow him, leading us away from prying eyes and muffled whispers.

As we distanced ourselves from the scrutinizing gazes, Will's voice dropped to a hushed, secretive tone. His words carried a sense of wisdom and caution, hinting at a hidden world beneath the surface. Each syllable held weight, as if he held sacred knowledge meant only for a select few.

"As residents of this place, we prefer to keep things quiet. But if you're truly curious to uncover the truth, I can guide you to our wise elder. He holds the answers you seek. However, discretion is of utmost importance," Will whispered, his voice barely audible.

The enigma surrounding this underground realm grew as Will's cautious words and guarded demeanor deepened. Trepidation and determination mingled in our glances, pressing us forward, closer to the heart of the village.

Following Will's lead, we made our way through the village until we reached the dwelling of the village elder. The structure, elevated on a platform, stood as a testament to the dwarfs' craftsmanship. Intricate carvings adorned its walls, depicting the history and legends of the community.

As we entered the elder's abode, Hiroshi placed his firearms aside, his eyes fixed on the elder with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. I absorbed the details of the chamber, my gaze was eager, while Lezlie exuded calmness and composure.

Will stood before the elder, his voice conveying both urgency and respect. "Elder, we have visitors seeking your wisdom."

The elder, with eyes partially closed, emanated a pearl of serene wisdom from his time-worn face. "Visitors? It's rare for outsiders to find their way to our humble abode."

"They stumbled upon our village unintentionally, their journey guided by unforeseen circumstances. They seek knowledge of their whereabouts and a means to return," Will explained, his voice carrying a subtle urgency.

The elder, his voice resonating with a complex elegance, responded, "Indeed, the labyrinthine nature of our existence often eludes the awareness of those who reside in the world above. It is a realm imbued with mystique and secrets, concealed beneath the veil of shadow and earth."

Hiroshi, with a hint of skepticism, interjected, "Look, we appreciate the poetic talk, but we need some practical answers. How can we find our way out of here?"

The elder's eyes glimmered with a mix of compassion and understanding. "Patience, dear traveler. In this realm of darkness, guidance must be sought with a tempered heart and an open mind. There is much to comprehend, for our dwelling exists within the intricate tapestry of hidden passages and winding tunnels."

Understanding the importance of our quest, the elder gestured for us to find seats, inviting us to partake in his accumulated wisdom. We settled into our chosen positions, each reflecting our individuality. Hiroshi's gaze remained fixed on the elder, his guns momentarily set aside. Ryuu's curiosity led his eyes to explore the enigmatic surroundings. Lezlie exuded grace and tranquility in her composed posture.

As we sat as instructed, the elder looked at us with a half-opened eye and asked, "Would you like something to drink?"

Hiroshi huffed, his impatience evident. "Old man, we're not here for small talk. We just want to get back on our way."

Lezlie's eyebrows furrowed as she shot Hiroshi a disapproving look. Her voice carried a gentle reproach. "Hiroshi! You don't have to be so blunt. The elder is simply being hospitable."

Hiroshi crossed his arms, his gaze fixed on Lezlie. "Hospitable, huh? Well, excuse me for not being in the mood for pleasantries when we're stuck underground with creepy creatures lurking around."

Lezlie sighed, her tone softening as she tried to reason with Hiroshi. "I understand, Hiroshi, but we can still show gratitude and be polite. It won't hurt to appreciate their assistance."

Hiroshi's stern expression softened slightly, his gaze shifting from Lezlie to the wise elder. "Fine, fine. I'll try to tone down the grumpiness. But don't expect me to start cracking jokes or anything."

The wise elder observed their exchange, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes. "Ah, the dynamics of companionship. It's a joy to witness such spirited interactions among friends."

Lezlie, her smile radiant, addressed the elder. "We're grateful for your understanding and wisdom."

Hiroshi grumbled, but a small grin tugged at the corner of his mouth. "Yeah, yeah, thanks for putting up with us, old man."

As the elder prepared refreshments, we took in the chamber's distinct features. The room exuded history and knowledge, with weathered shelves holding ancient books and scrolls. Soft candlelight bathed the worn surfaces, creating an enchanting ambiance.

In the background, the village hummed with activity. Dwarfs diligently crafted tools and artifacts, their camaraderie evident in hushed conversations. It was a harmonious community, each dwarf contributing their skills and purpose.

With the tantalizing aroma of herbal tea filling the air, the elder returned, placing cups before us. His wise gaze invited us to begin our conversation.

Will, adopting a casual tone, spoke up. "Elder, these folks ended up here by accident. They fell through the pipes and want to know where they are and how to return."

The elder, his voice carrying complexity, replied, "Indeed, our existence remains concealed beneath shadow and earth, elusive to those above."

Hiroshi, skeptical, interrupted. "We appreciate the poetic talk, but we need practical answers. How do we find our way out?"

The elder's eyes shimmered with compassion. "Patience, traveler. In this dark realm, guidance requires an open mind. Our dwelling hides within a web of passages and tunnels."

Curiosity driving me, I leaned forward. "And those creatures we encountered? What are they, and why do they lurk in the shadows?"

The elder's face showed concern as he spoke. "The creatures in the shadows... They come from forgotten times, mysterious and caught between light and darkness."

Lezlie respectfully asked, "Can you tell us how to protect ourselves from these creatures as we explore?"

The flickering candlelight created an otherworldly atmosphere in the chamber. The elder, a prominent figure of the Miner Lineage, leaned back, his eyes reflecting wisdom. With a voice that carried the weight of ages, he shared the hidden world of the Shadow Lineage and the resilience of his own Miner kin.

"The Shadow Lineage prowls in the darkness, cunning and elusive. Their faces resemble ethereal souls with lion-like manes. Beware, for they have sharp teeth honed by the shifting shadows."

Leaning forward, the elder explained, "Our Miner Lineage arrived here recently, drawn by untapped riches. It is our duty to mine these treasures for our people's prosperity. We've honed our skills to survive and built an iron wall, guarded by a lever, to fend off the Shadow Lineage."

Looking at his attentive audience, the elder continued, "The Shadow Lineage is sensitive to fire and light. They move swiftly like shadows and communicate in their own languages. Armed with spears, they pose a formidable threat."

A silence followed as the elder's words sank in. Ryuu, understanding dawning on him, humbly spoke up. "I never knew about this hidden lineage in the shadows. We find ourselves caught in the middle of it all."

Hiroshi, temporarily intrigued, leaned forward. "So, what's the plan? How do we escape this mess we didn't ask to be in?"

The elder's face showed empathy and determination. "Fear not, for we are resourceful. Despite being newcomers, we have ways to protect ourselves and repel the Shadow Lineage. We will guide you back to your realm."

"But how can we get out? We're trapped underground, and the way back is blocked."

The wise elder regarded me with a serene gaze, his aged face betraying a sense of curiosity. "Well then," he said in a calm tone, "I have a question for you too. How did you end up here? The pipes were carefully concealed with stones and trees. I thought we had hidden them well enough from outsiders."

Leaning forward, I began to recount our unexpected journey. "Actually, we had no intention of coming this way. But the map we had guided us here."

Intrigued, the elder nodded, his eyes sparkling with interest. "May I see the map you have, young man?" he asked, extending his hand.

Carefully, I retrieved the folded map from my pocket and placed it in the elder's outstretched hand. His weathered fingers traced the intricate markings on the map, his gaze unwavering as he examined it with an experienced eye.

A small smile graced his lips as he studied the map. "Yes, indeed, this is a rare artifact. It possesses the ability to reveal the path to one's desired destination. Remarkable. So, what is it that you are urgently seeking, young one, that the map led you to this very place?"

I took a deep breath, my voice tinged with determination. "A friend," I replied earnestly. "Someone who will stand beside me and my companions in the fight against the epics. We're searching for a fellow warrior, someone who shares our cause. Or perhaps a clue that may lead us to their whereabouts."

The wise elder nodded sagely, his expression a blend of understanding and contemplation. "Ah, the pursuit of companionship and purpose. A noble quest indeed. The bonds we forge and the purpose we seek can shape the very course of our lives."

My heart sank at the elder's words, a tinge of disappointment creeping into my voice. "I don't think there's anyone like that here, especially not someone who knows how to fight."

Hiroshi, his gruff demeanor softening for a moment, interjected, "Are you sure? We came all this way because of the map. Could it be that the map isn't working properly?"

The elder's gaze shifted to Hiroshi, his eyes filled with a sense of wisdom and compassion. "I don't believe so, my friend," he replied, his voice calm yet firm. "This is a very rare and powerful artifact. It is unlikely to lead you astray."

I carefully returned the map to its rightful place in my pocket, my mind churning with a mix of frustration and determination. "I understand," I murmured, my voice tinged with a hint of resignation.

Sensing our disappointment, the wise elder leaned back in his chair and regarded us with a thoughtful expression. "As far as I can recall, you expressed an interest in understanding what transpires within our humble abode," he began, his voice carrying a tinge of nostalgia.

"Yes," I affirmed eagerly, my curiosity piqued.

"Very well," the elder continued. "Many years ago, our lineage, known as the Miner Bloodline, departed our ancestral kingdom and ventured forth to this secluded haven. Our purpose was to investigate and extract valuable resources from the depths of the earth. All was proceeding smoothly until the emergence of the Shadow Bloodline."

"The Shadow Bloodline. The ones you told us before, aren't they, Wise?" I queried, my eyes widening with curiosity.

A faint hint of sorrow flickered across the elder's face as he nodded solemnly. "Yes, they are a formidable force. Wild creatures with piercing glowing eyes, lurking behind the massive doors that guard their realm. We refer to them as the Shadow Bloodline ,so as we became aware of their existence. They show no mercy, sparing neither common folk nor those from noble bloodlines. Swift and relentless, they move with uncanny speed within the shadows, yet they are powerless against the illumination of light. Even the faintest glimmer can cause their very beings to ignite in searing flames."

Hiroshi, his features etched with a mix of surprise and intrigue, leaned forward in his seat, his eyes fixed on the elder. "So, you're saying these creatures pose a great threat to your people, all this time? You people couldn't find a way to escape them?"

The elder nodded gravely, his weathered hands clasped before him. "Indeed, my friend. Our Miner Bloodline has developed a system to repel them, to ensure our safety within this subterranean haven. We have constructed iron walls and devised mechanisms, such as the lever that saved you from the clutches of danger. But it is a constant battle, a delicate dance between light and shadow."

"But why are all the miners still here?" I asked, my voice tinged with curiosity and concern.

The wise elder paused for a moment, his eyes glancing towards the gathered miners before meeting mine. "Because, my young friend, no one who has entered this forsaken place has been able to escape. We have made numerous attempts, but the Shadow Bloodline proves faster and more relentless than we could have anticipated," he explained, his voice carrying a hint of resignation.

"Have you tried contacting your kingdom for help? Perhaps they could send aid."

The elder's expression darkened, his gaze falling to the ground. "No, we cannot make contact with the outside world. It was a grave mistake to conceal the entrance pipes beneath the cover of trees, shrouding our existence from all. Now, trapped within this desolate enclave, we have become invisible to the eyes of our brethren. And the ever-present threat of the Shadow Bloodline prevents any chance of escape. It has been an eternity since anyone has come to our rescue, and in time, we have grown accustomed to our secluded existence. The surrounding rock formations further compound our predicament, for digging from within is a futile endeavor. These huts were constructed here, as this ground provided us with the stability we desperately needed."

A sense of unease settled over our group, and Lezlie's voice trembled slightly as she spoke. "So, we're trapped here? No hope of escape?"

Hiroshi, ever the stoic, replied calmly, "Seems that way."

My mind raced, searching for a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness that surrounded us. 

interjected, determination lacing my voice. "I believe I have a plan, a way for us to find our path back to the surface."

The wise elder's eyes sparkled with curiosity, his aged face reflecting a glimmer of hope. "Pray tell, what is this plan that resides within your mind?"

I met his gaze directly, the weight of responsibility settling upon my shoulders. "When Lezlie and I managed to evade the clutches of the Shadow Bloodline, I gazed at a place bathed in sunlight, a reflection that could help us get to our freedom. I am certain that if we dig in that direction, just beyond the imposing doors, we can make our way to the surface. The distance isn't far away from the big door, where can most of the people live here can reach easily."

A flicker of understanding passed across the elder's face, his expression evolving from curiosity to a mix of concern and contemplation. "I comprehend your vision, but how do we traverse the treacherous expanse between here and there?"

I chose my words carefully, my gaze shifting between my companions and the elder. "I would advise us to dig our path, but the ground here is unstable and prone to collapse at any moment. However, if my friends and I can divert the attention of the Shadow Bloodline, it will give you the time needed to dig and be free again."

The elder's brows furrowed, his voice resonating with caution. "And how do you plan to escape this treacherous realm yourselves?"

A faint smile graced my lips as I explained our daring strategy. "Through the very pipes we entered from. With Lezlie's magical prowess and Hiroshi's gunpowder, we can create an explosive force to rupture the ground beneath our feet. Yet, we cannot risk jeopardizing the safety of all by triggering the collapse of the entire mine. That is why we will provide a diversion, ensuring the Shadow Bloodline's attention remains focused on us. Once you are all safely away, we shall detonate the explosion and make our escape."

The wise elder's gaze held a mix of admiration and concern as he assessed the audacity of our plan. "It is a sensible plan, my young friend, but one that carries immense risk. To face the Shadow Bloodline head-on requires great courage and unwavering resolve. Are you certain you are prepared for the peril that awaits?"

A determined glint sparked in my eyes as I locked my gaze with the wise. I squared my shoulders and spoke with a resolute tone, my voice steady and unwavering. "It's uncertain. But uncertainty can not be a factor that scares us now. The very act we took and the steps we are taking, would only make things for us and these people that live here. If we are going to get out of here, we should do it with an all-focused and clear mind. We can not back down, as you the wise told us, that these creatures can easily chase after us. It would be out of honor to let the people here down, as the end would come much closer to us if we stopped trying. It fuels us and pushes us to find the strength we didn't know we had. But we have no choice whatsoever."

Hiroshi lit his cigar and said, "You should have mentioned your plan from the beginning, kid. And the kid is right, this place isn't very stable. If you don't start working now, you'll soon be buried."

A sense of gratitude filled the elder's wise gaze as he stroked his long beard, contemplating my words. His voice carried a weight of appreciation as he addressed me directly. "To offer your help to people you don't even know speaks volumes about your character, young man. Your selflessness means a great deal to me and every soul residing here. Before we proceed, may I kindly ask for your name?"

"I'm Ryuu. These are my friends, Lezlie and Hiroshi."

The elder's eyes widened in recognition. "Lezlie? Pelena's daughter, Lezlie?" he questioned, a mix of surprise and curiosity evident in his voice.

Lezlie's brows furrowed in confusion, her eyes searching the elder's face. "How do you know my mother's name? Have you met her?" Her voice carried a hint of anticipation, eager to hear more about her mother's connection to this place.

A gentle smile formed on the elder's lips as he reminisced. "Oh, yes. Pelena, the great witch. She was a powerful presence in our lives. When our people faced adversity and were being robbed, it was Pelena who came to our help. She helped us in ways we couldn't have imagined, ensuring our journey was comfortable and safe."

Lezlie's eyes widened, a mixture of pride and sorrow reflecting in her gaze. "My mother... she was always there for others, using her magic to bring light into their lives. She was kind and compassionate, willing to sacrifice herself for the well-being of others."

The room fell into a brief silence as the weight of Pelena's absence lingered in the air. Lezlie's expression shifted, her eyes welling up with tears that she fought to hold back. She took a deep breath, her voice filled with a mixture of grief. "Thank you for your kind words. My mother may no longer be with us, but her spirit lives on in me. I will honor her legacy and carry her strength with me."

Hiroshi, sensing Lezlie's sorrow, talked with a heavy voice tone to tone in to answer on her behalf, his voice steady yet tinged with a somber tone. "Pelena, Lezlie's mother, passed away just a week ago." He said, not fixating his look above the ground, with his eyes below his hat in a serious manner.

The elder's expression softened, sympathy etching deep lines on his face. "I'm truly sorry to hear that. Pelena was a remarkable individual, and her loss is deeply felt."

Nodding in gratitude, Lezlie's voice quivered slightly as she responded, "I can't be grieving her from now on, since it is my duty to carry her meaningful lessons. It was her duty to leave her mark as a person, maybe not enough to change me, but change others that can be changed."

"Those are wise words, from the very own woman that I find wise. You may count that as a blessing that she teached you as a lesson, young girl."

As the conversation shifted from Pelena, the elder's wise eyes studied me intently. His brows furrowed for a moment before a flicker of understanding crossed my face. A small smile played at the corner of his lips, revealing a hint of admiration. "Ryuu, your plan shows remarkable ingenuity and bravery. I must admit, it's an audacious undertaking. However, I sense the unwavering determination within you, and that alone makes it worthy of consideration."

Pausing for a moment, the elder's gaze drifted towards the map, deep in thought. "It won't be an easy task to convince the others, but I will do everything within my power to persuade them. People like you, with your selflessness and resolute spirit, give us hope in these trying times. We shall stand by your side and see this through to the end."