Yumi returned with a couple of river fish, with silvery scales and black eyes, and a handful of bright orange mushrooms that gave off an earthy aroma. "I hope you like this," she said with a smile. "They're not as exotic as the delicacies of the city, but they are nutritious."
Kiko, with her stomach rumbling, pounced on the fish without hesitation. "Mmm! They're delicious!" she exclaimed with her mouth full. "After that fight, this feels amazing."
Ren, still pensive after the encounter with the yokai, ate with less enthusiasm. The fish, cooked to perfection over the embers that Yumi had fanned with a simple gesture of her hand, had a fresh and delicate flavor. The mushrooms, with their meaty texture and intense flavor, complemented the dish perfectly. However, the uncertainty about his situation and the worry for Aiko spoiled his appetite.
While they ate, Yumi told them about the customs of the inhabitants of the Shadowlands, their legends and beliefs. She told them stories of forest spirits, magical creatures, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. Ren listened attentively, intrigued by this unknown world, but unable to shake off the thought that he had to find his sister as soon as possible.
"The Shadowlands are a place of magic and mystery," explained Yumi. "Here, nature and spirits are in constant connection. You must learn to listen, Ren. The forest has many voices, and if you pay attention, it will reveal its secrets to you."
After the meal, Yumi suggested they explore the rest of the cave. "There's something I want to show you," she said with a gleam of excitement in her eyes. "A special place, with a very particular energy."
Intrigued, Ren and Kiko followed Yumi through a labyrinth of narrow and humid tunnels. The air became colder as they went deeper into the cave, and a deep silence reigned around them. Kiko, with her heightened senses, remained alert, sniffing the air and pricking up her ears at any unusual sound.
Finally, they reached a large, dark chamber. In the center, a pool of crystal-clear water reflected the dim light filtering through a crack in the ceiling. Around the pool, strange rock formations rose like ghostly sculptures, creating a mysterious and enigmatic atmosphere.
"This place emanates an ancestral energy," said Yumi in a reverent voice. "I feel a great force here, as if the veil between worlds were thinner."
Ren, without knowing why, felt a shiver. A strange tingling ran through his body, and a feeling of unease seized him. Kiko, equally restless, approached Ren and rubbed her head against his leg, as if seeking protection.
Suddenly, a high-pitched sound broke the silence. A buzzing coming from Ren's pocket grew louder. Surprised, Ren reached into his pocket and pulled out Dr. Sato's communicator. The device emitted a flashing blue light and vibrated strongly.
Yumi and Kiko watched in amazement at the strange object Ren held in his hand. "What is that?" asked Yumi curiously.
Before Ren could answer, a voice echoed from the communicator, clear and powerful, breaking the silence of the cave.
"Hello? Is anyone there? Ren? Can you hear me?"
It was Dr. Sato's voice. Ren, his eyes wide with surprise, couldn't believe what was happening. How was it possible? Was Dr. Sato communicating with him from the other world?
To be continued...