Chapter 8 - 8: The Zubat Cave
The gradually setting sun hung in the sky, and its faint rays scattered across the surface of the lake. A light breeze blew, creating shimmering ripples on the water.
Cain, accompanied by Murkrow, slowly walked toward the edge of the cave. Unconsciously, the air began to smell foul.
Cain frowned, and even Murkrow instinctively used its wings to cover its mouth, as if the stench in the air was unpleasant.
The closer they got to the cave, the lighter Cain's steps became. Upon reaching the entrance, despite the intense odor, both he and Murkrow began to get used to it.
Frowning as he stared into the completely dark cave, it was clear that this wasn't a natural formation. Even the nearby rocks bore numerous claw marks.
"Judging by the marks, it looks like this cave has been dug out for a long time. I just hope there aren't any overly powerful Pokémon inside," Cain muttered.
The Murkrow on his shoulder also gradually focused, its muscles tensing, and the air currents around it signaling it was ready.
Seeing Murkrow's tension, Cain smiled faintly and reassured it, "Don't worry, Murkrow. Let's first see what's inside." Murkrow relaxed slightly but remained alert.
Cain picked up a stone from the ground, tested its weight, nodded, and then threw it forcefully into the cave.
"Thud! Thud! Thud!" After a few noises, everything went silent.
A few moments later, a hissing sound came from within the cave, followed by a flurry of wings.