LightReader

Chapter 72 - Nightmare

Toby Robinson screamed at the top of his lungs as he plummeted through the bleak, empty skies of a new dream domain. He smashed through the brittle branches of a massive dead tree, each crack and splinter ripping fresh cries of pain from him as he tumbled helplessly downward. When he finally struck the ground, the impact was brutal, but at least he was still alive.

Toby Robinson: Oooow. (Toby groaned, every inch of his body screaming in agony)

[-47HP]

[53/100HP]

[Welcome To The ???? Domain]

Slowly lifting his head from the ground, the young Dreamer took his first real look at the domain. His battered eyes, swollen and bruised, still widened in shock at the sight before him.

Toby Robinson: So... this is what a normal domain looks like. (Toby said with bated breath, his gaze locked on the large, eerie bungalow in the distance)... Well, that isn't scary at all. (He chuckled dryly, forcing himself back onto his feet)... Heal. (Toby muttered, stretching his aching joints as the healing process began)

Life renewing dream energy washed over Toby's body, knitting wounds and easing pain in seconds. Restored and steady once more, the young Dreamer drew a shaky breath, managed a nervous smile, and began the slow walk toward the creepy house ahead.

There were no other buildings in sight, at least none Toby could see. The air was heavy and unsettling, shrouding the bungalow in the aura of a haunted house. Sudden flashes of lightning split the sky at random, driving the eerie impression even deeper.

Toby Robinson: There's no way I'm going in there alone. (Toby muttered, stretching out a hand as he prepared his summoning skill)... Tamed Summoning... Summon Prince Charming, Browny and Noble! (Toby called out, quickly activating the skill)

[Tamed Summoning Activated]

In a flash of light, all three dream beings appeared before him, their forms shimmering faintly as they stood ready to help Toby investigate the building.

Prince Charming: The air here is... unsettling. Whatever foe awaits us, I fear it will be formidable. (Charming noted, his intuition sharp as ever)

Toby Robinson: It's called a Wraith, some kind of shadow creature. Taking it down won't be easy... but I know that together, we can pull it off. (Toby explained with steady confidence)

Prince Charming: Understood... but if I may be so bold, why was the Ant Queen not summoned? Her presence alone could have leveled the playing field. (Charming questioned the decision)

Toby Robinson: True, but having her around would make things way too easy for us. Where's the fun in that? Besides, we need the experience. (Toby explained)

Prince Charming: You make a fair point. Strength comes only to those who labor for it, for without effort there can be no growth. Your wisdom deepens with each passing day, My Lord. (Charming complimented with a smile)

"Loud Growl!" (Browny bellowed, his frustration spilling over as he refused to stand around any longer)

Toby Robinson: I hear you, Browny. I hear you... We've talked enough, it's now time to fight! (Toby grinned, eager to finally begin the hunt for the Wraith)

Prince Charming: Wait, you can actually understand him?! (Charming's voice rose with surprise)

Toby Robinson: You bet your suit of armour I can. I've always understood my dream beings. (Toby said, pride shinning through)

"Neigh!" (Noble whinnied, pawing the dirt with a hoof)

Toby Robinson: .... Yeah, I have no idea what he just said. (Toby admitted, rubbing the back of his neck)

Prince Charming: (Chuckles) Put simply, he just said, "yeah right."(Charming translated for him)

Toby Robinson: And that's why I never liked you, Noble. You just suck sometimes. (Toby said flatly, clearly unimpressed by the horse's words)... Now let's do this! (His expression snapped serious as he headed for the bungalow door)

"Huff!" (Noble snorted, clearly displeased)

Prince Charming: Relax, my friend. I doubt he meant it. (Charming said lightly, smiling as he matched Toby's pace)

Browny: I disagree... I'm sure he meant every word. (Browny chuckled as he left Noble behind and caught up with the others)

Noble: I refuse to accept this notion that I suck. I'm just as essential to this team as anyone else... and I'll prove it. (Noble steeled his resolve and quickly joined the others at the front door of the mysterious house)

Meanwhile, within the house, a young boy huddled in the corner, shaking as something battered his bedroom door with relentless force, trying to break through.

"Help me..." (The boy whispered, his trembling voice barely audible, terror etched into his face)

Next: Separated.

More Chapters