Ash's sword was raised, his heart thudding in his chest, as the door swung open with a creak. And there, in the dim light of the chamber beyond, stood a figure poised for attack, ready to strike.
In a blur of movement, Ash dropped his sword and lunged forward, seizing the figure's hand just as they were about to attack. "It's me! It's me, Ash!" he cried, the surprise evident in his voice.
In the flickering light, he could make out the shadowed figure of Shadow. Their eyes widened, recognition flashing across their masked face. "Ash?" they exclaimed, their voice filled with relief and surprise.
The tension that had been coiled in Ash's muscles relaxed, his breath coming in short bursts as he let go of Shadow's hand. "What are you doing here?" he asked, his gaze darting around the dimly lit chamber.
Shadow's eyes narrowed, their posture still cautious. "I could ask you the same thing," they replied, their voice steady and calm.
