John shivers slightly as the cool air wraps around him. “Whoa… this place is kinda spooky,” he whispers, his voice echoing softly in the darkness. Ella steps forward, her curly brown hair brushing against the low-hanging vines. “Come on, scaredy-cat,” she teases with a grin. “Aren’t you curious to see what’s inside?” John puffs up his chest, trying to shake off the chill. “I’m not scared,” he insists, but his wide green eyes dart around the dim space. The walls are covered in moss, and water drips somewhere in the distance. The earthy scent of damp stone fills their noses as they move deeper inside. Shadows dance along the walls, shifting with every flicker of light that sneaks through the entrance behind them. Then, a sudden thump echoes from the depths of the cave. Both kids freeze. “Did you hear that?” Ella whispers.