The road wound its way through the sprawling beauty of Yellowrock National Park, where tall pine trees formed an unbroken line of green against the clear blue sky. Their tops swayed gently in the breeze, shimmering with a soft golden hue as they caught the afternoon sunlight. Shadows dappled the winding road below, creating a dance of light and dark as Donald Duck drove steadily onward, his brow furrowed in focus. The park's sheer size and grandeur seemed to stretch out infinitely before them, with snow-capped peaks just visible in the distance.
Beside him, Daisy sat comfortably, one elbow propped against the window, her gaze wandering lazily across the lush, untouched wilderness. Her expression softened, reflecting the peaceful calm that filled the car, the rich scent of pine needles drifting in through the slightly cracked windows.
"You know, Donald," Daisy mused, her voice a soft, contented murmur. "It's been a while since I had a trip like this. I'm glad I have a chance again—with you."
Donald grinned at her, though his eyes remained fixed on the road ahead. "Yeah, back then I used to take the boys on trips all the time, but they always thought they were boring," he said with a playful huff. "I never figured out if it was the places we went... or if I was just boring."
Daisy laughed softly and shook her head. "Oh, Donald, I'm sure it wasn't you," she teased. "But don't worry—this time will be different! You've got me and the girls to keep things exciting. Trust me, they won't forget this adventure!"
Behind them, May and June leaned forward in their seats to get a better look at the ever-changing scenery. Every twist and turn in the road seemed to unveil something new. It was as if the whole park was brimming with life and wonder, waiting just for them to discover.
"Are we there yet?" June piped up eagerly, her eyes wide and shining. She squirmed closer to the front, gripping the edge of Daisy's seat. "I can't wait to see Old Faithful up close!"
"Yeah! And what about the Grand Prismatic Spring?" May chimed in, barely containing her excitement. "I read the water's all different colors because of the minerals—like a giant rainbow pool!"
Daisy turned slightly in her seat, smiling warmly at her nieces. "That's right, girls. This place is filled with wonders. And that's why I wanted to bring you here—to see something truly unforgettable! Yellowrock isn't just about the sights, after all."
"What do you mean?" June asked, tilting her head, curiosity sparkling in her eyes.
"I mean, it's the history, the adventure, and especially the wildlife," Daisy replied, gesturing expansively at the forested expanse beyond the road. "Yellowrock is home to so many different animals—bison, wolves, bears. You might even spot a few from the car if you're lucky."
"Really?" May's eyes widened, glancing eagerly out the window.
"Absolutely. And if you keep your eyes open, you might just find a few mysteries hidden out here, too," Daisy continued, her tone turning thoughtful. "Stories as old as the trees, waiting for someone curious enough to uncover them."
"Mysteries?" May and June chorused, eyes bright with excitement. They exchanged a quick, conspiratorial look, as if already plotting how they might find these secrets for themselves.
"You bet," Daisy said with a wink. "Yellowrock has more stories than just geysers and hot springs. Some are true... and some, well, they're just waiting to be discovered."
"Yeah, yeah! But let's not get carried away with that stuff," Donald interrupted, raising a finger with mock sternness. "We're here for some good old-fashioned family time! Nothing beats a road trip with the people you—"
He was cut off mid-sentence as they rounded a bend, and the lush forest suddenly gave way to a quaint little town tucked snugly between the foot of a rocky ridge and the winding road. Its streets were lined with small wooden cabins and storefronts, their walls built from thick logs and their roofs steeped in tradition. Stone chimneys jutted upwards, trailing thin wisps of smoke into the crisp autumn air, and colorful window boxes overflowed with wildflowers.
Donald's expression softened. "Well, well. Look at that," he murmured. "Didn't think we'd stumble on a town this deep in the park."
Daisy leaned forward slightly, scanning the small sign posted by the roadside. "Granite Ridge," she read aloud. "It's cute! Maybe we should stop for a bit, stretch our legs."
But Donald's smile quickly turned to a frown as the view ahead shifted. The once-clear road was jammed with a long line of vehicles: cars, trucks, and RVs, all backed up in a seemingly endless queue. Red brake lights blinked in unison, casting an irritable glow over the otherwise tranquil scene. Horns blared sporadically, and an air of frustration hung heavy over the line of drivers.
"Nuts!" Donald growled, gripping the steering wheel tightly. "Why's there gotta be a traffic jam here of all places?"
Daisy placed a calming hand on his arm. "Easy, Donald. It's just a little congestion. Probably everyone else trying to catch a glimpse of the park's sights too."
"Ugh, just what we needed," Donald muttered, his foot tapping impatiently against the brake. "We'll be stuck here forever!"
"I don't think this place is that bad," May remarked casually, glancing out the window at a line of rustic souvenir shops and a small park with a stone fountain depicting a majestic elk. "There's some stuff to see here."
"Yeah," June agreed, shrugging lightly. "We could take a little rest and check it out while we wait."
Donald opened his mouth to argue, but then hesitated. A small sigh escaped him as his expression softened, his usual bluster ebbing away. His gaze shifted to Daisy, who offered him a gentle, encouraging smile.
"I guess... we could take a little break," he grumbled reluctantly, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his beak. "But just for a bit! I don't want to miss Old Faithful because of some small-town detour!"
"Relax, Donald," Daisy said soothingly, giving his shoulder a gentle squeeze. "Yellowrock isn't going anywhere. And besides, maybe Granite Ridge has its own little charms. You never know what you might find."
Donald's gaze lingered on her for a moment, his resistance melting just a bit more, then shifted back to the road. After maneuvering through the slow crawl of traffic, he finally managed to steer the car into a parking spot near the center of Granite Ridge. He let out a sigh of relief, switching off the engine as the family took in their surroundings. The town's modest charm was evident in the cobblestone streets, tidy storefronts, and rows of flower boxes bursting with late-season blooms.
"There!" Daisy exclaims, her gaze drawn to a small shop just a few steps away. It stands out amidst the quiet row of buildings, its windows crammed with colorful trinkets, old postcards, and what seems like a hodgepodge collection of knick-knacks. A cheerful, hand-painted sign above the door reads: Murray's Marvels and Memorabilia. "That looks fun," she adds with a smile, pointing toward the shop. "Why don't we start there?"
Donald's beak twists into a frown, a skeptical look crossing his face. "A tourist trap, Daisy? Really?" He glances around at the sleepy town, muttering under his breath, "We should be getting back on the road."
"Oh, come on, Donald," Daisy chides gently. "It'll just be for a minute. The girls could use a break, and so could you." With a playful nudge, she tugs him toward the shop's entrance, ignoring his exaggerated groan of protest.
The bell above the door jingles merrily as they step inside, and they are immediately greeted by the sight of shelves stacked to bursting with strange curiosities. Carved figurines, polished stones, painted pinecones, and a jumble of odd objects are crammed into every available space. It's the sort of place where each shelf holds a story, where even the dust seems to have settled in with purpose.
"Welcome, welcome!" A bright, cheerful voice boomed out from the back of the shop. A silver-feathered duck with a wide grin and a colorful vest bustled forward, his eyes gleaming with excitement. "The name's Murray—Murray Mallard, purveyor of Granite Ridge's finest, most unique collection of wonders! Step right in, step right in!" He gestured expansively, as if the cluttered little shop were a grand museum.
Daisy returned his smile warmly. "Nice to meet you, Mr. Mallard! I'm Daisy, and this is my family—Donald, May, and June."
"Daisy, Donald, May, and June!" Murray repeated with a theatrical flair, his grin widening even further. "A pleasure! But please, call me Murray. Mr. Mallard sounds like I'm ready to give a lecture—trust me, I'm more of a tour guide!"
Donald rolled his eyes subtly, but Daisy continued smiling as Murray launched into his pitch with the enthusiasm of a showman, hardly pausing for breath.
"Here we have a genuine pinecone sculpture carved by old Clem himself—been a fixture of the town for over sixty years!" He then pointing to a collection of glass jars. "And over here, a jar of Yellowrock River pebbles, polished smooth by the current! But, ah, don't take them for granite!" He chuckled at his own pun, giving Donald a friendly nudge.
Donald blinked, then sighed heavily. His gaze shifted longingly to the door, clearly regretting every second they were spending here. But Murray was already off again, leading them deeper into the shop.
"And don't miss our famous Granite Ridge Fossil Replicas!" he exclaimed, sweeping his arm toward a shelf lined with small, colorful stones. "Perfect for any collector—if I do say so myself! Genuine look, no digging required!"
As he continued to rattle off the so-called highlights of his collection, pointing out every odd trinket with exaggerated flourishes, Donald's expression grew darker with each new 'attraction.'
"And now, for the pièce de résistance," Murray announced grandly, his voice dropping to a dramatic whisper as he leaned in closer, "a legendary carving found deep in the woods! They say it was hidden there by one of the town's earliest explorers—no one knows its true origins... or what it means. But according to local lore, it marks the entrance to a secret path where only the bravest dare to venture!"
Daisy tried to keep up, nodding politely as Murray launched into yet another tale, but it was clear even she was getting overwhelmed by his rapid-fire delivery.
"Quite a lot to take in, isn't it?" he quipped with a knowing grin. "But I always say—if you leave with just one story, you're missing out on ninety percent of the fun!"
Donald's shoulders slumped, his initial resistance melting into weary resignation. The family was effectively trapped in Murray's whirlwind of chatter, and judging by his energy, it didn't look like they'd be escaping anytime soon.
It's at that exact moment that May and June, sensing an opportunity, exchange a quick, knowing glance. With the ease of seasoned agents, they begin to move—just the tiniest shuffle backward at first, blending in as Murray's voice reaches a new crescendo. Their eyes dart around cautiously, waiting for the perfect moment. Murray, already caught up in recounting how his great-uncle's third cousin once discovered a 'magical' stone near the edge of the park, is too absorbed in his own story to notice.
Taking advantage of his distraction, the sisters exchange a subtle nod and take another step back. Then another. They edge behind a tall shelf crammed with knick-knacks, ducking low to stay out of view as Murray's arm gestures wildly overhead. With one last, careful look, they slip out from behind the shelf, inching closer to the door.
June glances over her shoulder at the rest of the family, still caught in Murray's unrelenting stream of chatter. She leans close to May and whispers, "We're gonna be in here forever if we don't get out now!"
"Totally," May agrees in a hushed tone, her eyes fixed on the door. "We'll never escape at this rate."
Keeping their movements light and quick, the sisters make their way to the exit, sidestepping around precariously balanced displays and weaving between stacks of old town maps and guidebooks. The shop bell dangles above the door, swaying slightly, and they exchange a final, furtive glance before May reaches up and—slowly, carefully—catches the clapper to muffle the sound. She pushes the door open just wide enough for them to slip through, and then—
In a flash, the girls are outside, the bell giving only the faintest tinkling jingle in their wake. They pause on the sidewalk, breathing in the cool, crisp, pine-scented air, and shake off the lingering effect of Murray's whirlwind energy.
"Phew!" June whispers, eyes wide as she glances back through the shop window, where Murray is still gesturing animatedly. "That was intense."
"No kidding," May agrees, brushing off imaginary dust as if clearing away the chaos. She glances up and down the quaint little street, a spark of curiosity lighting up her gaze. "Come on, let's see what else is around here."
And with that, they dart away, leaving the lively shop and its overly enthusiastic owner behind as they step into the little town, ready to explore on their own terms.
They wander down Granite Ridge's main street, their steps light as they take in the town's quaint, old-fashioned charm. The buildings lining the road are small and neat, each one brimming with character. Brightly painted signs hang above doorways, proclaiming the names of local shops: Pine & Needle Bakery, Ridge Rock Outfitters, and Granite Gems Trading Post. Their windows are filled with an eclectic array of goods—handcrafted quilts draped artfully over wooden frames, glass jars of jewel-toned preserves stacked high on shelves, and rustic carvings shaped like forest animals.
"Feels like we've stepped back in time," May murmurs thoughtfully, glancing at the patterned awnings and wooden storefronts. "It's kind of... cozy."
"Yeah," June agrees, her eyes catching on a display of polished stones glinting in the sun. "A little quiet, though."
As they continue down the street, they come across a dusty little museum tucked between a general store and an old-fashioned barber shop. Its front windows are crowded with black-and-white photographs, capturing the faces of stern-looking miners and pioneers from a century ago. May pauses, peering through the glass.
"Check it out," she says, pointing to one of the framed photos. "Isn't that the same stone carving Murray was babbling about?"
June squints at the picture—a shadowy, grainy image of a moss-covered rock deep in the forest, carved with a strange pattern. "Maybe," she shrugs, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Or it's just another one of his 'magical' rocks."
"Bet it comes with a really long-winded story, too," May snickers, and the sisters exchange a knowing grin before moving on.
A few steps later, they find themselves in front of the town hall. It's a simple, square brick building with a modest clock tower rising above it, its whitewashed face and black iron hands ticking steadily. Ivy climbs up the sides of the walls, its leaves tinged red and gold with the early touch of autumn. The town's name is painted neatly over the arched entrance: Granite Ridge Town Hall. For a moment, the girls pause to admire the scene.
Not long after, they arrived at a small park at the edge of town, bordered by a thick pine forest. The park is quiet, with only a few empty benches lining a dirt path that winds between clusters of leafy bushes and towering trees. A creaky old playground sits off to one side—a rusted swing set, a slide that's seen better days, and a wooden seesaw half-buried in the grass. The wind picks up, rustling the branches overhead and filling the air with the earthy scent of pine and damp soil.
The girls make their way to one of the benches, its paint faded and chipped from years of use. May stretches out her legs with a sigh, leaning back as she gazes up at the canopy of swaying treetops.
"Not bad," she murmurs softly, closing her eyes for a moment. "It's... peaceful."
"Yeah," June agrees, settling beside her and glancing around the empty park. "Not much going on here, but it's nice."
They sit quietly for a few minutes, simply soaking in the stillness. The only sounds are the gentle creak of the old swing swaying in the breeze and the occasional rustle of a squirrel darting through the underbrush.
"You think Mom and Dad are still stuck listening to that guy?" June asks, breaking the silence with a grin.
May snorts softly. "Probably. Dad looked like he was about to blow a gasket."
"Think we should go back and rescue them?" June leans forward, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"Nah," May chuckles, shaking her head. "Let's give them a little more time. They'll be fine."
"Good point," June says, leaning back against the bench. "Besides, this place isn't so bad after all. Maybe we'll find something cool out here."
"Or stumble onto one of those mysteries Mom was talking about," May adds with a thoughtful smile. "Granite Ridge might surprise us."
The girls fall silent again, their curiosity quietly simmering as they sit in the shade of the pine trees, wondering what secrets the little town might be hiding just beyond the peaceful façade.
But then, a rustling sound catches May's attention—a sudden thud echoing from the direction of the forest. She leans forward, glancing at June with wide eyes. "Did you hear that?"
"Yeah, it sounded like something fell," June replies, her curiosity piqued. "Let's check it out!"
The sisters rise from the bench and cautiously make their way toward the sound, their footsteps muffled by the grass. As they approach the edge of the trees, they see a boy tumbling down from the low branch of a treehouse, landing in a heap on the ground.
"Whoa!" June exclaims, rushing forward. "Are you okay?"
The boy looks up, rubbing the back of his head, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Yeah, I'm fine! Just about to go into my treehouse when I lost my balance."
May giggles. "Nice landing! I'm May, and this is June. What's your name?"
"Ethan," he replies, then stands up, brushing dirt from his clothes. "What are you two doing out here?"
"We were just exploring the town," June says, glancing back at the park. "But we heard a noise and came to see what it was."
May eyes the treehouse above, then gives Ethan a curious look. "What about you? What are you doing out here with a treehouse in the middle of the woods?"
"Oh, this?" Ethan gestures at the treehouse, his smile widening. "I built it a while ago. It's kind of my hideout—a place to chill. But also… I've been using it to research a local mystery."
"A mystery?" May perks up, exchanging a quick glance with June. "What kind of mystery?"
Ethan's eyes glimmer with excitement. "I could tell you… but it's easier to show you." He gestures up toward the treehouse. "Want to come up and see for yourselves?"
The sisters hesitate for only a second before curiosity wins out. "Sure, why not?" May grins. "Lead the way."
"Just follow me!" Ethan says, and with renewed enthusiasm, he scrambles back up the wooden ladder, the girls right behind him.
Inside Ethan's cozy treehouse, the atmosphere buzzes with mystery and anticipation. The small room is crammed with curiosities: a low table covered in hand-drawn maps, a corkboard pinned with newspaper clippings, and sketches of strange, monstrous forms. There's a weathered lantern hanging from the ceiling, casting a soft, amber glow that dances across the array of drawings taped to the walls—each one depicting a creature more fearsome and bizarre than the last.
May and June lean forward, eyes wide with curiosity as Ethan steps back from his cluttered desk. In his hands is a neatly folded map, which he spreads carefully across the table's surface. The edges are worn, the ink slightly faded, but the lines are still clear, showing the winding pathways through the nearby forest and up the hill, leading to the entrance of the Granite Ridge cave system.
"This," Ethan begins, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper, "is where it all happens—the caves of Granite Ridge, right up there." He gestures dramatically out the window toward the dark, looming shape of the ridge rising above the town. The kids can just make out the outline of jagged rocks and narrow paths snaking up the steep slope.
The girls exchange a quick look, intrigued despite themselves. "Okay, but what exactly is supposed to be up there?" May asks, raising a skeptical eyebrow.
Ethan leans in closer, his expression intense. "A creature that no one's ever seen before. They call it the Cave Howler."
June's eyes widen slightly. "The Cave Howler? What's that?"
"That's just it," Ethan says, his gaze flicking between them. "No one really knows. All we have are stories, and, well, guesses. It's a local legend around here. People say it's been haunting the caves for generations. They used to think it was just the wind or echoes in the rocks, but the sound… it's too strange. Too alive."
He gestures to the sketches scattered around the walls—some showing a creature with long, sinewy limbs; others, a hulking beast with glowing eyes. "These are all the theories I've been working on, based on the sounds people have heard echoing out of the caves at night."
May studies one of the drawings, a faint shiver running down her spine. "So you're saying there's something alive up there?" she asks cautiously.
Ethan nods slowly. "That's right. Most people think it's just a myth to scare kids, but I know it's real. There's a deep, low howl that echoes out of the caves—no one knows what makes it, but it's been heard for decades, maybe longer. And I want to be the first to figure it out."
"Why?" June asks, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Why go through all this trouble for a sound?"
"Because if I'm right, it could be something amazing—something no one's ever discovered before," Ethan says earnestly. "Think about it: a brand-new species, hidden away in a place where no one's dared to venture too deeply. I've been gathering every bit of information I can find." He gestures to the wall lined with notes, old newspaper clippings, and rough sketches of the cave's layout. "People have claimed to hear the howling for over a hundred years. Some even tried to follow the sound but never made it far."
He leans back, eyes shining with excitement. "I want to be the one who solves it. To prove it's not just an old ghost story. If we can find where the sound is coming from, we'll be the first ones ever to see it up close."
May glances at June, who looks just as skeptical as she feels. "And how do you know there's really something up there and not just… I don't know, a hole in the rocks?"
Ethan's grin widens. "Because I've heard it myself. That sound—it's not coming from the wind. And it's not an echo. It's moving. Changing. And I'm going to figure out why."
The girls fall silent, absorbing the intensity in Ethan's gaze. For a moment, the only sound is the distant rustling of leaves outside, the wind whispering through the trees.
Then May breaks into a grin. "You know, we're not just any kids—we're McDucks!" she declares proudly. "Adventure runs in our family. Our Uncle Scrooge is the greatest explorer in the world!"
June nods, crossing her arms confidently. "Yeah, and you've got the same kind of spirit he does—chasing after legends and solving mysteries."
Ethan blinks, a mixture of surprise and excitement flashing across his face. "Wait, you really think so?"
"Totally," May says, stepping forward. "And if there's something amazing up there, we have to see it."
Ethan's face lights up, his earlier nervousness melting away. "Really?"
"Yeah," May replies with a grin. "But I'm warning you—if we get up there and it's just a bunch of rocks, you owe us a huge apology."
"Deal!" Ethan laughs, holding out his hand. "But I promise, you won't regret this."
June rolls her eyes but steps forward, shaking his hand as well. "Fine, fine. Let's go find your 'Cave Howler,' then."
Ethan's grin widens as he clutches their hands in turn. "You won't regret it. Just wait—you're not going to believe what we'll find up there."
With that, they prepare to venture into the heart of the forest. The search for the Cave Howler has begun.
Ethan pulls out his gear, spreading it neatly across the wooden floorboards, while May and June look on. The lantern hanging from the ceiling sways gently, casting long shadows over the piles of equipment.
"Alright, let's get you two set up," Ethan says, handing out items one by one. "We've got flashlights, extra batteries, some snacks, rope, a few climbing spikes, and—oh, right, the whistle!" He pulls out a small, silver whistle attached to a long, braided cord, handing it to June. "This is for signaling if we get separated. Just blow on it, and I'll know where to find you."
June grins, hanging the whistle around her neck. "Or if I see something spooky!" She mimics blowing on it, her cheeks puffing comically as she whistles silently. "Wheeet-wheeeet!"
May rolls her eyes with a smile. "Very professional, June."
Ethan chuckles and continues distributing the gear. "Here's a roll of duct tape—trust me, you never know when it might come in handy. And some water bottles for the trip."
May and June carefully pack the items into small canvas satchels Ethan lent them, slinging them over their shoulders. The only thing they brought themselves is their grappling hook gun, which stays securely tucked away in their pockets, just in case.
"Alright," Ethan says, tightening the straps on his own pack. "We're all set. Let's head out."
The trio climbs down the ladder, leaving the treehouse behind as they venture deeper into the forest. The atmosphere shifts as they move away from the familiar clearing; the trees grow taller and denser, their canopies interlocking overhead, casting intricate patterns of light and shadow across the forest floor. The air is thick with the earthy scent of moss and bark, mingling with the crisp, invigorating smell of pine.
June's gaze darts around, her eyes wide as she takes in the lush greenery. "Wow, it's like a whole other world out here," she murmurs.
"Yeah," May agrees, brushing aside a cluster of ferns as they pass. The underbrush is thick with strange plants—tall grasses with curling leaves, bright blue flowers peeking out from behind gnarled roots. She pauses to touch a cluster of small, star-shaped blossoms. "Look at this one, it's shimmering in the sunlight!"
Ethan glances back, smiling slightly. "That's a moonflower. It only blooms during the daytime for a few hours, then closes up again. Pretty rare to find this far in."
"You really know your plants," May says, impressed.
"I've been exploring these woods for years," he replies with a shrug. "Plus, it helps when you're trying to find a creature that lives deep inside."
Their conversation fades as the forest grows quieter around them. Only the occasional call of a bird echoes through the trees, and the soft crunch of their footsteps on the fallen leaves. Ethan leads the way, stepping carefully over twisted roots and uneven ground, while May and June follow close behind, alert and focused.
They cross through patches of sunlight, where small animals dart away at their approach—squirrels scamper up the tree trunks, and a family of rabbits disappears into the bushes. Every now and then, a rustle of leaves signals the presence of something larger moving in the underbrush, but it's always gone before they can catch a proper glimpse.
June's eyes flicker around, taking it all in. "You think we'll see more animals in the cave?"
"Probably not," Ethan says thoughtfully. "But then again, the cave is mostly unexplored, so who knows?"
As they continue through the forest, the terrain shifts subtly beneath their feet. The ground grows rockier, patches of soft moss giving way to bare, uneven stone. The trees become sparser, their gnarled roots twisting and knotting like grasping fingers. In the distance, the sound of rushing water whispers through the woods, adding a chill to the air.
"Almost there," Ethan murmurs, glancing around as if searching for a hidden landmark. Then, his face brightens. "There! Look ahead."
The girls follow his gaze, spotting a dark shadow at the rocky hill. At first glance, it appears to be nothing more than a small, unremarkable hollow—just a shallow indentation in the rock. But as they approach, it becomes clear that it's an opening, a jagged tear just large enough for them to slip through.
"This is it?" May asks skeptically, peering into the cave's mouth. A faint, earthy scent wafts up from the darkness within. "It looks like just another cave."
"Yeah," June agrees, frowning. "Are you sure this is the right place?"
Ethan nods, a strange light in his eyes. "Trust me. What we're looking for is inside."
As if on cue, a low, eerie sound rises from somewhere deep within the cave, a faint, mournful wail that seems to drift through the very walls. The hairs on the back of May's neck stand up. She glances at her sister, then back at Ethan, who's watching them with a small, knowing smile.
"Yeah," he whispers. "That's it. That's the Cave Howler."
A cold breeze slips out of the cave's mouth, brushing past them like a warning. The sound swells for a moment, then fades into silence.
"Okay," May says, swallowing hard. "Now I believe you. Let's go."
They step forward, ducking slightly as they squeeze through the narrow opening of the cave. The air inside is cool and damp, with the sharp scent of wet stone filling their noses. The ground is rough and uneven beneath their legs, each step sending loose pebbles skittering into the shadows. Ethan switches on his flashlight, the beam cutting through the darkness and glinting off the glistening walls.
"Watch your step," he warns softly as they venture deeper into the passage. The girls follow suit, their own flashlights casting erratic circles of light along the stone. The narrow tunnel winds and twists, sometimes so cramped that they have to shuffle sideways to fit through. Other times, it opens into small chambers filled with jagged rocks, slick moss, and the occasional stray root dangling from above. Water droplets trickle down the walls, creating tiny rivulets that snake along the floor.
"It's just… a normal cave," June whispers, almost disappointed. Her light flickers over a cluster of sharp stalactites hanging from the low ceiling. "Where's all the creepy stuff?"
"Patience," Ethan murmurs, glancing back over his shoulder with a knowing smile. "We haven't even started yet."
They continue cautiously, the cave growing darker and more cramped the deeper they go. The air becomes thicker, cooler, and a faint, low hum seems to reverberate through the stone around them, as if the earth itself is breathing. Every sound—their footsteps, their whispered comments, the faint drip of water—echoes eerily in the stillness.
May shines her light along the ground, catching sight of tiny, pale mushrooms sprouting between the cracks in the rock. "Look at these—glowcaps. They're glowing slightly."
The delicate fungi emit a soft, bluish-green glow, adding a faint, ethereal light to the cave. The sight is almost mesmerizing, and for a moment, they pause, just watching the tiny, bioluminescent mushrooms sway gently as a small breeze filters through the cave.
Ethan adjusts the straps of his backpack, a mixture of excitement and impatience sparking in his eyes. "We're close," he whispers, his gaze fixed ahead. "I can feel it."
But just as they round a tight corner, May's foot slips. She yelps, grabbing for June's arm, but the ground beneath them gives way—soft, spongy moss collapsing under their combined weight.
"Whoa—!" Ethan shouts, but his warning comes too late. All three of them tumble forward, arms flailing as they slide down a steep slope. Rocks and loose dirt skitter around them as they plunge downward, their flashlights swinging wildly in the darkness.
"Hang on!" Ethan cries, scrambling to catch hold of something—anything—but the slippery moss and loose gravel offer no grip. The ground suddenly drops away entirely, and for a breathless moment, they're airborne.
Then they crash down, landing in a soft, springy surface that cushions their fall. There's a brief silence, broken only by the sound of their ragged breathing and the gentle rustling of something beneath them.
"Ow…" May groans, pushing herself up on wobbly arms. "What did we land on?"
"It feels… squishy," June says slowly, patting the ground beneath her. "Did we just land on a giant pillow or—?"
"A mushroom!" Ethan exclaims, his voice bursting with excitement. "A giant mushroom!"
The girls look around in stunned amazement. They're sprawled on the broad, rounded cap of an enormous mushroom, its surface velvety and soft beneath their hands. Its stem rises up from the ground like the trunk of a tree, branching out into other, smaller mushrooms clustered nearby. The room around them glows softly with an otherworldly light—the faint blue shimmer of bioluminescent fungi scattered across the walls and floor.
Ethan's flashlight flickers as he lifts it, casting a pale circle of light around the chamber. But even without the beam, the hidden beauty of the cave is slowly revealed around them. All three of them stare, wide-eyed, as their surroundings come into focus.
Above them, the walls of the chamber sparkle with a thousand tiny lights, crystalline formations jutting out in jagged, translucent shapes. The crystals catch the blue bioluminescence from the surrounding plants, scattering it in rainbow hues that reflect across the chamber like shards of stained glass.
"It's… it's beautiful," May breathes, her voice barely above a whisper. "I've never seen anything like this."
"And we're the first ones to see it," Ethan murmurs, a triumphant grin spreading across his face. "Welcome to the underground cave."
But it's more than just a cave. Nearby, a narrow underground river flows gently through the chamber, its surface glowing faintly. The water itself is clear and pure, but it shimmers with a soft blue light, as though the very current is infused with some mysterious, luminous quality. Faint streaks of bioluminescence snake through the stream, casting ethereal patterns across the chamber walls.
June's eyes widen as she takes it all in. "Is that… glowing water?"
"Yeah," Ethan replies, kneeling by the edge of the river. He dips a hand into the cool stream, watching as the light dances around his fingertips. "Some of the minerals in the rocks react with the water, making it glow like this. It's beautiful, isn't it?"
"And look at these plants!" May calls, crouching beside a cluster of broad, fan-shaped leaves that sway gently even though there's no breeze. Their veins pulse faintly with light, shifting between shades of blue, green, and deep purple. Delicate tendrils curl around the bases of the mushrooms, sprouting tiny, star-shaped flowers that shimmer like the night sky.
The three of them stand up slowly, faces glowing with wonder as they take in the breathtaking beauty of the hidden world around them.
"This…" June whispers, staring in awe. "This is incredible."
"And to think," Ethan murmurs, his eyes still wide with amazement, "it's all been right here this whole time."
May and June exchange glances, their earlier fatigue and uncertainty replaced by excitement. Whatever they had imagined, it hadn't been this. It's a secret world—a hidden paradise—tucked away beneath the mundane surface of the woods above. And they're the first ones to see it.
Ethan turns, his grin widening. "So… what do you think? Worth the fall?"
May laughs softly, shaking her head in disbelief. "You're lucky we landed on a giant mushroom, or we'd be having a very different conversation right now."
But her smile says it all. This adventure is just beginning.
Meanwhile at the shop, Donald and Daisy still trapped in Murray's never-ending story. As he animatedly talks, his hands gesturing wildly. "Y'know, I came to Granite Ridge thirty years ago with nothin' but a hammer and a dream! Took me ages to build this place. Almost gave up at one point!" he exclaims dramatically.
Donald leans closer to Daisy, muttering under his breath, "This is all your fault. Why'd you have to drag us here?"
Daisy shoots him a look, then responds with a sarcastic smile, "Oh, I'm so sorry for being curious."
Before Donald can retort, Murray interrupts, raising a hand as if recounting an epic tale. "But just as I was about to pack it all up, guess what? A bald eagle landed right on top of the half-built roof! It was like a sign! That majestic bird perched there, staring down at me, and I knew—I couldn't quit!"
Donald's eye twitches as he lets out another long sigh. "Feels like we'll be hearing about every plank and nail at this rate..."
Daisy stifles a giggle, but even she can't hide a small smile. Murray, oblivious, continues his monologue, recounting each brick and beam. As his voice drifts on, Donald braces himself for what feels like an endless afternoon, while Daisy just shrugs apologetically.
Back at the underground cave, the three of them stand in silent awe, their flashlights turned off as they watch the river's soft, blue glow ripple gently through the cavern. The underground world around them seems to shimmer with life—mushrooms, flowers, and crystalline formations casting an eerie, otherworldly light that makes the chamber look like a place out of a dream.
"Okay," Ethan breathes, his voice breaking the spell. "Let's see where this river leads."
May and June nod in agreement, and together, they move toward the softly glowing stream. The narrow path hugs the riverbank, the ground rough but surprisingly stable as they step carefully, staying close to the gentle flow. Their flashlights sway slightly in their hands, the faint beams cutting through the shadows and highlighting strange, twisted plants that grow in sporadic clusters along the cave floor.
"It's like the river is showing us the way," June murmurs, watching the blue light reflect off the damp walls as they continue forward.
"Maybe it is," May replies, her eyes drifting up to where the river seems to vanish around a bend. "But… where is it taking us?"
"Only one way to find out," Ethan says softly, excitement and anticipation flickering in his gaze. He leads the way, the others following close behind, their footsteps quiet in the stillness of the cave.
As they round the bend, the air changes subtly—a cool, crisp breeze brushing past them, carrying a faint, metallic tang. The path widens, and the narrow stream opens into a larger underground passage. The river flows steadily along, its blue glow casting a soft, wavering light on the cavern walls. But here, something else begins to catch the light.
"Whoa…" May breathes, her eyes widening as they step into a massive, open chamber. "Look at that."
All around them, the walls and ceiling of the cave glitter and gleam with hundreds—maybe thousands—of crystalline formations. The crystals jut out in jagged clusters, their smooth surfaces reflecting the blue light of the bioluminescent river. But unlike the clear or pale-white crystals they had seen earlier, these are a brilliant shade of teal, glowing softly in the shadows. They catch the river's light and scatter it, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that dance across the chamber in a mesmerizing display of teal, blue, and green.
"It's… beautiful," June whispers, staring up in awe as the light shifts and shimmers across the crystalline ceiling like a living, breathing tapestry.
Ethan's gaze sweeps over the formations, his expression filled with wonder. "These crystals… they're different from the others," he murmurs, stepping forward slowly, almost reverently. "I've never seen anything like them."
Most of the crystals are embedded in the walls, their pointed edges jutting out like shards of broken glass. Others hang from the ceiling, their shapes long and slender, dripping down like icicles frozen in time. The chamber itself is massive, its ceiling towering high above them, and the light from the river seems to set the entire space aglow, filling it with a soft, ethereal radiance.
May and June exchange glances, their earlier fatigue forgotten as they step closer to the shimmering formations. The crystals seem almost alive, pulsing faintly with an inner light that makes the cavern feel like a hidden palace—an underground cathedral carved out of stone and filled with gems.
"This is amazing," May murmurs, reaching out as if to touch the nearest cluster. But she stops just short, her fingers hovering over the smooth, teal surface. "It's like… like we're inside a giant crystal geode."
Ethan nods slowly, his gaze fixed on the ceiling above. "It's incredible," he agrees, his voice barely more than a whisper. "But—"
He breaks off suddenly, his entire body tensing. May and June look at him in confusion, then freeze as well, their hearts pounding. For just a moment, the only sound is the soft trickle of the river beside them.
Then, the howl comes.
It starts as a low, distant moan, rising and falling in pitch like a strange, otherworldly wail. The sound echoes through the chamber, reverberating off the crystals and bouncing through the cavern like the voice of a ghost. The hair on the back of May's neck stands on end as the eerie, unearthly sound fills the air, sending a chill down her spine.
"It must be the Cave Howler!" Ethan whispers, his eyes wide with excitement.
The three of them fall silent, their gazes locked on the far end of the chamber where the howl seems to be coming from. The sound is stronger now, more distinct—a long, keening wail that seems to rise up from the very depths of the earth itself. The crystals around them vibrate faintly, their teal surfaces shimmering in response to the strange, haunting noise.
"Do we go after it?" May asks, glancing at the others, her heart racing with both fear and anticipation.
"Of course," Ethan replies, his expression torn between nervousness and determination. "That's why we're here, right?"
June swallows, her grip tightening on her flashlight. "Okay… but if this is just some weird echo, I'm going to be really disappointed."
Ethan chuckles softly, though there's a hint of anxiety in his voice. "Trust me," he says, his gaze locked on the dark tunnel beyond the crystals. "It's not just an echo."
And with that, the three of them start forward once more, their steps cautious but sure as they follow the eerie howl deeper into the crystalline cave. The combined glow of teal and blue casts strange, shifting patterns on the stone walls around them as they press on, hearts pounding in unison.
They move cautiously through the winding passages, the eerie wail of the Cave Howler guiding them deeper into the shimmering labyrinth. With every step, the sound grows louder, reverberating through the cavern walls and filling the air with its haunting call. The glow of the teal and blue crystals fades as they descend, the tunnel narrowing until they find themselves squeezing through a gap into a small, open chamber.
"Careful," Ethan whispers, shining his flashlight ahead. The chamber is darker here, the walls less reflective, but a strange clearing stretches out in the middle—empty, save for a few jagged rocks jutting out of the floor.
"Is this where it's coming from?" May asks, her eyes darting around. The howling sound is almost deafening now, a deep, rumbling roar that seems to echo up from the very ground beneath them. She steps closer to the clearing, peering into the darkness. "But… there's nothing here."
"Maybe it's hiding," June suggests, glancing nervously around the empty space. "Or it could be underground."
Ethan frowns, his expression thoughtful as he studies the empty chamber. "I don't know. It's so loud in here… it has to be close by." He steps forward, scanning the clearing with his flashlight. "Unless…"
Suddenly, the ground trembles beneath them. The kids stumble, gasping in surprise as a low rumble shakes the floor. Then, with a powerful whoosh, a burst of steaming hot water shoots up from the center of the clearing, rocketing toward the ceiling in a brilliant spray. The roar is deafening, filling the chamber with a thunderous noise that reverberates off the walls and shakes loose bits of stone from above.
"Aah!" May cries, jumping back as the geyser erupts in front of them. The water, shimmering faintly in the dim light, splashes down in a sizzling spray, filling the room with steam.
"What in the—?" June starts, but then realization dawns on her face. Her eyes widen as she looks at the geyser, the spray of water creating a deep, moaning sound as it crashes back down. "Wait… is that…?"
"It's an underground geyser!" Ethan shouts over the noise, a grin spreading across his face. "That's it! That's the Cave Howler!"
The three of them stare in awe, the revelation sinking in. The water bursts from the ground in rhythmic pulses, each one accompanied by a hollow, mournful wail as it rushes up through the rocks, creating the exact sound they've been chasing. The echoes bounce around the chamber, rising and falling in pitch with the geyser's eruptions.
"It's… it's just a natural phenomenon," May murmurs, shaking her head in wonder. "The Cave Howler… it's just this geyser making noise."
"But look at it!" June says excitedly, pointing to the shimmering spray of water. "It's incredible!"
Ethan nods, still grinning. "We found it. We actually found it."
For a moment, the three of them just stand there, gazing up at the roaring column of water as it surges up toward the ceiling, its powerful spray catching the light in a mesmerizing dance. The steam swirls around them, shimmering in the glow of their flashlights, and the strange, haunting wail fills the chamber, echoing through the underground passages they've explored.
"Who would've thought," May whispers, a small smile tugging at her lips. "The legendary Cave Howler… just a noisy geyser."
"Yeah," June agrees softly, her eyes still wide with awe. "But it's a pretty amazing geyser, right?"
"Definitely," Ethan says, his gaze still locked on the roaring spray. "It's like finding a hidden secret of the earth."
They all nod, captivated by the sight. Even though the mystery has been solved, the sight of the geyser—its wild, untamed beauty—feels like a discovery in itself. The Cave Howler might not be a creature of legend, but in that moment, standing in the spray of the underground geyser, it's more than enough.
The children's awe over the geyser's revelation is cut short by a guttural hiss. From the shadows of the chamber's far corner, a pair of glowing, predatory eyes appears. The enormous salamander, its slick, crimson scales glistening in the dim light, emerges from the darkness. Its body, nearly the size of a small car, slinks forward with unnerving grace, each movement fluid and deliberate as it circles around them.
"That's… not friendly," May mutters, taking a step back.
Ethan swallows hard, his gaze fixed on the beast. "Definitely not."
The salamander's mouth opens, revealing rows of needle-like teeth. Then, in a burst of speed, it lunges. The kids scatter, narrowly avoiding the snapping jaws.
"Run!" Ethan shouts, but they're trapped in the small chamber with no obvious escape route.
May's eyes dart around frantically, landing on the narrow opening beside the geyser. The bursts of steam shoot up at timed intervals, and it's their only path out. "We have to go through the geyser! It's the only way!"
"You're crazy!" June yells, dodging the salamander's swiping tail.
"Crazy or not, it's that or become salamander food!" May retorts.
The geyser erupts again, a column of scalding steam shooting high into the air. They watch the timing—the burst lasts for three seconds, followed by a pause of seven seconds before the next one. It's enough time if they move fast. The salamander snarls, then darts forward, forcing them closer to the geyser's path.
"On my mark!" Ethan calls, keeping his eyes on the steaming vent. The instant the steam stops, he shouts, "Now!"
They sprint as one, hearts pounding. The salamander rushes after them, jaws snapping just inches from May's heels. But the children reach the opening, diving through just as the geyser roars back to life. A shriek of pain echoes behind them—the salamander, caught by the scalding steam, recoils and hisses furiously.
"No time to stop!" Ethan pants. "Keep moving!"
They race down a narrow, rocky tunnel, its walls streaked with mineral deposits. The ground is uneven, and they stumble but don't dare slow down. Behind them, the salamander's enraged hiss echoes, signaling it's still in pursuit. There's a splash, and Ethan glances back.
"It's in the water!" he gasps. "It's swimming right through!"
Their path slopes downward, the sound of rushing water growing louder until they burst into a new chamber. A wide, glowing river cuts through the cave, its waters shimmering with the eerie bioluminescence of thousands of tiny organisms. They skid to a stop at the river's edge.
"What now?" June cries, panic creeping into her voice.
"Look!" May points to a cluster of giant, lily-like plants with broad, sturdy leaves drifting near the shore. "We can use those—make a boat!"
Ethan doesn't hesitate. "Grab the biggest one! Hurry!"
Together, they wrestle a leaf as wide as a canoe onto the water, hopping on just as the salamander bursts into the chamber. It swims powerfully, its sleek body cutting through the water like a knife.
"It's gaining on us!" June yells, paddling desperately with her hands.
"Use the grappling hook!" June shouts. "We need to push off from the rocks!"
May pulls the grappling hook gun from her pocket and fires. The hook catches on a jagged rock on the riverbank. With a grunt, she pulls hard, jerking their makeshift boat forward just as the salamander lunges. Its jaws snap shut where they'd been only moments before.
The leaf-boat careens down the river, bobbing and swaying wildly. They dodge protruding rocks and navigate sharp turns, the glowing water casting eerie patterns on the cavern walls. But no matter how fast they go, the salamander is right behind them, cutting through the water effortlessly.
"Why isn't it stopping?" May cries, casting a desperate glance over her shoulder. The beast is only a few feet away, its glowing eyes locked onto them.
"It's the perfect predator down here," Ethan pants, straining to keep the boat on course. "It's not afraid of anything!"
June grits her teeth, her gaze flickering down to the whistle hanging around her neck. Without a second thought, she yanks it up and blows as hard as she can. The high-pitched sound pierces the air, reverberating through the cave.
To their astonishment, the salamander hesitates. Its head jerks back, and it blinks rapidly as if disoriented. Then it slows, its powerful tail no longer propelling it forward. It hovers just beneath the surface, the glow in its eyes dimming.
"Did… did it work?" May asks, hope and disbelief mingling in her voice.
"Maybe!" June shouts, still clutching the whistle. "Maybe it hates the sound?"
But Ethan shakes his head slowly, a frown creasing his brow. "No… something's wrong."
They follow his gaze and see it—the water ahead churns violently, breaking against jagged rocks scattered across the riverbed. The terrain is too rough, too sharp even for the salamander's tough scales. It glares at them from the safety of deeper waters, hissing furiously.
"Ha! Looks like you're not so tough after all!" May taunts, relief flooding her face. "Guess it wasn't the whistle, huh?"
But their victory is short-lived. A massive rock looms ahead, and with a sickening crunch, their leaf-boat slams into it, throwing them forward. The world spins, and then everything goes black.
[Few moments later...]
The kids groan as they slowly regain consciousness. The afternoon sunlight filtering through the trees. They're sprawled on a sandy riverbank, the remnants of their leaf-boat scattered around them. Nearby, the Yellowrock River flows gently, its surface glittering in the light.
"We're… outside?" Ethan murmurs, wincing as he sits up.
"Looks like it," May says, rubbing her head. "We must have been swept out of the cave."
June glances around, frowning. "But we're still near Granite Ridge. How is that possible?"
Ethan's eyes widen as he realizes. "The underground river must have looped back around. We've been going in circles."
The three of them stare at each other, then burst out laughing—relief and exhaustion mingling in their voices.
"Well," May says with a tired grin, "at least we won't have to go down all the way back."
"Yeah," Ethan agrees, smiling faintly. "Let's get back to town. I think we've earned a rest."
With that, they gather what little remains of their supplies and start the slow walk back, their adventurous spirits still high despite the bruises and scrapes. It wasn't the ending they'd expected, but they'd uncovered the truth of the Cave Howler—and lived to tell the tale.
As they make their way back through the darkening woods, the excitement of their adventure begins to fade, replaced by the quiet satisfaction of having achieved something truly remarkable. The trio walks side by side as they navigate the winding path. The small town finally peek through the trees, signaling the end of their journey.
They reach the fork in the road where the trail splits, one path leading toward town and the other snaking off toward the edge of the woods where Ethan's family lives. The three stop, glancing between each other, and a brief silence settles over them.
"Well," Ethan says awkwardly, scuffing his foot against the dirt. "I guess this is where we split up."
"Yeah," May murmurs, glancing back down the road. "We really should be getting back before my dad starts a search party."
June nods reluctantly. "And we've got to make it to Old Faithful before it's too dark. So, yeah, we need to head out."
There's a brief pause as they all fall silent, each of them glancing around, trying to find the right words to say. Then June steps forward and wraps Ethan in a quick, fierce hug.
"Thanks for taking us on an adventure," she says earnestly. "It was a heck of a journey."
Ethan blinks in surprise, then smiles. "Uh, yeah. You two were pretty amazing out there. Even when the salamander showed up, you didn't freak out."
May smirks. "Not on the outside, anyway."
They all share a laugh, and then Ethan's eyes drop to the whistle hanging from June's neck—the one he'd handed over earlier.
"You know," he begins hesitantly, scratching the back of his neck, "you don't have to give that back."
June looks down at the whistle, then up at him, confused. "Wait, really? I thought it was just for the trip."
"Nah," Ethan says, waving her off. "Keep it. Consider it a memento of today's adventure. Besides…" He grins lightly. "Next time you're around, just blow on it. I'll come find you. And who knows—maybe I'll have a new adventure lined up."
May's eyes soften, and she gives him a warm smile. "Thanks, Ethan. We'll keep it safe."
"Definitely," June agrees, gripping the whistle tightly. "And we'll blow it for sure the next time we come through."
Ethan nods, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Okay, cool. See you around."
"See you," May and June echo in unison, giving him one last wave before turning and starting down the other path, their footsteps slowly fading away.
Ethan watches them go, standing alone on the dusty trail. Then, with a quiet smile, he turns back and heads for his own home, already thinking of what their next adventure could be.
The two pick up their pace, eager to get back and face whatever lecture Donald has in store. Because no matter how much trouble they're in, it'll be worth it—because they made a new friend, uncovered a local legend, and had an adventure they'd never forget.
Back at Murray's Shop, the bell above the door of the souvenir shop jingles as Donald leans against the counter, his eyes glazed over. Murray finally pauses, letting out a long sigh of satisfaction. "...And that's how I built this place from the ground up, brick by brick, with nothing but a hammer, a dream, and the determination of a bald eagle!"
Donald forces a grin, letting out a relieved sigh. Finally. It felt like Murray's tale would go on forever. He casts a wary glance toward Daisy, who's eyeing the rows of knick-knacks and trinkets with mild interest. "So," Murray says, leaning forward eagerly. "What'll it be, friend? Any of my fine wares catch your eye?"
"Just...just show me the cheapest thing you've got," Donald mumbles, feeling thoroughly drained. The thought of spending even another minute in this shop makes his feathers bristle. Just as Murray starts listing off options, Donald's gaze sweeps over the shop—and freezes.
"Hey, where are the girls?" he asks, straightening suddenly. "I thought they were right here!" Panic flickers in his eyes as he turns to Daisy.
Daisy blinks in confusion. "I don't know, Donald. You know I never move an inch since we enter the shop."
Donald bolts for the door, nearly knocking over a display of Granite Ridge mugs in the process. "MAY! JUNE!" he hollers, bursting out onto the front porch. Daisy hurries after him, her eyes scanning the area anxiously.
Just as Donald opens his beak to call out again, two familiar figures appear on the sidewalk in front of the shop, dripping wet and looking thoroughly bedraggled. May and June trudge forward, soaked from head to toe.
"Where have you been?!" Donald squawks, his face contorting with equal parts relief and fury. "We were—wait, what—why are you soaked?!"
The girls exchange a quick, conspiratorial glance, and then June steps forward, her expression perfectly innocent. "We, uh, went fishing at the lake!" she says brightly. "The boat kinda...flipped."
Donald narrows his eyes, his expression dripping with suspicion. "Fishing, huh?" he repeats slowly, his gaze dropping pointedly to the grappling hook dangling from May's hand. "With that?"
May glances down at the hook, then back up at him, a nervous smile twitching at the corners of her mouth. "Uh, yeah... extreme fishing?" she tries, her voice wavering slightly.
Donald's eyes don't budge, still fixed on them with the same unimpressed look, his silence speaking volumes.
May sighs, shoulders slumping in defeat. "Okay, fine, we weren't fishing," she admits, shooting June a sideways glare. "We went exploring. Deep exploring."
"Exploring?" Donald echoes, his voice rising to a shrill pitch. "You mean you snuck off into the woods and—and—what, had some kind of secret adventure?!"
"Yeah," June chimes in, crossing her arms defiantly. "And do you really think we'd stick around for hours listening to that 'talking machine' go on and on?"
Donald opens his beak, then shuts it again, struggling for words. He throws up his hands in exasperation. "How dare you two sneak off and have an adventure while your parents just stand there listening to a guy drone on about bricks and eagles!" he snaps. But there's a hint of something else in his tone—envy, almost. The girls share a small, knowing smile.
"Sorry, Dad," May says, doing her best to look remorseful.
Donald's face contorts in frustration, and Daisy crosses her arms with an exasperated sigh. Before they can launch into a lecture, June pipes up brightly.
"Oh, by the way, we met a friend named Ethan!" she chimes in, grinning. "We found him out in the woods, and he's the one who took us on this 'Deep Exploration'."
"Deep Exploration?" Daisy repeats, blinking in confusion.
"Just watching a geyser… and, uh, finding the Cave Howler," June answers casually.
Daisy's eyebrows shoot up. "A geyser? What do you mean—" But Donald cuts her off with an irritated wave.
"Wait, wait, wait—Cave Howler, geysers—what exactly did you kids get up to?" he demands, his expression a mixture of disbelief and concern.
"Well..." May starts, exchanging a quick look with her sister before shrugging. "It's kind of a long story, Dad. We'd need, like, hours to explain everything."
"Yeah," June adds, nodding eagerly. "We'll save it for later. But long story short, we ended up back at the Yellowrock River."
Donald stares at them, his beak opening and closing soundlessly as he tries to process it. "You two nearly got yourselves killed!" he finally splutters.
"But it was awesome," June interjects, a broad grin spreading across her face. "Totally worth it."
Before Donald can launch into a tirade, Murray pokes his head out of the shop, beaming. "Well, look at that—looks like you two had a bit of excitement!" he chuckles, eyeing the mud-streaked kids. Then he turns to Donald. "So, any luck finding a souvenir?"
"Forget souvenirs!" Donald snaps, throwing his hands up. "I'm just glad they made it back in one piece!"
Murray chuckles again, shaking his head. "Why don't you let the girls clean up a bit?" he offers kindly. "The shop's bathroom is just around back. It's not fancy, but it'll do the job."
Donald blinks, then nods, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. "Yeah, yeah, that'd be great. Thanks, Murray."
With that, he herds May and June toward the shop, grumbling all the while about "irresponsible adventures" and "reckless exploring." But as he leads the way, Daisy notices the small, almost proud smile tugging at the corners of his beak despite his complaints.
[Later, at Old Faithful]
The sun is beginning to set by the time the family finally makes it to Old Faithful. They find a good spot among the crowd of tourists, waiting for the famous geyser to erupt. As the water starts to bubble and gurgle, Donald nudges May and June expectantly. "Now, this is something to see," he says, a proud note in his voice. "The most famous geyser in America!"
May and June exchange a look, then glance up at the spout of water shooting into the air. The geyser shoots high, its mist shimmering in the setting sun, but after the wonders of the underground cave—the glittering crystals, the glowing river, the towering mushrooms—it just seems… ordinary. Almost dull.
"That's it?" June finally mutters under her breath, folding her arms.
"Yeah, kinda disappointing," May agrees, her tone flat. "We've seen better."
Donald's head whips around, staring at them in disbelief. "Better?" he sputters. "What do you mean, better? This is Old Faithful! One of the greatest natural wonders in the world! People travel thousands of miles just to see this!"
May and June exchange another look, then shrug casually. "Yeah, but it's not exactly a hidden underground cave with glowing rivers and giant mushrooms," May replies.
Donald blinks, completely floored. "Wha—underground cave? Giant mushrooms?"
The girls grin, finally relenting. "Okay, Dad, here's the thing…" And with that, they launch into a quick but vivid description of their recent adventure—creeping through narrow tunnels, discovering a breathtaking chamber filled with crystals, and stumbling onto an underground river glowing with bioluminescent light. Their voices quicken as they describe the giant glowing mushrooms, the chase through the dark, and the geyser erupting before their eyes.
Donald and Daisy listen, expressions shifting from confusion to awe as the girls recount every detail. By the end, even Donald's stern façade has cracked, replaced by a look of wonder.
"You—you really saw all that?" he asks softly, staring at them.
"Yep," June replies, nodding proudly. "That's why Old Faithful doesn't really measure up."
Donald just throws up his hands, utterly defeated. "You kids are impossible," he grumbles, though there's a grudging smile tugging at his beak. "I give up."
Daisy slips her arm through his, shaking her head in amusement. "Maybe next time, you should join them on an adventure," she suggests, her eyes sparkling. "Show them how it's done."
"Ha! Not a chance," Donald mutters, though his gaze lingers on the girls, a thoughtful gleam in his eye. "Not a chance…"
And with that, they settle in to watch the sun set behind Old Faithful, the geyser's roar filling the air. But for Donald, the sight seems a little less magnificent now—no match for the incredible adventure his girls had experienced beneath the earth.