A few moments earlier before entering the Solomon's Gate —
I surveyed the area, my gaze darting through the eerie stillness, but there wasn't a soul in sight.
"There's no way… right?!"
My voice echoed faintly, swallowed by the oppressive air. My gut twisted as I turned to face the throbbing gate, looming ominously before me. It was far larger than I remembered, its pulsating surface emanating a barely audible, whispering cry—like a sinister heartbeat.
"Miss Martha!" I called, desperation seeping into my voice.
No answer. Not even a whisper. The silence was deafening.
"Th-there's no way… right?" I repeated.
A bead of cold sweat slid down my temple, my stomach knotting as a dreadful realization gripped me. My eyes flicked back to the grotesque gate, now larger and more sinister than ever.
"You can't be serious…"