*Step*
The single step drew the attention of everyone present.
It resounded quietly throughout the theater, and yet, it was almost as if it rumbled inside their minds.
*Step*
The step was soon followed by another.
*Step*
And then another.
Before anyone realized it, everyone's breath started to sync with the rhythm of the steps.
The tension rose.
It almost felt unbearable now.
And then—
Creeeeeaaak.
A loud creaking sound echoed.
A foot stepped on the edge of the opera stage. The moment it appeared, the tension rose even further.
In that moment, everyone shared the same feeling.
One of utter dread.
Creeaaaak—
The stage creaked again. This time, sharper than before.
And soon—
It arrived.
Crooked and towering, its limbs stretched far past what nature allowed, skin pulled thin as parchment over protruding, uneven bones. Where eyes and mouth should have been, rough black stitches sealed its lips and eyelids.
