*Chapter 10: The Midnight Gathering*
As Malcolm disappeared into the darkness, Emily felt a sense of unease wash over her. She was alone in the labyrinthine garden, surrounded by statues that seemed to watch her every move. The figure that had called out to Malcolm was nowhere to be seen, and Emily wondered if she had imagined the whole thing.
Despite the uncertainty, Emily decided to explore the garden further. She wandered through the hedges, her footsteps quiet on the gravel path. The moon was high in the sky, casting an eerie glow over the garden.
As she turned a corner, Emily stumbled upon a group of people gathered around a large stone fountain. They were all dressed in long, flowing robes, their faces hidden behind masks. The atmosphere was tense, and Emily could sense that something was about to happen.
Malcolm stood at the center of the group, his eyes gleaming with an otherworldly intensity. He raised his hands, and the group fell silent. "Welcome, my friends," he said, his voice low and hypnotic. "Tonight, we gather for a purpose. A purpose that will change us all forever."
The group began to chant, their voices rising and falling in unison. Emily felt a shiver run down her spine as she realized she was witnessing something sinister. Something that was meant to be kept hidden.
To Be Continued...