Ethan ran through the house, trying to find an exit.
But every door led to another hallway.
Every window showed only darkness — even though it was still evening when he entered.
Then he saw it.
A small wooden door.
With chains.
And scratches.
From the inside.
The whispering grew louder.
"Free us…"
"Join us…"
His hands shook, but he pulled the chains loose.
The basement door opened.
The smell of rot filled the air.
As he stepped down the stairs, he saw dozens of shadows crawling on the walls.
And in the center of the basement…
A mirror.
Old and cracked.
And in the mirror…
Ethan was not alone.
Something tall stood behind him.
Its head touched the ceiling.
Its smile stretched too wide.
But when he turned around —
Nothing was there.
Only the mirror.