Story 354: Dance of Shadows

Zara’s breathing slowed as she tightened her grip on the pistol. Her crimson dress clung to her, a sharp contrast against the cold, metallic corridor that stretched before her. The labyrinth had shifted again, molding itself into a maze of industrial tunnels. The faint hum of machinery reverberated through the walls, accompanied by an occasional metallic screech.

Callum, now trailing further behind, gave her a warning glance. “Zara, something’s not right. These tunnels shouldn’t—”

A loud crash interrupted him. The ceiling behind them caved in, cutting off their retreat. Zara instinctively raised her pistol, her eyes scanning the shadows that seemed to ripple and move on their own.

“They’re here,” she muttered.

From the shadows emerged the creatures—humanoid figures with grotesque, elongated limbs and faces that were more skeletal than human. Their glowing eyes locked on Zara and Callum, their snarls echoing like a predator savoring its prey.