Chapter 68: The Queen's Awakening

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…"