Lurking Shadows

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As the morning light seeped through her window, a soft pink hue painted the horizon, casting an ethereal glow upon the clouds. The golden rays of the sun bathed the room, caressing the wooden floorboards with a warm, orangy light. Sha's eyes fluttered open, adjusting to the gentle light.

A faint breeze wafted through the slightly opened window, carrying with it the crisp scent of the forest. It kissed her skin, sending a shiver down her spine as she pulled the covers up to her nose, reluctant to part with their comforting warmth.

Outside, the wind whispered through the swaying branches, creating a gentle rustling that echoed the untamed spirit of the surrounding woods. Sha listened intently as the whistling sound gave her shivers, conjuring images of sinister voices calling her from the dense shadows of the trees.

The courtyard below lay silent, the few students remaining for the summer had not yet awoken. Sha felt a sense of unease watching the old curtain billow in the wind; she was sure she had closed her window before going to bed.

The warmth of the covers clung to her as she swung her legs over the edge of the bed, embracing the chill that awaited her.

With cautious steps, Sha tiptoed to close the window, the frigid floor sending a shock of coldness through her bare feet. She leaped over the icy surface, the chill sapping the warmth from the soles of her feet. As she closed the old wooden panel, its rusty hinges emitted an unpleasant screech that grated against her nerves. Sha turned, intending to retreat back to the safety of her bed.

But then, something caught her attention, freezing her in place. Her mind raced, trying to process the image she had just witnessed. Slowly, she returned to the window, her eyes widening in disbelief as they fixated on the long claw marks etched onto the window ledge outside. A heavy, unsettling feeling settled in the pit of her stomach, a premonition of impending danger.

Her heart raced, sending a surge of adrenaline coursing through her veins. Every movement was tinged with urgency as she hastily dressed, her fingers fumbling with buttons and zippers. Beads of sweat formed on her forehead, a testament to the intensity of her fear and anxiety. The room seemed to close in on her, the air thick with an unspoken menace.

As she dashed out of the room, her footsteps echoed down the corridor, a rhythmic beat punctuated by her pounding heart. Shadows danced along the walls, casting an eerie aura that heightened her senses. 


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