chapter 127

Fear rippled through Kohler like the waves on the sea, and she began to run in the dark, adrenaline rushing through her, and filling her brain with danger signs.

Kohler's heart seemed to beat in her throat, wanting to burst out, and finally, she stumbled.

“Ah!” Kohler screamed from the pain and the fear that she would suddenly feel something heavy and menacing land on her back.

Gasping, she struggled to get to her feet, then realized she had stumbled on the staircase. With relief mingled with terror, she began to climb, using her hands and legs.

Kohler got to the very top, and pushed…

“Ah…” She cried as the floorboard came open, revealing light. Immediately, she hoisted herself onto it, and tumbled into the room, hurriedly sealing the floorboard shut.

_*Why isn't there some kind of lock to it? What if the creature comes bouncing up the stairs in search of me, and leaps against the floorboard?_* She thought to herself restlessly

_*What would happen when I was locked in the