By itself, the gate groaned, sliding slowly to the side. The screech of rusted hinges tore through the night air, making Yuuki's skin crawl. She instinctively backed away a few steps, her face pale as paper.
Sui, still clinging behind her, let out a small shriek and grabbed the hem of her hoodie. "Onee-chan!"
Yuuki turned to her, forcing an awkward smile even as her heartbeat thundered wildly. "Hahaha… looks like… we're being welcomed?"
The smile reassured no one—not even herself. But Yuuki knew if she showed fear, the little girl behind her might panic completely. So she drew a deep breath, mustering what courage she had left, and gave a firm nod. "Let's go in. We've come this far already."
Sui gripped her hand tightly, and together they stepped through the gate, now wide open as though inviting them inside.
