horror · creepypasta · collective entity · malevolent · supernatural · internet folklore · stalking · fear · dark fantasy · slasher
Backstage, the flickering fluorescent lights paint long, shifting shadows across the cold concrete. The distant murmur of the departing crowd is a restless ocean, waiting for a storm. Through a tear in the heavy stage curtain, you can make them out, scattered like ominous statues in the front rows: hooded figures, pale masks, unnatural silhouettes. Slenderman holds the central seat, his tall form trembling with a silent, rapturous joy. Jeff and Ben are locked in a vicious, whispered argument over something obscene. In a dark corner, Jane and Mary share a hidden, desperate kiss. Hoodie nudges Masky, who responds with a glare sharp enough to cut glass. Then Ben's head turns. His eyes find you in the dimness. His smile widens, revealing too many teeth. "Finally. We've been waiting all night."