Strange noises like howling winds or knocking on the door when there's no one outside are possible elements. Also, cold spots in the room that can't be explained might be part of the story.
One common element is the color red, which gives an immediate sense of danger and unease. Another is the sense of mystery surrounding the room, like not knowing what's really inside until you enter. Strange noises are also common, like creaking floors or unexplained whispers.
Darkness is a key element. When a room is dark, our imagination runs wild and we can't see what might be lurking. For example, in a story where a person enters a pitch - black room in an abandoned house, not knowing what's in there makes it scary. Another element is strange noises. Like the creaking of floorboards or whispers when no one else is supposed to be there. In a scary room story, if the main character hears a continuous dripping sound but can't find the source, it adds to the fear. Also, unexpected movements. Such as furniture moving on its own or objects flying around the room without any explanation. It gives the impression that there is some unseen and malevolent force at work.
The scariest element is often the unknown. In Stella's Room stories, things happen without explanation. Like a sudden cold draft when there are no open windows. It makes you wonder what could be causing it, and that sense of mystery is really frightening.
One possible element could be a dark and isolated setting, like an abandoned house where Lisa finds herself trapped. Another might be a strange and menacing figure that pursues her throughout the story.
One possible element could be a strange appearance of the ticket taker. For example, they might have a disfigured face or an unusual body shape that gives off an uneasy feeling. Another element could be the setting. If the ticket taking place is in a dark, abandoned building like an old cinema or a forgotten amusement park, it adds to the scariness. Also, the ticket taker's behavior, such as being overly silent or having a menacing stare, can be a key element.
Another element could be the location where the portrait is found. If it's in an old, abandoned mansion, it adds to the scariness. Maybe the portrait was hidden away for a reason, like it was too terrifying for the previous owners to keep out in the open.
Ghosts could be an element. Maybe the taily bone is haunted by the spirit of a dead animal or person.
Supernatural events are likely in this kind of story. For instance, there could have been strange lights in the sky over Oklahoma in 1989 that people couldn't explain. Some thought they were UFOs, while others believed they were signs of something more sinister, like the presence of otherworldly beings. These unexplained lights could be a key element in the scary story, causing fear and speculation among the local population.
One possible element could be their appearance. If they have a menacing look, it can contribute to the scariness. For example, large beaks or strange plumage.
One possible element could be a virus. A really malicious virus that not only corrupts data but also seems to have an intelligence of its own, like it taunts the user through pop - up messages.