The Second Stage Begins

"If you could help me open this door then I would be most thankful," Sophie replied back in a polite tone.

"Just give me a moment!" the kind elderly voice yelled. 

Sophie waited patiently and heard what sounded like someone or rather something crashing against metal pots and pans.

The cold breeze underground caused goosebumps to appear on her arm, but Sophie could deal with this chill.

"Are you still there?" the creature behind the door asked.

"Yes, I am still here," Sophie responded.

Two minutes passed by uneventfully and then for a second time, the mysterious voice asked Sophie the same question.

"Are you still there?" the creature asked in the same tone and inflection.

Now this was just ridiculous.

How far could she have possibly walked in just the span of just a few minutes?

Sophie had to hide the traces of frustration flashing across her face but still managed to reply,

"Yes…I haven't moved…"