This seems to set the mood rather well for whatever you may have planned. I also find the selection of music rather refreshing, and suitable.

Man o man I got ensnared in this, MH. It’s like you gave me perfect telepathy with this person— perfect because I could only hear their thoughts and not worry about muddying them with my own. It is a strong piece because you explain so well why this person worries and then becomes assured without just telling us, but through story and descriptions, and as the reader I couldn’t help but feel assured myself.

The flowing from one description to the next, it leads the reader through the silence as it changes in perception, only one thing jars a little for me and it’s the second ‘Shelley’ in the second paragraph.

I can see this being both a beautiful moment of stillness and music in a usually chaotic place and the short pause before horror ensues. I love the different feelings.

(Also first ficly I’ve read in months, so very good to be back!)

Don’t think you need ’ shelley realises’ at all in the second paragraph.
Interestingly, who has a watch these days? :P
The ending was brilliant!

Lovely scene and nicely described with a good ebb and flow of suspense. You have some odd sentence structures that were distracting more me, but that may just be a style thing and the mood I’m in. Effective use of present tense, and you managed to stay consistent with which a lot of people goof up.

Very interesting story. I wonder where the music is coming from?

Perhaps I should write a sequel and find out.

Thanks for the feedback everybody – what a treat to be featured!

Particularly considering that writing in the present isn’t really something I’ve done before, but was inspired to try out by Ian McEwan’s novel ‘Saturday’ – a great read.

Finally, to Robotech, a sequel would be very interesting indeed – I’ll keep an eye out for any developments – MH :)

In the 1st paragraph, you indicate that Shelley is “taken aback by silence,” but in the 4th paragraph you indicate that the condition is “near-darkness.” I’m having trouble imagining a situation where, in a study area, near-darkness would not be accompanied by silence.

Oh I love that creepiness of college after hours. Simultaneously exciting and frightening, like exploring a whole new world.
The melody could be anything, but strings are by far the most ominous sounding instrument group.

August, I think it’s the immediate shock of hearing nothing in a study enviroment, at first not registering the darkness.

Ed, I enjoy your fleeting returns to Ficly and I always miss you.