The wind howled, a relentless predator tearing at the flimsy shelter. Rain lashed down, a cold, indifferent curtain obscuring the world beyond. Inside, the fire sputtered, a fragile defiance against the encroaching gloom, while the occupants huddled together, their faces etched with weary resignation. Hope, it seemed, was a distant, flickering memory. What is the dominant tone of this passage?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
Words like "howled," "relentless," "lashed," "indifferent," "flimsy," "sputtered," "encroaching gloom," "weary resignation," and "flickering memory" create a pervasive sense of sadness and hopelessness, indicating a melancholy tone.