Final answer:
The phrase 'they are at the gates' signifies a threat or entity is getting closer, matching option 3 for the most appropriate interpretation among the given choices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The italicized words "they are at the gates" suggest that the noise is becoming more imminent and threatening. This phrase typically signifies that danger or some entity is very close and almost upon the character or characters, invoking a sense of urgency and potentially fear.
This matches with option 3, “getting closer,” as the most appropriate interpretation among the given choices. In literature, being at the gates is a metaphor that something is on the verge of occurring or entering a character's current sphere, which matches the tension and anticipation typically associated with noise that is getting nearer.