The Goblin Tree and the Swallowed One

There was only one rule: "Don't open the door."

The caution above the little bronze door at the base of a charred oak tree said as much. The writing was so twisted that even the Gods avoided looking at it when the moon shone on it, and the condemned shuddered and stayed away.

This tree was referred to as the Goblin's tree, and beyond the entryway lay a maze-like pit teeming with unimaginable horrors and all the world's cruelties.

The Queen of the fairy goblins stood watch at the entryway. The Swelgan was a deformed, tormented, and soulless creature.

"The Swallowed One."

The second part of the inscription included her mission and responsibility, and she did not take it lightly.

It said, "Lest you wish to join us"

Because of the Queen's power, her people's alter might appear whenever she wanted. In your own house, or in a field.

And on chilly All Hallowtide evenings like this one, when the moon was high and full, she whispered to her family to be patient through the keyhole.

It began with a blowing wind, a haunting wail, and a dense fog. The route that seemed to be a straight line between your bedroom and the bathroom would suddenly disappear as branches began to clatter. And you ended up in her woodland.

Your body's veins would freeze and your hair would stand on end. You gasped for air as your breathing slowed.

Then you noticed it. The little door, illuminated from the inside.

Your heartbeat turned into a marching melody that carried you toward what seemed to be the end of your living nightmare.

You cannot enter after reading the warning.

She grins.