A well marked path followed the dried up, summer time creek that would overflow it's banks when the snow melted in the spring. The creek was the runoff from a spring in the woods which stood a safe distance up ahead. We knew to avoid the woods because of all the stories of people disappearing there. The stories were vague, details scarce but it was enough to make us cautious.
It was such a lovely day, warm sunshine and a pleasant breeze. I strolled along in an almost trance like state. Before I knew it I was walking in the shade of the trees on the edge of the woods. The damp cool air felt different here. Neither unpleasant nor threatening. Feeling brave and curious I carried on the path into the cluster of trees which overhung the creek. Sunlight filtered down from above and sparkled on the water which flowed a little more strongly here.
The trickling sound of the water and the flickering light led me on. I felt stronger thinking that I was entering these woods, exploring an unknown world which my friends were frightened of. I did feel some fear, enough to make me tremble slightly in the damp air but it also excited me and drew me further along the path.
The trees were thicker here. Less light entered through the dense canopy overhead. The path seemed to have disappeared leaving only the creek with it's gurgling sounds to guide me. I could not have turned back now even if I had wanted to. I felt compelled to explore these woods, to discover their secrets and understand their meaning.
Now I plunged along. Nothing could stop me. I became bolder and more reckless, more willing to stray from the safety of the creek which would lead me back to the path. A deeper darkness kept me from seeing anything but the outline of the trees. I felt the rough bark of trunks, the sting as it scratched my fingers. A trickle of blood ran down my cheek where a twig had slapped me. A branch laden with leaves lashed my chest stinging the tender skin there.
Now I felt part of this forest, completely embraced by it's comforting cold and deep darkness. I shared it's terrifying secrets and possessed the power which had grown out of my fear. Like a pagan demon I strode among the trees, took off my clothes to feel the rough bark on my skin. I would lure others into this captivating world, tease and torment them, use them for my own pleasure, keep them as treasures, and slowly reveal the terrifying secrets of the forest.
