short stories

7

The rules for the clearing were quite simple.
Don't go after dark.

If you don't leave before dark you have to stay until morning.

If you hear rustling behind you don't turn around. They hate being seen.

If you hear rustling in front of you stop until the rustling passes.

If you see something shiny on the ground leave it there. It's a test.

Don't pick any of the flowers and don't break branches off the trees.

Have at least one person awake at all times.

Don't listen to the voices calling from farther into woods.

As I stood over her bloodied body it was obvious she didn't take the rules seriously.