Board Thread:Writer's Workshop/@comment-27012445-20160222063720

We've grown disillusioned to the reality of nature within our modern world. We've convinced ourselves of the lies that we are conquerors of the night. In our arrogance, we assume we are masters of the power of the light. We flaunt it as if the flipping of a switch, igniting the bulbs of light scattered throughout our dwelling was equivalent to brandishing a sword. What fools we are!

Listen to me clearly, for I have valuable insight that may assist you in avoiding future, unpleasant circumstances. The truly terrifying experiences; the ones that haunt your every waking moment and rob you of your sleep once the sun disappears behind the horizon, those are the simplest to encounter. They don't require such nonsense as a cursed relic or performing a complicated ritual of an ancient creature. Not even a chance encounter is needed with a tormented soul battling demons from past traumas and deeds. No, none of that is required. All that is required is being noticed; something becomes aware of you.

It will be like any other day; you will be going about your routine, confident in your position within the food chain. You may be alone or even in a crowd. The sun may be high in the sky, or the moon glowing in its full glory. It doesn't matter. The day will come when you will hear a question whispered into your ear with a voice of something old and malicious. You will feel talons caress the side of your neck. The movement of air will prickle every hair on your body as something sniffs intently trying to recapture your scent.

Do not turn around!

Do not let it know you are there! For the remainder of your days, you will see the movement in the corners of your eyes. You will see the shapes in the mirror that instantly vanish once you focus on them. As you shower, the approaching of something vile will fill you with dread every time you wash the soap from your eyes. The feelings of being followed will forever be your companion. And every once in a while, you will hear it ask its question. It will ask only once, in its thick and ancient voice. It knows there is someone there, just beyond its perception. That is why is will continually ask,

"What is your name?" 