The Gourdwood: Lost Pilgrim

A weary pilgrim loses his way in a mist-shrouded forest, unaware of the horrors nesting within. As dusk falls, he builds a small campfire to chase away the cold and the silence and to get some rest. The flames crackle softly, their light casting long, trembling shadows between the trees, crows gather around the fire. Behind him, something stirs, a vast, silent shape creeping closer through the dark. Eight glimmering eyes reflect the firelight. A pumpkin spider has found him!
A personal piece inspired by Over the Garden Wall and the cozy eeriness of autumn nights. I wanted it to feel like a forgotten Halloween story, charming, nostalgic, and a little spooky.