I drive through a tunnel and enter into a whole new world. The air is still; the trees motionless. Color feels like a distant memory as I traverse through this vacant expanse. There are tracks on the road that would indicate other travelers, but I have yet to encounter one.
Sound seems to be an affront to this serene nightmare. My vehicle's engine stands out as if it were under a spotlight among the quiet. I feel wholly unwelcome in this place and desperately hope I need not stop under any circumstances.
It is surely not the longest road in length, but it may be the longest in duration. Every second spent along its route feels like the passing of an hour. I am burdened with dread as I approach this forest and my mind is unable to process anything beyond the contemplation of its visage.
The hairs on my arm tell of a danger here that I endeavor to avoid. I feel my efforts of self preservation by evasion are only a temporary solution to this mounting terror. Conflict will soon open this concealed world to me, but am I ready for when that happens?