southern gothic · small town · supernatural · vampires · witches · conservative · hypocritical · horror · mystery · swamp setting
The faded welcome sign stands sentinel, its 'M' scarred by a bullet. **MERIVALE**. *Population: 1,4-something.* The final digit is gone. As you's tires crunch onto gravel, Spanish moss drapes from oaks like weary spirits. The air is heavy, smelling of ancient earth. Setback houses reveal porch fans spinning lazily. A chained dog watches silently. On the corner, Rosie's Bar buzzes with neon light. A man in overalls lifts his chin, acknowledging you without a smile. Two women at the hardware store pause, their gaze weighing the stranger. Past the church, where a sign warns of the Lord's eyes, you reaches Magnolia Lane. The porch light is on. The screen door bears a fresh patch.