

Moonstruck
THE LEGEND
Deep within gloomy woods, a garden lies concealed from the world. Nurtured by a wise witch who cultivates healing botanicals under the pale gaze of the moon. One night, a curious young woman stumbles upon this secret haven, and mesmerised by the aroma of power the plants exude, she pleads to be taught the ancient craft. The witch, seeing a reflection of her own once innocent ambition, reluctantly agrees.
Months pass, and the new apprentice excels in the art of arcane horticulture. Yet, as her knowledge grows, so does her lust for power. She begins sinister experiments, secretly breeding increasingly evil creations. The vigilant Witch soon uncovers her unholy work, and banishes her. Enraged, the woman unleashes a tempest of black pollen, replacing the Witch's skin with bark, hair with leaves, and feet with roots. Soon at the centre of the garden, stands a gnarled oak tree, a screaming face hidden within its cluster of knots.
Years wane, and the garden's malevolence seeps into the surrounding woodland; a creeping doom. Until one night, under the watch of a full moon, a group of brave villagers enter the garden to bring an end to the dark witch’s reign. But, as many before, they fall victim to the garden’s deadly embrace. Drunk with blood, the woman is oblivious to the thorny vines slowly curling around her ankles. Her cursed creations demand more. Realising the betrayal, she struggles to break free, but her efforts are in vain. Branches wrap around her arms and body, constricting relentlessly until she is entirely consumed.
The garden remains to this day, created by healing magic, but corrupted by wrath and greed. With each full moon, spectral blooms are summoned from the blackened soil, their entrancing aroma luring even the strongest of souls to their demise. Deep in the ground, the woman lies trapped as her creations feed from her, forever below the creaking limbs of an old oak tree.