The Haunted Carousel

In the heart of Willowbrook stood “Whimsical Wonders,” an old amusement park that seemed to hold secrets. Its centerpiece was an antique carousel, its wooden horses chipped and faded. Children laughed as they rode, but beneath the colorful façade, something sinister lurked.

Emma, a curious girl with pigtails, visited the park one chilly evening. The carousel operator, Mr. Grimsby, grinned toothlessly. “Choose your steed,” he said. “But beware—the carousel grants wishes at a cost.”

Emma mounted the majestic black stallion, whispering her wish: “I want to be the bravest girl in the world.”

The carousel spun, wind tugging at her hair. Suddenly, Emma found herself in a moonlit forest—the Realm of Shadows. A ghostly girl appeared. “Courage comes at a price,” she warned.