All summer — and even into the fall — an elderly woman climbed onto her roof every single day, hammering in sharp wooden stakes.
By the time the leaves began to fall, the roof was covered in them. Neighbors felt uneasy. Some were frightened. Most were convinced she’d lost her mind… until winter finally arrived 
At first, the villagers only watched from a distance. Then the gossip started.
“Have you seen what she’s doing to her roof?”
“Yes. Ever since her husband died, she’s been different.”
After his death the year before, she’d become quiet and withdrawn. She barely spoke to anyone. And now this strange, almost threatening structure was rising above her home.
Day after day, more stakes appeared. The roof looked unnatural — like some massive trap waiting to snap shut. Rumors spread fast.
Some said she was trying to keep evil away.
Others thought it was a bizarre renovation.
A few even claimed she was performing some kind of secret ritual.
