Basia and Franek find a tiny gate hidden under the old apple tree, and warm golden light spills out from a world they have never seen before.
Basia was six and never liked to keep still. She ran barefoot through the garden, while her little brother, Franek, trotted after her like a shadow with messy hair.
On a bright afternoon, they were playing tag around the old apple tree. Its branches swayed softly above them, and the grass smelled warm and sweet. Basia dashed behind the thick trunk, pressed one hand against the bark, and suddenly felt something cold and smooth under the moss.
She bent down. There, hidden beneath a curtain of roots, was a tiny shiny handle.
"Franek! Come here! Quickly!" she whispered.
Franek hurried over, his eyes wide. Together they brushed away dirt, leaves, and little twigs. Bit by bit, a small door appeared in the earth. It was painted in bright colours, with tiny animals dancing across it. In the middle was a twisted key, already waiting in the lock.
Basia held her breath. "Do you think it opens?"
Franek nodded without speaking.
Basia turned the key. Click.
The door swung open just a little, and warm golden light spilled out across their toes.
Inside was not dirt or roots, but a glowing tunnel lined with shining beads and soft, cushiony walls. A humming sound drifted from deep inside, like a song sung very far away.
Franek squeezed Basia's hand. "Should we go in?"
Basia looked into the golden tunnel. Something moved at the far end - a dancing shadow, quick as a blink, then still again.