What's creepier than haunted houses, monsters, and black cats? Deep space, of course! We here at are all about the unknown that lies beyond our solar system, so let's get that imagination cracking!

We're back in the second annual Halloween Vault and we're ready for action of the most terrifying variety. What makes for the most terrifying monsters? The ones that we never see!

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In 100 words or less, describe everything about a terrifying alien you've encountered but cannot see. What does it sound like? How does it interact with its surroundings? Is it talking to you? Does it smell bad, or good? What is happening to your body when you're near it?

Get creative, get visceral, and get writing!

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► All content must adhere to .

► Start Date: October 2nd, 2019

► End Date: , 11:59pm EST

► Word count:

► Only stories in English can be accepted at this time.

► Only one entry per author.

► Must be original work written specifically for this contest.

► Must be original characters created by you! (No fanfiction)

► No mature works, please.

► You may publish as a separate work or as a chapter in a work on your profile, as long as you provide the specific link to the chapter on the submission form.

► Optional: Tag your story #BeyondSol and #HalloweenVault2

► Please pay attention to spelling, punctuation and grammar!

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If you've followed all of these guidelines, then submit your entry via this .

Feel free to share your entry in the comments below, but only the ones submitted via the form will be considered for the contest!

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Not a writer? Get your jet pack on, then, because we're sending you on a hunt. The answer you seek lies in one of publications!

The Clue:

I lie within the many penned,

The title pronounceable by ancient men,

A story within that rhymes with platter,

Who is the author? They may be flattered!

When you've figured out who we seek, submit your answer via this !

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