Prologue
Once upon a time, there lived a certain witch who inhabited a forest just beyond civilization. Though no one had ever laid eyes on her, none would dare meet with her, for they feared having their lives taken from them. Until, that is, a certain group of children took it upon themselves to investigate.
For a “test of courage,” one might say.
With the retirement of the sun, the three children withdrew from their homes and gathered at the rumored path. They had with them only one lantern. Thus, they marched forward, venturing deep within the forest. Unfamiliar sounds surrounded them; they could hear the restless rustles of the night, the coos of what might stalk them, and the growls of the beasts that may have nestled within.
Before they knew it, they came upon a cabin, its front door wide open, as if it was inviting them inside. However, they had to heed caution, for one might meet with what one might not expect. They huddled closely. As they stealthily, and carefully made their way towards the cabin, they could hear the stream of rushing water and the haunting cries of a woman.
It was the witch.
The two children who came reluctantly wanted to run; to rush back home and sneak into bed so that their parents would be left unaware of their little excursion that night. But the boy who had led them there stood his ground. After coming all this way, he had to see this supposed “witch.” The two tried to usher him away, tucking at his sleeve, begging him to leave. But their pleas went unheard. He snuck closer, peaked around the corner, and—
Bloodshot eyes. The witches’ cauldron oozed with a repugnant odor, a thick black fog wafting from it.
The witches head snapped in their direction. Her bloody eyes glistened in the moonlight as a terrible hand emerged from the darkness, extending towards them.
The legends were true! Whoever met with the witch would be met with a terrible fate!
Finally, they fled, in fear of their lives being used as but an ingredient for her brew.
But how far were they from the truth.
