In Hollow Creek, people feared the forest beyond the bridge. They said a witch lived there, cursing anyone who dared enter. When Elena’s brother fell ill, the villagers blamed the witch—but Elena refused to believe it.
One night, she crossed into the forest. The air turned cold, the silence heavy. Deep within, she found a small cottage glowing faintly. Inside stood a calm woman.
“I didn’t curse him,” the witch said. “Your village has broken nature’s balance. This is a warning.”
“Can I save him?” Elena asked.
“Yes—but you must choose. Save your brother, or save your village.”
Torn, Elena chose her brother. The witch gave her a golden vial.
By morning, he was healed. The village rejoiced.
But soon, crops failed, water dried, and sickness spread.
The forest was dying.
And this time, the villagers knew—
The witch wasn’t to blame.