The Withering

Tainted Vines

PLEASE READ BEFORE PROCEEDING!

It's come to my attention that Wattpad has been randomly rearranging the chapters of this book. I've made several attempts to correct the issue and have reached out to Wattpad Support for assistance.

This is Chapter 1. 

Thank you for your understanding and patience as I work to resolve this. I apologize for any confusion this may cause.

With love,

Your Author ♥

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In the serene embrace of a Jorvik morning, the sun rose lazily over rolling hills and ancient forests, casting its gentle rays across the land. 

The sky, painted in hues of soft pink and orange, melted into a clear blue canvas as the day unfolded. As the sun ascended, its warm fingers stretched across meadows and fields, coaxing dewdrops to glisten like scattered gems upon the awakening earth.

Valedale, nestled within this picturesque landscape, embodied the essence of calmness and harmony with nature. 

The village itself was a tapestry of rustic charm and natural beauty. Wooden cottages with thatched roofs peeked through lush greenery, their chimneys puffing smoke that curled into the morning air. Each home seemed to blend seamlessly into the verdant surroundings, adorned with window boxes overflowing with vibrant blooms that nodded gently in the breeze.

The heart of Valedale beat steadily in its stables, where cobblestone paths converged under the shade of ancient trees. Here, the bustle of daily life began to stir as Jorvegians went about their morning routines.

As you walked, the sounds of morning chatter and the occasional clip-clop of hooves echoed around you. A group of children laughed nearby, their voices mingling with the gentle babble of the river.

Ahead, the outline of Farah's workshop came into view, standing out against the backdrop of towering trees that bordered the village. The path narrowed slightly as it approached, winding between clusters of ferns and clusters of bright blooms that thrived in the fertile soil.

The closer you came, the stronger the scent of herbs and flowers became, mingling with the earthy aroma of the forest that surrounded Valedale.

Farah herself was already bustling about, arranging bundles of freshly picked flowers and herbs with practiced efficiency. Her welcoming smile brightened as she noticed you approaching.

"Good morning," Farah greeted warmly, "Here bright and early, I see! How are you today?"

Returning her smile, you greeted her with equal warmth. 

"Morning, Farah," You replied, your tone laced with a hint of excitement, "I was hoping to chat with you about some commissions. I've been collecting a few herbs and plants you might be interested in,"

Farah's eyes lit up with genuine interest as she listened attentively. 

"Oh, how wonderful! You always seem to find the most intriguing specimens," She exclaimed, her hands pausing in their task to gesture towards the collection of herbs on display. 

You chuckled softly, a sense of pride swelling within you as you recounted the herbs and flowers you had gathered during your recent outings. Farah nodded along, her curiosity piqued with each description of rare blooms and potent crafts you could create with them.

As the conversation flowed, Farah shared a bit about her recent endeavors. 

"I've been well, thank you," She said with a smile, adjusting a bundle of dried chamomile.