Whispers of the Enchanted | A Fantasy Novel

Chapter 8: The Witch's Advice

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The next day, after speaking with her grandmother, Olivia felt a strong urge to return to the Enchanted Forest. She wanted to see the witch again. There was something about their last meeting that left her with questions, and she hoped the witch could guide them.

Olivia met Oliver by the river, his face lighting up when he saw her. "Hey, Liv! You look different today."

"I feel different," Olivia replied, smiling. "I want to go back to the witch. I think she can help us understand what to do next."

Oliver's eyes widened with surprise. "You really want to go back? After everything?"

"Yes," Olivia said firmly. "I feel like she has answers we need. Will you come with me?"

"Of course! I'll always be by your side," Oliver said, taking her hand. "Let's go."

They made their way to the Enchanted Forest, their hearts racing with anticipation. The trees towered over them, their leaves whispering secrets as the wind blew gently. Olivia felt both excited and nervous.

After a while, they reached the hidden glade where they had first met the witch. The air felt charged with magic, and Olivia could sense that something important was about to happen.

"Hello?" she called out, her voice echoing softly through the trees.

A moment later, the witch appeared, her figure cloaked in shadows. "Welcome back, dear ones," she said, her voice smooth like honey. "I knew you would return."

"Witch, we have come for your help," Olivia said, her heart pounding. "We need to know what to do about our love. It feels so powerful, but also so scary."

The witch tilted her head, her eyes shining with wisdom. "Ah, love. It is the most potent magic of all. It can heal, but it can also hurt. What is it you fear?"

"We're scared of what our families will think," Oliver admitted. "We don't want to lose them, but we can't pretend our feelings don't exist."

The witch nodded slowly. "A wise choice to acknowledge your feelings. But you must understand that love often requires sacrifice. Are you both prepared to face the consequences?"

Olivia and Oliver exchanged glances, their hearts racing. "We are," Olivia said, her voice steady. "We want to be together, no matter what."

The witch smiled, a glimmer of approval in her eyes. "Very well. Love is a journey, not a destination. You will face challenges, but if you hold onto each other, you will find your way."

"What should we do?" Oliver asked, feeling a surge of hope.

"First, you must be honest with yourselves and with those you love," the witch advised. "Do not hide in shadows. Speak your truth. But remember, patience is also important. People need time to understand."

"What if they don't accept us?" Olivia asked, worry creeping back in.

"Not everyone will understand at first," the witch replied gently. "But love has a way of changing hearts. If your love is true, it will shine through the darkness."

"Thank you," Olivia said, feeling grateful for the witch's wisdom. "We will be honest with our families."

"Good," the witch said, her eyes sparkling. "And one more thing—never forget the magic that brought you together. Love is powerful; let it guide you."

As they stood there, the witch handed them a small crystal vial filled with shimmering liquid. "This is a potion of clarity. Drink it when you feel lost, and it will help you remember the strength of your love."

Olivia took the vial, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you, Witch. You've given us hope."

"Now go," the witch said, waving her hand. "Your path is yours to create. Remember, love is the greatest adventure."

Hand in hand, Olivia and Oliver left the glade, feeling lighter and more determined than ever. They had faced the witch and received her guidance, and now it was time to face their families.

"Are you ready?" Oliver asked as they walked back through the forest.

"I think so," Olivia replied, a sense of resolve building inside her. "With you by my side, I can do anything."

"Together, we'll make them understand," Oliver said, squeezing her hand tightly.

As they stepped outof the forest and back into the sunlight, Olivia felt a surge of courage. Theywere about to take the first step on their journey, and she knew deep down thatlove would lead the way.