The Witch Queen

Blinding bright light. As soon as I open my eyes the sun's harsh light intrudes my eyes with a jarring force, causing me to blink rapidly. Quickly sitting up, I squint to let my eyes adjust to the light. All I can see ahead of me was the sand and vast deep blue sea. Glistening waters gently lapped at the sand, my only thoughts were of its beauty.

Confusion sunk in as I realize I have no idea who or where I am. No wreckage so I couldn't have come here by boat, or maybe the boat sank and I floated ashore? Slowly, I rise to my feet with a groan caused by my tender and sore muscles. Once standing, I turn around to see what is behind me. Lush green trees, some bearing fruits, others enormous trunks rooted thick branches holding dark green leaves. As I examine the forest from the beach, I see what looked to be a narrow path leading into the deep forest.

Taking a step forward, a sharp pain runs up my leg from the inner side of my right ankle, causing me to scream and fall. Startled birds fly from the trees at the shrill sound, causing them to make their own noises as they fly away frightened. Looking down, I see a large shard of wood splintered in my ankle with dried blood matted around the wound on my slightly sun kissed skin. Grasping the splinter with my left hand, I pinned my leg to the ground as I quickly pull it out of my leg and groan in pain and relief. Examining the splinter closer, it looks more like a thin spear tip.