III.
A Change of Heart
Abby got into her carriage. The carriage would bring her to the witch’s tower, deep in Evergreen Forest. It was there that she would be tested on her knowledge of witchcraft. They drove past many houses, all deserted. The inhabitants were in the city, enjoying the festivities. Abby wished she could watch too, but she had to do her test. The test was more important than a parade. Besides, she had seen more parades than she cared to count.
Finally, they reached the witch’s tower. Witch Claudia threw open the door. “You made it!” she cried. “Come on in and we’ll get started!” Abby smiled. She had known Witch Claudia since she was little. Claudia had always been very cheery and enthusiastic about everything. Abby had always loved how she could make anything fun and exciting.
Abby and Claudia got right to work. “First category, potions. Make me a basic love potion,” instructed Claudia. Abby performed the task perfectly. “Next category!” announced Claudia. “Spells. Perform a basic happiness spell.” Abby opened her grimoire and whispered, “Sparkles, dance, make me shine, give me happiness sublime.” “Very good!” cried Claudia. She was cheery as usual. But Abby noticed that as the test went on, she became more and more morose and dull. As Abby approached the completion of her test, two hours later, the light suddenly left Claudia’s eyes. “Claud, what’s wrong?” asked Abby. “Nothing Abigail, you have a test to complete,” said Claudia absently. “But Claud-” “Get to work!” yelled Claudia. Abby frowned. Claudia never raised her voice. What was going on?
Abby got her answer moments later. Claudia suddenly turned around. “So you’re done, eh?” she said. “Well yes, I suppose I should be going,” said Abby suspiciously. “You’re not going anywhere!” yelled Claudia. She zapped Abby into a corner, and prison bars magically appeared! “Claudia!” cried Abby. Claudia just laughed viciously. Abby sank to the ground in despair.
