Despite the common presence of magic in Dhea Loral, tales of a witch in the vale are treated as no more than a scary story to keep children in line. Myth becomes reality when a young maiden named Evessa finds herself face to face with a captivating woman. Bound by the witch’s magical commands, Evessa is forced to march into the wilderness for the sake of magical experiments. The maiden’s life and body are transformed by the witch’s curse. Left isolated and trapped, she faces a future of despair. After many dark days, a whistling song heralds a new visitor. A loner that has forsaken civilized lands stumbles upon her exile. Can this man rekindle the hope she once thought lost?

This is a short story suitable for Young Adult readers, set in the fantasy realm of Dhea Loral. It is being offered free in many outlets on behalf of the author.

"The Wooden Maiden"

by Douglas Van Dyke Jr