I moved swiftly through the forest, my paws barely making a sound on the forest floor. The journey to the neighboring town was a blur of trees and shadows. My mind focused solely on reaching the witch healer. Every step was a desperate plea, a prayer that there might still be a chance to bring Aiden back.
Arriving at the witch’s cottage, I shifted back to my human form, cradling Aiden in my arms as I knocked frantically on the door. An elderly woman with wise eyes opened it, her expression softening as she took in the sight before her.
“Please,” I begged, my voice trembling. “My son… I need your help.”
She stepped aside, allowing me to enter. “Come in, child. Lay him here,” she instructed, gesturing to a wooden table covered with a patchwork quilt. I gently placed Aiden down, my hands shaking as I did so.
The witch moved with practiced ease, her hands glowing softly as she examined Aiden. Her brow furrowed, and she let out a heavy sigh. “I’m sorry,” she said quietly. “He’s gone.”
My knees buckled, and I clutched the edge of the table to steady myself. “No… there must be something you can do. Please, anything.”