Voices of The Forgotten Woods
Once upon a time, in a quaint village surrounded by an ancient, dense forest, named Westwood, there lived a boy named Edmond. Strong-hearted and adventurous, Edmond was enamored by the stories of the mysterious Forgotten Woods that formed the boundary of his village.
The name 'Forgotten Woods' was derived from the stories passed down through generations that those who ventured too far into the forest never returned. They were said to be lost forever in the realm of the forgotten.
One day, lured by the tales, Edmond decided to venture into the woods. He packed some snacks, took a stick, and promised his mother to return before dusk. Little did he know that the forest's quiet exterior held bewitching secrets.
As he trudged deeper into the woods, he noticed a peculiar silence, unaffected by the usual forest sounds. Suddenly, he heard a faint, melodic whisper. Curiosity igniting, he followed the voice until he stumbled upon a hidden waterfall. To his amazement, he spotted a melancholic water nymph, singing to herself.
With his charm and kindness, Edmond befriended the water nymph, Nyra. She shared her sorrow of being trapped in the waterfall by a malicious witch who was jealous of her harmonious singing. She longed to be free to visit her family in the ocean.
Edmond, moved by Nyra's story, vowed to help her. He returned to the village to concoct a plan, making multiple trips to the Forgotten Woods to view the enchantment binding Nyra and comfort her with his theatrical stories and beautiful songs.
Perplexed about breaking a witch's spell, Edmond decided to meet Old Nana, the rumored wise witch living in solitude. Initially hesitant, she melted hearing about Nyra and the young boy's determination to help her. Old Nana, though a witch, was kind-hearted and detested the wicked ones who used magic for power and cruelty. She handed Edmond a magical seed of the sacred Wightroot, explaining the exact procedure to plant it near the waterfall during a full-moon night.
Emboldened, Edmond did as instructed and watched in awe as the seed sprouted instantly into a majestic tree that glowed with ethereal beauty. Its radiance enveloped the waterfall, causing the water to glisten and bubble.
Moments later, Nyra stepped out, shining brighter, her melodious voice echoing through the woods. Overflowing with joy and gratitude, she promised Edmond safe passage if he or any Westwood villager ever entered the forest.
As Edmond returned, dawn was breaking, he was greeted by anxious villagers. His tales of the Forgotten Woods became legends that redefined the village's perspective towards the woods, and Nyra's melodious voice became a reassuring lullaby to the village, eradicating any fears lingering around the forest.
And thus, Edmond and Nyra's tale reminded everyone that many times, the best exploration is not only about discovering new places but understanding and beholding the enchanting mysteries they hold.