Honor says she must.

Blowing out a breath, the young woman nodded. “Thank you again.” She smiled. “I will return as quickly as I can.”

Turning she left the village and headed inland, following a winding trail deep into the lush forest. Reaching the general area the fisherman had indicated, she began searching for the witches grove. Hours passed, and she was coming up empty handed.

“You know,” A silky feminine voice said from behind her. “you've passed this tree seven times.” The voice finished, amused.

Ashley whipped around startled by the woman. Glancing up into the boughs of a large tree, she saw a silhouette of a person, but couldn't make out any details.

“Well maybe you can help me then.” Ash blushed, embarrassed “I'm looking for, well, the villager said 'the witch.'”

“Now why would you go looking for a witch, dear? Don't you know they're dangerous, and practice dark magic?” The silky voice giggled at her.

“My friend is sick with a fever.” Ash replied. “We were shipwrecked here last night, I'll take whatever help I can get.”

“Well if I help you, you are going to have to help me.” The woman replied. “You see, I don't have enough herbs for the remedy, that you require. But if you help my apprentice get the herbs I need, I will help you.” The Witch offered.

Ashley wasn't sure she could trust this woman. But she also wasn't sure she had another choice. She needed those herbs, if she was going to save the doctor's life.