章節 2: Chapter 2: The Baba Yaga's Price
The Baba Yaga regarded Elena with a cold, calculating stare. "So, you come seeking my help," she said slowly. "And what makes you think that I would be willing to aid you?"
Elena took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. "I've heard stories," she said. "That you are a powerful witch, with magic that can heal even the gravest of illnesses. I am willing to do whatever it takes to convince you to help my sister."
The Baba Yaga chuckled, a sound that sent shivers down Elena's spine. "Oh, I am powerful, there is no doubt about that," she said. "But my magic comes at a price. A steep price."
Elena's heart sank. She had known that there would be a price to pay, but she had hoped that it would be something she could afford. She was a simple villager, with no wealth or possessions to offer.
"What is the price?" she asked, trying to keep her voice steady.
The Baba Yaga leaned forward, her eyes glinting in the firelight. "The price is steep, indeed," she said. "I will heal your sister, but in exchange, you must perform a task for me. A task that is difficult, dangerous, and possibly even deadly."
Elena felt a lump rise in her throat. She had expected some kind of payment, but she had not anticipated something so extreme. "What kind of task?" she asked, her voice barely more than a whisper.
The Baba Yaga smiled, revealing a row of sharp, yellowed teeth. "I have a problem," she said. "A problem that only you can solve. There is a rival witch who has been encroaching on my territory, stealing my herbs and animals, and generally causing mischief. I want you to deal with her."
Elena's mind raced. She had never encountered another witch before, let alone one who was powerful enough to challenge the Baba Yaga. "How am I supposed to do that?" she asked.
The Baba Yaga shrugged. "That is for you to figure out," she said. "But be warned, this witch is cunning and dangerous. She will not go down without a fight."
Elena hesitated for a moment, weighing her options. She knew that her sister's life was at stake, but she also knew that this task could cost her own life. She took a deep breath, steeling her resolve.
"I'll do it," she said, her voice firm.
The Baba Yaga's smile widened. "Excellent," she said. "You will find the witch's lair deep in the forest. I will give you a map to guide you, but be warned, the forest is treacherous. You will face many dangers along the way."
With that, the Baba Yaga produced a rolled-up piece of parchment, which she handed to Elena. "Take this," she said. "It will guide you to the witch's lair. And remember, failure is not an option. If you do not succeed, I will not heal your sister."
Elena took the map, her hands shaking slightly. She knew that this task would not be easy, but she also knew that she had no choice. She thanked the Baba Yaga and turned to leave, but the old witch's voice stopped her.
"One more thing," she said. "Do not underestimate the power of the forest. It is alive, and it will test you at every turn. You will need all your wits and courage to survive. And remember, once you cross the threshold of my domain, you are mine. Fail me, and you will suffer the consequences."
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