As I transformed back into my human form, the weight of the situation settled heavy upon my shoulders. The cottage was eerily silent, the only sound being the crackling of the fire in the hearth. I made my way to where Mandy lay, her once vibrant eyes now dull and lifeless.
The smell of something putrid filled the air, making my stomach churn with disgust. Whatnoe was busy concocting something in a cauldron, her twisted form hunched over in the dim light. I couldn't bear to look at Mandy's still body any longer, the sight of her lying there motionless sending shivers down my spine.
Desperation clawed at my chest as I turned to Whatnoe, my voice trembling with fear. "What now? Why hasn't Mandy woken yet?" I needed answers, needed to know that there was still hope for her.
Whatnoe turned
