**Winter's POV**
My mind was a whirlwind of uncertainty and determination as I clutched the decoy book close. A part of me feared the witches would see through the facade and refuse to help. But I had to try—I couldn’t return to my friends empty-handed.
Reaching the edge of the mystical boundary, I paused, taking a moment to ground myself. The Moonshade Lilacs greeted me like old friends, their petals shimmering softly. I inhaled deeply, the magical aroma infusing me with courage. The boundary once again parted for me, wisps of violet mist swirling in its wake, guiding my steps back into the witch realm.
As I navigated the familiar path leading to the coven, the memory of my encounter with the mysterious witches played in my mind. I quickened my pace, my heart thrumming with anticipatio
