As day slipped into the cover of night, Merlin the Magical walked slowly through the forest. By the ancient root and whispering leaf, manifest! But tonight he would encounter someone more sinister and ancient than he was prepared for. Greetings, great wizard. A quiet evening for magic, isn't it? Merlin introduced himself to the witch and the two of them began to talk. As he listened to her he could feel himself losing track of time. In the blink of an eye, the witch cast her hypnotic spell and led Merlin mindlessly through the forest. Deeper into the woods they walked. Upon reaching her home, the witch made merlin an offer he couldn't refuse. It was simple... and terrifying. Join me at my hearth. By midnight, you'll find the knowledge I seek... or become my feast. We have arrived. Come inside and I will explain why you are here. I seek the beauty that time has stolen. Can you grant it, wizard? Beauty spells? My enchantments lean towards wisdom and power, not mere vanity. How dare you judge my hearts desire. You will make the beauty potion, or you will be my dinner. Merlin wondered whether the witch had woven a glamour over herself. Every few minutes, her face subtly rearranged, as though reality couldn't decide who she truly was. If you fulfill my request, I will let you leave unharmed. Now follow me to my sanctum. Trapped! And no spell for beauty in my entire repertoire! Merlin searched the ancient text to find a spell that would make someone beautiful. Time is fleeting, dear wizard. Have you found the secret to true beauty? Minute by minute the witches appetite grew. Merlin, tried his best to focus on the potion but he was starting to worry. Merlin, concerned for his life exhausted all of the books except one, And then it happened. He found something unusual and profound... Wait! This ancient text... it's not a beauty spell, but... an illusion! Perhaps I can use it to trick the witch. No, that's not quite right... A pinch of moonpetal, a drop of dragon's dew... Go faster wizard. My appetite is growing. This spell should give her the illusion of beauty she desires. Hocus pokus smokus tokeus The beautiful illusion spell is complete. Time to test it. Hmm, still not quite the desired effect. Back to the drawing board! Eureka! The final ingredient... The perfect blend! It truly is beautiful! As promised, my lady. The Elixir of Radiant Beauty. Give it to me now, wizard! As soon as she finished the last drop of Merlin's potion, her face began to transform. Exquisite! Truly magnificent! But did you truly believe I would simply let you walk free, little wizard? Then you leave me no choice! I will not be your captive any longer! A clash of ancient powers, light against shadow, freedom against tyranny! I am Merlin the Magical! Alakazam! The blast slammed the witch against the wall causing her to go unconscious. Before she wakes, now is the time to make my escape, he said to himself. Merlin raced down the labyrinthine castle stairs as fast as his weary legs could carry him. Slowly, the witch began to transform back into her true form. The illusion of beauty spell had worn off. That fool. He tricked me. Well at least I got the beauty potion. Sorry you ugly witch. I had to go. Hope you enjoy your very temporary beauty. Rage filled the witches heart when she realized that she had been outsmarted by Merlin. My face, what is happening to my beautiful face? To Be Continued... I will eat him alive. I will make him regret ever crossing my path.