She had been completely lost within the familiar pages of one of the few books she had brought with her to her new home. She had read it many times, but that changed nothing. Her heart still raced as the brave hero fought the fierce storm on a sea that she had never seen except in her imagination. Her eyes were wide with anticipated doom, when she heard it-a laugh. That was not part of the story.

She was quickly drawn back to thewood bathed in gold around her. She looked up in the direction she was sure it had originated, but saw nothing. The laugh had been pleasant to the point of being lyrical; however, she still found herself wondering if perhaps her new neighbors had spoken the truth. You are safe in my Wood. No harm will befall you. My warden is merely curious of you, child.

The woman was startled and was about to question the speaker aloud when she realized that the voice was unspoken. Fear seized her.

Do not be afraid, little one. You are most welcome, and Rumil will let nothing trouble you during your visits here…

Everyone needs a place of refuge…

That is what you seek…

You are invited to make this spot your own. It is gift. My warden will watch over you whenever you visit.

The woman found herself wondering to whom the voice belonged when it spoke once more. I am the Lady of the Wood. Again, welcome to my home…

So, there was a witch? Or could it be merely superstition that had made her so? The woman's curiosity was peaked. She could not leave never to return. She was drawn to the unknown, drawn to this Wood and its occupants. Deep down, she acknowledged the truth. She had entered hoping to make contact with the elves. The young mortal lifted her book once more, all the while sending a silent thank you to the Lady.

She tossed a covert glance at the tree across from her throughdark lashes. A trace of a smile appeared and a spark of mischiefignited inher eyes. She then lowered her gaze demurely to the book's contents as she spoke, "Would you care for me to read aloud to you, Rumil, or are you content to simply watch me enjoy it in silence?" At the mention of the name given by the Lady, the woman was rewarded with a soft gasp of surprise.

"I feared that I would frighten you, my lady," replied the tree beneath her scrutiny.

A single, arched brow was raised, as she questioned, "Oh? You must be quite hideous indeed, my lord."

She was again gifted with his laughter."My brothers have informed me that I have a face that few could love!" replied a lilting voice laced with blatant amusement.

"A pity," she countered, "for I had hoped you might sit with me."

"And so I shall, my lady, if you but grant me the comfort of remaining in my tree."

The woman was slightly disappointed that he would not come out, and wondered again if her sojourn into the Wood had been at all wise or simply foolish fancy.

As if sensing her doubts, the voice within the tree spoke once more, "You will need time to accustom yourself to my presence, believe me. I may startle you otherwise, and I have no wish to cause you discomfort, child." The amusement was gone from his voice, leaving gentle concern in its wake.

Her heart softened, "Permission granted, then, but only for a time."

"The lady is indeed gracious." His voice spoke of the smile that graced his face.

"Shall I read?" she questioned.

"Indeed, if you please," was his reply. And so they began.