A teen girl in a test for magical powers. A dangerous encounter in the woods. What will she risk to become a witch?

Rosa always dreamed of becoming a witch, and on her thirteenth birthday, she finally has her chance. The Seelie Court sets a test: follow a trail up the mountain to the castle. If she can make it on her own, she’ll be granted magic. The Fae promised her the test wouldn’t be dangerous, so she’s prepared to face anything.

As she hikes through the woods, a mysterious old woman offers her powers without the test, and she won’t take no for an answer. She threatens Rosa by summoning deadly beasts—and Rosa has no way to defend herself.

Will Rosa accept the stranger’s help and forfeit the test, or face death in the jaws of a mountain lion?

This short story is a prequel to the Fae of Calaveras trilogy, and can be enjoyed at any point in the series.