Into the Forest

The next morning, the children were led deep into the forest to gather firewood.

Hansel, worried they might lose their way, quietly dropped little pieces of bread behind him as they walked, hoping to follow the trail back home.

But when evening came and they turned to leave, the bread was gone — the forest birds had eaten every last crumb.

Gretel took her brother's hand. "Don't be afraid," she said, though her own voice trembled just a little. "We will find a way."