Christina spoke up again before Hilda could think of a spell to cast. 'And why are you naked James? I mean really! It's unseemly. My boyfriend should not be naked in front of other women. I won't have it! Put some clothes on!'
'My dear. You are in no position to make demands on our pet' spoke Hilda in a harsh voice. 'James belongs to us now. As do you. You will only speak from now on when I command' The old woman waved her hands at Christina and uttered something incomprehensible.
Christina turned from James to the woman who had spoken and found her voice was gone. Not a sound came out of her mouth. She she tried to scream but there was silence.
'That's better' uttered Hilda, surveying the mortal. 'You were a feisty girl weren't you? I like that! From now you will be my maid. You can start by preparing dinner. I'm tired of magical meals. There is a chicken in the yard that refuses to lay. How about you get to it and turn the old biddy into chicken Kiev. Yes I'll look forward to that. Out that way' The witch pointed 'Hop to it girl'
However instead of obeying the woman who by now she realised was a witch, Christina made for the door she had come in, attempting to escape the house.
"I don't think so girl' said Hilda with a chuckle. 'I bind you to this house. If you leave you will become a hag. You will make me look like a beauty. Do you want that? I don't think so' The woman once more waved her hands at Christina and uttered some incomprehensible sounds.
Christina had reached the door only to find it locked. She turned with a look of horror on her face and silently cursed the witch.
'I didn't make out what you said Deary. That's my previous spell in action. I assume you were begging me not to make you a hag. We do have enough hags in this house already. I don't really want to make you ugly, but if that is the only way to make you behave then so be it. What do you choose girl? The door will unlock. If you pass through it your body will age by 80 years. You can return home or stay here to live out your remaining days, I can't say how many they will be. If you are sensible and don't pass through the door, you will retain your youth. You will have employment and a bed. If you are obedient I might even take you on as an apprentice in a few years'
Christina's face betrayed her emotions she was scared, frightened of the witch. She looked towards James seeking help. A pleading look on her face.