Celestia: The Cursed Witch

xix

“We’re almost there, Celestia,” Adelaide said as they walked along the dusty road, the wind brushing against their cloaks.

Celestia’s heart swelled with happiness. She looked ahead, spotting the distant hills that marked the edge of the Northern Region. Just a little more, and they would be there.

These past five days had been tiring, but unforgettable. She remembered the long hours on horseback, the quiet talks with Kieran under the stars, and how Adelaide always made sure they were safe. Even Dwayne, who barely spoke, would often walk ahead, clearing the path and checking for danger.

Celestia recalled their encounter with the bandits. That moment made her realize just how dangerous the world outside truly was… and how lucky she was to have them by her side.

“I can’t believe we made it this far,” she whispered, more to herself than anyone else.

“You did great, darling. I'm proud of you,” Kieran said beside her, offering her a soft smile. Celestia nodded, her eyes shining with excitement.

“Aunt, have you been to the North?” Celestia asked, turning her head toward Adelaide, who was gently pulling her horse along the narrow path.

“Yes, quite a few times,” Adelaide replied with a small nod. “The Grand Witch often sent me there—sometimes for missions, sometimes to trade or collect goods. The North is well known for that,” she added, recalling the days she would travel to North in a group.

Celestia looked curious.

“What do you mean?” she asked. Adelaide smiled slightly.

“The Northern Region is the center of trade. It's the largest marketplace you’ll ever see. Everything from herbs, rare stones, weapons, to enchanted items—you name it, they have it. If you can’t find it in the North, it probably doesn’t exist,” she said. Celestia’s eyes lit up.

“Sounds like a whole new world,” she said.

“It is,” Adelaide said. “Busy streets, loud markets, people from all races and kinds. But mostly humans. Keep your guard up. Where there’s trade, there’s also trouble,” she added.

Celestia nodded seriously, the thought both exciting and overwhelming.

“What about you, Kieran?” Celestia asked, turning her head to him with curiosity.

“Twice,” he replied, meeting her gaze. “I’ve been to the North twice for the annual meeting. The Shadowclaw Pack was chosen as the leader of the East, and as the current Alpha, I was in charge of attending the gathering of leaders from every region. For two years in a row, it was held in the North,” he explained.

As they continued walking, they finally reached the edge of the Northern Region. In the distance, they saw a group of guards standing by the border gate and a long line of people waiting to enter. Most of them looked tired from the journey, holding sacks, pulling wagons, and carrying children.

Kieran motioned for them to stay behind for a moment and approached one of the guards. The two exchanged a few quiet words, and the guard gave a small nod before lifting the rope that blocked the path.

Kieran returned to them with smile on his face.

“We’re good. Let’s go,” he said.

The group passed ahead of the crowd, earning a few glances from those waiting in line. Adelaide looked at him, her brows slightly raised.

“Who’s the friend you said you knew again?” she asked in curiousity. Kieran smiled a little.

“Jeremiah. He’s the current Governor of the North,” he said making Adelaide gasped while Celestia looked at her, confused.

“Jeremiah? That son of a b— I’m sorry,” Adelaide said, catching herself. “He’s still alive?” she added.

“Yes, and very healthy,” Kieran replied with a chuckle. Jeremiah had quite the reputation as a troublemaker and a shameless flirt. It wasn’t surprising that Adelaide knew him. “Did he do something?” he added.

“No. Because if he did, I’d bury him alive,” she said, narrowing her eyes.

Once they reached the town, Kieran rented a stable for the horses and carried their bags. Then, they made their way to Jeremiah’s home—a large house that stood out from the rest. It was easy to spot even from a distance.

As they approached the door, it swung open and a man in his mid-fifties stepped out with a wide grin. He looked strong for his age and carried himself with confidence. His eyes sparkled with mischief the moment he saw Adelaide.

“Well, well, if it isn’t Adelaide,” Jeremiah teased, crossing his arms with a smirk. “Still as scary witch as ever,” he added.

Adelaide rolled her eyes and gave him a pointed look.

“Still as annoying as ever,” she said making Jeremiah smile.

This time, Kieran smiled and stepped forward.

“Jeremiah, this is Celestia,” he said, introducing Celestia to him. Jeremiah took Celestia’s hand and kissed the back of it dramatically.

“A pleasure to meet such a lovely young lady,” he said.

“She’s my mate,” Kieran said flatly, his arm sliding protectively around Celestia. Jeremiah quickly raised his hands and laughed.

“Alright, alright! I didn’t know. Relax, Alpha.” He gave Kieran’s shoulder a friendly pat. “No harm done,” he added.

Celestia smiled shyly, and Adelaide just shook her head in disbelief as they were welcomed inside.

Later that evening, after dinner and a much-needed bath, Adelaide and Celestia found themselves sharing a guest room on the second floor. The room was simple but cozy, with two beds pushed against opposite walls, warm lighting, and thick curtains.

Celestia walked toward the window and gently pulled it open. A breeze rushed in, carrying the mixed scents of baked bread, burning oil, and fresh herbs. Below them, the streets of the North bustled with life even at dusk—vendors shouting, people laughing, carts rolling by.

Adelaide joined her by the window and rested her elbows on the sill.

“Still busy, even at this hour,” she said. Celestia nodded, her eyes wide with wonder.

“It’s so alive," she said.

“This is the North,” Adelaide said softly. “Busy, loud, and full of stories. It can be dangerous—but also beautiful,” she said.

They stood there in silence for a moment, both lost in their thoughts as they watched the glowing lights and the lively world below.

“Do you think we’ll be okay here?” Celestia asked. Adelaide looked at her and nodded.

“As long as we stay together and stay alert, yes. We’ll be just fine," Adelaide said.

Celestia smiled, feeling a little more at ease as the night deepened around them.