Celestia: The Cursed Witch

xvii

A month had passed since Celestia began her training. Every day was filled with sweat, sore muscles, and spells that left her dizzy, but she never gave up. She knew that this was all to prepare her for the journey ahead.

Today was the day she would finally meet the people who would join her on that journey.

“Are you excited?” Kieran asked as he gently held her hand. Celestia smiled and nodded.

“Yes… and a little nervous,” she replied honestly.

Over the past month, so much had changed between them. Their bond had grown deeper, stronger. Celestia was slowly getting used to Kieran always being there—doing small things for her, showing her the kind of love and kindness she had never known before. That love became her strength, especially after leaving the safety of the coven. Kieran had become her home, her anchor.

“I chose the best warrior for us,” Kieran said reassuringly.

Hand in hand, they walked into the living room, where everyone was already waiting for them.

From the Shadowclaw Pack, one of the top warriors, Dwayne, was chosen. Strong, calm, and reliable—he had a quiet way about him, but everyone knew he was one of the best. And from the Nightshade Coven, Adelaide was sent.

Renee was sitting in the packhouse when Adelaide walked in. She stood from her chair, surprised.

“Adelaide? What are you doing here?” she asked and pulled Adelaide away to talk. They were in the same team and Adelaide was indeed strong enough to become Celestia's protector.

Adelaide smiled.

“Surprise? The Grand Witch agreed to let me go with Celestia. I requested it myself,” she said.

“You did?” Renee asked, brows raised.

“Yes,” Adelaide said. “I know you can’t go with her, so I’ll go in your place. I’ll protect her. You have my word,” she replied. Renee looked at her for a moment, a wave of relief washing over her.

“Thank you,” she whispered. “It means a lot to me… knowing someone I trust will be with her,” she said. Adelaide nodded.

“She’s strong, Renee. She’s ready. But she’s still young—and she needs people who believe in her,” she said. Renee placed a hand on Adelaide’s arm and smiled.

“Then go with her. Keep her safe. Bring her back home,” Renee said.

They returned to the room, and Renee immediately spoke.

“I’m sorry for taking Adelaide with me,” she said. “She was part of my original team,” she added. Adelaide stepped forward and introduced herself.

“Adelaide. It’s an honor to finally meet you, Alpha Kieran, Alpha Solomon,” she said politely, then turned to Celestia with a warm smile. “Hello, Celestia,” she added.

Celestia blinked in surprise but smiled back. She remembered Adelaide—one of the few witches in the coven who never looked down on her. In fact, Adelaide often spoke to her casually and kindly, even when others didn’t.

“Thank you, Aunt Adelaide,” Celestia said softly.

“You’re welcome, Celestia,” Adelaide replied, her voice gentle.

“So, it’s settled then,” Solomon said firmly. “This mission is to remain a secret. I expect all of you to protect Celestia with everything you have. The Abyss Brotherhood must never know who she really is while you’re out there,” he added. He then turned to Celestia.

“Child, do you have something to say?” he asked.

Celestia looked around at everyone in the room—Renee, Kieran, Solomon, Adelaide, Roxy, and the pack warriors. She took a deep breath and gently squeezed Kieran’s hand for strength.

“Thank you… thank you for accepting this selfish request of mine,” she whispered, emotion swelling in her chest.

Later that afternoon, Kieran led Celestia to the lake near the woods. The air was calm, and the water shimmered beneath the sunlight. He knew she needed a quiet place to gather her thoughts.

“You okay?” he asked as they sat on a large rock by the water. Celestia nodded slowly.

“Just thinking… it’s really happening,” she said.

“What do you want to do first when we get to the North?” he asked, brushing a strand of hair from her face. Celestia let out a soft laugh.

“I don’t know,” she said. “I’ve never been there. I don’t know what to expect,” she added.

“Then we’ll find out together once we arrive,” Kieran said, smiling.

“Thank you, Kieran,” she whispered.

“You don’t need to thank me, darling. Seeing you happy is what keeps me going,” he said. Celestia smiled and leaned on Kieran’s shoulder, her nerves slowly calming. If only she weren’t the child in the prophecy.

The next morning arrived too soon.

It was the day Celestia, Kieran, and their chosen companions would begin their journey to the Northern Region—where the humans lived.

Everyone gathered in front of the packhouse. Three horses were lined up, bags secured. The mood was a mix of excitement and quiet tension.

Celestia hugged Renee tightly.

“Thank you for everything, Aunt. I’ll be careful,” she said. Renee kissed her forehead.

“I know you will. Just remember what I taught you and find out what you really want," she said. "And don't forget to write to me,” she added. Celestia nodded while holding Renee's hand.

"Find everything about the Nightmare Wolf if you can too," Solomon said. “In this journey, you must also seek for answers. We will end this once and for all," he added.

Celestia smiled, trying not to cry. She turned to Solomon and gave a small bow.

“I will. Thank you, Alpha Solomon… for believing in me,” she said. Solomon nodded.

“Make us proud, child. And stay safe,” he said. Kieran hugged his father next.

“We’ll come back,” he said. Solomon clapped his back.

“Don't die out there, son. I’ll be waiting for you. I, your mother, and the rest of the pack members—we'll be waiting,” he said.

Kieran looked at his father, sensing the weight behind his words.

“I promise. I’ll keep Celestia safe no matter what,” he said. Solomon nodded, his expression softening with pride and concern.

“I know you will. You’ve grown into the kind of Alpha this pack needs—and the kind of man she can depend on. Just remember, out there, not everyone is your ally. Trust your instincts,” he said.

“I will,” Kieran replied. “And thank you… for trusting me with this, father,” he added.

Solomon gave his shoulder one last squeeze before stepping back.

“Go. Make us proud.”

Then, with everyone watching, Kieran helped Celestia onto their horse before climbing up behind her. Adelaide and Dwayne mounted theirs and followed close behind.

And just like that, their journey began.