Catrina We finally reach the forest where Celeste is said to have escaped and made a nest. I had my reservations when Theo led me down this path, but as we stepped onto the moist earth surrounded by lush vine trees, all my doubts vanished. The atmosphere of dark magic was palpable and seemed to suffocate all my senses. Damn. This can manipulate someone's mind easily if they lose their focus She plays it so well. Not just in one place, Celeste puts her creatures in all corners. Can they sense when someone is coming? I am not sure. "Be careful," Theo whispered. As he kept me close to him, he wrapped his arms around my waist. I heightened my senses. If those creatures happen to spot us before we spot them, I'll be able to detect their presence by staying vigilant. "This place is so cursed.." Theo muttered, and I gave a mumble of agreement. There must be only one way to make this place clean again: to kill the only source of dark magic itself. "She made a not-trivial trade with her

Catrina.We went back to the spot where we all gathered before Damien took me to the border. Our group wasn't the first to arrive since there were already a few cars parked when we all split up at each border. Suggesting that maybe Doctor Shawn and the rest of the healers had come back earlier. I felt relieved. If they arrived before us, that meant they were able to handle those groyals and make it back here ahead of us. As we stepped into the hall, everyone's attention was immediately drawn to us. I strolled alongside Carlo. Alpha Henry and the rest of the warriors trailed behind; they dragged the heavy chain that bound Celeste. The magic had taken hold, rendering all of her senses immobile. And after the journey we took from the forest, I noticed she was unable to remain on her feet. Celeste fell to the ground as soon as we stopped.I saw several werewolves who instinctively retreated when they caught sight of her. Some stared at her with a mix of shock and disbelief, as if un

CatrinaWell, it seems my intuition was partially correct after all. And I'm pleased that I had the courage to inquire more. Doctor Jane's surprised expression said it all. She was indeed hiding something from me. There are details from yesterday's incident that she didn't tell me. Carlo probably commanded everyone involved to shut their mouths so that no one who was not involved knew. I didn't want to meddle too much in his alpha's affairs, but when it came to endangering his life, how could I remain silent? "We should have a conversation. But not here. Those lycans, Damien's men, seem to be in every corner, and I'd rather not take any chances of them overhearing." Doctor Jane said"Okay." Taking my hand, she brought me to a space that belonged to her during our stay. She swiftly shut the door once we entered, ensuring our conversation remained private."Firstly, I want you to promise not to ask Alpha anything about the information I'm about to share with you. You weren't present

Catrina"What the hell did that mean." Zeke refused. His hands suddenly became occupied as he scratched the back of his neck, seemingly trying to evade my gaze and inquiries."What else? It was clear that you liked Carissa." I exclaimed. Who couldn't see that? If not, he admires her like a man would admire his woman. "What are you now? A mind reader?" Zeke asked in a tone that was dripping with sarcasm, causing me to burst into even more laughter. "Simply admiring her does not automatically make me the one she has been searching for all along. Those are completely distinct concepts.""If Carissa fails to find her mate by next year, Alpha Henry will not hesitate to exile her. I understand that it's not my place to meddle, but I feel so compelled to intervene. Fake it till you make it. Who's to say that you and her aren't destined mates?" I stated. Zeke's lips curled upward in a subtle expression. What I mentioned wasn't solely meant as a joke, as I had considered that plan. I simply

CatrinaLast night, Carlo came back right as the sun was on the verge of rising. I was in a drowsy state when I sensed his presence beside me as he gently pulled my waist so my back was pressed against his solid chest. I allowed a soothing feeling to envelop me. Goddess, how long have I yearned for a night like this in my life?Peaceful and secure. Indeed, there may still be potential risks, but for the time being, let me just savor this precious moment I have with him. The next morning, I freshened up and put on a lavender dress before heading downstairs to meet up with him. Carlo was conversing with some of his men."Ensure that the invitations are delivered to every pack. There were some rogues that I planned to invite, but I'll handle that later." Carlo said to them:.The warriors nodded, their faces lighting up with smiles as they received the news from their Alpha. I felt a rush of excitement as I learned what it was: he was extending an invitation for them to come to our marki