The Devil's Cursed Witch

Evanthe and Cornelia stepped out of the cottage, following the pathway that led to the small garden ahead.

"Your Eminence, you can scold me, blame me for the current situation, or even punish me, but I do not regret what I did," Cornelia said resolutely.

"I could have punished you the moment you went to the elder this morning and proposed a way to save Morpheus, prompting an urgent council meeting," Evanthe replied. "But I didn't, did I?"

Cornelia knew nothing could escape Evanthe's notice and admitted her actions.

Evanthe continued, "I didn't say anything because I know you were right in your place. I can't stop you from doing what you feel is right. Everyone has their own perspective of right and wrong."

"In your perspective, what I did, was it wrong, Your Eminence?" Cornelia asked.

Evanthe shook her head. "Nothing is definitively wrong or right at this moment. Any decision we make will end up hurting someone—whether it's Ember and Draven or Morpheus."

"But isn't hurting better than losing a life?" Cornelia asked. "People face difficulties, accept them, and learn to adapt. Ember and Draven will do the same. But losing Morpheus—would that be any better? It's about saving a life everyone cares for."

"I understand you. None of us wants to lose him," Evanthe acknowledged. "While we were trying to find a solution, you had only one goal in mind—to save him. I should apologize for letting you face this situation alone, without our support. You had to shoulder all the responsibility and become the bad person in the eyes of the man you love."

"It doesn't matter. He never felt anything for me; his heart was never mine. What matters is that he keeps on living. I've lost nothing. I will just resume my life as it has always been."

Evanthe stopped in her tracks. Cornelia halted as well, turning to see what had happened. "Your Eminence...?"

"I am such a bad mentor and queen to you, aren't I?" Evanthe said.

"No, Your Eminence…"

"I left everything to you when you were just a young witch, and the entire clan was in disarray. I apologize for making you go through all this. You've emerged as a strong woman and head of the witch clan. No words can express my gratitude towards you. I am fortunate to have you as my student."

Cornelia has not expected Evanthe to say it. With her eyes moistening, Cornelia, usually so stubborn, had a light smile on her lips. "As much as I am fortunate to have you as my master, Your Eminence. I have done nothing but follow your teachings. You are the one who made me what I am today. I am glad to know I have not disappointed you."

Evanthe could say nothing but hugged Cornelia. "I am so proud of you."

Tears rolled down Cornelia's cheeks. "Thank you, Your Eminence."

Evanthe let her go and spoke, "Whatever happens next with those three, it's not your fault or responsibility, so do not blame yourself. What happens ahead is their destiny, understood?"

Cornelia nodded, "Yes, Your Eminence."

Evanthe wiped the tears away from Cornelia's cheeks. "Let's walk a while longer. It's been a long time since we had quiet moments like this."

Cornelia gladly agreed and walked by her side as they continued to talk.

-----

At the palace, Ember sat in the large window of her chamber, her back resting against the sill, her hands wrapped around her half-folded legs as she stared at the dark, starry sky. Ray, her pet, remained quiet in its cage, sensing its master's unusual silence.

Draven entered her chamber. He wished to hurry back to her after finishing important matters but decided against it. He gave her time alone to think, wanting her to take her decision for the next day's council meeting without any outside influence. His presence around her would only make it difficult for her.

Ember sensed his arrival and turned to look at him. Draven walked to her. She folded her half stretched legs and made for him a place to sit. He sat between the place left between his mate and the cage of his mate's pet.

He placed his hand over hers, unsure of what to say. In her difficult situation, he could only offer his silent support.

"Won't you ask me what I have decided?" she asked.

"All I know is that I will stand by whatever you decide," he replied calmly.

"What if my decision hurts you?" she asked, her eyes searching his calm gaze.

"If it hurts me, that means it hurts you more."

Her eyes finally turned moist. "Draven, all I can think of is that I don't want him to die. Saving a life is more important than anything."

"I know, and I agree," he said. He leaned closer, held both her hands in his, and kissed her forehead. "No matter what the decision is, nothing will change between us."

She hugged him, mumbling against his chest, "Thank you, Draven. I give you my word, I won't ever let anything change between us."

"It's late. You should sleep so you can have a peaceful mind during tomorrow's council meeting," he suggested.

She nodded and looked at him, "Won't you sleep with me?"

He offered her a gentle smile, "Why wouldn't I? You know well I can't sleep peacefully if I don't have you to hold in my arms."

"Then carry me, using those arms."

In the next moment, she was lifted into his arms and placed on the bed. Draven slid in next to her, holding her close, her head resting on his chest, his chin gently atop her head.

Though they were in bed, sleep was elusive, their minds preoccupied with thoughts of the upcoming council meeting.

Sensing her restlessness, Draven murmured, "Do not think about anything. Close your eyes and sleep."

"Can you sleep?" she asked.

"I can, if you sleep."

Not arguing, she closed her eyes, "Good night, Draven."

He kissed her head. "Good night, my mate."

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