CELESTIA (Unicorn Blessed Chronicles Book 1)

by Yumoyori Wilson

  "Ms. Arcadia. How's Celestia?" I asked.

  She sighed, her hands running through her silver locks. "Her fever is down, but if nothing changes by Tuesday, I'm going to have to find Magnor. He knows Celestia the best and can help stabilize her until we figure this darkness problem out," she confirmed.

  "Are you guys actually going to allow classes to go on tomorrow?" Theo asked.

  "There's no way Caio’s gonna be able to function," Cairus added.

  "I'll be making light serums when Othello gets back. We'll be delivering them to those affected by this and go from there. Their effect doesn’t last long, but it will help enough for you to go to your required classes," Ms. Arcadia explained.

  "Ms. Arcadia. Are you going to classes too?" I inquired.

  She was rather pale and looked like she could sleep for a week. She'd been going around the dorms to assess who had been seriously affected by the growing darkness and doing all she could to help.

  She explained that Othello would arrive here in a few minutes, but Magnor was in Alevon and wouldn't come back until Wednesday unless she requested his assistance.

  "I'm canceling my classes. Anyone who is going to continue teaching is either unaffected by this change or wants to assess your dedication to this school," she replied.

  "But that's ridiculous. Are they gonna kick us out if we don't attend?" Hunter asked.

  "This has happened in the past, but not for this long. Other professors may believe it's a test and use it as an excuse to lower student numbers. Those who are committed will attend class, even if they have to crawl," Ms. Arcadia explained, a sad smile on her face.

  "That's bullshit," Finn grumbled.

  Both he and Hunter appeared extremely upset. Theo looked displeased and Cairus kept a blank expression on his face. I remained calm, but deep inside I was furious at the current situation and that Celestia and Caio were suffering because of it.

  I'd been taking care of Celestia since she'd woken up sick after her birthday celebration. At the beginning of the week she could still function and do basic activities, but by Thursday she was so sick she couldn't get out of bed. Now it was Sunday and she'd been asleep for an entire day. I tried to hide it, but I was afraid she would fall into a coma as well.

  "I will have a discussion with Othello and the other leaders. It's not our normal practice to send students home during these events because we have to test who can survive under all conditions, but we may make an exception. You will be notified," Ms. Arcadia reassured us.

  We heard a knock at the door. Cairus was the closest, sliding off the bar chair near the island and heading over to open the door.

  "Good afternoon, Othello," he greeted.

  "Good afternoon, Mr. Sun. How's your brother doing?" Othello queried, entering our house.

  "Still unwell," Cairus responded.

  Othello nodded, walking into the living room to see all of us gathered.

  "How's Ms. Rainbow?" he questioned, walking over to Ms. Arcadia who gave him a small smile and nodded her head in greeting.

  "Same state as Caio. Maybe even worse," Hunter grumbled.

  "I've informed Magnor. He's in a sticky situation, but I'm hoping he'll be here by tomorrow afternoon. He knows how to treat Ms. Rainbow better than any of us," Othello announced.

  "We still have that mandatory training session tomorrow?" Finn questioned.

  Othello frowned, nodding his head. "Yes. I'll be having a meeting with the other council members later today after I've assessed how many students have been affected by this. Regardless, my best advice is for you all to stick together when you're on the school premises. We still haven't identified who's trying to hurt Ms. Rainbow and her being in such a weak state leaves her vulnerable," Othello stressed.

  "Got it," I replied confidently.

  The others nodded in agreement.

  "Ms. Arcadia and I will take our leave. Once we’ve created some light serums, I'll get a messenger to deliver them to you. Mr. Sun should take one and Ms. Rainbow should take two. Her shifter essence is mostly made up of light magic and needs double the dose. I suggest you keep an extra dose on hand for the both of them," Othello explained, directing the last sentence to Cairus and me.

  We both nodded in affirmation. "Will do," Cairus assured.

  "Yes," I replied.

  Othello and Ms. Arcadia both nodded in approval and bid us farewell. I went to the door, listening to their conversation.

  "You should rest," Othello mumbled to Arcadia.

  "Hmph. I'll rest when I'm dead," she argued.

  He shook his head. "This is why I worry about you," he grumbled.

  "I'm a strong woman, Othello. You worry far too much," she whispered.

  "Just tell me if you need a break, Miona. I'm serious." He used a firmer tone, watching her stand up after slipping her heels on.

  "I'm fine and I will. Happy?" She gave him a cheeky grin.

  I walked into the entrance way; both of them turned to give me a final nod. I returned their gesture, holding the door for them to exit.

  I smiled; Othello slipped his hand in Arcadia's, mumbling something about her tripping over everything. She huffed, but tightened her grip in his as they turned from our gate and made their way down the street to the next dorm house.

  I closed the door, walking back into the living room where the others stood near the steps.

  "What’s the plan?" Theo questioned.

  "I'll stay with Caio," Cairus declared.

  "Finn and I are going to get more supplies and do laundry. If we get to go back home till this whole thing is solved, we might as well pack a few things and have everything ready," Hunter explained.

  "I'll stay with Celestia," I confirmed.

  They nodded in agreement. Cairus walked over to me, patting me on the shoulder.

  "We know you're trying to hide your worry, but Dearest will be just fine," he consoled.

  Finn nodded. "Cutie Pie is strong. So is Sia. They won't succumb to this," Finn added.

  Hunter and Theo nodded.

  "Thanks," I whispered, unsure what else to say. Relying on others for comfort wasn't something I was used to, but it felt nice to have their support.

  "You’re welcome, Orion. Let's check on each other in the evening," Cairus suggested.

  "Sure," I replied.

  We exchanged goodbyes and Cairus and I made our way upstairs. Cairus went to their room down the hall, while I walked the opposite direction. I entered the room, closing the door softly behind me.

  "Bru?"

  I looked over my shoulder to see Arielle hopping on the bed. She hadn't been as affected by the weather change, but seeing her Celestia in a weak state was having a negative effect on her.

  I walked over to the bed where Celestia slept quietly. There was a pink cloth on her forehead and her hair was now up in a bun. From her change in sleeping attire, I knew Ms. Arcadia had gone above and beyond her basic duties.

  I'd taken responsibility for bathing her when Ms. Arcadia couldn't pass by. I didn't mind or feel embarrassed about it. I just didn't like Celestia being in sweat-soaked clothing and I could imagine if the roles were reversed, she'd take care of me as well.

  I sat on the edge of the bed. Arielle hopped off Celestia's legs and flew up to land on my shoulder.

  "Bru..." she chirped quietly.

  I stroked her little head. "I know. Celestia still isn't well, but Othello and Ms. Arcadia said they are going to work on something. Okay?" I soothed.

  She gave a small nod, flying off my shoulder and landing next to Celestia's cheek. She nuzzled her head as she nestled in the soft pillow. She was asleep in moments.

  I looked back at Celestia who hadn't stirred from my words. She looked better than earlier, her complexion was less pale and her cheeks weren't as red.

  I removed the cloth from her head, placing my hand in its place. She wasn't feverish anymore, but that could change any time. I closed my eyes, allowing my magic to flow through to my left hand.

>   "Healosa Lightana," I whispered. A dim gold light surrounded my hand that rested on Celestia's forehead.

  She let out a soft sigh and her body relaxed a bit. I removed my hand, calling off the magic.

  At least a small dose of light magic would help her sleep better. I lowered my hand to caress her cheek with my thumb. Her tattoo on her face was visible since she'd finally decided not to hide her markings when we were home.

  I agreed with the others it was a waste of magic and she was even more beautiful with them on display. To me, her outward appearance didn't matter. She was beautiful with a caring heart and I knew her love for me and the others wasn't based on looks alone.

  I closed my eyes, feeling exhausted myself. I hadn't gotten much sleep this week and with the light boosts I'd been giving Celestia and Caio, I didn't feel at my best.

  "O…rion."

  I opened my eyes, looking down to see Celestia’s weak mismatched eyes.

  "Hey," I whispered, rotating myself on the bed so I could give her my full attention. "How are you feeling?" I asked.

  "Tired," she replied.

  "I know. Othello and Ms. Arcadia are working on something for you. Just rest," I explained.

  She closed her eyes for a few seconds, making me wonder if she'd fallen back asleep.

  "Celestia?"

  "Hm?" she hummed.

  "I'm here if you need me," I declared. I could see the tiny lift of her lips.

  "Thank...you," she replied.

  I smiled, leaning forward to give her a soft kiss. I noticed her breathing began to slow. As the silence continued, I knew she'd fallen back to sleep. I took a deep breath, glancing at the window next to our desk. If it wasn't for the lamp being on, the room would be pitch dark even when it was just past noon.

  I'd rest for the remainder of the day and hope the serums would arrive tonight. If we had to go to class tomorrow, so be it. I wouldn't let anything happen to Celestia. I never wanted to lose someone that was important to me again.

  I won't let the Forsaken have her.

  ~CELESTIA~

  I'll make it," I declared.

  "She's gonna face plant before she reaches the end of the stairs," Hunter huffed.

  "You're supposed to believe in me!" I whined.

  "Not when you're as pale as a ghost and already crashed into the wall," Hunter countered.

  "Twice," Finn added.

  "That was an accident!" I argued.

  "Yup. The wall just got in her way," Orion supported.

  "How did the wall get in her way?" Theo asked with an amused grin.

  "The wall could have moved you know," Cairus suggested.

  "Or maybe it was getting her back for the time Celestia tripped and dented it," Caio reminded.

  "Really guys!" Hunter groaned.

  "I'm going to school. It's mandatory training. And I don't feel too tired. Just a little wobbly," I announced, taking another step down the flight of stairs, holding the railing for dear life.

  "Can someone just carry her? Please?" Finn asked.

  "No," I glared at the others.

  Orion sighed. "Celestia. It's better if you conserve your energy for training," he reasoned.

  "I have to agree with Orion, Dearest," Cairus admitted.

  "I think it would be best. I feel much better, but I can imagine by the time we reach class, we're gonna be exhausted again," Caio confessed.

  I frowned, glancing at the seven steps that remained. Orion walked up to where I stood, reaching out and pulled me into a hug.

  "I know you want to be independent and not depend on us, but we just want what's best for you. Can you lean on us for a bit?" Orion asked.

  I sighed, returning his hug. "Fine," I whispered.

  I knew being stubborn in this situation wasn't going to help me in the long run. Everything they were saying was correct, but I was still trying to adapt to my new reality, that I had a group of people who cared about me and wanted to ensure I was safe.

  "Good girl," Orion whispered, placing a kiss on my neck. I smiled, enjoying the tender kiss and the tingling effect it had on me.

  We pulled apart, looking up at one another. I loved these moments, taking a moment to enjoy his beautiful purple eyes and the love they portrayed.

  "Are they gonna kiss?" Cairus whispered.

  "Maybe," Caio replied.

  "I can't believe they forgot we were here." Hunter sighed.

  "Right. Can't we get an invite in on the love?" Finn agreed.

  "You're just upset Orion overrode your so-called claim on her." Theo chuckled.

  "Aww. Hunter and Finn are jealous," Cairus and Caio said together.

  "Would you two shut it?" Hunter grumbled.

  "We're not jealous. We’re just making sure we're next in line," Finn declared.

  "Sorry, Pixie Boy, but you’re last," Theo laughed.

  "Why am I last? I met her first!" Finn huffed.

  "Wait. Does that mean I'm second last?" Hunter pouted.

  "I guess that means I'm next," Cairus cheered.

  "Wait, Orion ruined the order," Caio pointed out.

  "Orion's an exception for everything," Theo stated.

  The guys were silent for a moment.

  "True," Caio and Cairus agreed.

  Hunter and Finn sighed, but nodded.

  Orion and I exchanged a glance. I snickered, unable to stop the laughter that escaped me. Orion joined me, both of us laughing at their exchange.

  "Did Orion just laugh?" Caio gasped.

  "Did anyone record that?" Cairus asked.

  "I'm still in shock," Finn teased.

  "My ears must have deceived me," Hunter said dramatically.

  "You guys are so overdramatic," Theo laughed.

  I grinned, sliding my arms around Orion's neck as he hooked his arm under my legs to lift me up, bridal style. He carried me down the remainder of steps and didn't let me down.

  "We're going to be late. Can one of you guys grab Celestia's swords?" Orion requested.

  "I'll get them," Cairus announced, running up the stairs.

  "Everything is packed in the corner of the living room so if the council does decide that we get to go home early, we can leave ASAP," Theo explained.

  "Are you guys all going home?" I asked, already feeling a wave a dread thrum through me. I didn't want to go back to being alone. I would miss the guys.

  Finn walked over to us, patting my head. "We'll come with you to your home. Don't know if your place can house six guys, but I’d rather sleep on the floor than be apart from you," Finn declared, kissing me on the forehead.

  I gawked at him; my cheeks grew red.

  "Hey, Cairus! Finn’s trying to take your place in line. He kissed Celestia!" Caio called out.

  "WHAT?" Cairus called back.

  Theo and Hunter shook their heads while Orion grinned.

  "Late, remember?" he reminded.

  "Right. Let's get going," Finn announced.

  I smiled, resting my head on Orion's chest. A small part of me hoped that we'd get to go home, just so I could spend time with the guys and introduce them more formally to Magnor.

  I guess Sia's prediction was right.

  "Orion Meadow. You are NOT coming with me into the female restroom. I can pee just fine on my own," I scolded.

  Orion rolled his eyes while the others snickered.

  "Orion should be your bodyguard, Cutie Pie," Finn joked.

  "Bodyguards don't go into the washroom with the opposite sex," I reminded.

  "Hmph don't see why not," Orion mumbled.

  I grinned.

  "C'mon guys, we’re delaying. Celestia, go use the washroom real quick. We'll be right out here," Hunter encouraged.

  Orion lowered me so I could stand. I took my dual swords from where they were strapped to his back, allowing him to attach their harness on me. The classroom was a few doors down and even if we weren't doing training, I still wanted to be prepared for any surprises.

  I turned to face Orion and gave him a
quick kiss on the lips. His face grew red and he blinked in astonishment.

  "Thank you," I said to him, turning and skipping to the washroom before he changed his mind about letting me go in alone.

  I heard the guys’ laughter in the background as I entered the washroom, making me giggle.

  I finished doing my business, washed my hands and glanced at my reflection in the mirror. With my pale complexion and dark circles under my tired eyes, I looked like a walking zombie. I took a deep breath, exhaling slowly while I pulled the hair tie out of my messy hair.

  I fixed the straps of my back sheaths, making sure it would be a breeze for me to pull my swords out if I needed to. The light serums that were delivered for Caio and I were the only reason why we were up and moving, but I was already feeling the effects begin to fade.

  The week has just begun and I already want it to be over. I'd love to be back in bed.

  I heard the creak of the door; my head turned to see a hand throw something in the room. I watched the shimmering item bounce off the floor, rolling to the other end of the large bathroom. What the hell?

  I flinched at the loud sound that came from outside the bathroom; students’ screams echoed the halls. I rushed to the door, pulling the handle, but it didn't budge.

  "What?" I exclaimed, tugging harder, but the door still wouldn't budge. I lifted on my tip toes to peek through the glass. My eyes grew wide and I gasped; dark clouds were beginning to rise and take shape.

  "FORSAKEN! Oh no, the guys!" I shouted, banging on the door and attempting to pull it open. Ugh, fuck this!

  I took a step back, powering up my magic when I felt a shiver-inducing feeling run down my spine. I froze in place, slowly turning my head to look over my shoulder in order to locate the item that had been thrown into the room. It looked like some sort of crystal.

  My eyes narrowed before widening. You got to be kidding me!

  I lifted my hands to pull my swords out from their scabbards, but a large tendril slapped into me, pinning me to the door. FUCK!

  I squirmed, centering my magic in my hands and feet and began kicking and punching the thick bundle of darkness in an attempt to get out of its hold, but it was useless. I looked up to see more tendrils beginning to leak out of the crystal, growing and creating a barrier around the shimmering red gem. The darkness began to pool on the floor, like a flood of water. I began kicking the door, hoping someone would hear my struggle, but the screams from outside overpowered the noises I was making.