A Traveler's Curse

Chapter 17- Preparing for Battle

The next morning, I wake up feeling absolutely dreadful. My head throbs uncontrollably, and my stomach churns with unease. As I try to recollect the events of the previous night, I realize I have no memory of how I manage to make it back to my bedchambers. However, what really takes me by surprise is the discovery that I am not alone in my bed.

Turning over, Celestia reveals her bare breasts, concealed only by the sheets. Memories of our time together flood back to me in vivid flashes. We stumble into my bedchambers, intoxicated and giggling, after leaving The Enchanted Oak. I distinctly remember the taste of her lips when we kiss at the pub, and how I craved more. Recollections of Celestia's passionate kisses and her exploration of every inch of my naked body resurface, causing my head to spin.

With a slight groan, I sit up, attempting to cover my own breasts with the small sheet. Thank gods I don't have much there to cover.

"Good morning," Celestia greets me, her long white hair tangled.

"Um... good morning," I reply, feeling an overwhelming sense of awkwardness.

"That was quite a night, wasn't it?" she chuckles, rolling over and sitting up beside me.

"Did we...?" I begin to ask, my voice trailing off uncertainly.

"Yeah, we did. I'm guessing you've never been with a woman before?" she inquires, giggling once again.

I shake my head, unsure of how to respond.

"That's adorable. I'm glad I could be your first," she says, her laughter continuing.

"Celestia... I don't even know if I like women, and even if I do, I'm not ready for anything. It's only been a few months since..." I start, but she interrupts me.

"Last night is just for fun. I prefer dick. Trust me, it's not a big deal. This doesn't change anything between us," she reassures me.

I offer her a small smile as she gathers her clothes from the night before.

"Caspian wants us to meet him in the throne room after breakfast. We'll be leaving for our first battle soon. Are you ready?" she asks.

"I think so," I reply, swallowing nervously.

"Be sure, Kyla. If you're not, it could cost you your life," she warns before opening the door and leaving my bedchambers.

"Thanks for the encouragement," I mutter silently to myself, a hint of sarcasm lacing my words.

I rose from the bed, clad in the loose and airy armor bestowed upon me by Celestia. Retrieving the brush from my vanity, I valiantly tamed my unruly red curls, weaving them into a simple braid. Beneath my emerald gaze, shadows lingered from the previous night's unrest. Memories of my encounter with Celestia flooded my thoughts.

Never had I entertained the notion of being with a woman, not even for a fleeting moment. Not even in the company of my ladies back home. Yet, I couldn't deny being turned on by what happened. It wasn't an intimate connection, but rather a carefree dance of mischief and lust. Celestia is right, there is no need for anything to change between us. A smile graces
my lips relieved that our newfound bond would not be tainted by awkwardness.

I make my way to the grand throne room where Celestia and Caspian await. The weight of the impending battle hangs heavy in the air, and the room is abuzz with anticipation.

"Ah, there you are," Celestia greets me with a warm smile as I enter the room. "We were just discussing the battle strategy against the Vienna's. I trust you're ready to lend your skills to this cause?"

I nod, feeling a surge of determination coursing through my veins. "Absolutely. I am prepared to fight alongside you and defend the throne no matter what it takes."

King Caspian leans forward, his gaze fixed on the map sprawled across the table. "We've received word that the Astralites have pledged their support to our cause. They possess unique abilities that could give us an advantage in the upcoming war."

Celestia's eyes sparkle with hope. "That's good news. We must ensure we utilize their strengths to the fullest. Thank gods we specialized in the elements, brother."

I interject, my voice filled with determination. "We should consider a two-pronged approach. While our main forces engage the Vienna's head-on, we can deploy a smaller unit, led by the Astralites, to flank them from the east. This will catch them off guard and disrupt their formations, giving us a tactical advantage."

Celestia's gaze holds a glimmer of admiration. "A brilliant fucking suggestion. We shall inform the Astralites of this plan and ensure they are well-equipped for the task. We need every advantage we can get."

Caspian nods in agreement, his voice firm. "We must also focus on securing our supply lines and fortifying our defenses. The Vienna's are cunning and resourceful, and we cannot afford any weaknesses."

As the discussion continues, ideas bounce back and forth, each of us offering our insights and expertise. The atmosphere in the throne room transforms into one of collaboration and determination. The weight of the impending battle feels less daunting, replaced by a collective resolve to protect our kingdom. It felt wrong going to war against my own ancestors but after what they did, fuck them.

Hours pass as we meticulously craft our battle strategy, considering every possible scenario and contingency. The room buzzes with the energy of preparation, a palpable sense of unity filling the air.

Finally, Celestia rises from her seat, her voice filled with conviction. "We have a plan. Let us rally our forces, unite with the Astralites, and defend what is rightfully ours."

Over the next few days, our lives revolved around the daunting task of preparing for our journey. Countless carriages were meticulously packed with provisions, weapons, tents, and various cargo, ready to accompany us on our expedition. These carriages, however, were not hauled by ordinary means. No, they were strapped onto the backs of majestic creatures known as Skyreapers, their furry bodies towering above us. These magnificent creatures possessed the ability to soar through the skies at incredible speeds, effortlessly carrying thousands of pounds and accommodating at least a hundred individuals. As I surveyed the scene, it became clear that we had an impressive fleet of Skyreapers at our disposal. To bad they were useless in a fight.

Our destination was Frostfire, a town perpetually cloaked in snow, impervious to any attempts to melt it with fire. Despite the wintry landscape, the air did not carry the frigid chill typically associated with such conditions. This journey would take us farther from Lakespire than I had ever traveled before, and a pang of sadness tugged at my heart. What if I never returned to this place, never laid eyes upon it again?

Suddenly, Celestial approached me, intertwining her arm with mine. "We shall be riding in the Royal carriage with my brother," she exclaims. "I refuse to subject us to the discomfort of those dreadful ass soldier carriages for weeks on end."

Her sentiment warms me, and I express my gratitude. As we double-check the supplies one final time, the entire Lakespire army congregated, embarking upon the carriages atop the deargs. Thousands of men and women clad in black and gold armor stood united, ready to defend our homeland. The sheer magnitude of our assembled forces was awe-inspiring, seemingly without end.

"Isn't it remarkable?" Celestial giggles, her eyes sparkling with pride. "Some of our warriors possess extraordinary abilities, like shapeshifting, illusion magic, and siphoning."

"Indeed," I reply, acknowledging their unique talents. "And you and Caspian wield the power of elemental magic."

A smile tugged at Celestial's lips as we stepped into our designated carriage. "And you possess the ability to manipulate time and energy," she reminds me fondly.

My hand instinctively reaches for the amethyst stone hanging from my neck. "Yes, I do."

Just as we settled into our seats, Caspian stumbles in, appearing rather worse for wear. He drapesba handkerchief over his face and groans. "Wake me up when we reach Frostfire."

Celestial and I exchange amused glances, sharing a quiet giggle as we peer out the window. Our Skyreaper spread its colossal wings, taking flight into the radiant embrace of the sunrise, and the time for war began.