The Witch's Devil

Chapter 27, Tragedy

Ember's POV~

With panic turning my gut sour. While we raced to the shop, I had to make a quick stop by the colony at the Devils' Den. A need to calm the sickening feeling that had its talons dug in my thoughts. I'm scared that they have been a target as well, knowing full well the town doesn't like the colony. Getting back at me would make the perfect excuse for some. The horrific images my racing brain designed up.

I understood I was making large leaps from my worry. Yet I couldn't push them far enough down. I couldn't build walls high enough to block the worries out. They just kept creeping back in until I had my eyes on the colony.

Gut wrenching. Maddening.

Blessed be I'm there— finally— my legs on fire screaming at me. They all were okay. Thank Freyja. Surrounding both, Alastor and I, with their tails up and curled. Sounds of purring, meows, mews, yawls, and alike mixed into a sweet heartwarming melody. Soothing my soul, calming those racing thoughts that repeated. They are okay. Breathing a heavy sigh of relief. The tension in my muscles eased only a little.

Double checking over everything quickly, and a mild heart attack from forgetting my bag of treats. Alastor, bless his heart, had grabbed it for me. I couldn't stop myself from jumping into his arms for a large comforting hug. His arms wrapped around me tightly; a tight hold to ease the nerves just a bit.

With our silent communication of nodding and understanding. We tag teamed the placing of treats and food. Even having a delightful talk about increasing my TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release) efforts for this bunch. Alastor fully invested in the efforts. It was impressive to hear just how much thought and care went into his ideas and planning.

It was a much needed distraction for me. Grateful to the demon at my side. At least this place is safe, and out of harm's way. Though the shop is still very much unknown, at least this spot was okay. I keep having to repeat that in my head. Yet it never fully takes hold.

While saying our goodbyes, Miss Shadow, the colony leader appeared before us. Silky black fur shining in the sunlight. She sits at my feet with regal posture. Looking up to me with a calm determination set in those eyes. Eyes of a mother— reassuring by nature. Giving her some behind the ear scratches. I mouthed the words 'thank you' as I appreciate the care she shows. Even if it's in her own aloof sort of way.

Alastor placing a hand out to help me to my feet. Heading out back onto the task at hand. Speeding through the crowds that grew denser the closer we got. Murmurs of disbelief, whispers of damning curses. We pushed through. All lead up to the shop front, and the shock that waited for me there.

With widened eyes of hurt, and distaste. Gasping out, my jaw dropping open. The urge to scream, to cry out in horror. I stop myself. Holding in that scream. I blink away the tears, bringing a hand up to cover my gaping mouth, holding my jaw up as if it needed to be picked up from the floor.

Now seeing why my friends were calling. I could feel my knees almost buckle from my shock. No one has ever been so bold to cause this.

White paint thrown across the front of the shop. The large front windows smashed in. The bench that sat out for anyone to use— half inside now. My flower boxes smashed to pieces. The flowers ripped, shredded, ruined. A cross drawn on the front door. 'Only the blood of Jesus, His Son, cleanses us from sin.' Written in bright blood red paint— I can only hope to Gaia— it's paint.

Oh gods. Where— where is Cass?!

I felt sick to my stomach. I'm filled with terror as the words dig into me like a knife. Is this a threat? The cops on the scene walked over to pull me away for questioning. Alastor's eyes were ones of pure flaming anger.