The Wolf

Ch. 55: Taking the Plunge

~Nico~

Celeste's hideout is a derelict cabin in the woods. It's located between Wolves Creek and Lilac Hollows. Together we trudge through the thigh-high snow. The winds push me back, screaming through the barren branches. They are telling me to leave, no human belongs outside in this weather. But I carry on, immune to the cold temperature that desires to squeeze the life out of me.

My stomach moans like a soldier on their deathbed. I have no choice but to ignore it. Right now, I just need to focus on taking it one step at a time. I almost regret leaving the security of the camp for the treacherous wilderness with a demon that wanted to kill me just yesterday. But the pounding in the back of my neck has faded away to nothing as we get further and further from camp. I can finally think clearly now.

"We're here!" Celeste calls over the wailing winds.

I squint my eyes to see through the flurry of snowflakes that have been constantly assaulting us on our journey. My spirits fall when I see the slipshod shack that is supposed to act as a base. Will I be able to properly recover in a place like this? Celeste stomps up the decaying porch steps that are laden with snow. Gripping the rotting railing, I follow her up with wary steps. Celeste grips the rusted door handle and pushes the door open.

My jaw drops as golden light pours out of the doorway. It's so bright I have to close my eyes that have become adjusted to the dark. Celeste stands in the doorway, looking back at me. Her silhouette has a silver lining and I can't see her face.

"Are you coming, pup?" Celeste's voice is quieter now as she stands in the room.

Wordlessly, I nod my head and follow her into the house. My eyes get vertigo as I step inside. The building we walked into was the size of a hut, but this room was equal to my school's gymnasium. It was richly furnished with velvet curtains, oriental rugs, and paintings of hell that were way too vivid.

My mouth gapes open and I struggle to find the words. "Wha-"

"It's a portal. I've connected that unknown hut to my real home." Celeste pulls off her long coat and sets it on a coat stand.

I follow her example, stripping off my soaked hoodie and placing it on one of the branches. We also kick off our shoes before we step into the house. My eyes wander along the walls with their fancy wallpaper and land on the windows. Sunlight is filtering through the crystal panes.

"Where exactly is this house located?" I question, wandering toward the window to peer outside.

From the window, I can see a large vineyard and then a steep drop to the ocean. The sun is just rising over the horizon, painting everything a pale yellow and pastel pink. It's breathtaking.

"My real home is located in Italy. Warded to keep mortals away, of course." Celeste looks out the window beside me. Her features seem softer as she takes in the landscape, probably glad to be home. And now free.

I nod my head. Okay, so I was nearly killed by Celeste and now I'm in her villa in Italy. My head swam with the craziness of it all. So demons make their home near the Mediterranean. Then Nyx must be in space. I wonder how much energy it would take to cast a spell to get to space.

"Follow me, I'll lead you to a room where you can rest and recover." Celeste's heels click against the marble floors that are waxed to perfection. They're so shiny I can see both my reflection and the crystal chandeliers overhead.

Oh yeah, demons were also rich. I'll add that to my notebook of craziness when I get home. Nyx looks around with a hint of admiration.

"This is impressive," Nyx admits. "It doesn't compare to the temples they made for me back in the day, though." I shake my head. I could really use some rest by now.