Page 32 of The Possessive Alpha’s Reborn Luna

"Large traces of Black Witch magic have appeared at the border." He lowered his voice. "The elders are waiting in the council chamber. The situation is urgent. They need you to coordinate the response."

My brow furrowed instantly.

Black Witch? I hadn't heard that term in years.

I glanced back at Alice. She'd wrapped herself in the blanket, like she couldn't stand to look at me.

I turned back. "I'm on my way."

In the corridor, Caspar walked quickly beside me.

"Details," I said curtly.

"This morning, the patrol found large patches of land corrupted by dark magic on the western border," Caspar reported rapidly, voice heavy. "Nearby sentries heard strange chanting last night, but by the time they arrived, whoever cast it was gone. Only bizarre ritual circles remained. All the vegetation inside was withered—like the life had been drained in an instant."

"Casualties?"

"No deaths yet, but two sentries inhaled the dark fog. They're receiving treatment now. Prognosis isn't good."

My expression darkened further.

Black Witch... those fallen ones banished by the Moon Goddess. Decades ago, the kingdom had fought a brutal war against them. Countless casualties. Back then, a group of White Witches—claiming to be good—had allied with the kingdom to drive the Black Witches back and seal them away. The White Witch leader herself had performed the sealing ritual, finally bringing peace to the werewolf kingdom.

After that, to thank the White Witches, the kingdom granted them land and positions in the palace itself, giving them elevated status.

But now... those sealed Black Witches had returned!

We reached the council chamber quickly. The heavy wooden doors swung open, and a dozen elders rose to their feet, bowing.

"Your Majesty."

I strode to my seat and sat, surveying each face. All wore expressions of worry.

"Caspar briefed me," I said. "Your assessments?"

Grand Elder Edwin stood respectfully. "Your Majesty, according to the patrol's report, the magical signature... matches exactly what the Black Witches used decades ago."

The other elders nodded in agreement.

"Not only that," another elder added, "the southern border had similar incidents three days ago—smaller scale. We thought it was wild beasts. Now it's clear the Black Witches were involved. They've been silent for years. Their sudden return must mean they're targeting the kingdom."

"We must strengthen defenses immediately."

"Black Witches may have already infiltrated the kingdom!"

The elders talked over each other. The chamber descended into chaos.

"Enough!" I cut them off. "Panicking accomplishes nothing. Our priority is locating their current hideout!"

"His Majesty is correct." Edwin nodded. "We need to dispatch reconnaissance teams—"

"Your Majesty." An elderly elder in the corner suddenly spoke. Theodore. Always the most stubborn.

I looked at him coolly. "Speak."

"Your Majesty, I find something puzzling." Theodore rose slowly, face troubled. "The Black Witches have been silent for decades. Why appear now, of all times?"

"What are you getting at?" I frowned, patience wearing thin.