The cursed witch

During the height of the witch hunt, the Kaioza clan rose from the East. They came from a bloodline of yokai hunters. They were summoned by the European government to protect innocents from the witch’s wrath. Their martial arts and magic nearly drove witches to extinction, spreading terror across Europe for many centuries. But their reign of fear ended when they crossed paths with a witch unlike any other—Kolmira Alexandria. Kolmira fought the inevitable battle with the leader of the Kaioza. It was to end the tension between the two clans. With power beyond comprehension, Kolmira shattered the Kaioza’s dominance, bringing the hunts to an end. With her sacrifice she gave up her own life after eliminating their leader. In hopes, that there will be no more vengeance. As the years passed, the horrors of that era faded into history, little more than forgotten whispers. Now, only a handful of descendants remain from both the hunters and the hunted. Their bloodlines have thinned, their stories lost to time. But history is not so easily buried—nor are the curses left behind.

Kagetio stumbled through the dense forest, his breath uneven as he tried to retrace his steps. The towering trees cast long shadows, and the rustling of unseen creatures kept his senses on edge. He had been hunting, but in the chase, he had lost his way. Then, through the thick foliage, he spotted a small wooden hut nestled among the trees. Relief washed over him as he approached and knocked on the door. It creaked open to reveal a young woman. She had long black hair that cascaded over her shoulders and striking green eyes that held an unsettling depth. Captivated by her looks. Kagetio stumbles to find his words. You’re lost,” he said to her. What he meant to say was “I’m lost.” Kagetio blinked, taken aback by her beauty. “I—uh, I mean, yes. I am lost.” He cleared his throat. “Could you help guide me back to town?” She studied him for a moment before finally speaking. “Pardon my manners. My name is Kagetio.”Mirakol,” she replied simply. Nice to meet you, Mira.” Mirakol simply accepted him shortened her name without a fuss.

She gave a slight nod. “What were you doing in the forest?” I was hunting, but I lost track of my prey. Now, I just want to find my way out.” Mira tilted her head slightly before stepping out of the doorway. “Alright. Follow me.” They walked together beneath the towering trees, the golden glow of the setting sun filtering through the leaves. The silence between them was comfortable at first, but curiosity got the better of Kagetio.

So, do you live here alone?” he asked.

Yes.” Mira simply replied. Isn’t that… scary?”

Mira glanced at him. “No. I’m an adult.”

Kagetio smirked. “Adults have fears too.”

Mira arched a brow. “And what are you afraid of?” Witches.” Mira stopped. Kagetio hesitated, then halted as well. You’re not a witch, are you?” he asked, half-joking. What does a witch look like to you?” Kagetio shrugged. “Old. Ugly. Warts. Bumpy skin. Dirty teeth.” Mira started walking again, shaking her head. “Sounds like you’ve watched too many movies.” It’s what my uncle told me.” Then your uncle has watched too many movies.” Actually, he claims he was a boy during the witch hunts.”Mira scoffed. “Oh, really?” Before Kagetio could respond, they reached a narrow dirt path. Mira stopped and pointed ahead. “Follow this path, and you’ll reach town.”

Kagetio exhaled, relieved. “Thank you. I appreciate it.”

“Try not to get lost again,” she teased.

Kagetio placed a hand over his chest in mock offense. “Ouch. That hurt. Just don’t tell anyone I got lost like an idiot, alright?”

Mira smiled—just slightly. “Nice meeting you, Kagetio.”

“Hopefully, I’ll see you around.”

“I’d rather you didn’t.”

Kagetio laughed. “Alright, vibe killer.” He turned and started walking down the path, but after only a few steps, he tripped on a rock and fell forward with a loud thud.

Mira giggled softly.

Kagetio scrambled to his feet, dusting himself off. “I meant to do that,” he called back.

Mira shook her head, watching him go. As she made her way back to her hut, she found herself thinking about Kagetio—his clumsy charm, his easy humor. A small smile lingered on her lips as the day slowly faded into night.

Mira made her way through the bustling farmer’s market, weaving between stalls as she searched for ingredients. The air was thick with the scent of fresh produce and baked goods, voices rising in lively chatter. As she examined a stand filled with herbs and vegetables, a familiar voice called her name.

“Mira?”

She looked up, her eyes landing on a young man behind the stall. It took her a moment, but then she recognized him.

“Oh! Kagetio!” she said, surprised. “I’ve never seen you here before.”

“It’s not my stall,” Kagetio admitted with a small grin. “I’m just helping my uncle.” He leaned in slightly and lowered his voice. “You know, the one who told me how ugly witches are.”

Mira giggled at the memory, shaking her head. Kagetio straightened up, suddenly trying to appear professional.

“So, what can I get you?” he asked.

Mira glanced over the selection and pointed. “I’ll take some of those… and some of these.”

Kagetio quickly gathered the ingredients and handed them to her. As she reached for her money, he held up a hand.

“Oh, it’s free. On the house.”

She hesitated. “Are you sure?”

“You helped me, I help you. Call it even.”

Mira smiled. “Thank you.”

She turned to leave, but before she got far, she caught sight of Kagetio’s uncle scolding him in a sharp, foreign tongue. The older man gave him a light smack on the head, making Kagetio wince. As he rubbed the sore spot, he met Mira’s gaze, then flashed her a sheepish grin and waved. She chuckled and continued her shopping.

But the peaceful moment didn’t last. A sudden commotion stirred in the crowd. Mira barely had time to react before someone shoved her. Her bag tumbled to the ground, its contents spilling onto the dirt. Get out of here, you witch!” Burn the witch!” The crowd chanted. The voices rose in cruel shouts, the people around her growing hostile. Feet stomped on her fallen ingredients, grinding them into the dust. Kajito, hearing the uproar, turned toward the scene. His eyes widened as he spotted Mira in the center of it all, surrounded by angry faces. Without thinking, he pushed his way through the crowd. Stop! That’s enough!” he shouted, forcing himself between Mira and her attackers. A man grabbed Kajito by the collar and threw a punch. Pain exploded across his jaw, but he barely had time to recover before others joined in. Blows rained down on him. He tried to fight back, but the numbers were against him. Through the chaos, Mira slipped away. A deep voice suddenly cut through the shouting. Enough!” Kajito’s uncle had stepped in, his presence alone forcing the men to back off.

Breathing hard, Kajito wiped blood from his lip. Though battered, he straightened up and shot a glare at his attackers. Took three of you,” he muttered. “Pathetic.” The men sneered but didn’t retaliate. They scattered, muttering under their breath. Come on,” Kajito’s uncle grumbled, grabbing his arm and dragging him away. As Kajito turned, his foot nudged something on the ground—Mira’s abandoned bag. He picked it up, dusting it off before heading back to the stall. That evening, as dusk settled, a quiet knock sounded at Mira’s door. She opened it and blinked in surprise. Kajito?” He stood there, holding out a bag. I got you this.” Mira took it, peering inside. Fresh ingredients—replacements for everything she had lost. You didn’t have to do that,” she said softly. “Your uncle must’ve scolded you.” Kajito sighed. “Yeah. Twice. Once at the market, and once right before I came here.” Despite herself, Mira smiled. Thank you, Kajito.”

He grinned, rubbing the back of his head. “Don’t mention it.” Kajito hesitated at the doorway. Come in,” Mira said. He stepped inside, eyeing her curiously as she pulled out some money and held it out to him. What am I supposed to do with that?” he asked. It’s for the ingredients,” she replied.

Kajito looked at the money but didn’t take it. Instead, he turned toward the door. Well, good night.” Before he could leave, Mira made a quick move, attempting to slide the money into his back pocket. Kajito felt her hand and caught it instinctively. He spun around, and suddenly, they were engaged in a playful struggle over the money. Their movements were quick, almost flirtatious, as Mira skillfully dodged his attempts to push his hand away. She was fast—too fast. Kajito found himself impressed. Finally, he threw up his hands in surrender. “Alright, alright,” he said, taking the money. He studied her for a moment. “You move pretty swiftly. Where’d you learn that?” Mira just smiled. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Kajito smirked. “Fine, play dumb.”Mira tilted her head. “Can I see you tomorrow?” she asked, unexpectedly.

Kajito was caught off guard. “That depends on my uncle,” he admitted. Mira’s expression faltered slightly. “I understand.” Alright, see you.” As Kajito turned to leave, he miscalculated his step and bumped into the door. He fumbled, regaining his balance, then quickly slipped outside. His little act was intentional as he slipped the money on the small table next to the door. Mira crossing her arms, chuckled softly as the door clicked shut behind him. Then her eyes landed on the table by the door—where the money lay untouched. She picked it up and smirked to herself. You sneaky little Mickey,” she murmured.

The next afternoon. Heavy footsteps approached Mira’s house. A group of men marched up, their presence stiff with urgency. The loud bang on her door made her straighten. Mira opened it to find Kajito’s uncle standing there, his expression hard and unreadable. Where’s my nephew?” he demanded, his voice edged with frustration. Mira frowned. “I don’t understand.” He said he was delivering something to you. He never came home.” Her stomach tensed. “I’ll help you look for him—” We don’t need your help,” the uncle cut in. “We need you to return him to us.” Mira’s eyes narrowed slightly. “Are you accusing me?” The uncle leaned in, lowering his voice so only she could hear. “Others may not know. But I do.”

Something flickered across Mira’s face—just for a second. The uncle saw it. His grip shot out, grabbing her shoulder.

She reacted instantly. In one swift motion, she twisted around his arm, breaking free, and shoved him back. The other men saw the movement and lunged at her. Mira’s instincts kicked in. She weaved through their attacks effortlessly, dodging, countering, and taking them down one by one—never hurting them, only disarming.

The uncle, seething, rushed her. She blocked, countered, and pushed him back again. Stop!” she called out, breath steady. “I don’t want to cause trouble.” The uncle straightened, his fists clenched. “Where is Kajito?” Mira met his gaze firmly. “I don’t know,” she said. “But I’m willing to help you find him.” Her voice was steady, sincere. The tension lingered, thick in the air.

“Kajito!” Mira shouted, her voice sharp with alarm as she looked past her uncle. A figure approached, stepping into view. What’s all this about?” Kajito asked casually. Her uncle exhaled in relief. “Where have you been?”The other men in the group stood up, watching him warily. I was tracking a deer and lost track of time last night,” Kajito explained. “When it got too dark, I built a fort and fell asleep. I found my way back this morning.” His uncle’s face darkened with anger. He scolded Kagetio in their native tongue, his words sharp and unforgiving. Then, without another word, he turned and motioned for Kajito to follow. Don’t come back here,” his uncle said in their language. Kajito smirked. “Hi, Mira. Bye, Mira.” He turned and followed his uncle back. Mira’s eyes widened. Something wasn’t right. Without hesitation, she darted into the forest, her heart pounding. She had to find the real Kajito. She searched the dense woods, tracking footprints, broken twigs, anything that could lead her to him. Finally, she found him—bound in vines, covered in leaves, unconscious. Mira hesitated, glancing around. The air felt thick with magic. As she reached out to free him, a voice sliced through the silence. He’s mine!” A witch emerged from the shadows, her eyes gleaming with fury. Mira stepped back, bracing herself. “Let him go.” He touched my trap. He deserves this.” He didn’t know,” Mira argued. Not my problem,” the witch sneered. Without warning, she lunged. Mira dodged, countering with a burst of magic. The force of her spell struck the witch, sending her staggering backward. The witch shrieked, hatred burning in her eyes as she scrambled away. I won’t forget this,” she hissed before disappearing into the forest. Mira turned back to Kagetio, casting a spell to break the enchantment. The vines loosened, the leaves scattered, and a faint shimmer of magic pulsed through the air. The doppelgänger vanished. Kajito stirred, blinking awake. Hey?” he mumbled, disoriented. Mira grinned. “Did you enjoy your nap?” Kajito sat up, rubbing his head. “Yeah… wait, what were we doing?” You wanted to rest, so we stopped here together,” Mira said smoothly, smiling to hide the truth. Oh, right! I ditched my uncle to come see you,” Kajito said, laughing. Mira nodded. “Yep, now you remember.” His eyes widened. “Oh no! He must be furious. I have to get back.” Before Mira could say anything else, Kajito bolted toward town, leaving her behind. When he finally reached home, he burst through the door. “I know you’re probably mad, but—” His uncle looked at him, confused. “I thought you were in your room.” Kajito blinked. “Uh… I was, but I snuck out through the window.” His uncle sighed. “Next time, just use the door.” You’re not mad?” Kagetio asked cautiously. No, I was worried,” his uncle admitted. “But you’re home safe now.” Relief flooded Kajito . He had no idea what had really happened that day—but Mira did. And she wasn’t about to tell him.

Kajito hesitated but accepted the situation. I need to talk to you about something serious,” his uncle said. Kajito fell silent. I need you to stay away from your friend,” his uncle continued. Who? Mirakol?” Kagetio asked. Is that her name? Yes, her,” his uncle confirmed. Why?” She’s not what you think.”Kajito scoffed. “What, you mean she’s too pretty for me?” He tried to lighten the mood.

His uncle didn’t smile. “No. She’s… an Alexandria.” Kajito frowned. “And what does that mean to me?” His uncle sighed. “There’s something you should know—” No! I don’t want to hear it!” Kajito snapped. “I know you’re upset about today, but I’m an adult!” He turned and stormed out of the house. His uncle didn’t stop him, letting him blow off steam. Later, Kajito knocked on Mira’s door. Surprise!” he said with a grin. Kajito! You’re here!” Mira beamed. Yeah, my uncle was cool about today’s ditch.” He lied. “Want to go for a walk?” Sure,” she said.

They strolled together for the first time, settling into an easy rhythm. Kajito, tell me what’s bothering you,” Mira said after a while. He sighed. “Wow, is it that obvious?”

Mira just looked at him. Kajito ran a hand through his hair. “My uncle says I shouldn’t see you anymore.” Oh?” Her expression didn’t change. “Why?” It’s stupid. He thinks you’re distracting me from work.” Another lie. I see.” Mira nodded. “Well… he’s right.”Hey! Whose side are you on, anyway?” Kajito huffed. I’m just saying—if you live under his roof, you have to follow his rules,” she reasoned. Ugh! Again—whose side are you on?!” Mira smiled faintly. “Why do you live with him?” When I was born, my mother told my uncle he had to protect me since my father had passed away. She wanted me to stay with him, even as an adult, so he could watch over me,” Kajito explained. “At least, that’s what my uncle told me.” Oh… I’m sorry about your father,” Mira said softly. I’m not.” Kajito shrugged. “You can’t really miss someone you never knew. Honestly, if my uncle had never told me I was his nephew, I don’t think I would’ve even questioned it.”

Mira studied him for a moment, then smiled. “You’re really optimistic, you know that? Kind of carefree… and pretty funny too.”

You think so?” Kagetio raised an eyebrow. “I always thought I was just weird and awkward—especially around pretty girls.”

Mira smirked. “So… does that mean I’m not pretty?” What!?” Kajito nearly stumbled over in disbelief. Because you’re not weird or awkward right now.” Kajito rubbed the back of his neck. “Maybe it’s just how I think pretty girls see me.” I don’t see that,” Mira said simply with a smile. Kagetio blinked at her. “You’re the first.”

They continued walking through the woods, until a fallen log blocked their path. Kajito , trying to be smooth, jumped over it—but his landing was less than graceful. He tumbled forward, quickly rolling back to his feet in an attempt to play it off. Mira giggled. Did you see that?” Kagetio asked, dusting himself off. “Because I’m not doing that cool drop again.” Yes, I saw,” Mira said, still smiling at his clumsiness.

Hey, can I show you something?” she asked suddenly. Kajito narrowed his eyes. “Umm… that depends. If it’s something disgusting, I’d rather not.” Mira laughed and grabbed his hand, pulling him along. They walked until they reached a lake just as dusk settled in. Fireflies flickered in the air, their soft glow reflecting off the water. Whoa,” Kajito whispered. “This is disgusting.” Mira shot him a look. “You think so? I think it’s beautiful.” You know what’s really beautiful?” Kagetio asked. Mira turned to him quickly, curious. “What?” The fireflies. Their butts glow,” he said with a completely straight face. Mira burst out laughing. “I meant the whole scene.” I thought you were just talking about the lake,” Kagetio teased.

Mira shook her head, smiling. “You’re so dumb.” Thanks, I get it from my dad.” Mira’s smile faltered. “I thought—” Kajito cut her off with a smirk. “I thought it came from my mom, but after living with my uncle, I see where the dumb genes really come from.”Mira laughed again. “Kajito…”

“It’s getting late,” he said, glancing at the sky. “I better head back before my uncle has a heart attack worrying about me.” Yeah, let’s go.” They walked back together until they reached Mira’s house. Good night, Mira,” Kajito said. Will I see you tomorrow?” she asked. Kajito grinned. “Depends on how much I feel like torturing my uncle.” Mira laughed as she watched him go. Mira leaned in, her face close to his as she pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek. “Good night,” she whispered before turning toward her house. Kajito stood frozen, his mind struggling to process what had just happened. His heart pounded. What… just happened?! As the realization set in, so did the creeping darkness around him. A sudden chill ran down his spine. Shaking off his daze, he turned on his heel and sprinted home.

The Next Day Mira strolled into town, her eyes scanning the marketplace until they landed on Kajito . She approached his stall, watching as he turned around to face her.

Welcome. He said before looking at the customer. We might have the ingredients you’re looking for,” when he realized it was Mira. He stayed in character. Kajito said in a formal, business-like tone. Mira smiled, amused. “Hi, Kajito.” For a brief moment, he faltered, breaking character. Then he quickly composed himself. “Anything interesting to you? Any questions?” he asked, slipping back into his act. Mira chuckled. “I came to see you.” Kajito stiffened. “What are you doing here?” he asked, his usual demeanor cracking again. Before Mira could respond, his uncle, who had been quietly observing, cleared his throat and spoke. “Yes, these are our ingredients.” Mira reached for one. “I’ll take this one.” Kajito grabbed the item and was about to hand it to her when his uncle suddenly stopped him, gripping his wrist. His gaze locked onto Mira.

“Are you paying this time?” the uncle asked, his voice laced with something unreadable. His intention was to intimidate Mira. Something unspoken lingered between the uncle and Mira. Ignoring his gesture. Mira nodded and pulled out her money, placing it in the uncle’s hand. His fingers lingered for a moment before he finally let go of Kajito’s wrist. Thank you,” she said with a playful wink before turning and walking away.

Kajito watched her go, his grip tightening around the ingredient before he snapped out of it. “Thank you for your business!” he called after her. He turned to his uncle, clearing his throat. “Hey, Uncle, I want to grab something to eat. Can you take over?”Without waiting for a response, Kajito stepped away from the stall. His eyes followed Mira as she disappeared into the bustling crowd. Without thinking, he moved after her. Kajito tapped Mira’s shoulder before quickly dipping to the other side.

She spun around, eyes narrowing. Realizing she’d been tricked, she sighed. “Kajito.”

He grinned. “Works ninety percent of the time.” Mira folded her arms. “And the other ten percent?” Let’s not talk about that,” he said, grabbing her wrist before she could protest. “Come on, let’s get something to eat.” Before she knew it, they were moving through the bustling food court. Kajito bought an impressive amount of food, balancing skewers, dumplings, and rice bowls in his hands. Mira raised an eyebrow. “You sure bought a lot.” It’s not all for me,” Kajito said. “I’m bringing some back for my uncle.” Mira smiled as she took a bite. “That’s thoughtful of you.” Kajito smirked. “You like the food? I like the company better.” Mira blurted out. Her own words surprising herself. He tilted his head. “Is that a compliment or a joke?” Definitely a compliment.” Well, I like the food better.” Kajito said with sarcasm. Mira scoffed. “Is that a joke or an insult?” It’s a compliment… he paused, to the chef.” She rolled her eyes. “You’re so dumb.” I’ll take that as a compliment.” Kajito said with a smirk,

They laughed, enjoying the moment—until a group of men and women approached.

Kajito stretched out, “Sometimes street food is the best.” After they finished their meal together. Kajito tells Mira he’s going to head back to the stall. That’s her,” one of them muttered. Kajito barely had time to react before one of them bumped into him, nearly knocking the food out of his hands. What are you doing with that witch?” a man sneered. Kajito blinked, then smirked. “The only witch I see is your mom.” The insult barely left his lips before a fist collided with his face. His food went flying, landing in the dirt. That was for his uncle. Kajito glanced at the food that fell. With anger you owe me new food. Kajito demanded. Kajito barely had time to process it before the group rushed him. He ducked, dodging blows and striking back where he could. He held his own, maneuvering through the chaos, but there were too many of them. Or so he thought. One by one, his attackers dropped. Kajito wiped blood from his lip and straightened, realizing—he was the last one standing. Wait… how? In his distracted state. He didn’t notice Mira was quickly knocking the attackers out. His eyes darted around until he spotted Mira casually shaking out her fists. She met his gaze with a smirk. Before he could say anything, a sharp voice rang out. Kajito!” He flinched. His uncle. I’ll see you tonight,” he muttered to Mira. She grinned. “Try not to pick another fight before then.” Kajito grabbed what little food remained and rushed toward his uncle, holding it up like a weak peace offering. His uncle’s face darkened. “Close the stall.” Kajito sighed. Not exactly the ending he had in mind.