HUNTERI'm pacing back and forth in my office, my fists clenched so tight I can feel my nails digging into my palms. The humiliation from last night still burns in my veins. Hazel, that infuriating woman, dared to embarrass me in front of everyone. No one disrespects me like that. No one. I need to teach her a lesson she won't forget. "Find Queen Hazel!" I snap at my beta, Ryan. He nods, eyes wide with a mix of fear and respect, and rushes out of the room. Good. I need her brought to me as soon as possible. The more I think about it, the more my anger grows, twisting into a dark desire for revenge. And just as it felt good, my spies had reported to me that Hazel was being taken away to a safe house. More like being delivered to me, because Ryan would make sure that they are intercepted regardless of what might happen next. Days feel like years, but finally, Ethan returns, dragging Hazel with him. She looks angry, her chin raised in that infuriating way she always does, even thou
HAZELPain. That's all I feel as I lie on the cold, unforgiving floor of my cell. Every inch of my body aches, a relentless reminder of Hunter's brutality. The darkness of unconsciousness envelops me as soon as my head hits the ground. In the world of shadows and the darkness, I’m still in the fog of my unconsciousness, and I start having more dreams. More like visions, actually, more vivid than reality, and they sweep me into a place filled with light, and where hope clashes with despair. A faceless figure comes out from the mist, and its presence is both ominous and comforting. "Hazel," The voice says, and the vibration is resonating within me like a distant thunder. "You have strength within you, untapped potential waiting to be unleashed." Of course, this has been happening for a while, and all I do is dig and listen. Confusion mingles with the pain as I struggle to grasp the significance of these visions. Yet, with each passing moment, clarity dawns upon me like the first
ETHANThe towering walls that separate us from our destination still stand tall, but my brother and I are ready, adrenaline courses through my veins, mingling with a sense of nervousness. This is our chance to uncover the truth, to reveal the secrets that Hunter has been keeping hidden, and to save our mate. With practiced ease, Arnold and I scale the walls, and it’s easier than it looks, because our movements are swift and sure. That, or we are just really good at things like this. The cold stone presses against my palms as I haul myself up, my muscles straining with the effort. But the exhilaration of the climb outweighs the physical discomfort, driving me forward with renewed determination. Finally, we reach the other side, and what we see leaves us speechless. Structures rise up from the ground like specters in the night, their dark silhouettes casting long shadows across the barren landscape. At the far end, we spot a series of short pillars arranged in a mysterious pattern
ETHANIn spite of their numbers, we hold our ground, our determination unwavering as we fight tooth and nail to gain the upper hand. Finally, with a well timed blow, Arnold manages to disarm one of the guards, sending him crashing to the ground with a resounding thud and then fights the others. Seizing the opportunity, I grab the keys from the table and rush over to Hazel's side, my hands shaking with adrenaline as I unlock her chains. The lock clicks open, and with a sigh of relief, Hazel gets up to leave, her eyes filled with relief as she looks at us. "Thank you." She whispers, her voice weak. But before we can take another step, the sound of footsteps echoes down the corridor once more, and Hunter's men burst into the room, their weapons drawn and ready for battle. With a sinking feeling in my stomach, I realize that we're outnumbered, our chances of escape growing slimmer by the second. Thinking quickly, Arnold pushes Hazel back into her cell, shielding her from the impend
ARNOLDI watch from across the dimly lit corridor as Hazel writhes in agony, her cries echoing off the damp stone walls. Every scream tears through me like a jagged blade, twisting in my gut, a relentless reminder of our powerlessness. Ethan and I are trapped in this wretched cell, our only view of Hazel's torment through the narrow bars that separate us. It's a cruel spectacle, one that haunts our every moment. The sight of her suffering ignites a fire within me, a burning fury that threatens to consume everything in its path. Hunter, that insufferable tyrant, revels in his cruelty. He saunters by our cell with a twisted smirk, taunting us with his vile promises. He speaks of domination, of seizing control over the kingdoms, as if it were his birthright. But we know the truth. His rule would be built upon a foundation of pain and suffering, a kingdom of ashes and despair. Hazel pleads with us, her voice raw with desperation. She begs us not to give in to Hunter's demands, not to s
HAZELThe guards roughly escort us down the narrow, dimly lit corridor. Ethan and Arnold walk beside me, and on their faces, their expressions are grim and u can’t point out any other emotion save for anger. We're being taken to a new part of the castle, a place Hunter has reserved for those he wishes to break. That’s what he told us, at least. Nothing will break me, however. The air is heavy with despair, and the sounds of distant cries echo off the stone walls. I shudder, wanting to clutch one of my men’s arms for support, but I can’t, as I’m in shackles. The realization sinks in that we're not just prisoners, we're going to be deliberately placed where we can witness the suffering of different people. “They're trying to break us.” Arnold says in a low voice, muttering under his breath, his voice tight with anger. “They won't succeed. As far as we are concerned, brute better off forcing the walls to speak.” Ethan replies through gritted teeth, his gaze fixed ahead. The g
HAZELThe cell is cold and silent after Hunter's departure, save for the faint breaths of Amber who seems to have fallen asleep already. Leaning against the rough stone wall, I close my eyes and trying to find some inner peace. I think of my people, of the strength I must find for them. As I drift into sleep, a soft, silvery light envelops me. I open my eyes to find myself standing in a beautiful, moonlit area. The air is fresh, filled with the scent of night blooming flowers. A gentle breeze stirs the leaves, and the peacefulness of the scene washes over me. Yes, I’m home. “Hazel.” A soft, melodious voice calls. I turn to see a radiant figure approaching. She is ethereal, with long, flowing hair that shimmers like moonlight and eyes that seem to hold the universe within them. “Moon goddess.” I whisper, bowing my head. “Is it really you? You look a bit different today.” She smiles, causing a warmth spreading through me, like she’s giving me her energy. “Yes, Hazel. I can l
HAZELAs I wipe the sweat from my forehead, the strain of exhaustion pierces every muscle in my body. My breath comes in ragged gasps, but I push myself harder, and each strike echoes through the silence of the prison room. "One more time," I whisper to myself as I adjust my stance on the ground. “For the kingdom."I've been at this for hours, but I can't afford to stop. The future of our kingdom rests on my shoulders. I must make sure that Hunter, who has been pillaging our lands and people, must be defeated. If I fail to do so, everything we have been fighting to protect will crumble."Focus, Hazel," I mutter, steeling myself against the creeping fatigue. I can't let thoughts of failure seep in. Not now.I move forward, imagining Hunter's cold eyes staring back at me. I need to be faster and stronger. I need to be better than him in every way. My arm trembles and I nearly lose my footing. I clench my teeth and force myself to keep going. "You can do this," I say, trying to convinc
HAZELThe days following the twins' recovery are filled with a deep sense of relief and gratitude. Zena and Kamila, who were once pale and weak from the poisoning and curse, are now thriving with renewed energy. Their smiles shine throughout their nursery and their light shines through and lifts the spirits of our kingdom.Arnold and Ethan watch over them with vigilant eyes, and I can feel their relief as we witness our children return to their normal selves. We gather as a family in the evenings, sharing meals and stories, cherishing each moment like a precious gift.One evening, as we sit together, basking in the warmth of our living room, with Zena and Kamila nestled between us, I make a vow out of fierce determination and love."I promise," I begin. My voice is steady despite the emotion that threatens to overwhelm me. "That I will protect you both with everything I have. No harm will ever come to you again."Arnold looks at me with trust and agreement in his eyes. Ethan nods in a
HAZELThe decision weighs heavily on my heart as I stand before the cell where my former taskmaster is held, shackled, and guarded. His eyes widen in fear as I approach, and his voice trembles with desperation when he speaks."No, please!" he pleads, his voice cracking. "I didn't mean for this to happen!"I meet his gaze firmly with my hands clenched into fists at my sides. "You poisoned my children," I say through gritted teeth. Each word I say is laced with fury and pain. "You will help us save them. That’s the final part of the ritual required for them to heal completely."The taskmaster recoils, and his face is pale with terror. "I… I don't know how," he stammers."You know more than you're willing to admit," I retort. My voice is low and dangerous. "And if you don't cooperate, I will make you regret every moment you spent plotting against us."With a wave of my hand, the guards unlock the cell and drag him out into the harsh light of day. His protests fall on deaf ears as I lead
HAZELOutside our suite, the pack house buzzes with tension. Alphas from packs send healers and messages of support. Members of our kingdom stand vigil, their faces filled with worry and grief. Days turn into nights, and the passage of time is marked only by the faint ray of hope that refuses to die. And then, finally, there’s a little change. Kamila’s fever breaks first, followed by Zenas’s, but their bodies remain weak.Relief floods through me and tears of gratitude blur my vision as I embrace them. "We made it," Arnold whispers hoarsely as his hand finds mine."We're not done yet," Ethan adds. "We still have work to do."The twins' recovery marks a turning point, but the scars of betrayal still run deep as questions linger in our minds. Who orchestrated the poisoning, and why? How could we have missed the signs? In the days that follow, we strengthen our security measures, monitor every meal, and go through our alliances. The maid remains locked in the dungeons, and right now,
HAZELAs the sun climbs higher in the sky, the packhouse buzzes with activity. Decorations are hung, tables are set, and guests begin to arrive from all around the kingdom. The twins are pulled away for last-minute meetings and greetings, leaving me a moment to breathe.As I stand on the balcony overlooking the courtyard, I watch as the people of our kingdom gather. Children chase each other through the grass, elders sit in quiet conversation, and warriors exchange nods of respect. This is our family, our home.A hand on my shoulder brings me back to the present. It's Arnold. There’s a soft expression on his face."Are you ready for this, Hazel?" he asks quietly as his gaze searches mine.I meet his eyes with a smile as I feel the weight of responsibility but also the strength of our bond. "We're ready," I assure him, knowing that together, we can face whatever challenges lay ahead.With that, we join the festivities, celebrating not only the coronation of the twins but also the unity
HAZELThe days pass and I bask in the comfort of motherhood and preparation. Each moment is filled with the gentle cooing of Zena and Kamila and the careful planning for the upcoming coronation. I find solace in the quiet moments with our daughters, even as decisions about the coronation swirl around us.Ethan and Arnold are diligent in their duties, and they consult with advisors as they attend to the needs of the kingdom. Meanwhile, I’m consulted on matters that require my approval, from the design of my coronation dress to the arrangements for the ceremony itself.One afternoon, as I nurse Zena and Kamila, I review sketches and fabric samples spread out on the table before me. "This one," I say, pointing to a sketch of a dress adorned with intricate embroidery. "I think it’s perfect."Arnold leans over my shoulder as he studies the design with a thoughtful expression. "It’s beautiful," he agrees softly. "Just like you."Ethan nods in approval too, and I can see that his eyes are
HAZEL"Hazel!" Ethan’s voice cuts through the darkness. It’s filled with fear and urgency. He and Arnold spring into action, and their faces are filled with confusion as they rush to my side."What’s happening?" Arnold asks. There is panic in his tone. I struggle to speak, but the pain I’m feeling makes talking impossible. Another wave of pain crashes over me. It’s stronger this time, and I cry out again, unable to contain the agony that rushes through my body.And then, as I try to stand, there is a sudden rush of warmth between my legs. It’s the unmistakable sound of my water breaking. The realization hits us all at once in the midst of the chaos."The baby," Ethan whispers. His eyes are wide with disbelief. "The baby is coming."The room fills with movement as Ethan and Arnold spring into action. Arnold dashes to gather towels and blankets while Ethan goes to call the pack doctor.The pain grips me in relentless waves, and each contraction pushes me closer to motherhood. Through t
HAZELThe sun hangs low in the sky, and it casts a glow over the serene water of the lake on the outskirts of the pack. Ethan, Arnold, and I spread out a blanket under the shade of a towering oak tree, and the gentle breeze brings the scent of wildflowers and pine to us."This is perfect," Ethan says with a contented sigh, as he settles down beside me. "This is just what we needed. A break from everything."Arnold nods in agreement as his eyes look over the peaceful scenery. "It’s been too long since we’ve had a moment like this."I smile as I feel a sense of peace settle over me too. "I couldn’t agree more."We unpack the picnic basket. It’s a simple but rich spread of assorted sandwiches, fruits, a pitcher of lemonade, and a jug of cool water. Ethan pours us each a glass of lemonade. It’s moments like these, where we can simply be together, that remind me of everything we’ve fought for and everything we have to look forward to.As we eat, laughter fills the air, mingling with the di
HAZELEthan’s face hardens. "Can you break it?"Seraphina nods. "I can try. But it will take time and energy. We need to act quickly."She begins to chant. Her words are ancient and melodic. I feel a cool breeze wash over me, soothing the fever that rages within. But it’s a struggle, and I can see the strain on Seraphina’s face.Ethan and Arnold watch with their hands clenched into fists. They’re helpless, and unable to do anything but wait and hope. I want to reassure them, to tell them that I’ll be fine, but the words get stuck in my throat.Time stretches on, and each second is just like an eternity. Seraphina’s chanting grows louder, and more urgent. I can feel the dark energy being drawn out, as it fights against her power. It’s a battle. I can sense it but I don’t fully understand it.Finally, with a final burst of energy, Seraphina’s chant reaches its climax. There’s a flash of light, and the dark energy dissolves, leaving me weak but free. The fever breaks, and I collapse back
HAZELPreparations for Ethan and Arnold’s coronation begin immediately. Despite the kingdom’s recent turmoil, there’s a sense of urgency and excitement in the air. The Great Hall, which still bears the scars of battle, is now buzzing with a different kind of energy. It’s filled with hope and renewal.The maids bustle around and they work diligently to transform the hall into a fitting venue for the coronation. It will be a modest ceremony because of our limited resources, but its significance cannot be overemphasized. This coronation represents a new beginning for our kingdom."Hazel, these are flowers that were requested for. What do you think?" one of the maids, Elara, calls out to me. I join her, and together, we arrange the wildflowers into simple yet elegant bouquets. Their vibrant colors bring a touch of life to the otherwise somber hall."They are beautiful," I say, breathing in the floral scent. "They remind me of the strength of our people."Elara smiles, and her eyes reflect