HAZEL Ever since our appearance at the last ball, we have been getting many more invites, and I never thought that I would ever find myself being this excited to go and have fun at a party. One of my maids pops her head through my door. “Your highness.” She says with a small smile. “Let me guess, another invitation?” I ask, and the maid nods. “It looks like they really like you over there.” She says as she hands it to me, and I open it. “No, it’s just how it is because we are royals.” I say, and the maid shakes her head before looking at the other maid. “You didn’t tell her majesty?” The maid asks, and the other shakes her head. “Tell me what?” I ask. “Well, king Arnold doesn’t always go to events unless they are important, and the invitations never came in again.” The first maid says, and I shake my head. “Yeah!” The second maid says. “But ever since you all went on that other one, things have been going really well. Do you like going to balls your majesty
HAZELThe thought of attending a ball sends a flutter of excitement through me. It's like a breath of fresh air, a chance to escape the worries and responsibilities that weigh on my shoulders. And maybe my mind would be taken away from those issues, if only for a while. The twins, Ethan and Arnold, have noticed my newfound happiness, and they're delighted to see me happy. As we discuss what to wear, I suggest that we coordinate our outfits. “Let's match. It would be so cool.” I say with a grin, imagining us as a trio, united in style. Arnold's eyes light up at the idea. “I love it! It'll be like we're a team.” He smiles before giving me a kiss on my forehead, his enthusiasm contagious. The memory of what we did comes to me, and my cheeks burn. Ethan nods in agreement, a mischievous twinkle in his eyes. “I'm all for it. Plus, it'll make us stand out even more.” He adds with a smirk playing on his lips. We spend hours poring over our wardrobes with designers, trying on
HAZELI wake up with a flutter of excitement in my chest. Today is the day of the ball, and I can hardly contain my happiness. I've been looking forward to this for weeks, and now that it's finally here, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation bubbling inside me. The sun is just beginning to rise as I roll out of bed, and I can hear the faint sounds of birds chirping outside my window. It's a beautiful day, and I can't wait to see what the ball has in store for me. As I make my way to the bathroom, I'm greeted by the cheerful faces of the maids assigned to my room. They're already bustling about, preparing for the day ahead, and I can't help but smile at their enthusiasm. “Good morning, your majesty!” One of them chirps, her voice filled with excitement. “Good morning!” I reply, returning her smile. “I can't believe the day is finally here!” The maids giggle at my excitement, their voices filling the room. They set to work, starting with a delicious breakfast to fuel me
HAZELThe ballroom is alive with music and laughter as the guests, including Arnold, Ethan, and myself, mingle and dance. The air is filled with the sweet scent of flowers and the sound of soft murmurs, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation. As the music swells, Arnold and Ethan stand up, offering their hands to me in unison. "Shall we dance, Hazel?" Arnold asks, his eyes sparkling with excitement.I smile back at them, feeling a rush of happiness fill my chest. "Of course!" I reply, taking their hands in mine. Together, we make our way to the center of the dance floor, surrounded by other couples twirling and swaying to the music. As we begin to dance, I feel a sense of connection with Arnold and Ethan that goes beyond words. The music wraps around us like a warm embrace, and I lose myself in the rhythm, moving effortlessly with my twin mates."You two are amazing dancers, I thought you would have fallen over by now." I remark, unable to hide my admiration. Arnol
HAZELMy heart races like a wild horse as I find myself trapped in a nightmare come to life. Alpha Hunter looms over me, his presence suffocating, his intentions dark and sinister. Every single thing in me screams to run, to fight, but his grip on my arm is like an iron vice, holding me in place against the cold, unforgiving wall. Fear coils in my belly like a serpent, its icy grip paralyzing me as I stare into his eyes, dark pools of malice and hunger. His breath reeks of alcohol, and the stench fills my nostrils, making bile rise in the back of my throat. I struggle against him, but it's like trying to break free from the jaws of a predator. “Please! W-what do you want?” I manage to choke out, my voice trembling with fear. Alpha Hunter's lips curl into a cruel smile, his eyes glinting with malicious intent. “What do I want?” He repeats, his voice dripping with menace. “I want you, my dear. And I always get what I want.” His words send a shiver down my spine, and I can feel
HAZEL The grand ball is over, the music has faded, and the guests have dispersed. I'm back in my room now, but the memory of that encounter with Alpha Hunter lingers like a haunting vision, one that is refusing to fade away. I shudder as I remember the fear that gripped me, the feeling of being trapped in Hunter’s suffocating presence. I sink onto the edge of my bed, my heart still pounding erratically in my chest. If it weren't for Arnold and Ethan, I don't know if I would have made it through that ordeal. Their timely arrival was like a ray of hope piercing through the darkness, pulling me back from the darkness and the fear. But in spite of their heroic intervention, I can't shake the feeling of terror that has settled deep within me. The memory of Alpha Hunter's cruel smile, his menacing words, sends shivers down my spine. I feel violated, as if his presence has tainted every part of my being. I wrap my arms around myself, seeking comfort in the solitude of my room. The walls
ARNOLDI watch as Hazel is escorted to the pack doctors for a check up. She looks pale, her face drawn with worry, and I can't help but feel a lot of concern for her well being. Ethan and I exchange a glance, both of us silently praying for good news. We are convinced that it’s tied to Alpha Hunter, and her body is reacting to the bad events.Minutes tick by like hours as we wait anxiously for the doctor's diagnosis. Finally, the door opens, and the doctor steps out, a solemn expression on his face. “Well?” I blurt out, unable to contain my impatience any longer. “What’s going on?” The doctor looks at us gravely before speaking. “Your majesties, the queen Hazel is pregnant.” The words hang in the air like a heavy weight, and for a moment, I'm too stunned to react. Pregnant? Hazel? The thought seems almost surreal, impossible even. But then it sinks in, and a wave of happiness and relief washes over me. Happiness, surprise, disbelief, everything is just swirling together in a
TASKMASTER I stride into the party venue with a small gift box clutched in my hand, and a fake smile plastered on my face. The sight of Hazel, glowing with happiness, makes my stomach churn, but I have to keep up with appearances. I have to make sure everyone knows just how gracious I am, even towards someone as lowly as her. Approaching Hazel, I put on my best façade of sincerity and goodness. “Hazel, darling, congratulations.” I say, my voice dripping with false warmth. “You look positively radiant.” Hazel's smile falters for a moment, but she quickly recovers, her eyes gleaming with gratitude. “Thank you, Taskmaster.” She replies, her voice filled with genuine happiness. “It's been quite the journey. I didn’t even know that you would be coming today.” “And I was offended that I wasn’t on the list, but I wanted to congratulate you anyway. It’s been so long, and I’m proud.” I nod, pretending to share in her joy. I say smoothly. “Clearly you have handled life with such g
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