The Offering

Entering The Royal Grounds

The guard escorted Arrow about five miles past the Snow Moon territory. Her heart thumped in her chest not knowing what to expect.

Arrow saw a large black van waiting in the shadows. The guard let go as they approached. A man exited the side of the van and opened the side door for Arrow.

Arrow entered the van still weary of what was happening. Their were two ladies sitting in the back as well.

Arrow had heard many rumors and stories about what The Offering was but she could care less at this point. Anywhere was better than the hell hole she just left.

The dark hair woman across from her was stoned face. No emotion. She was fit, tanned, and brown eyes.

The other woman seemed more nervous. She had strawberry blonde hair, and big blue eyes.

The blue-eyed girl kept looking at Arrow as if she wanted to say something to her. She seemed to be having an internal battle with herself.

“Hi, my name is Stephanie Morgan. What is yours?” She finally spoke.

“Arrow.” Arrow answered bluntly.

“Do you think we are going to be okay?” Stephanie asked. “I mean I have heard some awful things about this Offering thing.”

The other woman snorted in derision and rolled her eyes. Arrow felt the need to help calm her.

“I am sure we will be fine. My mother always told me to never judge a book by its cover. At least see what’s on the inside first.” Arrow said more soothingly.

“I am from Hunters Moon Pack, You?” Stephanie said proudly.

“Snow Moon.” Arrow responded.

“My pack chose me because my true mate died. We met during a battle with the rogues and he was killed the same day.” Stephanie spoke with sadness.

“Sorry to hear that. I was simply chosen.” Arrow responded.

Catching them both off guard the black headed woman spoke.

“Boo hoo. Get over it. I wasn’t given any type of option. My father gave me away so the Alpha could keep his slut.” She said angrily.

“Who cares, your mate died. We are all here because we weren’t wanted. We are disposable.” She continued.

Arrow was growing quite angry at this woman, Stephanie was now crying.

“Just because you think you had a rough go at life does not give you the right to take it out on either of us. Trust me when I say, you don’t know what true misery is.” Arrow barked at her.

The woman went silent and Stephanie engulfed Arrow in a hug. Arrow froze in the moment not knowing what to do. She was speechless.

The ride was quiet after that. A few small smiles from Stephanie. Arrow continued to stare out the window.

The passing trees and visions of the forest calmed Arrows mind. It had been so long since Arrow was out of that cell. She missed running free in the forest.

Time skated by. Arrow realized the sun was now starting to set. The dense forest began to slowly open up.

Fewer and less trees went by until it was all open fields.

Upon approaching the royal castle, visitors are immediately struck by the breathtakingly beautiful grounds that surround it. The gardens are meticulously landscaped and well-maintained, with a wide variety of vibrant flowers and lush greenery.

The air is filled with the sweet scent of blooming roses and the sound of chirping birds, creating a peaceful and enchanting atmosphere.

As one enters the castle gates, they are greeted by a long, winding path lined with tall, elegant trees. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled patterns on the ground. Small, colorful birds flit between the branches, adding to the natural symphony of the gardens.

The path leads to a grand courtyard, where a magnificent fountain stands as the centerpiece. The fountain depicts a mythical creature, its body intricately carved from marble and water spouting gracefully from its mouth.

The sound of the cascading water is soothing, and many visitors find themselves drawn to sit on one of the nearby benches to admire the view.

Surrounding the courtyard are rows of perfectly trimmed hedges, creating a sense of order and symmetry. Beyond the hedges are vibrant flowerbeds, bursting with an array of colors and textures. Roses, tulips, daisies, and countless other flowers bloom in harmony, creating a picturesque scene that seems almost too perfect to be real.

Further into the gardens, there are small paths and hidden nooks that invite exploration. One may come across a secluded garden bench, sheltered by a canopy of trees, or a small pond filled with lilies and koi fish. These secret spots offer a sense of tranquility and provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the royal court.

The gardens also boast a variety of exotic plants and trees from all over the world, brought back by the royal family from their travels. A rare and majestic weeping willow stands tall, its branches reaching towards the sky.

A bed of vibrant orchids can be found hidden behind a tall hedge, and a magnificent baobab tree stands proudly in one corner of the gardens.

As one wanders through the gardens, they may come across a small home nestled amidst the greenery. These homes are reserved for the royal family's closest friends and advisors, providing them with a peaceful retreat within the castle grounds. Each home is unique in its design, reflecting the personality and tastes of its inhabitants.

One may come across a charming cottage with a thatched roof, adorned with climbing vines and colorful blooms. Another may find a grand villa with tall pillars and a sprawling garden. Each home is a testament to the wealth and opulence of the royal family, yet they all blend seamlessly into the natural beauty of the gardens.

The exterior of the castle itself is a sight to behold. It is a grand structure, made of the finest stone and adorned with intricate carvings and statues. The walls are a creamy white, and the roof is made of gleaming slate tiles, reflecting the sun's rays and adding to the castle's ethereal appearance.

At the entrance of the castle, there is a grand staircase leading up to the main doors. The staircase is flanked by two towering statues of lions, their fierce expressions carved with such skill that they seem to come to life. The doors themselves are made of solid oak, with intricate ironwork and a glistening coat of varnish.

Beyond the main castle, there are also smaller buildings and structures within the royal grounds. The royal gardens also boast a conservatory, filled with exotic plants and flowers from all over the world.

In the evenings, the castle and its grounds are lit up with strings of twinkling lights, casting a warm and magical glow. It is a sight that leaves visitors in awe and makes them feel as though they have stepped into a fairytale.

The royal grounds of gardens and small homes are a testament to the opulence and grandeur of the royal family. Every element, from the meticulously landscaped gardens to the grand castle itself, reflects their wealth and power.

It is a place of beauty, tranquility, and extravagance, fit for only the most elite in the kingdom.

The royal guards escorted Arrow and the other two to the bottom of the castle stair case.

Arrow looked around and saw that their were several other women standing along side them.

The women snapped their head up to feeling of a powerful presence joining them. Their jaws dropped when the king came into view.

Azazel’s handsome features took the women by surprise. Short hair along the sides and back with longer styled hair on top. Black as ink from a pen.

Tall, muscular frame that tugged at his clothes. Strong jawline, layered with a black beard lining his face neatly. His eyes sparkled of a dark green.

His deep voice echoed, “Welcome ladies. Over the next week or so, you all will be taking place in the trials of the Luna Queen.

You all will remain here for the duration of the trials. If you are elimated, at the end you can choose to stay or return to your old pack.”

That caught a lot of the women’s attention. Arrows eyes were locked on his green ones as he continued.

“Your rooms are on the third floor. You will be rooming with the ones you traveled with here. You are welcome here. You can roam as you please.

Now one by one, please step forth and introduce yourself with rank and pack.”

One by one the ladies came forth.

“Irina Popov, Daughter of Alpha, Ice Moon Pack. Russia.”

“Bianca Bianchi, Warrior, Pink Moon Pack, Italy.”

“Elizabeth Corbyn, Daughter of Beta, Frost Moon Pack, Britian.”

“Xia Woo, Head Warrior, Flower Moon Pack, China.”

“Nia Jabari, Hunter, Red Moon Pack, Africa.”

“Sophia Cortez, Daughter of the Gamma, Thunder Moon Pack, Columbia.”

“Isabella Montez, Warrior, Harvest Moon Pack, Brazil.”

“April Conners, Warrior, Death Moon Pack, USA.”

“Stephanie Morgan, Hunter, Hunters Moon Pack, USA.”

“Eun Choi, Hunter, Rose Moon Pack, South Korea.”

“Olivia Brown, third daughter to Alpha, Cold Moon Pack, New Zealand.”

“Arrow Winsdor, Omega, Snow Moon Pack, USA.”

“Welcome to my pack. You will be given a room number, go relax shower. Dinner will be served shortly. Trials begin tomorrow.” The king spoke before making his exit.

Arrow, April, and Stephanie made their way to their room. It was large. Three separate closets, three large queen beds, yet one large bathroom.

Arrow quickly sprung on the bed and quickly fell asleep.

Arrow felt a nudge causing her to awake.

“Here. Dinner arrived earlier. I thought I would let you sleep though. Lasagna, salad, and garlic bread.” Stephanie said.

“Thanks, smells delicious,” Arrow responded.

Arrow sat up in bed to see the tray of food. She quickly ate what she could and turned to see Stephanie was fast asleep.

Arrow cleaned up and curled back into the blankets. It was not long before sleep took over her once again.