Chapter 9: Rejected Warriors

Charlotte.

I woke up to the sensation of water being splashed over my head, sending a shiver down my spine. My eyes peeled open, and I found myself lying on the ground, bundled up like a criminal. A voice, filled with intimidation, asked if I was awake.

 "I believe so, my queen," someone behind me replied. In an instant, I was lifted up and forced to meet her icy gaze. I quickly looked away, afraid of what she might do. She stood just inches away from me, wearing a silver dress that flowed all the way to the ground. A majestic crown sat gracefully on her head, although I couldn't help but wonder if her neck hurt from its weight. I remained silent.

 The queen took a step forward and ran her fingers across my face, her expression devoid of any smile. I feared what she had in store for me as she observed me like a predator would its prey. From what I had gathered, they didn't eat squirrels, so surely wolf meat wouldn't be on their menu, right?

 "What do you think about cooking her for dinner?" she said, seemingly to no one in particular. I froze, absolutely horrified. However, her stone-cold face suddenly broke into a smile as she threw her head back and laughed like a child.

 "Relax," she said amidst her laughter. "I'm just joking. We don't eat wolves here. However, hunting down a squirrel is also taboo, and anyone who tries it will not be spared."

Summoning all the courage within me, I asked, "Why?"

 "Because they are our spirit guides. Killing a squirrel would bring calamity to the pack. Not many know about this, and in order to keep it a secret, we have to silence intruders with death."

It finally clicked in my mind, a brilliant idea struck me. It was my only chance at survival. "Please, take me in. I have nowhere else to go," I pleaded. "I was betrayed by my best friend, abandoned by my mate, and ultimately forced into rejection. I don't mind being a slave, as long as I have a roof over my head." As I spoke, the queen paused, studying me from head to toe.

 "And how can I be certain that you're telling the truth?" she questioned, determined not to believe me. 

 "My name is Charlotte. I used to belong to the blood moon pack. You can inquire about me. My story was quite well-known among the people."

 I noticed a flicker in her eyes at the mention of my pack's name, but she quickly turned away, facing me with her back.

 "Don't fall for it, my queen," Iris interjected, emerging from behind and covered in mud. She fell to her knees and continued, "Just one look at her and you can tell she's lying. She's obviously a spy. How else would she know to attack a squirrel the moment she set foot on our land? She must have been sent by the neighboring pack."

 Kali rushed onto the scene, also covered in mud. I wondered what had transpired between them. "I was there when it happened, my queen. She was only hungry. You are known for your wisdom and kindness. I request that you temper justice with mercy."

 Iris glared at her. "You said the same thing about Octavia last time. And look how that turned out."

 Kali shot back with a fierce look in her eyes. "By that logic, you should be dead by now. Didn't the queen save you, even though you were the daughter of her enemy?"

 Iris was about to argue, but the queen abruptly shouted, "stop!" This caused both of them to fall silent. Turning around, the queen addressed me, "Are you Charlotte?"

 I nodded immediately, and she continued, "Do you have any idea what we are all about?" I had no clue whatsoever.

 "Every woman here has been rejected by their moon goddess-given mate in the cruelest way possible. We are known as the rejected warriors, and we are forming a powerful army to seek revenge."

 "There is one important thing you need to know. It is forbidden to return to your mate. To ensure you stick to the rules, you will be required to consume a potion that will strip you of your ability to love. The bond you share with your mate will be completely dissolved. If you ever cross paths with him, he will appear as a mere stranger. After hearing this, do you still wish to join us?" Her eyes locked with mine, as if she was searching for answers deep within my soul.

 I had no desire to go back to the blood moon pack or Adonis. Any feelings I had for him had vanished long ago, so I doubted the potion would have any effect on me as my heart was already stone cold.

"Yes," I replied with determination, my eyes filled with resolve, "it would be an honour to be a part of this incredible sisterhood you have created."

She appeared content with my response, just as I believed the conversation was coming to an end, she unexpectedly spoke up, "That is merely the initial step. We do not accept just anyone. You must possess the spirit of a warrior seeking revenge. Now, Charlotte, tell me, how skilled are you in combat?"

 My breath caught in my throat, and I found myself unable to formulate a response. How could I convey to her that I lacked the ability to shift, at my big old age. She stared at me, patiently awaiting my answer.

 Reluctantly, I finally managed to speak, "I... I have never been able to shift." I confessed, my head hanging low. Laughter erupted from behind me, and I didn't need to turn around to know it was Iris. The queen appeared disappointed with my admission and turned her back on me.

"Throw her into the dungeon," she declared firmly. Iris wasted no time in approaching me.

"Wait!" I shouted, desperately

attempting to save myself.