The Awakening of the Moon Goddess: Embracing Destiny and Defying Fate

"Now, you know the rules, Madison. Be polite and don't eat too much. You're a lady, not a rogue," my father warns, and I nod, my curly white hair bouncing with the movement. From a young age, my parents set high expectations for me. They taught me to sit with my back straight and hands folded in my lap. I must never rush while eating, only consume what's on my plate, and never ask for more. Additionally, I should refrain from speaking unless spoken to, as breaking this rule in public could lead to punishment from my father.

"I understand, Father, and I will behave properly," I answer quietly, catching Finn clenching his fists and glaring at our father from behind. After the first and only punishment for not following these rules, Finn and our cousin Gracie helped me with my wounds caused by my father's rage. I remember those long and painful four weeks I endured last year. It seems like my brother is thinking about it too.

Just as my parents were about to add more warnings, the front door opens behind me, revealing the easy-going smile of Alpha Artemis as he walks in and ruffles my curled white hair. A tall man with black hair and tanned skin, Alpha Artemis treats me like his own daughter, just like he does with Eloise, his own child. With him around, I feel safe, and I often wish he were my father, not the man who yells and threatens me.

"Sorry I am late, Caspian. Cosmo was trying to find his new toy car to show Maddie here. You know how kids are," Alpha Artemis says, looking down and winking at me. I overheard my father and Alpha Artemis talk about my potential as Cosmo's future mate. The thought makes me uncomfortable.

"It's fine, Alpha. I understand," my father replies, smiling. My mother remains silent but gives me one last warning look, reminding me to behave before excusing herself and heading into the kitchen. I can't understand why my parents always warn me to behave. Can't they see that I am a good girl?

I stay quiet as the Alpha and my father discuss pack matters, and Finn gives me a reassuring smile. He telepathically links to me, [Remember to tell me all about your day when you get home tomorrow.] After agreeing happily, he winks at me and quietly slips out of the room, probably heading up to his room to take care of the responsibilities he has as the next Beta.

"Well, we should be heading out now before it's too late. Caspian, I will bring Maddie home tomorrow safe and sound. Have a good night. You ready to go, Maddie?" Alpha Artemis finally concludes the conversation between the two grown wolves, extending his hand towards me. I pick up my bag, which contains some clothing and a sleeping bag for tonight, and gladly take his hand as we prepare to leave.

"Yes, Alpha," I answer Alpha Artemis, taking his hand and skipping out the door, without saying goodbye to my parents. The excitement of getting away from this house and them makes me extremely happy. As we walk towards where Luna Everleigh waits with Cosmo and Eloise, Alpha Artemis asks about my school life and what I've been up to since seeing the Alpha Family last. The pathway through the pack leads us closer to the dense forest on the west side of Deep Water. I love the smell of our forest, a mix of wildflowers, tall Canadian Maple trees, and sturdy pines. I'm almost done telling the Alpha about the book I'm reading when I'm tackled to the ground, greeted with giggles filling my ears as Eloise's scent fills my nose.

"Hi, Maddie!" she greets, and we giggle together as we sit up and start chatting about our trip today. Alpha Artemis chuckles as Eloise and I jump to our feet excitedly, my friend pointing to where Cosmo and Luna Everleigh stand waiting for us. As usual, Cosmo is holding a Nintendo D.S. gaming device in his hand, the sounds of a video game audible. I frown in his direction, knowing it's not his fault that my brother is forced to spend more time with him than me, or that my parents prioritize my future over me. But I can't help feeling a bit resentful, even if he is cute.

Eloise pulls my attention back, babbling about the Full Moon tonight and how the unicorns will appear under the full moonlight, bringing their foals to play in the pink crescent moon-shaped lake. I pretend to be surprised, but I've already been informed about this by Genesis. The unicorns would be celebrating their foals gaining powers blessed by the Moon Goddess.