**Chapter Six** *Anna's POV* A brutal wave of despair washed over me as I recalled the moon goddess's words: "I can't reverse your words, but you can reclaim them if only your mates agree to accept you back." How could this be the fate that awaited me? The thought of spending my entire life mateless sent a chill through my very core. Thirteen years of ruling this kingdom, and now I faced the possibility of losing everything—all because of a moment of weakness. Why would the moon goddess do this to me? Was it truly possible that I had irreparably damaged the bonds with my mates? As these thoughts churned in my mind, I felt my wolf, Scarlett, urging me to plead once more with the moon goddess. But deep down, I knew it was futile. Her presence was one of power and decisiveness; she would not entertain my desperation. Her parting words echoed in my ears, heavy with the weight of inevitability: "You will bear the consequences alone till eternity if your mates do not accept you back." And just like that, she faded from my view, leaving me alone with a whirlwind of emotions—and a stern reminder from Scarlett to keep my anger in check. I felt the world around me blur, and without warning, darkness enveloped me. When I finally opened my eyes, I was back in the familiar confines of my room. The warmth of sunlight streamed through the curtains, and my heart lifted at the sight of my loyal chiefs by my side. Daniel, my trusted advisor, stood nearby, while Lucy, head of my maid, rushed to my bedside, her eyes wide with concern. "My Queen, what happened to you?" she blurted out, relief evident in her voice. "If it weren't for Advisor Daniel, your fate would have been much worse. He saved you when you fainted." Sitting up slowly, I turned to Daniel, only to find him deliberately avoiding my gaze. Guilt and confusion swirled within me, clouding my thoughts with the moon goddess's ominous warning. I could feel the weight of the kingdom's future pressing down on my shoulders, a burden I wasn't certain I could bear. The doctor, having assessed my condition, addressed me with a shaky but composed tone. "Queen Anna, the tests show you are severely fatigued. You need proper rest to recover. I’ve prescribed some medication for you. A maid will collect it shortly. Please, eat, take your medicine, and rest." With that, he gathered his equipment and exited the room, leaving me with my chiefs. Invoking the distraction of imminent duties, I prompted them, "Tell me about the birthday banquet. I am eager to hear how it went." "Wait for me in the Wolf Dome. I'll join you shortly," I instructed them, sensing I needed just a moment to collect my thoughts. They bowed respectfully before retreating. Moments later, the soft knock on the door pulled me from my reverie. "My Queen, may I come in?" a maid's voice chimed. "Yes, you may," I replied, realizing she was the one sent for my medication. She entered and placed the small vials on the table, careful not to disturb my momentary peace. As Lucy handed me the medication, I took it without protest. "My Queen, if you need anything, just call for me," Lucy said softly before exiting the room, the maid trailing behind her. Alone now, my thoughts spiraled into the abyss of self-recrimination. How could I have let myself descend to this point? I was Queen Anna, a leader forged from strength and integrity. I should never have spoken so harshly before my people, especially not in front of that dreadful guest. "You should never have berated your guest like that. She came bearing gifts; you could have at least allowed her to present them," Daniel’s voice cut in, his tone laden with disappointment. What business did she have being here? She was not invited, and frankly, I despised her for all she had done to me. My thoughts blazed with frustration. "Her presence was an affront—she should be ashamed to show her face!" I snapped back, feeling the tension suffuse the air. The silent retreat of Daniel was unsettling, and I knew my words had stung him. Realizing the gravity of my emotional state, I decided it was time for a change. A shower could wash away the turmoil that lingered; a walk through the mansion might clear my mind. As I stepped into the hallway, my guards fell into line behind me, ever watchful. The quiet corridors echoed with the whispers of shadows from the past, but I pushed onwards, my thoughts firm. "Have the driver prepare the car; I’m going to the Wolf Dome," I instructed one of the guards. At his nod, I made my way back to my room to change. When I returned, the car awaited, and I settled into the back seat, my heart racing with an unexplainable urgency. As I entered the council room, the announcement rang out. "Her Royal Highness, Queen Anna has arrived!" A chorus of elders stood before me, their heads bowed in reverence. "Your Highness," they greeted, their voices a comforting balm against the tumult within. "What is it you wish to discuss regarding the banquet?" I inquired, though my interest barely sparked. One elder stood, his expression solemn. "Queen Anna, may you reign long and prosper. We convene today to inform you of the banquet’s events in your absence." He seated himself, awaiting my response, his peers mirroring his posture, eyes intent upon me. With a momentary deep breath, I steeled myself. "Proceed," I commanded. The next chief rose with purpose. "Your Majesty, as has been mentioned, the banquet brought a wave of joy. Gifts from your fellow kings and queens flowed forth, and the air was thick with celebration. Our people recognize your reign as incredibly blessed, filled with prosperity, and they fervently pray for its continuation." As he spoke, the feelings of doubt and despair began to slip away, replaced by the undeniable resolve that I would not let the moon goddess’s decree dictate my life. I would find a way to reclaim my destiny, with or without the acceptance of my mates.