Chapter 6: Moonlit Den

Ariana’s POV

Sighing, I explore my closet for something I could wear to the mating ball. Even though it's only a few weeks away, I'm not sure I want to go. However, I understand that if Ashford had his way, I would not be traveling. That has prompted me to go spite him and massage his face. With so many other packs at the ball, he can't do anything for fear of exposing his aggressive behavior.

I think I can derive one positive conclusion from the entire incident.

I am also concerned about the prospect of finding my soul mate. However, I doubt I would feel a mate bond wearing these ridiculous metal restraints. However, until they arrive, there is no way to test that. To flee Moonlit Den, my only chance is that my partner is from a different pack. A female usually joins her mate's group after finding her mate. Even though it's sexist, it's best for guys to stick with the group they were born into. Preserving authority within groups. If I get to go, I don't care. What is the worst part? Ashford would have no control over the situation.

I take out a few dresses, arrange them on my bed, and inspect them.

These will not function.

What won't work? Lyra speaks as she enters my chamber. I turn around to see her walking with a tub of peanut butter in one hand and a soon in the other. I turn to the dresses and point at them, rolling my eyes at her.

My gowns. They would be totally useless for the mating ball. They're overly simple.

I must agree with you there. It appears that we have some shopping to do in town.

I guess so. I hope to be able to go.

You have already granted Ashford permission to attend Iron Wolf tonight, correct?

I give a nod. Yes,

Then, before we go over there, let's leave a bit early and go get some dresses. We'll find you something fantastic, I swear.

I smile. Okay, I have faith in you.

Lyra laughs as she turns to leave. You always do.

(At the dress store later that day)

As I put another clothing away on the rack, I let out a frustrated moan. Why are they all so tacky and brief? Silently, I say to myself.

Right now, I'm genuinely doubting Lyra's taste.

I pledge that I will leave if she attempts to compel me to wear another minidress.

Ariana! I stroll past the dress racks in her direction after hearing her from the back of the boutique. When I return, my gaze concentrates on the clothes she is holding.

I take a breath. It's... wonderful.

She is wearing a long-sleeved, v-necked mermaid dress with the same lace roses on the trim and a lace appliqué of red roses that blends into a transparent black bottom. It has a low back as she spins it.

You must have this one! When Lyra yells, I begin to worry. Really?

As I approach her and touch the perfectly crafted garment, all of my trepidation fades. It's most likely expensive! It's gorgeous, but I couldn't afford it.

I will pay for half of it. Try it on now. I give her a wide-eyed look. What?

You heard me, or you told me about ball-appropriate attire. You understand. There are no inquiries. Try it on now!

She motions to the dressing rooms while thrusting the dress into my arms. I stare at her for a few moments, still hard to believe she's helping me pay for it. She pushes me towards the changing rooms, saturated.

Proceed! Check to see whether it need any changes.

Okay, all right! I cried and slammed the door to the dressing room. Pulling the sleeves over my arms and zipping up the small opening by my lower back, I quickly undressed and put on the gown. My back feels entirely exposed, and I shiver. I grinned as I examined myself in the dressing room mirror. I really enjoy it. Lyra's eyes widen as I walk outdoors once more.

What? As she approaches and surrounds me, scrutinizing every inch, I inquire.

It is this. You look fantastic! It may need to be slightly altered at the waist, but otherwise, it fits perfectly. She pushes me back into the stall, clapping her hands together. I'll tell the seamstress to take it in a few inches after you take it off. We must begin working on Iron Wolf.

I moan as I shut the dressing room door and begin to remove it.

My gosh, she is really powerful.

When we arrive at Moonlit Den, I smile at Hayden, the bouncer/bodyguard who stands at the front door. He smiles back as he lets Lyra and I pass, then cries out, "I hope to hear you tonight, Ariana!" As we enter the bar. We've known Hayden for a long time, and we used to hand out with him before I needed permission to go somewhere. They encountered a variety of issues. After his brother Lark bought the place and turned it into the largest werewolf hangout on the northern continent, he took over as bouncer. I consider him to be my own brother, and he has always taken good care of me when I visit.

The Moonlit Den is an absolutely stunning place. It's humid, dismal, and the perfect hiding place. With black, gold, and deep burgundy accents, it fits somewhere between luxury dining establishments and lively nightclubs. As you exit the main hallway, the mahogany dance floor is in front of a massive stage in the far left corner. A few monitors and other sound equipment are spread throughout the black-painted stage. The far right wall features two bars next to one other, with the kitchen beyond. There is a door between the bars, but it is marble-topped.

At the very rear of the facility, there is also a dining area with a variety of tables and chairs. However, the Moonlit den’s upstairs part is its primary attraction. When I look up, I see the balcony rails and the lights on the ceiling, and I sigh.

Getting up there kills everybody. Unfortunately, owing of the ridiculous system that separates everyone, for higher level wolves. The steps by the stage are the sole way to reach the upper level, but a bouncer or security can also be present. Because I get along well with Lark, I've only been up there a few times. With everything that's down here, I seem to recall that there's basically another bar up there. Expect something nicer. The wolves on the railings can view what's going on downstairs without having to interact with anyone.

I spy a lark near the stage and smile. The reason we are here before the opening is... Tonight, I shall perform here.

I heard you. The town's largest wolf pub presents a concert by an exiled female wolf.

Before my status was deleted, I did a lot of work here, and no one has mentioned it since. They do not pass judgment and instead come to hear me sing. I've made the moonlit den my home, but I've been spending less and less time here as Ashford has cut off my opportunities to visit because he knows how much I enjoy it.

He can't prohibit me from coming because I'm paid and Lark expects me to come frequently, so on nights like this, Ashford Hand is virtually forced to let me leave. Despite his belief that he has complete authority, I do not believe he will triumph.

As we approach him, Lark waves. Lyra Ariana! I'm glad to see you both here. His emerald eyes contact mine as he turns to face me, his dark shoulder-length brown hair swaying with his head motions. Are you ready for tonight?

I give a nod. More than prepared. Being here makes me happy.

That's good, because we have a special guest tonight.

I shake my head, puzzled. Who?

Franklin Stone, the Alpha King’s successor

I know my eyes are the size of saucers, and my mouth drops in my brain.

Is he here?