Fenris was strong. The force of his push sent my forehead cracking against the ground. Blood bloomed instantly, and my ceremonial crown knocked sideways. The scent of my own blood filled the air, sharp and copper-bright, and every wolf in the courtyard went still for half a breath before the jeering resumed.
Vessa gasped. "Fenris, don't!"
"She-wolves can be vain. It's only natural she'd want to climb to a higher branch. But with so many wolves watching, at least leave her a shred of dignity."
Vessa's words sounded like they were spoken in my defense, but every syllable was a blade wrapped in silk.
Fenris's war-bonded brothers spat in my direction.
"Even if the Alpha Prince were looking for a mate, he'd choose a she-wolf from a pureblood bloodline. Not some desperate leftover throwing herself at any wolf who'll have her."
"Luna? Sure, and I'm the Alpha King's son-in-law. Anyone can run their mouth."
"Hold on, you have to give her credit. Briar really went all out trying to mate with Fenris. Look at those ceremonial furs. That's top-grade work from The Treasure Pavilion. Worth at least this much."
One of Fenris's war brothers pointed at the furs I wore and held up his fingers.