I wished for nothing more than having strength. The strength to beat them till they recognized who I was and were able to defend my position, instead of relying on the Alpha.

Maybe, if I was strong enough, then I wouldn’t be facing the humiliation I currently faced.

With a swift wave of her hand, Lila’s energy surged like a gust of wind, knocking me into the air and slamming me hard onto the ground. I didn’t have any strength to resist, so I could only clutch my belly, curling up in pain.

I looked up at Lila with cold eyes. I regretted not having the power to defend myself and my unborn child.

“You’re reckless,” I said in a rasped breath. “Aren’t you afraid the Alpha will find out?”

Lila laughed, unimpressed. A mocking sneer appeared on her face. “The Alpha fell in-love with me at first sight. Everyone knows he ended the war for me. Do you really think he’d care about you, some insignificant mortal?”

Lila’s attendants chimed in with mocking smirks. “Right! Everyone in the realm knows the Alpha only has eyes for Consort Lila. Who do you think you are?”

“The Alpha is the ruler of five of the Nine Werewolf Clans,” another sneered. “He has had many like you—lowly women trying to seduce him.” Suddenly the werewolf speaking paused. A venomous glint flashed in her eyes, but I caught it. “Let’s make an example of her today.” The werewolf continued.

They circled me, their eyes gleaming with cruelty. I spoke through clenched teeth, trying to mask my pain, but it didn’t seem to help as it only gave them joy. “You should ask the Alpha who I really am.”

Lila’s lips curled into a disdainful sneer. “You?! A mere mortal sneaking into the Hall of Shadows? You think you’re worth asking about?”

She turned to her clique, “Hey! Ever heard of this trash?”

Her clique shook their heads, some giggling. Some even praised Lila as someone humorous.

“I am the Alpha’s chosen mate,” Lila declared. “The cherished daughter of the Immortal Alpha Wolf. You think you can compare to me?”

She knew her rank wasn’t as high as Lila’s, but the words still stung. Before she could respond, Lila looked around and smiled darkly. “This hall could use a touch of red.”

Confusion clouded her mind until it dawned on her. The other wolves understood immediately. With wicked smiles, they turned their energy into whips, lashing out at her.