The She-wolf General

As I returned from the palace, my maid sprinted toward me, her eyes wild. "Miss-you weren't chosen, were you?"

I said nothing, merely gestured. "Pack those fabrics Mother sent. I'm visiting Cousin Amy."

Amy Kasdorf resided in Sunflower Palace-a grand courtyard, once mine, until she'd cooed about its beauty at age ten. Even now, before I crossed the threshold, their voices slithered through the door.

"Auntie, I heard the girl who can't be choice must serve as maids for years. Do you resent me for not going myself?" Amy's voice was honeyed.

"Never, my dear. You deserve a prince, not that decrepit alpha. Besides, your cousin's stubbornness will keep her busy." Mother's tone dripped with affection. "See this soft silk? I saved it for you."

"I love it, Auntie!"

I stared at the closed door, memories clawing up.

Inside, Mother sang Amy to sleep; outside, my hand hovered, too afraid to knock.

Once, I'd begged for a lullaby.

"You're too old for such things," she'd snapped.

Amy was only a year younger.

I rapped sharply. "Mother."

Silence. When the door opened, Mother forced a smile.

"I thought you preferred plain clothes, so I gave these to Amy."

"Since when do you know my tastes?" My gaze pinned her.

She frowned. "You never wear bright colors-"

She'd forgotten the day Amy whined I "stole her style" after we wore matching gowns.

Mother had banned all vibrant hues from my wardrobe, leaving me in ashes.

Amy piped up, all innocence:

"If you want the fabrics, take them-"

"You're too kind," Mother cooed, glaring at me.

"No need." I held out the bundle.

"These are for you, too."

Mother's scowl lifted. "At last, some sense-"

"I came to discuss Father's shops in the east. I want them before entering the palace."

Her nostrils flared.

"Those are your dowry! Are you trying to split the family?"

Your dowry will go to Amy.

I smiled thinly. "By the time I return, I'll be past marriageable age. I need security."

Amy cut in, eyes glinting:

"Auntie would never cheat you."

Mother's chest heaved.

"You blame me for the draft? It's a mere formality-"

"Let Amy go in my place, and I'll forget the shops."

Amy's smile vanished.

Mother seethed, "Fine! For your obedience, you'll have them."

"Thank you, Mother."

I curtsied and turned, catching her final sneer:

"Obsessed with coin-nothing like my Amy."

As I walked, a chill crawled up my spine.