"High moon, my high Luna," Emma greeted, her voice carrying the respectful cadence of a wolf acknowledging the authority of the pack's highest-ranking she-wolf. The Luna turned her head toward the voice behind her, her gaze sharp as she peered over her glasses as though no fragile barrier was needed for true dominance to be felt. She turned away again, continuing her task without granting Emma a response. Emma felt no sting—her wolf already understood the Luna's long-standing disdain. She made several attempts to leave the chamber, but Princess Elara kept halting her with subtle gestures. At last, she managed to take a few steps toward the exit of the Luna's chamber.
"Where is my Moon Prince?" the Luna asked after what felt like three long minutes of deliberate silence. Emma did not realize at first that the question was not meant for her.
"He is at his estate."
"I didn't ask you."
"I'm sorry, Luna," Emma replied, bowing her head slightly before glancing at Princess Elara.
