Healer's Rejected & Reborn

Synopsis

The autumn harvest ceremony should have been a celebration of abundance and unity, but as I stood at the edge of the ceremonial circle, my hands trembling at my sides, all I could feel was the weight of hostile eyes upon me. The pack had gathered in the great clearing behind the packhouse, their faces illuminated by the flickering torches that cast dancing shadows across the ancient oak trees. Meadow Hansen stood in the center of the circle, her golden hair catching the firelight as she prepared for the ritualistic combat display—a tradition meant to honor the Moon Goddess and demonstrate our pack's strength. She wore a flowing white dress that would be torn away when she shifted, and even in human form, her beauty was undeniable. The pack members watched her with admiration, their eyes bright with anticipation. But I knew what was coming. As the pack's healer, I would be called upon if anyone was injured during