Rivalry

The morning mist clung to the forest floor as our class gathered at the edge of the woods. Professor Hawthorne paced before us, his stern face even more serious than usual. The autumn air carried the scent of pine and decaying leaves, making my wolf stir restlessly within me.

"Today's demonstration will test not just your shifting abilities but also your tracking skills," Professor Hawthorne announced, his voice cutting through the morning quiet. "I've placed several dead rabbits throughout the forest. Your task is to locate one and bring it back here. The first three students to return with their quarry will receive extra credit."

A ripple of excitement passed through the group. I caught Isabel smirking at me from the corner of my eye.