The first light of dawn painted the sky, as Astrid stepped into the clearing, her bare feet brushing against the dewy grass. The exhilaration of her first shift still lingered in her veins, the memory of her transformation fresh in her mind. She had spent the night roaming the forest, reveling in her newfound strength, her heightened senses. It had been terrifying, yes, but also intoxicating. This power that now pulsed through her and she could now handle it.
Smiling to herself, she ran toward their small cottage, her heart swelling with the need to share this moment with her parents.
"Father! Mother!" she called out, laughter in her voice. "I'm back. I've so much to tell you!" She was so eager to tell them how she had found her mate just on the night of her shift. It was considered luck to find you mate at such a moment, and she was sure her parents would be elated as her.
