“The White Wolf," someone scoffed.
“Blasphemy," an elder breathed.
Father lifted his chin. “Enough," he said. “We resume the rite."
Daisy laughed, then brighter when a handful joined. “Listen to her," she told the crowd. “She doesn't even have a wolf."
“Neither do you," Audrey said.
“I don't need one to be loved," Daisy replied, and turned her face to the fire.
The shaman raised both hands. “Kneel when the moon clears," he called. “Keep your eyes holy."
“My eyes are open," Audrey said, and the words settled like fixtures.
“Guards," Father barked, voice hard again. “Remove her."
The guards set their shoulders. Men at the edges rose on their toes, hungry for spectacle. Derrick stepped in, palm out. “Wait," he said to Father. “If she's lying, the Goddess will expose her."
“I am tryi
