Winter arrived quickly in the mountains.
When the first snow blanketed Moon Deer Valley, I officially passed my final Healer’s Trial.
Isabelle handed the White Deer bone knife back to me. This time, she didn't give me any apprentice lectures.
She simply draped the heavy, fur-lined Healer’s Cloak over my shoulders.
"Cecilia. From today on, you have the right to refuse treatment to anyone who doesn't deserve it. And you have the responsibility to save those you choose to save."
I traced the silver antler crest embroidered on the hem of the cloak.
"I thought a healer was supposed to save everyone."
Isabelle shook her head.
"Healing is not a sacrifice. Your mother didn't realize that until the day she died. I want you to learn it now."
Ash Pine sent one final letter.
It wasn't from V
