Chapter 1 Moon Celebration

Meridian Water MOON CELEBRATION The first rays of sunlight filtered through the leaves, softly illuminating the room's interior. Deep in the forest, I awoke, feeling a pulsating anticipation in my heart for the day ahead. Rising from bed, I looked out the window, watching the sun rise before me. A special energy filled the air. Today was the full moon celebration, a sacred event for my family. It was a time when our pack came together to honor our ancestors and strengthen the bonds that united us as a community. I jumped out of bed, eager to complete my morning routine. Soon, I went downstairs, the scent of freshly baked bread greeting me warmly. “Good morning, family!” I said, addressing my father, mother, and younger brother, who were already seated and ready for breakfast. “You’re up early, young lady,” my mother teased with a faint smile. “It’s a miracle! Could it be a sign from the moon goddess?” My eight-year-old brother mocked, grinning. I sat at the table with a smile, but couldn’t resist sticking my tongue out at him, which made him laugh. “Today is an important day,” I replied cheerfully, reaching for the breadbasket. “Some might say it’s your favorite holiday!” my father remarked with an affectionate gaze that warmed my heart. My father was the example of the man I aspired to find in life — a respectful alpha, devoted to his family and his pack. “They wouldn’t be lying,” I said with a wink, earning a loving chuckle from him. We enjoyed breakfast, chatting about the preparations, and then I hurried off to check on the activities in the forest. I was buzzing with excitement. The celebration only happened once a year, and yes, it was my favorite. It was a time when the pack's love was palpable, filled with feasting and dancing. Walking through the forest, I greeted everyone and took in the bustling atmosphere. The younger members of the pack were busy decorating the clearing—where the main event would take place—with leaves, flowers, and precious stones, while others were setting up an elevated platform for the ceremony. The tempting aroma of herbs and fresh fruit hung in the air, heralding the feast to come. As I wandered through the area, I could feel the respectful and warm glances sent my way. I’d always been by my father’s side, helping and being present for everyone in the community. I was always available to listen, advise, and fight for our pack, just as my family had taught me. Even though I’d never become a leader, I’d always dreamed of being an alpha. But that wasn’t possible. Still, I found contentment in knowing I was there for my pack. I also took solace in knowing that my brother would one day succeed my father—though that wouldn’t happen for centuries. The full moon celebration was an opportunity to further strengthen the bonds among pack members. It was a chance to connect with one’s family lineage and nurture the spirit of unity that kept us strong and protected. But it was also a time for personal reflection. I was only seventeen and had yet to transform. My father reassured me that it was fine, that my time would come, and that I needn’t worry. Still, it was an inner yearning. Every celebration, I dreamed of it happening. I longed to know the color of my fur, how I’d look as a wolf, what instincts I’d feel, and what it would be like to be connected to the entire pack. My thoughts were interrupted by Lauren carrying a jar of flowers, her face beaming. My best friend ran to me, planting a kiss on my cheek and sparing me a hug due to her occupied hands. “Where are those flowers headed?” I asked excitedly, following her. “To the dessert table. How are you? Nervous? Excited? Euphoric? I’m ecstatic!” Lauren exclaimed, making me laugh heartily. One of her quirks, when nervous, was talking too much. “Breathe, calm down,” I said, taking in how beautiful everything around us looked. “I’m excited, but clearly, you’re even more so.” “Today could be the day you transform! How are you so calm about it?” she said as if it were the most incredible thing in the world. “We’ve been waiting for this for at least three full moons. It’ll happen when it happens—it’s not like it’s guaranteed to be today. Just breathe and don’t lose it,” I reassured her, though a hint of my own anxiety tried to surface. “Fine…” She paused for a moment. “But word has it from a very reliable source that Renan plans to court you at this celebration.” “Stop with the nonsense!” I said, feeling my heart race. “But… who told you?” I couldn’t help asking. “You’re dying to know,” she teased, making me burst into laughter. “I really am,” I admitted. “Not that I care, but I want to know.” We both laughed, exchanging amused glances. Renan was eighteen, the most sought-after wolf in the pack, and the son of my father’s right-hand man. He often visited our house, but we’d never gotten close since he was always so focused on his responsibilities. I’d had a crush on him for as long as I could remember. My heart raced when he was near, and I dreamed of the day he’d tell me he felt the same. Sometimes, I thought I wanted to transform just for the possibility of my wolf choosing him and being chosen by his. But I knew I might be disappointed—his wolf might have already chosen someone else. I pushed those thoughts aside and continued helping with preparations alongside Lauren and everyone else. The day flew by, and soon I was back in my room to get ready. Carefully, I chose a silver adornment— a special gift from my father. I fastened it around my neck, feeling the symbolic weight of the object. “Silver represents the purity, strength, and ancestral wisdom that flows through your veins,” my father had said when he gave me the necklace. “Never forget how much I love you, and that even as your alpha, I will always be your father first. You’ll always be my little wolf.” I teared up, recalling his sweet words and how he’d always been my best friend. I chose a long, flowing red dress adorned with moonstone detailing along the subtle V-neckline and the waist. Letting my dark blonde hair fall in cascades down my back, I examined my reflection in the mirror. My brown eyes, framed by natural freckles, needed no makeup to shine. As night fell over the forest, I heard the distant howls of my pack mates. Everyone was gathered in the clearing, ready for the ceremony to begin. My heart raced as I walked with my family, my chest swelling with excitement for the initiation. We were met with applause and honor as we arrived.