Lunar Bonds

Shiver

Willow took a moment to gather her thoughts before deciding to seek out Cedar, Apollo's mate. Apollo's suggestion that Cedar might be able to help her with her transformations had piqued her curiosity, and she felt a sense of determination to master the intricacies of her newfound abilities.

Willow approached Echo, who had been observing the interactions from a distance. "Hey, Echo," Willow greeted her, a note of uncertainty in her voice. "Do you know where I can find Cedar? Apollo mentioned he might be able to help me with my transformations."

Echo smiled kindly, her sweet and bubbly nature shining through. "Oh, sure thing! Head outside into the woods," she directed, pointing towards the dense foliage beyond. "Cedar often spends time there, with nature. You'll probably find him among the trees somewhere."

Willow nodded and opened the thick wooden door. As she pushed it open, a rush of brisk, chilly air greeted her, instantly reminding her of the November weather outside. The sensation sent a shiver down her spine, and she instinctively wrapped her arms around herself, feeling the crispness of the air against her skin.

Stepping out into the open, she scanned the surroundings, the air carrying a distinct chill that hinted at the approach of winter. Among the trees stood Cedar, just as Echo had said, leaning casually against a sturdy oak. His posture, nonchalant yet composed, reflected an ease and connection with the natural world.

With a soft exhale visible in the cool air, Willow ventured closer, her breath forming a mist in front of her as she approached Cedar.

Willow took another deep breath to steady her nerves before speaking up. "Hey, Cedar," she greeted him, her voice carrying a mix of anticipation and uncertainty. "I was hoping to talk to you about something."

Cedar turned to face her, his expression calm and attentive. "Sure thing, Willow. What's on your mind?" he responded, his tone carrying a soothing reassurance that put her at ease.

"I've been having trouble controlling my transformations," Willow admitted, her words hesitant. "Apollo mentioned you might be able to help."

Cedar's gaze held a compassionate understanding as he nodded in response. "Transformations can be tricky, especially at first," he acknowledged. "It takes time and practice to get a handle on it. But I'll do what I can to help."

He offered her a reassuring smile, exuding a sense of patience and experience. "Let's start by understanding what you've been experiencing and see if there's a way to guide you through it," Cedar suggested, radiating a calming presence that instilled confidence in Willow. 

"It's like I have no say in it," Willow explained, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and confusion. "I'll be doing something normal, like sitting in class or just walking around, and suddenly, it's like my body takes over. Next thing I know, I'm a wolf, and I can't control it."

Her words carried a sense of helplessness, the memories of those uncontrollable shifts weighing heavy on her mind. She recounted the bewilderment and panic she felt when her human form morphed into that of a wolf, the lack of control a source of deep concern.

"It's scary," she admitted, her voice softer now, expressing the vulnerability she felt during those unforeseen transformations. "I feel lost, like I don't know how to stop it or when it's going to happen."

Cedar listened attentively, his expression one of empathy and understanding. "I get it, Willow," he responded gently. "Transformations can be overwhelming, especially when they catch you off guard. Just remember, we've all suffered. We all know what it's like."

Willow nodded and sighed. 

Taking a seat on the grass, Cedar patted the spot beside him, a welcoming gesture for Willow to join him. "Come, sit," he encouraged her, his tone warm and inviting.