MOON'S SHADOW

New Beginnings

The morning after the full moon Gathering slowly came to life, the air was weirdly misty and cold, the smell of damp earth, decaying leaves, pollen and musky scent of woodland trees filled the air. The soft golden glow of the rising sun radiated on the beautiful scenery as it unfolded, sending streaks of shimmering sun's rays to illuminate and filter through the leathery whispering leaves. Crickets cried harmoniously, their joyful cries echoing throughout the sleepy forest. The Greywolf space stood majestically, seamlessly fitting into the dense forest. The property itself was embellished by decades-old vines that crawled up nearly every wooden cabin.

The foreboding jungle vibrantly sprang to life, with various sounds—insects buzzed as they hurriedly crawled on the wet forest floor, frogs hopped and yelped, their long tongues swatted the tiny insects. Birds shrieked as they perched from one branch to the next, mammals scuttled and bats clicked. It was a sweet symphony of sounds as every kind of creature communicated with one another. Even the ancient trees seemed to pulsate with sounds, as the leaves gently swished and swoshed in the gentle breeze.

Made from strong, healthy woods and embellished by natural elements, the Greywolf cabins blended perfectly with the forest. The well-worn paths wound naturally through the towering trees. Thin rings of smoke gradually rose into the air from several chimneys, as the air filled with the smell of freshly brewed coffee and morning dew. Alpha Derek's daughter, Lumina Greywolf, stretched and yawned in front of her cabin, just like the rest. Her cabin was modest but comfortable with large windows that let in the natural light both from the sun and moon. She was dressed casually, as usual. Her clothing allowed her to be free and comfortable to move with ease even as she dealt with her daily chores.

She made her way towards the common area with measured steps, her eyes roaming around the Greywolf territory. Her ears were filled with hearty laughters of young wolves sprinting spiritedly through the clear forest, wanting to be the best in a friendly race. Other members were busy handling the daily chores that ensured smooth operation of the pack– logs rubbed together as they were rearranged, snaps of twigs were broken, axes and machetes bit into wood that were dragged over the forest floor and carefully shoved into the blazing open fire. Intoxicating smell of roasting nuts and meat soon hung heavy in the air. Fresh vegetables picked from the kitchen gardens, dripped with morning dew, their succulent leaves bouncing up and down as they were cut into thin slices. 

Two young pups were involved in a heated argument that caught Lumina's attention. She listened closely as she gradually approached them, her face contorted into a huge grin once she heard what the argument was about.

“Did you enjoy last night's celebration? I had way more fun than you did!” Joram, a young male wolf, happily bagged his charcoal black shimmering in the sun.

“That's not true, I shifted way too many times than you did.” a young girl, with long flowing hair, as white as snow just like her fur, shook her head vigorously.

“Good morning Joram, Mirana.” Lumina crouched next to them, her face glowing with tenderness and love.

The young pups looked up at her, their eyes beaming happily. “Good morning Lumina.” They chorused in unison, broad smiles covering their faces.

“ You guys look really happy this morning. Want to tell me what this is about? ” Lumina prompted with a gentle smile.

“ We are so excited, Lumina. We had lots of fun yesterday! ” Joram replies happily with his arms in the air.

Miranda cheered as she leaped up. “ Yeah, we had a lot of fun. I want to grow up to be just as beautiful and kind as you are, Lumina! ”

Lumina's heart hammered with pride and satisfaction. “ Wow! Thank you both for such brilliant words. Now, why don't you guys run along and have some breakfast, so you can grow up strong and healthy. ”