The morning of the ceremony dawned with a sense of anticipation that filled the den. The wolf pups were especially lively, darting around and playfully nipping at each other. I was still groggy from sleep, but their energy was infectious. Lorish Alba, had explained the significance of this day. It was the time when all the young ones of the forest would be presented to the Moon and Nature, becoming official members of the pack and the forest. This included my wolf siblings and me.

As I lay in the den, watching my siblings play, Mom approached me.

"Orphelin, my little baby, are you ready for today?" she asked, her voice full of warmth.

I nodded, though nerves fluttered in my stomach.

"I think so, Mom," I replied, using the term I had come to love. "I'm just worried I'll do something wrong..."

She nuzzled me affectionately.

"You will do wonderfully, my brave dragon," she reassured me.

The wolves had been preparing for days - I finally understood what this was all about yesterday. The den was decorated with flowers and leaves, creating a festive atmosphere. The older wolves were already gathered, sharing stories and laughter. The pups were given special baths in a nearby stream, their fur gleaming in the early morning light.

"Woffer noooo" my little sister was running away in circles screaming with laughter. Yeah... I think she may be the only lady I know, that doesn't like bathing.

"Today is a big day," said one of the older wolves, a grizzled male with a greyish colour decorating his once-black fur. "It's not every day we officially welcome new members to the pack and ask for protection."

The excitement was palpable. Wolves of all ages were bustling about, making last-minute preparations. Some were arranging flowers, while others were preparing a feast for later in the day. The scent of fresh meat and herbs filled the air, making my mouth water.

I noticed Lorish talking to another wolf, her voice low and serious. I couldn't make out what she was saying, but her expression was one of pride and determination. She caught my eye and smiled, her blue eyes twinkling.

"Come, my lovely baby," she called. "It's time to join the others."

Oh my gosh, I will never have enough of her calling me this way. Mom is the best!

I stood up, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. This was a significant moment for me. I was about to be formally introduced to the entire forest as part of Lorish's family. The thought filled me with pride, but also a hint of anxiety. What if they didn't accept me? What if they saw me as an outsider? Or worse...

I'm sure everyone knows that a dragon should have wings... What if my family will be laughed at coz of me?

As we walked towards the gathering place, I stayed close to Lorish. My siblings bounded alongside us, their excitement palpable. Their fur was so fluffy and fresh that I just wanted to take and cuddle them whole day.

"Big buo? Theue be big buos?" Lorelin asked, her eyes wide with curiosity. If anyone would wonder what did she ask about, she wanted to know if there would be creatures like me... Yeah, I totally get my lil sister's language... I know I'm an awesome bro.

"I don't know but I'm sure there will be many different creatures," I replied, trying to sound confident.

The path through the forest was lined with vibrant flowers and lush greenery. The sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting dappled shadows on the ground. As we moved deeper into the forest, the sounds of nature grew louder—the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the distant roar of a waterfall.

"Stay close, everyone," Lorish instructed. "We're almost there."

I could hear the murmur of voices and the soft sounds of many weird animal noises as we approached the clearing. The gathering place was a large open area surrounded by ancient trees. Their branches formed a natural roof with only a small window for the moon to peak into the place. It was a magical, secluded space.

As we entered the clearing, I was awestruck by the sight of so many creatures assembled. Wolves of every shade, from the common grey to the rare silver and even a few with iridescent coats, filled the clearing. There were other magical beings too, such as deer with antlers that glowed faintly, rabbits with shimmering fur, and birds with iridescent feathers. However, there were no humanoids in sight, as this was strictly an event for the forest's magical inhabitants. Not to mention that even if some of the creatures reminded me of animals in my previous world, they always had something that was "different" about them. Not to mention beasts that were totally magical and looked alien to me... I didn't have any names to call them.

"Wooo," my little brother whispered, his eyes wide with amazement.

"Lofely," my sister added, her tail wagging.

In the centre of the clearing, a large rock formation stood as a natural stage. It was covered in moss and flowers, giving it an ethereal appearance. Lorish led us to the front, where we would be introduced. My heart raced as I saw the immense emerald wolf standing atop the formation. His presence was imposing, and I recognized him as the King of the Forest even before Mom told us that it was him.

The King was a sight to behold. His body was powerful and big like no wolf. His fur was a deep emerald green, shimmering in the sunlight, with green flashy stones on his head. His eyes were a piercing gold, filled with wisdom and authority. His mere presence commanded respect, and the clearing fell silent as he gazed over the assembled creatures.

Lorish guided us up to the rock, and we stood before the gathered creatures. She began to speak, her voice carrying authority and love.

"Today, we gather to honour the new generations of our forest. These young ones are our future, our hope," she said.

I stopped listening for a moment and just watched many amazing creatures. It seemed every pack, family or other group would announce their children, gifting them their name. After a name was spoken, Mom would say "Father Moon, Mother Nature, please protect them". This seemed so serious and amazing that I got even more scared.

Then, when everyone finished, it was time for us - the royals. I felt really stressed as Mom first took my siblings to introduce them.

"I present your princess, Lorelin Alba." Mom showed my little sister first.

"Father Moon, Mother Nature, please protect them," all beings said in unison. That was amazing.

The little furball squeaked with joy, her white fur with a tiny bit of green shining in the moon.

She'll be the most beautiful princess in the world... and if anyone has other opinions I will kick their ass.

Then it was time for my little plump brother which I rescued from the fox.

"I present your prince, Orsus Alba."

And again all other creatures answered. I was excited. My little siblings were presenting themselves lovely. Orsus with his silver fur sat on his plump bum and smiled at everyone. I'm sure I've heard some "awws".

"I present your prince, Orish Alba." My last little brother.

After everyone gathered again and asked Moon and Nature for protection, my little naughty brother barked a little and looked back at me with a proud smile. His fur was a mixture of dark grey and white and had mom's eyes. The other two kiddos had golden eyes like the King. Well, it makes sense... they were his children... But me?

I started to panic again. Mom loves me... but will the King accept me?

But there was no time to think anymore as Lorish looked back at me, asking me to come closer and nuzzling my cheek. I came to stand next to her, panicking internally but trying to look proud. Mom loves me. She didn't have to adopt me. I will not make her look back. So I stood there proud, with my head held high. I could see some beasts whispering between each other.

(End of part 1)