The celebration continued into the dusk, culminating in the pack’s traditional visit to the sacred spring nestled deep within the woods—a revered site believed to be the home of their own Moon Goddess. As the sun dipped toward the horizon, casting a warm, amber glow over the pack lands, Aiden approached Mira with Lyra in tow.
“It’s time,” Aiden said, his voice a blend of formality and warmth. He looked down at Lyra, who was practically bouncing with excitement. “Ready, little wolf?”
“Ready!” Lyra exclaimed, grasping her father’s hand. She then turned to Mira. “Will you come too, Momma?”
Mira knelt down to meet her daughter’s gaze. “Your father will take you to the Goddess' spring, my love. But I'll wait here for you when you get back.”
Lyra nodded, her enthusiasm unbridled. “Okay! Let’s go, Daddy!”
Mira watched as Aiden and Lyra set off toward the woods, their figures soon swallowed by the trees. A part of her longed to follow immediately, but she knew this moment was important for both father and daughter, a tradition that had been passed down through generations.