Blood Moon Rising

Chapter 3: A Warm Welcome

Karina woke up when soft morning light seeps through the window and hits her eyes in her new room. A lot has happened in the past few days, but today, she felt a calm resolve. She had decided to stay with the Silver Moon Pack. The sense of belonging she had longed and wish for seemed within her reach, and for the first time in a long while, she felt a flicker of hope.

While getting ready, Karina thought about how Caius and Maris took care of her and slowly helped her adjust to the pack. They were the main reason why the pack members accepted her without hesitation. Their acceptance had been immediate and genuine, something she had never experienced before when she was in the Crimson Pack. It was time to make a new start and prove to them that their trust in her will not go to waste.

As she stepped out of the cabin she was staying, Karina smiled at the sight of the pack members busy with their morning activities. Everybody was busy doing their own thing, but still emitted an air of unity and determination. She took a deep breath, savoring the fresh scent of pine and earth.

Maris saw her and greeted her with a warm and friendly smile. "Good morning, Karina! Did you sleep well?"

"I did, thank you," Karina replied, smiling back. "I feel so refreshed and ready to start my day. So, what kind of help can I offer you today?"

"That's wonderful to hear. I don’t have much to do so I wouldn’t be needing your help today, but Caius wanted to talk with you when you're ready. He's in the central cabin."

Karina nodded, feeling a mixture of nerves and anticipation. On her way to the main cabin, she walked by a few members of the pack who greeted her with friendly nods and smiles which she eagerly returns. The difference in treatment in Silver Moon Pack was striking compared to the animosity she experienced in the Crimson Claw Pack.

When Karina reached the central cabin, she saw Caius sitting at the big wooden table, going over some papers. He glanced up and his face transformed into a welcoming smile as she walked in.

"Good morning. Please, have a seat," he said, gesturing to a chair across from him.

Karina sat down, feeling a surge of gratitude for the alpha's kindness. "Good morning, Caius. I know I already gave you an answer, but I just want to tell you again that, after some thought, I decided to stay here in the Silver Moon Pack.”

Caius's smile widened. "We would be honored to have you, Karina. I know you will never fail us, and I believe you will be a valuable member of our pack."

Karina felt a wave of relief and joy washing over her. "Thank you, Alpha Caius.” Caius smiled when she called her alpha. “I promise to do my best and contribute in any way I can."

"We have no doubt about that," Caius replied. "In fact, we want to officially welcome you into the pack with a celebration tonight. It's one of our traditions here in the pack, so I hope it’ll be okay with you."

Karina's eyes widened in surprise. "A celebration? For me?"

"Yes," Caius said with a chuckle. "The Silver Moon Pack wants every member to feel valued and respected here. Maris and the others are already making preparations."

Karina felt her eyes misting with the overwhelming generosity they are showing her. "I don't know what to say.”

“Uhh.. How about thank you?"

“Yeah, thank you.”

"There's no need to thank us. We're all looking forward to it," Caius said as he stood up. "Now, let's get you acquainted with some of our customs and routines. I’ll give you a tour of the pack."

As they walked through the settlement, Caius explained the various roles and responsibilities within the pack. He introduced Karina to several key members, including Tobias, the head warrior; Lena, the cook; and Maia, the caretaker of the children. Each one greeted her warmly, expressing their excitement about the evening's celebration.

By the time they returned to the central cabin, Karina felt more at ease. The tour had given her a glimpse into the close-knit community she was becoming a part of, and she couldn’t wait to be part of it.

As the day wore on, preparations for the celebration were in full swing. The scent of cooking food wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of the flower decoration. The entire area was filled with excitement and laughter. Decorations were being hung, and a large bonfire was being built in the center of the clearing.

Maris found Karina and brought her to a small cabin where a few other women were busy preparing for the evening. "We thought you might like to wear something special tonight, so, here," Maris said, holding up a beautiful dress made of soft, flowing fabric. "We made this for you. I hope we got the right size."

There’s a lumped-on Karina’s throat as she took the dress off Maris’ hand. It was simple yet elegant, in a shade of deep green that reminded her of the forest. She deeply touched by their thoughtfulness.

"Thank you so much," Karina said, her voice filled with emotion. "It's beautiful."

The women helped her change and styled her hair. She watched them curl and style her hair while adding flower details. As she looked at herself in the mirror, Karina hardly recognized the woman staring back at her. She almost cry at the sight before her. It the first time in years, she felt truly beautiful and cherished.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the settlement, Karina made her way to the central clearing. The entire pack had gathered, their faces illuminated by the light of the bonfire. The air was filled with the mouthwatering scent of roasted meat and bread.

Caius stood at the center, his presence commanding yet warm. He raised a hand, signaling for silence, and the murmurs of the crowd died down, showing how much the members respects him.

"Tonight, we gather to welcome a new member into our family," Caius began, his voice carrying over the crowd. "Karina has shown incredible courage and resilience despite everything she had faced and experience. She has faced adversity with a strength that I will respectfully describe as truly remarkable. It is our honor to welcome her into the Silver Moon Pack."

The pack applauded and cheered, echoing through the entire area. Karina felt a rush of warmth and gratitude as she stepped forward to stand beside Caius.

"We celebrate new beginnings and the strength of our bonds," Caius continued. "Karina, by the power vested in me by the Moon Goddess, on behalf of the Silver Moon Pack, I welcome you. You are now one of us. You’re not alone now and we will stand together as a family, supporting and protecting one another."

With that, the celebration everyone was anticipating began. Music filled the air, and the pack members began to dance and sing. Plates of food were passed around, and Karina couldn’t contain herself by the food the pack members placed in her plate. She felt a bit overwhelmed by the attention, but it was impossible not to be swept up in the joy and camaraderie that surrounded her.

Tobias, the head warrior, approached her with a wide grin. "Welcome, Karina. It's good to have you with us."

"Thank you, Tobias," Karina replied, smiling. "I'm beyond grateful to be here."

Lena, the cook, handed her another plate filled with a variety of delicious foods. "Try the venison. It's one of our specialties."

Karina took a bite and her eyes widened in delight. "Wow! This is amazing! Why is it so delicious?"

Lena laughed. "I'm glad you like it. Just take your time and enjoy the food. There's plenty more where that came from."

As the evening progressed, Karina found herself having conversations with the pack members and getting to know them. They shared stories and laughter, making her feel more and more at home. She couldn’t compare the experience she had in the Crimson Pack.

Maris joined her, a cup of steaming herbal tea in hand. "Look who’s enjoying her party! How are you feeling, Karina?"

"Overwhelmed, but in a good way," Karina admitted. "Everyone has been so kind and accepting with me. I've never experienced anything like this."

Maris smiled warmly. "Don’t think that we are just accepting you. You’re already one of us now. We take care of our own."

Karina took a sip of the tea, savoring its soothing warmth as it went down her throat like a wind. "Thank you, Maris. For everything."

It was almost midnight but the celebration showed no signs of slowing down. Karina found herself dancing with Maia and some of the children, their laughter infectious. She felt a sense of joy and freedom she hadn't known was possible.

At one point, Caius approached her, his expression thoughtful. "May I have this dance?" he asked, extending his hand.

Karina hesitated for a moment before placing her hand in his. They moved to the rhythm of the music. The dance was slow and sweet. Caius's presence was reassuring, his strength and kindness a beacon in the night.

"I like what I’m seeing from you. You seem happier," Caius said softly as they danced.

"That’s because I am," Karina replied, meeting his gaze. "I never thought I would experience something like this, not even in my dreams. Thank you, Caius. For giving me this chance."

"You've earned it," Caius said, his eyes reflecting the firelight. "And we are the ones who are fortunate to have you with us, so stop thanking us."

The song ended, and they stepped apart, but the connection between them lingered as Karina walked back to Maia and the children. She smiled at felt the newfound sense of belonging and purpose, her heart lighter than it had been in years.

As the celebration continued late into the night, Karina found herself standing by the bonfire, watching the flames dance. The warmth of the fire and the sound of laughter surrounded her was her gentle reminder that it’s her new beginning.

Maris joined her, a knowing smile on her face. "You've made quite an impression, Karina. The pack already adores you."

Karina blushed. "I haven’t done anything yet but I’m grateful for the chance to start over."

Maris nodded. "And we're grateful to have you. Never forget that you're one of us now, and we'll always stand by you."

Looking around at the smiling faces and feeling the genuine warmth of her new family, Karina knew that Maris was right. She had found a place where she belonged, a place where she was valued and loved.

As it was time to wrap the party, Karina felt a sense of peace settling over her. She had faced rejection and pain, but it was actually a blessing in disguise and had led her to the Silver Moon Pack.

Her journey was far from over, but for the first time in a long time, Karina felt ready to face whatever the future held. Surrounded by her new pack, she knew she would never have to face it alone.