Laughter drifted through the gardens of Nightclaw Estate while music floated through the moonfall air.
Silver lanterns swayed gently from the trees, their warm light glimmering across crystal decorations that lined the walkways. Long tables were filled with food, desserts, and drinks. Pups raced across the lawn, weaving between guests as their laughter rose above the conversations.
It was Bryan Oliver Frostbane's fifth birth moon.
Emma stood beside a giant moon-shaped cake with Brandon at her side. Bryan beamed beneath the tiny silver crown Brandon had surprised him with that moonrise. He planted his hands on his hips, lifted his chin, and puffed out his chest until the adults around him burst into laughter.
"Look at me!" Bryan shouted.
Elara laughed and folded her arms. "We've already looked three times."
Bryan shook his head. "You'll look again, Aunt Elara!"
