Prologue

Under a stormy winter sky, moonlight guides my steps as my paws crunch the forest floor. A strange sound breaks the silence. Picking up pace, I'm drawn to a hidden bundle beneath a holly bush. Inside, a baby looks up, tears halted by curiosity. Unsure of its origin, I shift to my human form, cradling it. Warm and content, the child babbles, eyes full of wonder. Shifting back, I carry the tiny bundle safely to my castle.