Father Crane, with his sleek silver feathers, steps forward, bowing his long neck in greeting to the gathered deer. Elder Doe, wise and gentle, welcomes them, her antlers adorned with morning dew. The village hums with curiosity and warmth as the deer approach, offering smiles and bouquets of ferns.
"Thank you for welcoming us into your beautiful home. My family is grateful," says Father Crane, gratitude shining in his dark eyes.
"You are most welcome here. May your days be peaceful among us," replies Elder Doe, her voice soft and melodic.
Father Crane[/@ch_1] and his family unveil a plan to show their appreciation.]
Mother Crane, graceful and clever, addresses the crowd. "We wish to cook for you—a special recipe from our old home: wolf ramen. It is a rare treat, and we would love to share it with all of you," she declares, her wings fluttering with excitement. The deer exchange wide-eyed glances, whispers of curiosity bubbling among them.
Young Buck, bold and adventurous, prances forward. "We have never tasted such a thing. Please, let us help by catching the wolves. It will be a grand adventure!" Laughter and eager nods ripple through the village as a hunting party is quickly assembled.
Father Crane carefully mixes flour and water, kneading dough with his long beak and elegant wings. Mother Crane slices vegetables into perfect ribbons, while Little Crane, their curious chick, watches with awe. Aromas of roasting root vegetables and simmering broth fill the air, mingling with birdsong and distant laughter.
"Will the wolves be spicy, Mama?" chirps Little Crane, eyes wide.
"Only as much as the deer desire," replies Mother Crane, smiling gently.
Young Buck leads the group, his steps light and sure. The wolves, surprised yet outnumbered, are quickly surrounded. There is a wild dance of hooves and paws, but the deer prevail, ushering the wolves back toward the village, their fur sleek and glistening in the waning light.
"We did it! The cranes will be so proud," exclaims Young Buck, breathless but triumphant.
Father Crane[/@ch_1] and Mother Crane gently shave the wolves' fur, then slice the meat before tossing it into sizzling pans with fragrant wild herbs.]
The firelight casts golden hues over the gathering, shadows flickering across eager faces. The noodles, hand-pulled and silky, are ladled into deep bowls. The stir-fried wolf meat is placed atop each mound, finished with a flourish of colorful vegetables. The aroma is rich, unfamiliar, and utterly enticing.
"This smells like a feast for kings," murmurs Elder Doe, her eyes twinkling with anticipation.
The deer taste the wolf ramen, their eyes widening at the burst of flavors—earthy noodles, tender meat, and crisp vegetables. Joy ripples through the crowd as bowls are emptied and refilled. Even the wolves, their roles shifted from adversaries to honored ingredients, are spoken of with respect and gratitude.
"This is the most delicious thing I have ever eaten! We must do this every year," declares Young Buck, his muzzle slick with broth.
Father Crane raises his wings in a toast, his voice ringing clear in the night. "Let this be our promise: every year, we will come together for the wolf ramen feast, to honor friendship and the gifts of the forest," he proclaims. The deer cheer, their hearts full, as a delicate peace settles over the village—a promise tasted and shared.
