The cranes moved with purpose, their snowy feathers ruffling as they added fresh-caught shellfish and fragrant herbs to the pot. Steam curled into the air, carrying a mouthwatering aroma across the marsh. Laughter and excited chatter filled the scene, as the group anticipated the feast to come.
Marcellus, Head Crane—a stately bird with a crimson sash—supervised the preparations, making sure every ingredient was washed and ready.
Lira[/@ch_2] and Brann—appeared, their fur dusted with the road’s journey, eyes wide with curiosity and wonder.]
Lira, the more adventurous of the pair, sniffed the air and nudged Brann, who hesitated at the marsh’s edge. Around them, the cranes paused, their long necks craning toward the newcomers.
"Welcome, travelers! Care to join our grand boil?"
"We’ve never seen a feast like this," Lira replied, her tail wagging. Brann shuffled shyly, drawn by the delicious smells.
Lira[/@ch_2] and Brann found themselves at the center of attention.]
Marcellus announced the highlight of the evening, gesturing grandly toward the wolves. The air was thick with tension and anticipation.
"Tonight, our special guests shall become the feast’s centerpiece," he declared, voice echoing over the water.
"Wait—what do you mean?" Brann stammered, eyes darting to Lira.
"Is this some kind of marshland custom?"
A chorus of wingbeats accompanied the process, and the marsh seemed to hush in reverence. The wolves’ protests faded, replaced by the crackle of the fire and the bubbling of the pot.
"It is an honor, dear wolves, to be part of our tradition," Marcellus intoned.
One by one, the cranes dipped their beaks into the savory broth, pulling out tender morsels and sharing stories of feasts past. The wolves’ addition was met with awe and delight, praised as the most succulent and unique part of the meal.
Astra, Young Crane, chirped, "I’ve never tasted anything so wild and rich!"
Marcellus raised his wings, leading the flock in a song of gratitude. The memory of the grand feast would linger, a story to be retold by every crane who flocked to the marsh.
The sun’s first rays shimmered on the feathers of the satisfied birds, and the marsh returned to its tranquil rhythm, forever changed by the extraordinary boil and the wolves who became legends.
