Wolf lies trussed up, her silver fur shaved to reveal pink skin, a glossy apple wedged firmly in her mouth. Her eyes glint with a mix of resignation and curiosity, watching as Pig brushes a rich maple glaze across her skin, the syrup pooling in crevices and giving her a golden sheen. "You’ll be the crown jewel of tonight’s feast, Wolf," Pig says, voice gentle but determined, placing slices of plum, orange, and fig along Wolf's back.

Pig wipes his brow, watching through the oven window as Wolf settles among the fruit. The room fills with the promise of crisping skin and stewing apples. "Hang in there, Wolf," Pig murmurs, turning away to begin chopping sweet potatoes, green beans, and chestnuts for the side dishes, his hooves moving deftly over the cutting board.

Pig hums along, layering potatoes with cream and garlic, tossing green beans in butter, and glazing chestnuts with honey. Every now and then, he glances at the oven, noting the increasing aroma of roasting wolf and fruit. "Everything must be perfect. Tonight, everyone will remember this feast," Pig says to himself, arranging candied nuts and berries in polished bowls.

Pig[/@ch_2] dons thick mitts and carefully pulls the roasting pan from the oven, filling the room with rich, sweet scents.] Wolf's skin is crisp and glistening, the fruit caramelized atop her back, steam rising in gentle spirals. Pig arranges her artfully onto a gleaming silver platter, surrounding her with bright candied fruit and sprigs of rosemary. "You look magnificent, Wolf," Pig whispers, pride and sadness mingling in his voice.

The platter is the star of the table, its colors vivid and enticing. Pig presents each side dish with a flourish, but nothing rivals the attention given to Wolf, whose sacrifice is honored in every toast. Rabbit, a shy guest, leans forward and whispers, "I’ve never seen anything so beautiful, Pig. You’ve outdone yourself."

Pig gazes around the table, pride swelling in his chest as the guests savor every mouthful. Wolf, the centerpiece, has brought everyone together, her presence an unforgettable highlight of the holiday gathering. "This night will be remembered," Pig quietly declares, as laughter and joy linger long after the plates are cleared.