CHAPTER 4: THE INSTINCTUAL AWAKENING

Luna spent the day by herself, in silence, processing the wave of feelings that was about to overtake her. Not only did Alice Wonder change physically, but her identity underwent a significant upheaval as well. The transformation from Alice Wonder to Luna Grey wasn’t just physical; it was a profound shift in her identity. Though she still felt the hurt and betrayal from her previous life, there was also something new: a power and purpose she had never experienced before.

She was lost in contemplation, a thought of uncertainty and resolve, as she gazed out the window, watching the light turn to dusk. The words of the Lucky System echoed in her mind, promising revenge and power at a cost. What would this new life demand of her? What would she have to sacrifice to achieve her goals?

As the evening settled in, Marissa entered with a tray of food, the aroma of warm stew filling the room. "I thought you could use something more substantial." She put the tray next to Luna's bed.

Luna gave a nod, her tummy rumbling in response. She said, "Thank you," and reached for the spoon.

Marissa pulled up a chair and sat beside her, watching as Luna took her first bite. “You’re stronger today,” she observed with a hint of approval.

Luna swallowed, the warmth of the stew soothing her. “I feel different. I feel as though I can see everything more clearly. But, I'm still trying to figure out what that means.

Marissa nodded, her sharp gaze never leaving Luna’s face. “That’s natural. The transformation is more than just physical, there is also a deep inner awakening. Your senses and instincts are all sharpened at this point. You'll acclimate with time, but it will take time.

For a moment Luna forgot she was hungry and put down the spoon. "What does belonging to a pack mean?"

Marissa leaned back, considering her response. You are never alone when you are a member of the pack. We are a family, united by love and blood. It is, nevertheless, also a duty. It will be expected of you to defend and fight for your packmates, just as they would. Although our relationship is unshakable, there are difficulties along the way. There are adversaries out there that will stop at nothing to destroy us, both supernatural and human.

Luna paid close attention, letting Marissa's words sink in. It was both consoling and disturbing to think that she was a part of something bigger than herself. She had experienced loneliness and betrayal from people she had trusted in her past life. Even though she wasn't ready to acknowledge it, she longed for loyalty, even though the idea was practically strange to her at this point.

Quietly, speaking more to herself than to Marissa, Luna said, "I've always been on my own." "Even in a pack, I'm not sure if I can trust anyone again."

Marissa’s expression softened slightly. It's difficult to gain trust, especially after what you've gone through in your past. But give it time. You’ll find that the pack is worth it. And you’ll find your place here, Luna. You just have to be patient.”

Luna nodded, her heart heavy with conflicting emotions. She knew she didn't have much of a choice, even though patience had never been her strong suit. She couldn't afford to waste the second chance this new life was giving her.

Elias returned as darkness fell, his presence bringing a quiet strength to the room. He looked at Marissa, who got up to go and gave him a quick nod before heading out. Elias's black eyes met Luna's with such intensity that her heartbeat quickened. There was a peculiar tension in the air.

"How are you feeling?” His voice was firm and low as he asked.

"I'm better," Luna answered, with a steady look. "But, I still have a lot of questions."

Elias smiled faintly, a rare expression that softened his otherwise stern features. “I figured you would.

And I'll try my hardest to respond to them. But, there is something we must do first.

Luna's brow furrowed in confusion as Elias held out his hand to her. "Come with me."

His tone made no room for argument as he urged.

She paused for a second before putting her hand in his. The warmth of his touch sent a shockwave through her as Luna felt a rush of energy she couldn't describe after Elias helped her to her feet, despite the persistent stiffness in her muscles.

With a lot of unspoken messages between them, they strolled along the dimly illuminated hallway. All sounds and smells were intensified to the point of almost overwhelming Luna, who had her senses on high alert. While they walked side by side, she could hear the distant bustle of the city, the gentle rustle of the leaves outside, and even Elias's steady heartbeat.

little, private garden illuminated by the gentle glow of the moonlight was revealed when Elias brought her to a door at the end of the hallway. Luna was astounded by what she saw; the tranquility of the garden stood in sharp contrast to the chaos inside of her.

As they entered the garden, Elias said, "This is a sacred place." "A place where we come to discover strength, balance, and connection with our inner selves. I thought it might help you find some clarity.”

Luna's heart grew as she looked around, feeling both thankful and amazed. With flowers and plants that seemed to pulse with life under the moonlight, the garden was straightforward yet exquisite. The place had a relaxing atmosphere that she could feel seeping into her very being.

Elias stepped back to give her space and released her hand. "Give it a minute," he whispered. "Take a moment to what is going on around you. Let your instincts guide you.”

Luna closed her eyes and allowed the sounds and scents of the garden to fill her mind. She focused on her heartbeat and breathing to help her body's tension gradually subsided. It seemed like the fear, anger, and confusion that had blinded her earlier were taken over by an overwhelming feeling of calm.

When she finally opened her eyes, she saw Elias staring at her through an expression she could not quite interpret. She felt seen and understood in a way she had never experienced before, something in the way he looked at her.

She whispered, "Thank you," her voice full of emotion.

Elias nodded, with a fine smile tugging at the corners of his lips, "Luna, you are not alone in this. Remember that.”

Luna felt a glimmer of hope spring alive. As they stood together in the garden, the moonlight cast a soft glow about them. For the first time in a long time, she didn't feel so lost, even if the road ahead would be long and full of difficulties. She was Luna Grey now, and she would do whatever it took to follow her path.