It was a lot to take in.

From every direction he was assailed by sights, scents, and sounds of unimaginable scale and volume, the fervent chatter of partygoers a steady hum against the backdrop of singing and dancing and laughter. It was overwhelming, especially for a child.

Oberon was fine, though.

Somehow he possessed an innate ability to turn off his surroundings like a switch. Within the halls of his mind, it was peaceful and quiet, and he weaved between the legs of the gathered adults with surprising steadiness and grace. It felt as if he were looking out from behind a pane of glass; safe, calm, curious. He liked watching the others. Every now and then he would swivel an ear to tune in on some interesting conversation, but then he would quickly become distracted by the curious-looking wolves of Tianlong. So noble! So proper!

So different from his family, he thought idly. He didn't know if he liked it or not.

As Oberon processed these formulating thoughts, he actually did become so lost in his own brain he bumped into someone.

Oh, he mumbled. Sorry.

But he was surprised to see another kid like him!

Hi, he said shyly, I'm Obie.