The forest hummed with ancient power as our small group gathered in the clearing. Dusk had settled, bathing everything in soft purple light that gradually deepened to blue. Soon, only the bright silver of the full moon would illuminate the sacred space.
"It's magnificent," I whispered to Kaelen, clutching Rhys tightly to my chest. He looked adorable in his traditional blue ceremonial outfit, his silver eyes wide with curiosity at the unfamiliar surroundings.
"This grove has been used for dedication ceremonies for centuries," Kaelen explained, his hand protective at the small of my back. "My father was dedicated here. I was dedicated here. And now our son will be."
