Harvest Festival went on and filled the valley with color and sound under clear skies. Lanterns swayed from every post. Tables groaned with fresh bread, roasted meats, and baskets of ripe apples.
The pack moved with easy laughter while music played from the raised platform near the river. I stood at the center with the kings beside me, watching Lila lead Thorne and Elara through the crowd with confident steps.
This year the children had asked to help with the main ceremony. They wanted to show the pack how their gifts worked together. I had agreed after long talks with the kings. The time had come to declare them fully as heirs with protected roles.
Music quieted as the family approached the old wooden bridge spanning the river. The structure had stood for generations, but recent rains had weakened several supports.
The children stopped at the center span. Lila raised her hands first. A wide shimmer spread around the bridge, strengthening every plank and joint.
