A bonfire climbed the evening, taller than men, sparks flying. Drums kept a steady heart. Torches ringed the crowd. The elders stood in dark coats along the west edge; the children in white held baskets of petals at the north rail. “Torches up," an officer called.
“Torches," the line echoed.
Derrick stood with Father, scanning the square.
“On my right," Father said without looking.
“I know," Derrick said.
Daisy descended on Derrick's arm. Silk moved to the drums. The pearls in her hair caught the blaze and made their own small moons. She smiled at elders, children, cousins. “You look divine."
“Luna-born."
“The Goddess herself will ask your name."
Daisy inclined her head, the exact amount. “The Goddess knows it," she said lightly. “I hope she is kind to all of us tonight."
Amanda d
