The garden itself spoke at dawn in a voice made of wind and root and every flower turned toward us like a hundred open eyes.
I froze with Julian’s hand in mine. “Did you hear that?”
“Yes,” he said. “It said the center must renew or the new threads will fray. That is us.”
The whole circle woke at the sound. Neri from the water reaches hurried over. “The ground shook on our side. What does the garden want?”
Kael came from the fire path. “Deeper heat is restless. It asks for the claim to be shown again. Strong and open.”
Talia held Daren’s arm. “The kids felt it too. Quiet grove is restless.”
Julian raised his voice so everyone could hear. “The garden demands renewal from the center bond. Liam and I will answer it. We do it with clear words. Anyone who wants to witness or support with v
