The watchers flickered, lights undulating into branches then fading into fullness of morning sun.
They returned to center circle where breakfast awaited. Flatcakes, sweet porridge, sliced fruits. Conversation light but reverent. The sense of togetherness palpable: wives chuckled while children recited watchersign taught yesterday. Seeds for ritual lay beside them, glowing subtly.
Jude rose afterward, voice steady. "We move today to reach the watchers' waypoints at the glade beyond waterfall, and again deeper to the mountain's second cairn. Our offerings mark progress. We map with watchers and vow to share findings at home circle."
Grace warmed his hand. "We'll come for the orchard tonight before dusk, but first we must walk forest's deeper heartbeat."