Sophie stirred first, eyes fluttering open, golden with stardust and understanding. She didn't ask where he was going - she just rose and followed. Then Lucy. Then Rose. Then the rest, one by one, until the circle stood again, naked in the forest's hush, watching him, waiting for the next breath to pull them forward.
Jude turned his gaze eastward.
The spiral path glowed again - not bright, but insistent.
He walked, and they followed.
This time the trail narrowed, pressing close with thick vines and sweet-scented blossoms. The air grew humid, perfumed with something like nectar and rain. The moss became velvet underfoot. Birds did not sing. No animals stirred. Only the whisper guided them, a soft, constant presence.