Rose stepped behind her, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Then the island chose you."
Kael turned, breath caught in her throat. "Why?"
"Because it's ready," Lucy said, reaching for Jude's hand. "To be more."
Night fell, and the ritual began again - but different this time. No urgency. No wildness. Just invitation. The new arrivals sat in awe as Jude and his wives danced in firelight, bodies painted in pollen and ash, limbs moving with ancient grace. There was no shame. No modesty. Only truth.
Kael stepped forward first, loosening the wrap from her hips, baring her body to the light.
Jude met her gaze.
She came to him slowly.
She kissed him gently.
And the island breathed.
From the heartstone, a new light began to rise - deeper, redder, more primal.
The second wave had begun.