The watchers shimmered. One drifted forward and touched the basket. Blue light pulsed into the slips, then withdrew. The watchers faded back.
The wives exhaled. Relief, joy, worship pervaded. They embraced. Laughed with husky tones. Grace kissed Jude deeply, their lips tasting of smoke and earth and offering.
---
Night fell with gentle hush. The orchard glowed faintly with candles, ribbons, symbols. The watchers stood just beyond, silent guardians. Jude walked out to the boundary line alone, Grace following after a moment, steps quiet.
He looked at the watchers. "Thank you," he whispered.
They remained still.
He exhaled, an offering of breath.
Grace came to his side. "Do you think it worked?"
He touched her waist. "Yes. It deepened something. I feel it." He paused. "Tomorrow, they may come closer. Or speak."
She pressed her head against him. "We'll be ready."
