Soft musical instruments filled the air as everyone quieted down. The glowing lanterns swayed gently with the breeze, casting a warm light over the gathering. Even the full moon was there, casting its own light on the field. Eira stood tall on the wooden podium, her voice clear as she addressed the crowd.
"Tonight, we gather not just to celebrate a boy growing older, but to welcome a new adult into our world. A new protector, a new dreamer, and maybe... a future leader."
The crowd clapped lightly, some already teary-eyed.
Like his friends, whom he grew up with.
Celina watched silently, her arms crossed. She was attending a ceremony for the first time. It was probably the first she had ever attended, both in her past life and present.
Clyde stepped forward. He looked like he couldn't have been more than sixteen. His long silver hair had been tied back, and a simple leaf-shaped pin glinted on his chest, an emblem of the Elves' royalty.
