Preparing for the Dedication

The high priest led the trio down the corridor back to the courtyard. In the center, wood was being stacked for the bonfire tonight. She noticed that many of the people in the courtyard were adding to the pile. As Misty got closer she could see that the people weren't just adding sticks. Tiny, folded bits of paper and wooded figurines in different sizes stuck out of the pile. Kason could see her confusion.

"Those papers have wishes or burdens written on them. The little figures represent our ancestors who have passed away." He pulled out a tiny figure of his own and placed it in her hand. It was carved into the shape of a wolf and had a name carved on the bottom.

"Brenna Colvel?" Kason nodded.

"She was my mother." Kason walked over and tucked the figure into the stack of wood, taking care not to disturb the pile. Almost as soon as he walked away, others came and stacked more wood, notes, and figures on top. Misty was amazed at the care and respect everyone had.