The next day, Kyra didn't wake up early. All the males had to attend the pre-sunrise rituals, which were specifically for mated or soon-to-be-mated males. It wasn't necessary for Kyra to be involved in this part of the ceremony, so they let her sleep peacefully.
Vincent, Lucas, Damon, and Oceanus quietly prepared themselves, ensuring they didn't disturb Kyra as they left. Since the ceremony required only mated males, Simon, being single, decided to stay back. He had seen the rituals before and took it upon himself to keep watch over Kyra, ensuring her safety in their absence.
At the sapphire river, all the males were gathered for the ritual. An old priest, white-bearded elder with long flowing hair surveyed them with satisfaction. Each of the males was dressed in the traditional brown skirts that reached their knees, belts adorned with the mark of soaring eagles.
