The sun had just begun to set over the valley as Malindi made her way through the forest. Long shadows stretched between the trees as the light faded from the sky. Soon it would be night, and the gathering would begin.
Malindi walked with purpose, knowing the path well after many years of
treading it. Though the deepening twilight obscured her vision, she did not
falter in her step. She was not afraid of the dark. As the last rays of
sunlight disappeared below the distant hills, she began to see - to see with
more than just her eyes.
A glow emerged in the forest ahead, a warm and welcoming light that guided her way. Firelight flickered between the tree trunks, calling her nearer. As she broke through the edge of the trees, the gathering came into view. Figures moved about the clearing, their forms illuminated by the great bonfire.
Malindi walked into the light, and the others turned to greet her. Warm smiles and nods of acknowledgment met her arrival. This was her family, her people, brought together under the night sky for purpose and comfort. As the eldest among them, it fell to Malindi to begin the rituals and lead the gathering in its sacred acts.
She moved to stand before the fire, feeling its heat upon her skin. Lifting her arms, she called out in a clear voice that carried across the clearing. "Friends, we have come together as we have for generations past. The light of day has fled, and night embraces the land. Now it is time for our light to shine."
The others joined their voices with Malindi's in response. As one, they sang the songs of their ancestors, songs that wove magic into the night. Drums began to beat, their rhythmic pulse joining the music. Bodies swayed and spirits soared on the crest of the melodies.
Malindi felt the power rising within the circle, the power that belonged to the darkness as much as the light. It swirled around them, through them, connecting each soul to the others. As the last notes faded upon the air, a hush fell once more. All eyes turned to Malindi in anticipation of what was to come.
Reaching into a leather pouch at her waist, Malindi withdrew a handful of herbs and held them to the fire. Fragrant smoke curled upward, carrying her words to wherever else they may reach. "Great spirit of the night, we call upon your presence. Lend us your wisdom and mysteries, that we may walk in harmony with all that is unseen as well as seen."
The smoke swirled and danced upon the breeze as if responding to Malindi's invitation. A rustling rose from the forest edge, though no physical form emerged. Malindi nodded, sensing the spirit's arrival though unseen. She tossed another pinch of herbs upon the flames.
"Tonight we celebrate life and the blessings of this land. We honor the passing of loved ones into whatever lies beyond our sight. We seek guidance for the challenges yet to come, and give thanks for strength to meet them." Malindi's voice carried a tone of solemn reverence. The others added soft amens of agreement.
More herbs were cast upon the fire, sending up plumes of fragrance. Malindi closed her eyes and opened her senses, allowing the spirit's presence to fill her. Words not her own began to flow from her lips, words in a language as ancient as the trees surrounding them. A prophecy was delivered to the gathering, a glimpse of truths yet hidden, offered as a gift from the realm of dreams and shadows.
The spirit departed as swiftly and silently as it had come. Malindi exhaled slowly, feeling the last remnants of its power leave her. The rituals of the gathering were complete and now was the time for companionship, stories, and nourishment of body and soul.
Food was shared around the fire as easy conversation flowed. Tales were told of days past and hopes for days yet to be. Malindi sat listening with a smile, soaking in the warmth and light of the community. Though darkness enveloped the forest beyond the clearing, here in this sacred space there would be no lonely night. The light of friendship and purpose would shine on until the rising of the morning sun.
