Aiden stepped onto the low central dais. Isolde walked at his side, quiet and steady. He didn't need to raise his voice. Everyone already listened when he spoke.
"The light has grown loud," he said. "Tonight I quiet it with my cock. Each of you will offer yourself. I will claim the ones whose honesty burns brightest. This is the Claiming Circle."
A ripple moved through the room. No one spoke. No one dared.
Cat stepped forward first. Her chin was up, eyes steady. "I offer myself. For Lulu."
Aiden crooked a finger. She climbed the dais without hesitation. He turned her so she faced the circle, then pulled her dress down to her waist. Her breasts spilled free. He slid two fingers between her legs. She was already wet.
"Tell them why you're here," he said, pumping his fingers slowly in and out.
Cat's voice came out tight. "Because the fractures need balance. And because I want it."
He smiled against her ear. "Good girl."
