Ari’s POV

The sun was cutting through the shattered roof of the ancient stone temple, and reducing the dust in the air into minute flying sparks. Harriet was sitting cross-legged before me, with her little hands on her knees, and her eyes concentrated. She was as excited, ready, and somehow too mature for her years.

She said, Mommy, may I have the herbs this time?

Yes, I can, said I, tying my hair behind. "Just be gentle. These herbs are strong. When they are crushed too hard, the magic will blow.

Harriet giggled. "I won't crush them. I promise."

I could see her take up the dried sage leaves and...