With Mevis joining in, the so-called "summoning ceremonies" of the past seemed like child's play compared to the professional process they now had.
It was hard to imagine how, in such a harsh future, the eldest daughter and her siblings managed to maintain this Melkvey family tradition.

The losses from the past were tolerable since Mevis had given everyone fair warning early on.
But Constantine? He was another story entirely.

Accustomed to the solemnity and gravitas of the Red Flame Dragon clan, he had never witnessed such a peculiar scene.
Staring blankly at the lively spectacle in the backyard, he sighed yet again:
"Marriage is terrifying."

"Hefei! Noa! Moon! Muse!"
Hefei, curious and full of energy, wagged her little tail as she sprinted over.

The little red dragon dashed to Moon and, with stars in her eyes, exclaimed,
"Moon, what game are you all playing?"

For once, Moon, looking unusually serious, explained in a rare solemn tone,
"This isn't a game, Hefei."

"Then what is it?"