Sun Mote Copse pearldust

eshamun's lips curled in a small smile. "molech is our god. molech is neither male nor female, and takes the form of an eight-armed creature. the god smiles upon us, brings forth the sun and the rain, and we in turn please molech with our actions, words, and deeds." she looked to ragna then, pleased that the shieldmaiden remained. "we are a place of holiness and also an encampment where women dominate and men are the caretakers of the children born."

"go forth and bring children into the world for molech's service, yes, but in order to keep molech from turning the wicked eye upon us, we select one child to be given back to the god. no litter is exempt. this year i returned all four of my children to molech." eshamun fought the catch of her voice, forcing herself onward: "thus know that while there are not restrictions here, i will select from among your children, and any others born this year, to be given up to the god."