The sand had been swept by the wind and weather until it was smooth and unmarred by infrequent footprints, the sound of the ocean no more than a distant memory. Coastal scrubs, punctuated by gnarled and twisted trees, formed a circle around the patch of powdery white sand, as if it knew not to encroach on the sacred space. At midnight, with the moon at its zenith, no shadow touched the ring of flickering candles that sometimes illuminated the clearing. This was a powerful place, especially when the elements were perfectly aligned. Wishes spoken tended to come true, and promises made by word or by deed were rendered indestructible. For…