The blood rite was brutal. It always has been. It was a tradition going on for centuries and wouldn't change for anyone. Not for men. And definitely not for women. She was kidnapped and forced to be a part of the rite. Despite of the injuries she had, she was determined to make it to the end. It was either survival, or death. No in between. People couldn't be trusted there. And she had no intentions of trusting anyone. Especially not the illyrian following behind her, looking everywhere keenly as if trying to protect her from any further injuries. He could have killed her. Yet he didn't.

"It's going to be dark soon. We can spend the night in the cave. You are hurt and can't go for long anyways." It didn't sound like a suggestion considering the finality of his tone.