ELIA
The problems only started after they put those herbs on the bonfire.
Until then, Elia was surprised to find the ceremony had almost been boring—mostly long speeches and songs punctuated by the occasional joke about first time mating.
But then the drums started. Reminded of the Rite earlier, Elia's heart raced and she started to shake. Reth took her hand and leaned into her ear, "No more killing, I promise."
She nodded, but her heart didn't slow.
