Lysera shook her head desperately, struggling harder.
"Kana! No! Don't do this—"
The blade pressed harder against her neck, cutting her words short as a bead of blood trailed down.
"Silence her."
Irielle's father ordered coldly. The guard holding Lysera clamped a hand over her mouth, muffling her protests.
Kana's stomach churned. Rage simmered in her chest, but she swallowed it down, forcing herself to play along for now. '
'I can't fight like this. Not yet. But I'll find a way. I have to.
The elder elf seemed satisfied as he turned toward the door.
"Take them to the ritual hall. The goddess will be pleased. Tonight, she will descend, and our people will finally receive her blessing in full."
The guards shoved Kana forward, forcing her to walk. Her wrists throbbed in the tight ropes, but she didn't stumble.
Irielle's muffled cries echoed in the background as they left her cell, dragging her along as well.
