Ilay was so filled with excitement that she felt like jumping on her husband's back and riding him. Erkin's face displayed a troubled and dark expression, as if he were trapped and unsure how to escape. Finally, he turned to Sait. "Can her request be granted, Speaker?"

Sait, who had been staring at Erden intently without blinking, appeared momentarily surprised when he was called upon. He furrowed his brow, contemplating for a moment before nodding. "It's an unusual circumstance, Chieftain, but according to the law, the weak may request protection if the strong allow it. The Rite is only denied in cases of banishment or execution. Er... the witch woman...