I didn't know how much time had passed before I finally regained consciousness.
When I opened my eyes, I realized I was lying flat in a cave within the Land of Blessings, surrounded by more than a dozen savage women.
Each of them was petite, dressed in long burlap robes that covered most of their faces, making it difficult to see their features clearly.
I tried to move but quickly discovered I was tied down. My body lay stretched out on a platform, with all four of my limbs bound to wooden stakes by ropes.
I couldn't move at all.
The group of women, led by Eva, stood with their heads bowed and eyes closed as though performing some kind of prayer.
I shut my eyes again, pretending to still be unconscious.
In the dim light, the ritual eventually came to an end. Most of the women gradua
