The purification room is cold, with two bloodstained bodies. The faint smell of death lingers as two workers of Ruku, holding bows, talk in concerned tones.

"He is not here," one says, his voice sharp, deliberate.

"We must find him," the other replies, his words clipped with urgency. "He cannot be purified."

Without another word, they go outside. They turn and split off into opposite directions, in the jungle.

---

The air is heavy with the scent of earth and crushed leaves. Nimina sits beneath the ancient tree, its gnarled roots curling like the veins of an old hand. She holds a single leaf between her fingers, her eyes tracing its delicate veins. She seems to drift, lost in a memory---

"It’s a girl," the midwife whispers, her voice tinged with awe. "Look how beautiful she is."

The scene unfolds in her mind like a film reel. Nimina is younger, her face glowing with exhaustion and joy. She gazes down at the tiny, smiling form in her arms. The baby’s skin is soft, flushed, and warm against her chest.

"Imina," she whispers, her voice trembling with love. "It means beauty. My baby is Imina."

The room is silent but for the rhythmic sound of the baby’s breaths. Nimina feels her world shrink to this single, fragile life.

But then, the quiet is pierced by another voice, faint at first. She looks up to see Vimi standing in the doorway, tall and imposing.

"Are you happy?" he asks, his tone unreadable.

Nimina’s smile is radiant, unwavering. "I’m very happy. Look how beautiful she is!"

Vimi steps closer, his expression softening, almost tender. "Of course! Lord Kraa will love her." Tears fall from his eyes.

Her smile disappears for a moment. "What do you mean?" she asks, her voice tight.

He smiles brighter, his wet eyes glowing now. "Didn't you hear me? She is made for lord Kraa. It’s her purpose."

For a moment, she says nothing, studying his face. Then, she smiles again, though it does not reach her eyes.

A faint rustle pulls her back to the present.

The memory dissipates like smoke. Her hand tightens around the bow at her side. The footsteps grow louder.

Nimina rises, her movements fluid, silent. Her eyes narrowing as the figure steps into view. It’s her son. Relief mingles with her ever-present fear.

---

"Find him! I don't want any trouble in my village" Ruku's look is furious, his voice screaming rage.

Standing in front of Ruku, with a bow in his hand, Vimi says in a deeper voice "I will."