For the next two hours, we waited. Ruis and Isobeau, two healers and a couple of women who were part of the Guard were in one of the house yurts with Shala, the warrior who was first spotted on the hill. Beside her, in her hawk form, was Bhasi. No one else was allowed in with them. The Daughters gathered in small groups, speaking quietly with one another.

“Sisters,” Pua said, standing on a bench in front of the group, “we are all very concerned for Shala and Bhasi, and your incant...