The Jewish custom of praying three times a day, i.e.
The night before, he'd left his dying mate, praying he was able to save her life.
Exhausted, she reached them some time later, praying for a break or a snack or something!
They waged a silent battle, and Bianca opened her eyes, praying with everything she was worth that the small woman-- whoever she was-- would win.
She held her breath and stayed still, praying their interest was passing, and they'd move on.