I believe that Tom picked up the oath and ritual as an initiation ceremony of sorts. This is how they pledge loyalty to the group and it means a lot to them. I assume that drawing blood for the group means you’re bounded in blood.
Answer:
im pretty sure it is the winter hibiscus
Explanation:
When Saeng sees the plant she has been looking for—the winter hibiscus—she feels an intense shock of recognition. It is just like the plants she remembers from her childhood home. At the end of the passage, Saeng feels a sense of connection and is content.
New York should be correct :)