It did not take long for the villagers to return, and the sad weight of their loss cut a hole in Alyssa.
She allowed them to say goodbye to their most precious possessions—a favorite keepsake, treasure, weapon, trophy, wife, or their children, since different people value different things. Some tried to barter, and others glared at her with angry hatred.
“Remember this day and what I can do if I wish. Take back what is yours and value it, and do not anger me again, or I will take everything from you. These three Elder Trees will remain, watching over you until the last magic drains from the world, and you will not wash the blood from those marked houses. It will remind you to honor those in whose hands your lives rest. Sylbia? I am tired, and I wish to sleep,” she allowed her horse to
