In the confusion, several figures tried to slip away unseen.
Ismerie gave Shadow a quiet glance, he nodded, and signaled his men to follow them silently.
Caedmon stood close, still staring at the clear sky.
"It stopped… it truly stopped!" He turned to her, half skeptical, half awed. "Do you wield some magic? Or are you unlike other folk?"
Ismerie almost laughed, and let it pass.
She stepped forward and spoke clearly to the weeping crowds.
"The worst is over. I shall send word to the Council at once... every hand that has been stolen from you will be brought to account. We shall rebuild your homes at the realm's cost. None here shall be forgotten." She turned, and gestured to Leontis.
He started, slowly loosening his grip on the blade at his waist.
"This is Leontis Thornecroft, sent
