Chapter 15
The next day, the people of Ruby City carried all the metal they could find in their homes to the blacksmith’s forge. Goblets, candelabras, hoes and scythes were soon piled in a high heap in front of the craftsman’s workshop. After the morning bell-ringing, the priest made his way to the forge as well, followed by four strong, young men carrying the dismounted church bell.
“It will be of greater service this way,” the priest explained to the blacksmith, who had stuck his head out of the smithy. “I’m sure the Lord will forgive us.” He priest traced a holy sign in the air before turning on his heel and setting off back to the church.
In Jeriel’s house, Ben stood hunched over the table, chewing the stub of a half-used pencil. On one side were the remains of breakfast – a plate w
