The magic at the end of it all, when Isika was transported back to Maween, had been so wild and bright, like nothing dreamed of, nothing foreseen. But, of course, it must have been foreseen; the Shaper must have fathomed it. While they traveled back to Azariyah, slowly for the elders, Isika had time to go over it in her mind, so she would never forget.
What she remembered was standing with Auntie and Kebede at the lakeshore, watching the Emperor advance on them with his people. There were masked soldiers like the ones Isika had seen in the vision, with black boots and clothing. And other people, all wearing dull-colored robes and habits or face coverings. As they continued to move toward Isika and the others, the three in the middle removed their veils so that Isika could see them clearl
