XVI“I have two more muskets loaded” came Whelm's voice from the darkness. “I can't kill all of you, but I can take down another two. Who will it be?”
Nobody from the ring of masters moved. On the floor, Graves twitched, his feet working as if he was trying to run away, like a dog dreaming of the chase.
“Take their weapons,” called Whelm.
Finn watched their attackers warily as he reached for their blades and staves. “Don't get too close,” said Diane. “Make sure he has a clear shot.”
“Throw your weapons on the ground,” Finn said. “Then step back. Let us go and no one else will be harmed.”
Faces in the circle glared with fury and hatred. But also, with fear. There was more than one among them who hadn't been shouting and laughing. More than one who was there, most likely, for their own s
