As he was led through the city of Esthean, Justin tried to take everything in, but all he could focus on was the agony in his shoulder. Men and women in cloaks stood still as statues and watched silently as he and Kallorn passed. Others wore robes that reminded Justin of Zechariah. None of them approached. All watched from a distance as Kallorn led him under stone arches and beneath ancient edifices. No one said a word.

Crossing a small bridge, they were met by several silent, hooded ...