I tossed fitfully, suffering nightmares and moments of terror in the brief moments I found unconsciousness, waking in the dark only to struggle with my mind again. When I started to my senses for the third or fourth time, I was certain it was just from another bad dream. Until I heard the shouting and saw the fire.

Riders wove their way among us, carrying torches. I watched in horror as one was tossed to the top of Nona's wagon and left to burn. I staggered to my feet, ...