Against her will, Katelina moved toward the doors. She was vaguely aware of Jorick shouting behind her, and of someone holding her arm. She pulled free and headed outside.

The National Guardsmen were clustered in the light, their guns pointed at the darkness.

"Identify yourself," one of them shouted. With the detached observation of a dream, Katelina noticed that his hands shook.

Something moved beyond the shadows. Then, she saw him. He stood, his head down. ...