The Dollmage

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My people, lay down your stones.

Before you stone this Annakey Rainsayer, you know it is the law and her right to have her story told. It is my duty as Dollmage to tell it. Each villager has the right to one stone, and no one will forbid you to throw it. But listen to me, and when I am done each of you will decide for yourselves if this Annakey is worthy of execution.

That is right. Lay the stones at your feet, keep them close by if it comforts you. So few of you? The stones will get heavy before the story is done.

How your hands itch to throw your stones. You hate her. You blame her for what has happened to our village. You see how I understand you? Good — now let me increase your understanding.

You see Manal standing behind me, the biggest stone of all in his hand? That stone is for whoever first casts a stone at his Annakey. He cannot fight you all, of course, but the stone he holds will take off the head of one of you. Who will be the one? Which one of you will it be?

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