By sunset, the witch's form is lost under the heavy justice of the people. The villagers cheer and hold each other, celebrating their triumph against evil. With full hearts, they head back down the mountain, for a spirit of Thanatos can only be killed under the light of dawn, and they have done more than enough good for the day. Unable to keep the pace of the other townsfolk, the cripple stays behind. It doesn't matter how late he arrives, as long as no one sees the shameful walk that delays him.

Psst.

He looks around.

"Stay."