In a broad, open clearing, three hundred mortals, well fed and well rested after several days, were chanting hymns in loud voices as they praised the Lord of Dawn.2

As they reached the line, "willing to give my all for the purification of evil," a faint holy radiance seeped from their bodies, then gathered into many humanoid figures formed entirely of light.0

Some of these figures shone brilliantly, vivid and lifelike; others were dim and indistinct.0

Without exception, all of them had grasped the power of holy light, and they had done so in only three days.0

The price, however, soon became apparent. As the light condensed, many of the commoners' hair began to turn white, and fine wrinkles appeared on their faces.1

Watching the scene unfold, Starfall nodded in satisfaction.0

This was the true purpose of those three...0