Book 4. Chapter 36
"Gather round, men. We have a situation," said Cid.
While everyone moved their horses to huddle up, Brin made a show of looking in every direction with the mostly-fake spyglass. Then he put it away.
"There's a [Witch] in Dustrim, of unknown ability and power. In addition, at least three bands of goblins are converging on this position. We must assume that the [Witch] and goblins are somehow working in concert with the aim of destroying our Lance." Brin looked around to make sure the men understood the seriousness of the situation. "The group between us and the Broken Stone fortress is the smallest. If we move quick we should be able to break through. Then we can rally their knights there and ride to save Dustrim."
Cid shook his head. "We can't get there and back in time. That group to the south will go straight through the town on their way to us."
Had Brin unconsciously traded the lives of the people in that town for the lives of his men? Maybe he had, but now that Cid pointed it out he knew they couldn't leave the town to rot.
"We can ride to the southest. The goblins following us will change their course away from the town," said Brin.
"And if they aren't after us they will continue on to destroy the town regardless," said Cid. "No. Our duty is clear. We will enter the town and defend it against the goblins. The only part I'm not sure of is the [Witch]. Brin, you've faced [Witches] before. Tell us how to subdue her."
"Let me make one thing clear; there is no way to subdue a [Witch]. If we enter that town, we will have to kill her. She will not look like a [Witch]. She will likely look young and beautiful. She will definitely appear to be innocent. There will only be one chance to strike her down: before she opens her mouth for the first time. [Inspect] will not call her a [Witch]. You will not see her commit any crimes. Marksi will detect her, I will point my finger, and then every single weapon in this Lance will aim for her neck. If there is a single member of this Lance who thinks that he cannot strike down an unarmed woman in broad daylight, then please raise your hand now."
No one raised their hand, and Brin wished that someone would. He could use that to say that the Lance wasn't determined enough and convince Cid to stay out of Dustrim. He eyed them one by one, pleading with his eyes, hoping that someone would give him the excuse, but no one did. Even Cowl met his eyes, looking calm and placid as always.