[This is sounding rather like a long-term problem. The very idea sends her gut sinking, has her lips pressing into a bloodless line.]

How many people are trapped here? Is there a wall around the city, or some kind of enchanted barrier?

[Her eyes flick from his face to his palm. Now she feels a bit silly for demanding he test for poison, if what he's saying is true. Still, better safe than sorry. She drops the other half into his waiting hand. Prick my finger once, shame on you, etc. etc.]

And just who is in charge? I'd like to speak with them, right away.