"Probably for the black market. Wild dragons are either kept as pets or in small private zoos. In the beginning of the war it was a form of payback." Sudden another cry goes out. The thief had injured himself with a hidden knife. As he could under elven law, but it's a sure sign of guilt. However doing that  is seen as the more honorable way to die. "The sprite that took them is guilty. Unfortunately she won't be able to do much with him now except maybe make him a meal." Most of the villagers turn away. Sometimes their justice can be rather morbid.