“I don’t believe he will demand much of me.”

“Why would you think that of an evil man?” Slatter asked.

“The Slayer is not an evil man. He’s an honorable man. Tarass seems familiar with the Slayer’s deeds and told me of a few of them. Those the Slayer killed were bad people. People without hearts… without souls. There was no justice for what was done to the innocent and so those left behind, those who loved the ones who died turned to the Slayer for help. And perhaps he does send those souls to the devil, but the Slayer’s soul is a good one and the devil can never touch it.” She yawned. “The only thing that I can’t figure out is how this Slayer lives as long as he has. And I do hope the Slayer sees to Sterling quickly so all threats of him are gone. Though…”

“Though?” Slatter questioned.

“I worry that your father may come after you when he learns of Sterling’s death.”

“I’m not worried about that. He won’t acknowledge me for fear I will try to claim his title and land.”

“You can’t do that if you’re dead,” she argued, fighting another yawn.

“Trust me. He’ll want nothing to do with me. Now it’s time you slept. You need the rest to make sure that arm heals properly.

“As you say, husband,” she said playfully.

“Now that’s what I like… an obedient wife.” He chuckled when he got a jab in the ribs. “Now I know you definitely are healing well.”

“I do love you, husband,” Willow said, her eyes drifting closed.

“And I you, wife, with all my heart,” Slatter said.

He waited until he was sure Willow was asleep, then carefully left the bed, positioning the pillows so she would feel that she remained wrapped around him. He didn’t like leaving her, but he had no choice.

He made his way down to his grandmother’s room and entered to find her sitting by the hearth.

“Are you sure you want to do this?” his grandmother asked, walking over to him.

“It has to be me,” Slatter said.

“And Dunn,” his grandmother all but commanded.

“I’ve already tasked Owen with the chore and he was pleased to accept and revenge his friend Rhodes, since Dunn no doubt waited nearby while Tyler carried out the task. Besides, you know as well as I do this must be done.”

“You will be careful,’ his grandmother reminded.

“I will.” Slatter kissed his grandmother’s cheek. “And you know what to do.”

She nodded and watched her grandson leave the room, her heart heavy with worry.

Slatter hurried down the stairs to see it done and as he did a shadow slipped out from the darkness and slowly opened the door and entered the room.

“I’ll have the truth now. No more lies, Seanmhair.”

Seanmhair smiled and nodded. “Join me by the hearth, Willow, and I will tell you the tale of the Slayer.”