The prisoner was taken to the gaol behind the manor and Sir Dain spoke at length to the reeve. Their biggest fear was that the outlaws would return. As the knight began preparations for Mellester's defence, the reeve returned to the rectory to speak to Cathal and Priest Benedict about tending to the injured.

Charlotte sat on a chair and held Odo's hand as the reeve spoke to the Irishman.

Suddenly Charlotte felt Odo's hand pull from her grasp. She ...