Chapter 20

I might as well get over with it,Cillian thought. He had not figured a way out of his situation and had come to accept his destiny and its inevitable conclusion. But Pepys said no rush. After removing his gag and untying his legs, Cillian took time to stretch and flex his muscles. He might not survive the morning but he would not make it easy for the constable and his deputies. When he felt as ready as he’d ever be, he made his way outside.

Pepys, his sons, the constable, and two deputies sat on their mounts.

“Not much of a contest,” Cillian said with unmasked sarcasm.

“If you prefer we could take you to the village square and hang you,” Pepys said, sounding confused by the comment.

“Let’s get this over with, Father,” Arten said. “This has gone on far too long.”

“We should have executed him in the town center like we wanted,” Dodd whined.