Lukas couldn’t tell how long he had been out. The candle in the hallway was out again, or maybe his eyes were just swollen shut. Either way the room was filled with darkness. But he didn’t need to be able to see the damage in order to feel the bruises starting to form. Everything hurt and the taste of blood still lingered in his mouth. But even though it hurt to move, or even breathe, Lukas couldn’t help but smile at the memory of Artony, red faced and bleeding. If his life was soon to be over, at least, this once, he had stood up for himself. If he had known how good it would feel, he would have done it years ago. A laugh bubbled in his chest but a sharp pain in his ribs killed the mirth pretty fast. Tentative fingers checked his ribs, they were tender and bruised, maybe a few fractures, but nothing seemed broken. Not that it would matter in a couple hours, but still it was nice to know.

 - - -

The hours passed by while Lukas reflected on his short life. He had never felt like he fit in here, but learning and practising the skill of an apothecary had been the one gift Allwood had given him. It was a shame he would never get to finish his book, but of all the regrets and what-ifs the one that plagued him the most at this moment, was Wilt. If all those years of dreams had been leading to this, then fate had a mean sense of humour. He just wished he could have learnt more about him and had just one last chance to try and sketch his likeness.

 - - -

When the trapdoor finally opened again it was almost a relief to see Sheriff Eelroy and Marko. Eelroy was dressed in his official uniform and smelled like he had actually taken an effort to bathe for once.

“Lukas Quince, you have been found guilty of conspiracy to commit a crime, being an accessory to theft and withholding information in aid of a criminal. We, the people of Roads End, have passed judgement on your crimes and sentenced you to death by hanging.” Eelroy formally announced the charges and sentence like a person would list the ingredients for a cake. Marko hovered nearby, the quirk of a smile as he intently watched for Lukas’ reaction. But Artony’s visit had already spoiled the surprise and he seemed rather disappointed at Lukas impassive expression.

“It seems an awfully harsh sentence considering I’m not even charged with committing the crime myself.” Lukas looked straight into Eelroy’s eyes. “Whatever it was that he stole, Horth must be breathing down your necks about it. But you know, killing me will only appease him for so long.”

Marko raised his hand to Lukas but a grunt from his father stilled him and instead he grabbed Lukas by his collar and hauled him to his feet. His legs shook unsteadily as they struggled to hold his weight. Sleeping on the cold stone floor after being beaten up had not helped the ache in his joints and muscles.

By the time Lukas had climbed up the ladder what little strength he had left him, but he refused to lean on Marko as he shuffled to the main door.

“Last chance boy; tell me his name and you’ll be spared,” Eelroy offered as Marko bound his wrists behind his back with a rough length of rope.

“I’ll pass on your offer if it’s all the same to you.”

Eelroy sneered and gave a nod to his son.

“Thought you might have chickened out at the end there, which would have been a shame; as I get to be your executioner.” Marko whispered as he tugged the rope tighter.