Speak, O Holy One

Facing execution by burning, the Great Witch chose to betray. In doing so, she saved her life – at least until she could see her homeland reduced to ashes. Only then would she gladly embrace death.

The Inquisitor leading the witch hunt saw the Great Witch, and it was then that he began to doubt. He resolved to save her, even if it meant turning the sacred world to ash.

“I will destroy everything.”

Vienny’s eyes moved to her bound wrist, feeling the slight trembling in the big man’s fingers.

“I will burn everything you desire…”

The slight trembling in his fingers quickly disappeared as his grip tightened.

“Just give yourself to me.”

Vienny swallowed hard several times before finally answering with difficulty.

“You said that even God would reject this body.”

“God may indeed reject it,” he replied, his voice calm and steady.

“Which is why I will claim you and keep you by my side for the rest of my life.”

Vienny slowly lifted her head. In Maclath’s face, frighteningly cold, she saw the desperation that was all too familiar to her.

“Even if it means holding you and falling into hell together.”