Vengeance served Hot

Witch burnings tend to attract a big audience around here. Oh, I understand that it's probably inadvisable to be seen to avoid them, leads to questions, to suspicions.

That said too many take an unholy glee in seeing their fellows burn.

When I was ten they burned my grandmother.

At the time I thought it was horrible. Now with mature eyes I see it for what it was. A land grab, pure and simple. Not only was it horrible, it was evil.

So here I am about to attend a witch burning again. This one is going to be very different.

The victim this time is poor Alice Cobbler. Her 'crime' is being a bit slow, and having a lazy eye. Some fat farmer's sow died unexpectedly, so naturally it was witchcraft, which presupposes a witch, enter Alice stage right.

I'd say she's no more a witch than I am. But then, that isn't true. She isn't any sort of witch at all, that's certainly true.

I arrived nice and early, and passed the time of day with many of my former neighbours, none of whom recognised me now. Twelve long years I've spent, learning my craft. Well now I'm back. Briefly.

Twelve years has added weight to Farmer Hammnet, but no grace. He is the largest land owner around here, and by the by was able to claim my grandmother's small plot of land as 'compensation' for her evil doings.

The whole village and many others from those nearby have gather now. It's time to begin.

"Farmer Hammnet." I declare in a loud clear voice. "You have the wrong woman. That poor girl is no witch, but I am."

Hammnet splutters, then tells his sons and the villagers in general to seize me.

"Be still." I command, and my words are heeded for they carry my power.

"Set her free."

When the sobbing woman is released I face Hammnet.

"I am a witch Joseph Hammnet, and I sold my soul to the Devil to become so."

Hammnet looks scared now, and again urges my capture. But it is not to be.

"I claim vengeance for my grandmother, and for all those innocents that you have burned."

At this the pyre prepared for Alice bursts into flame. I step forwards.

"Come with me Joseph Hammnet."

I turn to the crowd.

"And let there be no further witch burnings, or I shall return."

Hammnet is sweating as he is compelled by my magics to take my hand. Then I lead him howling into the flames, and on to Hell itself.

"The Witch is back and there's hell to pay."