As I speak the words that release my son from the curse and finally grant him the peaceful rest of the blessed dead, the spirits that surround us fade. Now, before me stands the present Lord of the Manor, holding close his cousin. Hovering protectively about them both is her pale, gaunt manservant and the Phantom Wolf, my old friend whose ancient charge overrides even his loyalty and friendship to me. The woman on the table, dressed so oddly, stands ready to add her strength to the defense of these, my living kin. The Lord of the Manor speaks, his rich tones carrying over the murmurs that begin to rise from his guests. They cease to speak as they listen to him. He tells me his feeling that all is but a trap, set to ensnare us all. He seems aware of the greater threat that lay below, a threat created by his distant sire Godwine, but unaware of its real threat to all that live. He stands proud and calm, waiting the fate that lays once again in my hands. A fate that was decided mere moments before. All eyes turn to me and the air within the room is heavy with anticipation. With a great sigh, I slide Slayer in his ebon scabbard. “The curse I laid on Godwine is lifted. His sin forgiven. All who have passed before are now granted rest. Those who come after will live and die according to their own will.” I pause before I pronounce my final judgment. “But be warned. Those who seek the Darkness will be forever damned to the Darkness. This I swear by Mother Earth and Father Sky.” I turn to leave.