watched in disbelief and gratitude as two of the Templars sprang from their mounts to stand, swords drawn beside Gudrun. Two others jumped from their horses onto the gallows.

### A sword flashed above Steele's head. He felt a sudden tug on the rope as the razor-sharp blade sliced through the rope's fibres.

### The second Templar cut the cords binding Steele's hands behind his back. Not used to being disobeyed the executioner advanced on the Templars.

"Stand down, scumbag!" Taking no heed of the warning, the hangman raised his hand. He swung wildly at the Templar who nonchalantly raised his shield. Cursing loudly, he nursed his broken hand. Seizing the moment Steele kicked the hangman in the back of his leg. Twisting the rope around the hangman's neck Steele pulledI accept and would be happy to offer you another loan if needed. Let's say this one is a new brass bell. It should fit nicely in the tower." Smiling benignly the Bishop nodded.

"I accept d'Arcy. I would be happy to release the prisoners into your custody but let it be known that if either set foot on the holy ground or in fact anywhere near here, I will have their heads." Rubbing his hands greedily the Bishop signed for a new loan. He later regretted not having read the small print. The interest on the loan was double the previous one.

"Thank you, John. We owe you our lives." Steele shook John's hand warmly. "Not to worry Steele. To be honest, the lads were a bit bored. Not