Ruby,

Woof, lady. A harsh tale, which reaffirms in my heart that I hate creating evil characters. Just the old romantic in me, I guess.

Excellent story (as is "Blood and Betrayal", by the way).

I keep hoping for John Wayne or Randolph Scott (whispered "Randolph Scott") to ride in and save the day for the victimized lady. Not likely, though. Zeus knows how she survives....