Righteous

"Righteous" is the second story in the Tales of the Slayers graphic novel. It was written by Joss Whedon, with art by Tim Sale, colored by Lee Loughridge and lettered by Richard Starkings.

Summary
Set in medieval England and told from the point of view a Watcher, the story tells of a young, deeply religous maiden who initially rejects her calling, believing that God would not curse her so. However she soon accepts her destiny, comparing it to the suffering of Christ. She studies and trains, and rejects her suitors, devoting herself to God. In the meantime she prepares for her battle with Saint Just, a powerful vampire making his way from town to town, leaving behind only ashes.

The holdfast is attacked by St. Just, who climbs the walls protecing it and opens it to his followers. The men of the village refuse the call to arms, many hiding in church. The Slayer fights St. Just and beheads him, while his pack escapes.

Though the town has been saved, the Slayer is accused of witchcraft by the local priest and soon she's arrested while sleeping. She's burned at the stake before the eyes of her Watcher, who is unable to save her.

After she's dead, the townsfolk celebrates. However, the Watcher kills one of the holdfast guards and opens the gates to St. Just's former minions, who kill the Watcher and proceed to destroy the village and slaughter its inhabitants.

Characters

 * The Maiden
 * Unidentified Watcher
 * Saint Just
 * Reverend Father