The brehon speaks cryptically and without fear, standing with Cormar, before the flaxen-haired demon. I think to act, but I am too late; Crom Cruach and his retinue retreat into the mists of the river's edge and disappear into the Otherworld. Why did the brehon let them go? I wonder. What did her words mean?

Fraoch approaches the river and gently lifts up a lifeless body, before obscured by the tall grass. Ceirdwyn! That dear stranger who was found in the village so near to death, several months ago, has now passed from this green island into Eternal Youth.

Upon my approach, Dobhar draws his sword. But Cormar, aware of who nears them, holds back the impulsive Cath Milidh. I am welcomed back with solemn, bittersweet smiles. At a slow, melancholy pace, I follow the Rían and the clan back to the comfort and stillness of the keep.