I try to block out the fact that the Cean Catha & the Cean Fine are in my small space and concentrate on helping Babd, but it is not easy. Both men are strong and powerful and dwarf the confines of my small taighe. I start by taking out my own small knife and cutting off her bloody dress so I can examine the wound without removing Andra’s sacred knife. With the sheer amount of blood that has soaked into her gown, my heart sinks. There will be no miracles in bringing this once great lady back from the dead.

But to make sure, I go through the motions of verifying death. As I check to see if I can hear her heart, and look into her eyes for any signs of life, I thank the GODS I assisted Baine with verifying death as well as learning to heal. Knowing what to do when faced with this horrible murder helps me get through the gore and facts surrounding Badb’s demise.

And Babd is indeed dead. I pull a length of linen from my chest, and cover her body. I turn to break the news to Eoghain & Cathal, only to discover that Cathal has left the building. “Cean Fine…Eoghain, I am sorry to say I am unable to help Babd. Death has her firmly in its grasp.”

I didn’t think it was possible, but his face falls further with this news. “No! My Badb! Who would take my Babd away?” this strong, brave, weeping warrior cries.

I feel helpless in the face of his grief. “I do not know. But I know Andrasta didn’t do it.”

“No, she couldn’t have done it. Couldn’t have!” he repeats before covering his face once again with his hands.

While I wonder at his fervent denial of Andra's guilt, I place my hand on his shoulder in comfort, “Aye, I agree. Would you like me to prepare Babd’s body for you? Might I take that weight off your shoulders?"