Màiri's family arrived around 1:30, the priest a half hour later. Ailene sent Muiríol to waken Teárlag after the priest arrived. Muiríol found Teárlag sitting in a chair by the ashes of the cold fireplace.

"Lady Ailene said the funeral's to start soon. Sent me to fetch you."

"Thank you, Muiríol. I'll be down shortly. I'm afraid I don't have a mourning dress."

"I doubt the dead care, Lady. Your most somber one will do fine, I'm sure."

"I'm sure you're right. The dead don't care. Please send my maid to help me dress."

"Yes, ma'am."

Teárlag came down about fifteen minutes later and was directed to the family cemetery,...