My captain, Iubdan, stands before the silver drape that hangs before Meara's door. My approach doesn't faze him, and he remains rigid with a furrowed brow. The orange spiral tattoo upon his bare chest reminds me that he is of the House of Murias. Ah, the Milesians know little of the rivalry among the áes sídhe. Of four families, we have our own internal conflicts in addition to the external troubles caused by the Fir Bolg, Fomorians and Milesians.

"Stand aside, Iubdan," I command my officer. "You are permitted to remain at Sídhe Conighline only because you have proven your loyalty to the Sons of Morrigan. To disregard my authority now would be a poor choice on your part, Ildanach."

The torc around Iubdan's thick neck shifts slightly as the stocky warrior swallows before answering his king. "I mean no disrespect to you, lord, but I cannot allow this woman to be buried."

I close my eyes and release a sigh of frustration. There are many who subscribe to the notion that we are the deities of the Milesians and therefore we are responsible for their dead. Druids of our race have been known to return the fallen to life, remaining forever within the sídhe palaces. I have made no such effort and feel no obligation to raise the dead.

I open my eyes and meet them with Iubdan's. "This matter is closed, Captain. You will bury the woman and say no more about it." I turn quickly and march toward my chamber. I sense no movement from Iubdan.