[Voices of AINLE and ARDAN are heard in the wood.]
ARDAN—I think Naisi went this way.
AINLE—He has been wrapt in a dream since the dawn. See! This is his footstep in the clay!
ARDAN—I heard voices.
AINLE—(entering with ARDAN) Here is our dream-led brother.
NAISI—Ainle and Ardan, this is Deirdre, your sister. I have broken through the command of the king, and fly with her to Alba to avoid warfare with the Red Branch.
ARDAN—Our love to thee, beautiful sister.
AINLE—Dear maiden, thou art already in my heart with Naisi.
LAVARCAM—You cannot linger here. With Concobar the deed follows swiftly the counsel; tonight his spearmen will be on your track.
NAISI—Listen, Ainle and Ardan. Go you to Emain Macha. It may be the Red Branch will make peace between the king and myself. You are guiltless in this flight.