With that, two men led Ardanna away. She gave a glance at Cathal, who smiled. No tears were in her eyes: but a proud fire was there, and she brooked no man’s hand upon her, and walked free.
When she was gone, Molios spake.
“Cathal, that was called Cathal Gille-Muire, why have you done this thing?”
“Because I was weary of vain imaginings, and I am young: and Ardanna is fair, and we loved.”
“Such love is death.”
“So be it, Molios. Such death is sweet as love.”
“No ordinary death shalt thou have, blasphemer. Yet even now I would be merciful if I could. Dost thou call upon God?”
“I call upon the gods of my fathers.”
“Fool, they shall not save you.”
“Nevertheless, I call. I have nought to do with thy three gods, O Christian.”