He turns to see Teddy several paces behind him on the path, and he gives them a kind smile. As when clouds, gathered by mighty Zeus, shroud the sky in iron grey, and the sun peeks out as if through a veil — the light it throws is weak, but still it gives some warmth — so too does Achilles' smile seem.

"Teddy, gifted by Apollo, golden-throated — will you join me in gathering wood for the pyre of Winifred, shepherdess of the people? I did not know her as a friend, but her brave sacrifice — delivering herself to the gates of death that she may defend the god-fearing Solvunnites and us god-chosen Summoned too — must be honored by all who still breath and stand firm on the nourishing earth."