Chapter 8 Summary

Columbanus awakens and tells everyone a fantastical tale about his experiences during the trance. Columbanus claims to have seen a beautiful virgin who comes to him and introduces herself as Saint Winifred. She tells Columbanus that they are on the right path and that she forgives all that have obstructed the way of her will, including Rhisiart. Furthermore, she offers Rhisiart her grave after she is removed from it. Sioned is enraged at the suggestion that her father has sinned and is in need of forgiveness, but she can do nothing but mutter a quick thanks. Cadfael comments about what a tidy and well-calculated solution this vision brings.

Sioned and Cadfael discuss what possible motives Columbanus might have. They believe that he may be after the glory of being the chosen one for communication with the saint. It also seems that Columbanus might...