Summary

Tadgh visited Nóra’s cabin at the start of Chapter 5, “Alder.” He looked unwell and admitted he was struggling. After giving his condolences for Martin’s death, he shared his internal struggle with Nóra for having believed Micheál’s condition was his fault due to malnourishment. He told her that Johanna’s last words were cries for her real baby, not the one in front of her. As they spoke of it, Mary entered and claimed he was a changeling. She said that the whole valley knew it except for them. The perspective shifts to Nance as she traveled to the O’Donoghue’s to gather iron water for pregnant Brigid’s protection. While she visited with Áine, she took the liberty of welcoming her to speak about the pain of lacking children.

When she returned home, she was greeted by...