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 after him. But the magician escaped through the gates into the palace, and the whole army turned to do battle with the Fian.

Though Diarmuid was so greatly outnumbered he felt no fear, for his battle-fury rose in him stronger than ever. Again and again, sword in hand, he went through the host, and wherever he passed he left a laneway of dead and dying warriors. At last his enemies fled from him in terror, leaving him alone on the battle-field; and he, exhausted and full of wounds, sank down on the ground and fell asleep.

After a time he was awakened by a touch on the shoulder, and grasping his weapons in his hands, he rose to his feet.

"I can still fight," he cried, facing the big man who had disturbed him.

"Not so quick, Diarmuid ua Duibhne," said the man. "I have not come to harm you, but to warn you that your enemies' ground is an ill place for you to rest upon. Come with me, and I will show you a safer place to sleep in, and one where you can be healed of your wounds."