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death-offering-ritual

A traditional ceremony performed by Elena and the Count to honor Sergeant Bothari, reflecting cultural and familial respect for the deceased.

1 chapter across 1 book

Mirror Dance (1994)Lois McMaster Bujold

Chapter 16

Mark is sent on a series of cultural and educational tours around Vorbarr Sultana with Elena, who remains emotionally distant. The Count abruptly takes Mark to the Vorkosigan family's private summer residence, where they perform a death-offering ritual for Sergeant Constantine Bothari, revealing family history and tensions. Mark also connects with Miles's horse Ninny, symbolizing his complex relationship with his predecessor and the Vorkosigan legacy.