22In the distance, screeching women wearing the traditional black folds of modern-day mourners monotonously performed the death wail. Rita's body had to be removed from the hot climate and shipped home immediately. Dr. Withers himself set about making preparations for Clifford to return to California with her. Marlowe was to accompany them and help with funeral arrangements.
A great sadness permeated their joyous endeavor. The team worked teary-eyed. The locals worked in silence. Siti had become despondent, unable to forgive herself, having been inside the yurt when Rita died. She said Rita looked to have been uncomfortable at one point, moved around a bit, and then she settled down. Siti decided to let her sleep. That must have been when she died.
Clifford wandered in as Chione sat duri
