Chapter 16 Summary

Elfine and Seth realize that their grandmother, Aunt Ada Doom, has chosen this night of all nights to have the Counting, a time when she sees what Starkadders are still around or alive. Flora tells them that she will do all the talking when they enter as she anticipates they're "in for it". Flora knocks and Urk answers the door, his rage and angst showing in his face. The entire Starkadder clan is grouped in front of the fireplace and the sukebind, now in full bloom, gives off a pungent smell. There is an almost unbearable silence and the atmosphere reminds Flora of "the Chamber of Horrors at Madame Tussaud's". Flora chirps up casually, asking if there might be any sandwiches. Judith says there is food on the table but tells Flora she must first meet Aunt Ada Doom. Aunt Ada sits in...