Chapter 9 Summary

When they see the destruction of their hard work the next morning, Kris recommends that they rest for several days. Kris and Talia realize they can work faster on the frozen snow if the Companions and chirras help. Rolan and Tantris agree but insist the Heralds rest the next day. While rubbing Kris' back, Talia asks him to tell her about Dirk. Kris tells how Dirk was born the son of a Bard and a Healer, the only daughter of a farmer who settled on the Border. Dirk has six siblings, and they are all talented in music. Dirk takes Kris home with him on their first holiday from the Collegium, and Kris returns every chance he gets. When he was Chosen at age eleven, Dirk tried to direct Ahrodie's attention to his sister because he thought he was too ugly to be...