Book 5, Canto 9 Summary

The trio travel onward to Mercilla's court, and on the way Samient tells them about Malengin, a wild man who likes to rob and kill travelers who pass through this part of the trail. Of course, Arthur and Artegall stop to take care of the nuisance (dispense justice). They use Samient as bait to lure Malengin out of his cave. The wild man captures her in a snare, but lets her go when he sees Talus approaching. Malengin, a shape shifter, tries to flee the scene, but Talus catches up and kills him.

The party continues on its way and arrives at Mercilla's court. All is well ordered in accordance with law and decorum inside. Arthur and Artegall witness Duessa's trial as the witch is sentenced to death. At first, Arthur is moved to pity for the woman accused of, among...