Chapter 9 Summary

Only those who have stood on the block can understand the horror of slavery. Most humiliating is not being even bid on. Laborde explains later that as a castaway, Flashy belongs to the crown. As he washes and shaves, Flashy tells his tale and is advised to arrange to train the Queen's troops. He must never give offense or let her suspect that they have spoken—hence the public blow. Displease her and Flashy will face forced labor or the pits. Laborde will speak to the decent Price Rakota about Elspeth. There are countless details to remember to avoid a horrible death. Flashy can mention Elspeth to no one.

At dawn, officers march Flashy to a Venetian-style palace that towers beside another smaller one covered in silver bells. The main palace is like a Gothic cathedral inside, thronged with courtiers in varied...