Beauty: Mysterious Master Summary

The new Master introduces himself as Lexius, the Sultan's Chief Steward of the Grooms. He announces that he chooses few slaves to perfect and that he indeed requires perfection. Beauty's interest and attraction to the Master is intense and she notices that the other slaves seem to be equally enrapt in his speech. As Lexius walks around the room giving his speech, he continually caresses and reassures the slaves with his gentleness.

His manner is such that he inspires loyalty and the desire to please in Beauty and the others. Although he shows no anger, it is obvious that he is very demanding. At last, he tells them that they will now proceed to the purification process before being put to use. He reminds them that they must crawl at all times and be absolutely silent. As they leave...