Chapter Nineteen through Chapter Twenty One Summary

Chapter Nineteen finds Ven finishing his tale for the king. Finally, the jailer comes for him with soldiers, and is surprised when Ven first asks his name, and then thanks him for his care. The soldiers take him to a room filled with puzzles, a man in dark robes, and another man in regular clothing. Ven accidentally bows to the man in robes, believing him to be the king, but he is quickly corrected by the constable. The king is very pleasant, and although Ven makes several mistakes in manner, the king continues to be patient, understanding Ven's nervousness. The king asks Ven to tell him his story, which he does, from beginning to end. The king listens intently, putting together a puzzle at the same time. When he is finished, the king...