Summary

This chapter returns to Thea’s present time at Yonahlossee. It is pouring rain and Thea is in the middle of her group riding lesson. Each girl is being individually evaluated and Thea is next in line. Thea is able to maintain focus despite distractions. On the last jump, Thea’s leather saddle breaks and she is left hanging off of Naari’s side. Thea is trapped and can’t let go or else she will be trampled. Finally, Thea manages to hoist herself up by Naari’s neck and safely dismount the horse.

After the lesson, Thea and Leona are both in the stable at the same time. They talk and have a disagreement about horses. Leona believes a dumb horse is better because it will always follow instructions. Thea believes a smart horse is better. Leona says that a horse is a...