Chapter 4 Summary

Upon arrival, the magistrate meets a warrant officer from the Third Bureau, who accuses him of conspiring with the enemy. When the magistrate accuses the army of triggering conflicts, being itself the enemy rather than the barbarians he becomes imprisoned. In his solitude he analyzes the events of the last few weeks. More prison cells are built for the barbarians tortured in front of their relatives. Unable to defend themselves, they are vulnerable and deprived of their humanity. He analyzes his feelings for the native girl who stayed with him, questioning his pity for her. She became less of a human being during her torture, turning into a creature who believes in nothing, only awaiting her end.

The fire is set to assure protection clearing the river banks. It destroys wildlife, creating more opportunities for the desert to advance. He finds out that...