Chapter 3 Summary

Piemur settles in the Drummers' Quarters. He learns that as the newest apprentice, he will be responsible for keeping the drums gleaming. As Piemur goes through the rigors of learning new drum columns and identifying beats of drum messages, Menolly suddenly appears and tells Dirzan she needs to borrow Piemur for messenger duties. Menolly leads Piemur to the runner enclosure where they both saddle up runners and ride for two hours to the sea hold. A ship arrives bringing journeyman Sebell ashore, with Menolly's fire lizards flying about and providing a welcoming display.

Sebell is tanned indicating to Piemur that he must have been in the Southern Continent. He indicates he has returned with spices. Sebell is glad to hear that Piemur has advanced from the Voice Master's apprenticeship. Piemur suspects that Sebell is happier to see Menolly and that there may be...