Ch. 9: The Ordeal Summary

Alanna knows that she will have to submit to a special bathing ceremony, the Sacramental Bath, before her Ordeal. Jonathan suggests she tell Gary ahead of time that she is a girl so he can consider an alternative for the bathing ceremony. Gary thinks the fact that Alan is really a girl is hilarious and he can't wait to see the look on everyone else's faces when they find out. Alanna is relieved that he isn't angry with her. Gary asks Alanna if she has picked a squire yet and she tells him she won't be choosing one because she will be leaving after her Ordeal of Knighthood. She also thinks it wouldn't be right after everyone finds out she is a girl.

Alanna is a bundle of nerves before the Ordeal and can't stop pacing George's room. He...