Parts 24-26 Summary

Prince Richard took Beauty from the Inn to Nicolas' manor house. Beauty was led into Nicolas' bedchamber where Tristan awaited. Immediately, Beauty kisses Nicolas' boots and is shocked that she may stand up in the master's presence. Nicolas tells Beauty that she may stay as long as the couple would like. Afterward, Beauty must be returned to Mistress Lockley.

Tristan and Beauty make love many times. In between, the pair discuss how each has become resigned and delight in the role as pleasure slave. Beauty talks of Prince Laurent and tells Tristan about the rumor of the raiders who are in the woods. Beauty looks up and suddenly sees that Nicolas has been watching the entire time. When the Chronicler hears about the raiders, Beauty is ordered to return to the Inn immediately.

Nicolas is puzzled by the turn of events and cannot believe that...