Chapter 12 Summary

Henderson believes the tribe is trying to brainwash him. He feels a strange sensation in his chest, similar to longing, and believes he is coming down with a fever. He walks through town and observes people preparing for the festival, drinking and arguing, painting and ornamenting each other, and dressing their idols. A procession with drums and umbrellas arrives at Henderson's tent, and Horko, the king's uncle, greets Henderson warmly. Henderson is very comforted by this warm welcome. As they march towards the palace, Henderson notices that the people are much more animated than the day before. Horko explains that the day before was a sad day of fasting. Henderson also sees in the distance several bodies hanging upside down from scaffolding, and Horko evades his questions about whether it was an execution. Henderson wishes Lily were there, because he wants to see...