Chapter 16 Summary

Dahfu leads Henderson down a complex series of corridors and stairs beneath the palace. Henderson wants to turn back, but doesn't want to risk losing Dahfu's respect. Dahfu passes through a large wooden door, and Henderson hears a low sound and realizes Dahfu is in the lion's den. Henderson feels terrified, and must utilize all his strength to enter the den and let the lion, Atti, sniff him. Dahfu shows relief that Atti will easily accept Henderson, and dances and plays with the lion, speaking to her affectionately. Henderson is so frightened he cannot move at all, and harbors a secret fear that the lion knows how he tried to kill a cat. Dahfu makes Henderson draw nearer to the lion, and Henderson cries, and tries to explain to Dahfu that it is the mixture of feelings, fear and something else, that makes...