Chapter 19 Summary

Birle convinces Joaquim to take the slaves at least outside the city gates. She threatens to expose him to Corbel, unless he helps them get away. They must delay their departure by a day. Birle needs the time to prepare for their flight with a wounded man.

At dawn, they leave the city. Birle drives the cart, with Joaquim beside her. Orien lies in the back. Outside the city gates, they part. Joaquim, frightened, flees in the cart. The mighty Yul carries Orien, who is unconscious. Birle carries their supplies on her back.

All day they follow a small trail through the forest. Birle avoids the heavily traveled roads. The next day they see a huge army traveling on the road. It is the soldiers of the King, Celinde's father, marching to attack Corbel's forces. Birle is relieved that the mercenary has more...