Chapter 21 Summary

Birle continues to travel north, toward the Kingdom. Behind her, the city is in flames on the distant horizon. Birle makes a camp deep in the forest. There the two remain until Orien's fever passes. When Orien is better, he catches two fish in a nearby lake. Laying them at Birle's feet, he says "And with them, I plight you my troth." Birle replies that there is no need for mockery.

Orien assures her he is not mocking, and asks her formally to be his wife. Birle still thinks he is teasing. When Orien insists he has given his heart to her, Birle agrees to become his wife. Embracing in the forest, they agree to be husband and wife. Together they bath in the chilly lake waters and lie together as man and woman. One day when Orien is fully recovered, they leave...