Chapters 16 - 20 Summary

Malik: Malik prepares his house for a meeting of his congregation. He hopes Julian will join them for the teaching, but he holds no hope for the young man. The followers begin to arrive, and Malik takes his place at the front of the table after ensuring that there is enough food and wine for everyone to leave with full bellies. He looks up from his teaching and cannot hide his surprise when he notices Julian hiding in the shadows of the room. The believers enjoy their grand meal and their warmed wine together, listening to each other's fears, concerns, and well-wishes. When the meal is complete, Julian requests to address the audience. Malik is surprised, believing Julian would like to preach, but instead, Julian requests the help of Malik's congregation to help Alexander return to his mother's arms. Julian hopes...