Summary

Chapter 9 is titled “Mortal Combat.” Jean and Jacques went just outside the combat field where each had a basic camp set up. The ritual continued with a herald shouting at the two to “Do your duty” (140). The marshal shouted a command and dropped a glove, formally beginning the duel. Each man was helped onto his horse, and a squire handed the lance and shield. Then, everyone moved back. That was the final “allowable contact with human hands prior to combat. From now on each man was on his own” (141). Guards let them through the gates and only the combat field, then locked gates behind them. There were no rules once the duel started. The men could fight anyway they chose.

Jean charged first, lowering his lance. Jacques lowered his lance as well. They were 70 yards apart at the beginning of the charge but...