Chapter Nine Summary

In Chapter Nine, the royal coach is heard coming and the king goes to see. He sees the woods on fire and a dozen men chasing the coach. Blackbirds swoop down from the clouds and attack the men following the coach. Jean-Marc believes it is a miracle. He rides out to meet the coach. Jean-Marc escorts the carriage into the castle courtyard. When Jean-Marc opens the door of the coach, a girl who looks exactly like the late Lucienne is standing in the doorway. He believes the gods have brought Lucienne back to life for him. She is crying because her stepsister is missing. Sabot steps down from the driver's seat and makes introductions. He explains what has happened to Desiree. Rose and Ombrine are taken to the temple so they can enjoy the protection of Zeus.

As he looks at...