Synopsis

The chapter opens with the protagonist waking up injured and realizing he's a captive of the Ballaks, rivals of his own Baskerville clan. A Ballak soldier reveals he was spared execution to become a slave and hostage. The protagonist is forced to accept his new role, being referred to as "Master," while he privately seethes at his humiliation and plans revenge upon recovery. He is led, via rope, to the Ballak village, contemplating the humiliation of his situation.