The Blue Sword

At Corlath’s camp, Harry notices that his men are treating her with a mix of respect and curiosity, and even make remarks about her endurance during the journey. She is then led to Corlath’s ornate tent. There, servants bring in a large silver bath and fill it with steaming water. Harry is overwhelmed and uncomfortable, especially when it becomes clear that the men intend to assist her in bathing. She refuses their help, and Corlath, entering at that moment, apologizes and dismisses them. He explains that it was meant as a courtesy according to Hillfolk custom, and he did not mean to offend her. He then leaves, and Harry bathes and dresses in the clothes left for her. Corlath returns with a comb and a robe for her. She is then presented to a formal gathering of Corlath and 18 Riders and they share a meal together.

After dinner, the group participates in a ritual involving Meeldtar, the Water of Sight. Each man drinks a mouthful from a leather bag and has a vision. When the bag is passed to Harry, Corlath instructs her to drink. She does and has a vision of a battlefield at a mountain pass, with two armies poised to clash.