Figures of Earth · Chapter
XXVII: They Come to Sargyll explained
Manuel and Niafer journey to Sargyll, where they are hosted by Queen Freydis.
What happens
Manuel and Niafer journey to Sargyll, where they are hosted by Queen Freydis. Freydis, known for her sorcery and fatal dealings with various lords, welcomes them. Manuel and Freydis discuss their past and the images Manuel once created. Niafer and Freydis become close friends, and Manuel learns of the ten images he left on Upper Morven, which Freydis later brings to life. The month passes uneventfully, though Manuel witnesses a supernatural event involving a night-porter turning into a rat.
Themes in this chapter
The Geas of Obligation
Manuel's obligation to Freydis and his past actions weigh on him as he seeks her help.
Appearances vs. Reality
Freydis's hospitality hides her sorcery and the ominous nature of her household, as seen in the painted face and the night-porter's transformation.
The Artist and the Creation
The ten images Manuel created and left on Upper Morven are brought to life by Freydis, highlighting the consequences of artistic creation.
Characters to notice
- Dom Manuel
Arrives at Sargyll with Niafer, seeks Freydis's help, and discusses his past creations and the impending birth of his child.
- Niafer
Travels with Manuel to Sargyll, becomes close friends with Freydis, and describes the ten images Manuel made.
- Freydis
Hosts Manuel and Niafer in Sargyll, demonstrates sorcery, and reveals knowledge of Manuel's first child and the images he created.
- King Ferdinand
Mentioned as being in a campaign against the Moors, unable to aid Manuel.
- Raymond Bérenger
Sends messengers to discuss alliances with Manuel.
- King Helmas
Sends messengers to discuss alliances with Manuel.
- Stultitia
Sends messengers to discuss alliances with Manuel.
- Oriander
Follows the yellow ship but does not attack Manuel.
Key passages
“I know that in Sargyll, where my will is the only law, you are welcome, false friend and very faithless lover.”
Freydis tells Manuel that despite his past betrayals, he is welcome in Sargyll, where she rules absolutely.
Freydis acknowledges Manuel's past unfaithfulness but offers him sanctuary.
“She seems to be a very good-hearted sort of a person, though certainly she is rather queer.”
Niafer comments to Manuel that Freydis appears kind but eccentric.
Niafer's observation reflects her growing friendship with Freydis and her unawareness of the sorcery around them.
“So the man who made these images is to be properly rewarded! Well, that is encouraging, for true merit should always be rewarded.”
Manuel responds to Niafer's description of the images with irony, suggesting that the creator deserves reward.
Manuel's comment foreshadows the unintended consequences of his creations.