The Water of the Wondrous Isles · Chapter
X: How Birdalone Fell in with a Man in the Black Valley of the Greywethers explained
Birdalone encounters a mysterious Black Knight in the Black Valley of the Greywethers.
What happens
Birdalone encounters a mysterious Black Knight in the Black Valley of the Greywethers. He startles her by hiding behind a stone, then insists on accompanying her up the dale despite her fear and reluctance. She is uneasy with his smooth speech and commanding manner, but feels compelled to comply.
Themes in this chapter
Female Agency and Autonomy
Birdalone's autonomy is challenged as the Black Knight compels her to follow his lead, overriding her wishes to leave the dale alone.
Journey and Quest
Birdalone's journey through the Black Valley of the Greywethers continues, now complicated by the unwanted company of the Black Knight.
Characters to notice
- Birdalone
Birdalone is frightened and ashamed when the Black Knight surprises her; she reluctantly agrees to let him lead her up the valley.
- The Black Knight
The Black Knight appears suddenly from behind a stone, speaks softly but commandingly, and insists on accompanying Birdalone despite her protests.
Key passages
“I ask thy pardon, fair damsel (or indeed I should say fairest damsel), that I have scared thee. But sooth to say I beheld thee coming riding, and even from a little aloof I could see that nought which might befall could ever make it up to me for not seeing thee close at hand and hearing thee speak.”
The Black Knight apologizes for startling Birdalone, explaining that he hid to get a closer look at her because he couldn't bear to miss the chance.
The knight's flattery and explanation for his ambush reveal his manipulative charm.
“Nay, lady, I have left my horse somewhat further up, and I must go back to fetch him, that we may wend out of the dale together. For I will not suffer thee to flee from me and fall into the hands of evil wights, be they ghosts or living men, and that the less since I have heard the speech in thy mouth, as of honey and cream and roses.”
The Black Knight insists that Birdalone cannot leave alone, claiming he must accompany her for her safety and because he is captivated by her voice.
The knight uses a pretense of protection to assert control over Birdalone's movements.