We may have to pass over different lands of the Gojin, and if so we may be in danger." "What is the reason why the athaleb goes to Magones every season ?" I asked.
"To take there the chief pauper of the season, who has won the prize of death by starvation.

It is one of the greatest honors among the Kosekin." "Is Magones barren ?" "It is an island of fire, without anything on it but craggy mountains and wild rocks and flowing rivers of fire.

It stands almost in the middle of the sea." "How can we get away from here ?" I asked, after some silence.
"From here ?--why, I open the gates, and the athaleb flies away; that is all." "But shall we not be prevented ?" "Oh no.

No one here ever prevents anyone from doing anything.

Everyone is eager to help his neighbor." "But if they saw me deliberately mounting the athaleb and preparing for flight, would they not stop me ?" "No." I was amazed at this.
"But," said I, "am I not a victim--preserved for the great sacrifice ?" "You are; but you are free to go where you like, and do what you like.
Your character of victim makes you most distinguished.