"One way or another." Byerly's smile is edged and cynical. "Maybe walking out, and maybe carried out."

If Tav isn't going to take the apple, Byerly certainly isn't going to force him. He takes it and starts eating it — slowly, making it last, avoiding making contact with the burn that's been seared into his palm by the torturer. Even apparent compliance hasn't spared him all pain.

"Only time will tell."