The narrator explains the duke and duchess learned about Carrasco’s plan when Carrasco stopped at their home on the way to Barcelona before dueling Quixote as the Knight of the White Moon. Upon learning that Carrasco sought to bring an end to Quixote’s adventures, the duke and duchess wanted to play one last prank on Quixote. Hence, they enlisted Altisidora to dupe Quixote into believing she was dead. Later, Altisidora continues the ruse. She describes her near-death experience to Quixote in lurid detail, flattering him with feigned declarations of love. The next day, the duke and duchess ask Quixote about Altisidora, and he tells them she should focus more on her chores rather than any supposed love she might have for him. 

Quixote once again asks Panza to whip himself for the sake of Dulcinea. Panza continues to refuse until Quixote offers to pay him. Panza accepts the offer, walks into the woods, and loudly pretends to whip himself. Later, Quixote and Panza stop at an inn where Quixote loudly appraises the art on the wall. One day, he explains, he hopes he might be the subject of similar paintings.