Goldman explains that he cut out the numerous engagement parties Buttercup and Humperdinck attend; during this time, Humperdinck becomes more affectionate and loving. The narrator returns to the aftermath of Westley’s battles. Inigo wakes and follows the rule for when the three criminals become separated: go back to the beginning. This leads him to the Thieves Quarter of Florin, where Vizzini first arranged their job. However, Inigo finds the Thieves Quarter intimidating because everyone is bigger and stronger than he is. He reflects on his failure to beat Westley (at which point Goldman jumps in to explain why he removed Inigo’s six-page monologue on failure) and then goes to the Thieves Quarter to wait for Vizzini. He begins drinking heavily.

Meanwhile, Fezzik also wakes and discovers Vizzini’s body. He panics and goes searching for Inigo. Elsewhere, Westley wakes in a cage; a man with albinism, the Zoo of Death’s caretaker, is tending to Westley’s wounds. Westley prepares himself for the pain yet to come.

The king’s death cuts Buttercup and Humperdinck’s celebrations short. Humperdinck struggles to adapt to his kingship, and Buttercup greets the people. One old woman insults her for abandoning Westley, and Buttercup wakes, realizing that she was only dreaming.