About 8:30
`` The ceremony will occur at the beginning of the seventh zode * in the throne room . In the meantime the Princess of Helium will be cared for in the tower of the women 's quarters of the palace . Conduct her thither , E-Thas , with a suitable guard of honor and see to it that slaves and eunuchs be placed at her disposal , who shall attend upon all her wants and guard her carefully from harm . '' * About 8:30 P. M. Earth Time . Now E-Thas knew that the real meaning concealed in these fine words was that he should conduct the prisoner under a strong guard to the women 's quarters and confine her there in the tower for seven days , placing about her trustworthy guards who would prevent her escape or frustrate any attempted rescue . As Tara was departing from the chamber with E-Thas and the guard , O-Tar leaned close to her ear and whispered : `` Consider well during these seven days the high honor I have offered you , and -- its sole alternative . '' As though she had not heard him the girl passed out of the banquet hall , her head high and her eyes straight to the front .