chapters 56-61 Summary

In chapter fifty-six, Violante resolves to keep her father waiting in front of the bridge to the castle for several days. She asks Mortimer to marry him after they've succeeded against the Adderhead and the Piper, but he refuses. A young soldier stumbles towards them, trying to say something about the Piper, but he dies before he can finish. They are suddenly surrounded by enemy soldiers. Orpheus leads them, alongside the Piper. Dustfinger attacks the soldiers with fire, and Orpheus reveals that he's been sent to kill Dustfinger. His shadow turns into a Night-Mare and kills Dustfinger instantly. The Piper takes both Mortimer and Violante prisoner.

In chapter fifty-seven, Resa discovers that the Adderhead has reached the castle before them. She is caught by some of the soldiers, but manages to escape with the Strong Man's help.

In chapter fifty-eight, the...