Prologue: The Broken Note Summary

In 1241, rumors reach the Polish people that the Tartars are on the march. The warlike Tartars set fire to the Ukraine before attacking the great cities of Poland. As Kiev and Lvov fall, the people of Krakow tremble in the knowledge that their city is next. The villagers and peasants in the path of the Tartars pack up their few possessions and seek protection within the city walls of Krakow. The refugees and citizens of Krakow repair behind the additional protection of the fortress walls of the Wawel, the king's palace in Krakow. The decision is made to allow the attackers to pillage the city, as too many lives may be lost in its defense. Better to save the people inside the Wawel and rebuild later.

Still, a few hardy citizens remain outside the palace walls as...