Summary

In Chapter 13, Sarkan argues that it is hopeless and dangerous to try to save Queen Hanna. He sees the Wood allowed Kasia to leave in order to set a trap. It lost “a peasant girl” but stands to gain Prince Marek “and a wizard to boot,” which will give the Wood immeasurable power (172). They continue to argue, with Kasia believing it is worth the risk because freeing Hanna could bring an end to the war with Rosya. She also believes they might destroy another heart-tree, which would weaken the Wood. Agnieszka argues that the Wood has taken more land and more people in recent years, meaning it is getting stronger, but Sarkan says there would be nothing left of Hanna by now.

Sarkan points out that Hanna might still be conscious of her situation, and that she would be horrified if her son...