The Sundering Flood · Chapter
LXIII: They Escape from the Chapmen by the Carline’s Wizardry explained
The Carline and the Maiden escape from the chapmen in the night using the Carline's wizardry.
What happens
The Carline and the Maiden escape from the chapmen in the night using the Carline's wizardry. The Carline puts the men to sleep, and they ride away at dawn. After resting, the Carline performs a ritual to create a magical barrier behind them, then they continue to a friendly Abbey where they are well received.
Themes in this chapter
Nature and the Supernatural
The Carline's wizardry, including putting men to sleep and creating a magical barrier, highlights the supernatural elements intertwined with the natural world.
Community and Kinship
The hospitality of the husbandmen and the Abbey underscores the theme of community and mutual support.
Characters to notice
- The Carline
Uses wizardry to put the chapmen to sleep and later performs a ritual to create a magical barrier; guides the Maiden to safety.
- Elfhild
Referred to as the Maiden; follows the Carline's instructions and assists in the escape.
Key passages
“Sweetling, the thing thou hast to do tonight is to give heed to my least word or beckoning, and obey it, and then will all be well.”
The Carline instructs the Maiden to follow her commands without question for a successful escape.
Sets up the plan for the night's escape.
“Be mist and mirk, and bewilderment and fear, before those faces of our foemen! Be a wall behind us that they may not pierce through! Mirk behind us, light before us!”
The Carline casts a spell to create fog and confusion for their pursuers while ensuring a clear path ahead.
Demonstrates the Carline's magical power to protect them.