Summary

Chapter 25 is titled “The King Over the Mountain.” King Ott is a young man – only about 20 – who has been on the throne since he was 10. He is petulant, spoiled, and demanding. Though his kingdom is large, he hates that there is a kingdom living outside his control. He is furious when the Bandit King announces that the boy with the magic escaped. The Bandit King is indifferent to King Ott's threats. The Bandit King says he will lead King Ott's armies through the forest on a four-day march, reclaim Ned's magic, and conquer that kingdom in a one-day battle. King Ott is skeptical, saying the forest is dangerous. Paths change and move, confusing anyone who enters. The Bandit King speaks to King Ott, and King Ott enters a dreamy state during which he agrees with everything the bandit suggests. The army gathers supplies...