With Fire and Sword · Chapter
Chapter XXXVI explained
Bogun prepares to leave for war, torn between his love for Princess Helena and his duty to Hmelnitski and Krívonos.
What happens
Bogun prepares to leave for war, torn between his love for Princess Helena and his duty to Hmelnitski and Krívonos. He entrusts her to Horpyna's care in the secluded Devil's Glen, while Helena remains cold and defiant. Bogun struggles with his feelings, hoping she will eventually forgive him, but Horpyna mocks his reluctance to force her love. The chapter ends with Bogun departing, leaving Helena under Horpyna's watch.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This is the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional and psychological peak of the duel, where Bogun’…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Love and Obsession
Bogun's obsessive love for Helena is central; he is torn between his desire for her affection and his duty, unable to force her despite his power.
- Honor and Betrayal
Bogun feels betrayed by Helena's coldness, while Horpyna's offer to kill Helena hints at potential betrayal.
- War and Rebellion
The chapter is set against the backdrop of the Cossack rebellion, with Bogun preparing to join Hmelnitski's forces.
Characters to notice
- Bogun
Struggles with his love for Helena and his duty to Hmelnitski; departs for war, leaving her in Horpyna's care.
- Princess Helena
Remains cold and defiant toward Bogun, refusing to show affection despite his pleas.
- Horpyna
Agrees to guard Helena in the glen; mocks Bogun's hesitation and offers to kill Helena if he perishes.
- Bogdan Hmelnitski
Mentioned as having ordered Bogun to return for the war.
- Krivonos
Mentioned as having ordered Bogun to return for the war.
Key passages
““I am in the power of God,” said she, with the same dignity as before; “but because you restrain yourself in my presence, I thank you for that.””
Helena asserts her reliance on divine protection and acknowledges Bogun's restraint, but remains distant.
Highlights Helena's defiance and Bogun's internal conflict.
““If I perish, tell her to forgive me.””
Bogun asks Horpyna to convey his request for forgiveness to Helena if he dies in battle.
Shows Bogun's regret and hope for reconciliation.
““But touch her with your hand and I will have you drawn on a stake with oxen.””
Bogun threatens Horpyna with a brutal death if she harms Helena.
Demonstrates Bogun's fierce protectiveness over Helena.
