THIRTEEN: AN UNEXPECTED MEETING

At dawn, the toffee planted the night before has grown into a fruiting tree. After bathing and breakfasting on its soft, toffee-like fruit, Digory, Polly, and the winged horse Fledge resume their flight west through brilliant mountains toward a valley scented with an intoxicating fragrance.

They descend to a steep green hill capped by a high turf wall and golden gates. Recognizing the place as sacred and private, Digory approaches alone. The gate bears a warning: enter by the gates and take fruit only for others. Inside, in a quiet, solemn garden, he finds the central tree heavy with silver apples. He plucks one for Aslan and battles a powerful desire to taste it, noticing a great jeweled bird watching from above.

As Digory turns to leave, he discovers Jadis inside the garden, her mouth stained from the apple she has eaten. He flees; the gates close behind him, but the Witch pursues and confronts him outside. She reveals the fruit grants life and youth, urging him to eat it and rule with her, or to steal it to heal his dying mother.

Digory wavers under the pain of the choice, but the Witch’s suggestion to abandon Polly exposes her malice. Remembering his promise to Aslan and his mother’s principles against stealing and broken vows, he refuses. Polly urges departure; Digory helps her onto Fledge, and they take flight as Jadis curses them.

They fly east all day in silence. Though still troubled, Digory recalls Aslan’s tears and regains confidence in his decision. At sunset they land by the riverside where Aslan and many creatures are gathered. Digory steps forward and presents the silver apple to Aslan.