In the pit of the kingdom of Malkariss, Matthias fights off Slagar who escapes to daylight as Matthias joins his battling friends - now reinforced by the released slaves. As Matthias joyfully embraces Mattimeo an earthquake shakes the ground. The terrible Polecat statue topples and with it the kingdom of Malkariss starts to collapse.At Redwall, Ironbeak penetrates the barricade which protects the citizens of Redwall and takes them hostage. He attacks Sister May which enrages huge Stryk who fights an aerial duel with Ironbeak, as Constance breaks free and attacks the birds from behind. Ironbeak's army swiftly surrenders and Redwall is saved!The kingdom of Malkariss is now doomed - but not before Matthias and Orlando are safely ejected from the earthquake, only to face Slagar, the cause of all their grief and loss. Fleeing from their ferocious attack he falls into the depths of the collapsing underground city.