In Thomas King's novel "Borders," the climax occurs when the protagonist, Coyote, reaches a crisis point in his quest to free himself from the borderlands. He is captured and imprisoned by a group of men trying to exploit his identity and reputation as a trickster. They demand that he show them his powers and take advantage of his captivity to make money off of him. Coyote is presented with an opportunity to escape and is pursued by the men through a series of challenges. He uses his intelligence, wit, and trickster abilities to outsmart his pursuers, eventually escaping and reclaiming his freedom. The climax of the novel is symbolized by Coyote's successful escape, representing his victory over the forces trying to control and limit him, as well as his journey toward self-discovery and liberation.