Brood of the Witch-Queen · Chapter
XXII: Myra explained
Robert Cairn and Myra Duquesne share a romantic moment in the garden, where he confesses his love and kisses her.
What happens
Robert Cairn and Myra Duquesne share a romantic moment in the garden, where he confesses his love and kisses her. Myra reveals that Antony Ferrara recently visited her, confessed his love, and asked for a lock of her hair, which she reluctantly gave. She describes feeling a sinister change in him. The conversation turns to Myra's health and Mr. Saunderson's orchids, particularly a mysterious new orchid she tends to.
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 Climax.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This scene is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak of Robert Cairn’s inte…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Love and Sacrifice
Robert Cairn's declaration of love and Myra's emotional vulnerability highlight the theme of romantic devotion amidst looming danger.
- Appearance vs. Reality
Myra's pale appearance and the sinister change in Ferrara's face contrast with the idyllic garden setting, underscoring hidden threats.
- The Occult and Ancient Egypt
Ferrara's request for a lock of hair hints at occult practices, possibly linked to ancient Egyptian magic or sympathetic sorcery.
Characters to notice
- Robert Cairn
Declares his love for Myra, kisses her, and discusses Ferrara's visit and Myra's health.
- Myra Duquesne
Recounts Ferrara's unsettling visit and his request for a lock of her hair; shows concern for her health.
- Antony Ferrara
Mentioned as having visited Myra, confessed love, and taken a lock of her hair; described as having a sinister change in demeanor.
- Mr. Saunderson
Mentioned as the orchid enthusiast who allows Myra to tend to his orchids, including a mysterious new one.
Key passages
“Myra Duquesne came under an arch of roses to the wooden seat where Robert Cairn awaited her.”
Myra Duquesne walked through a rose-covered archway to join Robert Cairn on a wooden bench.
Sets the romantic garden scene.
“He asked for a lock of my hair!”
Ferrara requested a piece of Myra's hair.
Key plot point indicating potential occult use.
“Something evil—sinister, had come into it.”
His face took on a malevolent and threatening expression.
Myra's perception of Ferrara's transformation.
