Brood of the Witch-Queen · Chapter
The Ivory Hand explained
Robert Cairn, alone in his chambers, struggles with paranoia and supernatural phenomena as he examines a silken cord left by Antony Ferrara.
What happens
Robert Cairn, alone in his chambers, struggles with paranoia and supernatural phenomena as he examines a silken cord left by Antony Ferrara. He experiences auditory hallucinations, a mysterious shadow, and an unconscious writing episode. After a phone call from his father, Dr. Cairn reveals that the cord was stolen from the British Museum, and Ferrara likely planted it as a focus for his sorcery. Robert then feels a spectral hand on his shoulder—the ivory hand of the Witch-Queen—and falls into a trance vision of a ritual before being roused by the telephone.
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 Falling action.
- 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
- Sorcery vs. Science
Robert attempts to use rational deduction and a revolver against Ferrara's supernatural attacks, but is overwhelmed by hypnotic and occult forces.
- Possession and Identity
Robert experiences unconscious writing and a trance vision, suggesting his mind is being controlled or influenced by Ferrara's sorcery.
- The Occult and Ancient Egypt
The vision of the Witch-Queen, the ring of Thoth, and the Book of Thoth ritual evoke ancient Egyptian occult practices.
Characters to notice
- Robert Cairn
Protagonist; alone in his chambers, he experiences auditory hallucinations, a mysterious shadow, and unconscious writing. He examines the silken cord and falls into a trance.
- Antony Ferrara
Antagonist; referenced as the source of the silken cord and the supernatural attacks. His basilisk eyes and unholy campaign are recalled.
- Dr. Bruce Cairn
Robert's father; calls to warn Robert that the cord was stolen from the British Museum and that Ferrara planted it as a focus for sorcery.
- Myra Duquesne
Robert's beloved; he fondly remembers her appearance in Mr. Saunderson's garden, her pale beauty, and her rebellious curls.
Key passages
“He had been writing unconsciously! And this was what he had written: 'Robert Cairn—renounce your pursuit of me, and renounce Myra; or tonight—'”
Robert discovers he has written a threatening message from Ferrara without being aware of it.
Demonstrates Ferrara's supernatural influence over Robert's mind.
“A hand crept over his shoulder—followed by a bare arm of the hue of old ivory—a woman’s arm!”
A spectral ivory-colored hand and arm appear over Robert's shoulder.
Climactic supernatural manifestation; the 'Ivory Hand' of the chapter title.
“'Ferrara meant you to find that cord, boy! Remember, he is unacquainted with your chambers and he requires a focus for his damnable forces!'”
Dr. Cairn explains that Ferrara planted the cord as a magical focus to attack Robert.
Reveals Ferrara's strategic use of objects for sorcery.
