The Worm Ouroboros · Chapters

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Chapter companions for The Worm Ouroboros by E. R. Eddison.

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Chapter 1
Dedication
The author dedicates the book to W. G. E. and friends K. H. and G. C. L. M., clarifying it is neither allegory nor fable but a story to be read for its own sake, and provides pronunciation notes for proper names.
Chapter 2
Epigraph
The epigraph presents the traditional ballad of Thomas the Rhymer, in which True Thomas encounters the Queen of Elfland beneath the Eildon Tree, setting a tone of enchantment, fate, and otherworldly visitation.
Chapter 3
The Worm Ouroboros
The opening chapter introduces the setting of Demonland and the lords Juss, Goldry Bluszco, and Spitfire, who receive a challenge from King Gorice XI of Witchland, leading to a wrestling match that results in Gorice's death and the subsequent coronation of Gorice XII.
Chapter 4
The Induction
Lessingham and his wife enjoy a peaceful evening in their home in Wastdale, reading from the saga of Njal and discussing the mysterious Lotus Room. After a walk on the fell-side, Lessingham sleeps alone in the Lotus Room, where he is awakened by a martlet that summons him to a journey. He rides a winged horse-chariot to a great island, guided by the martlet.
Chapter 5
The Castle of Lord Juss
At Lord Juss's castle Galing, a festival is interrupted by an ambassador from King Gorice XI of Witchland, who delivers an insulting summons demanding the Demons' submission. The Demons, led by Juss, Spitfire, Goldry Bluszco, and Brandoch Daha, react with restrained fury and prepare to deliberate their response.

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