# The Water of the Wondrous Isles — Chapters explained

> Chapter companions for The Water of the Wondrous Isles by William Morris.

- [The First Part: Of the House of Captivity](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/the-first-part-of-the-house-of-captivity.md): Birdalone recounts her early life, from being stolen as a child by a witch to growing up in captivity on an island. She describes her harsh servitude, her secret learning of the Sending Boat magic, and her eventual escap
- [I: Catch at Utterhay](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/i-catch-at-utterhay.md): In the walled town of Utterhay, a mysterious woman with a grey ass observes a poor widow and her baby in the marketplace. She offers the widow gold for lodging, then sends her to buy provisions. While the mother is away,
- [II: Now Shall Be Told of the House by the Waterside](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ii-now-shall-be-told-of-the-house-by-the-waterside.md): The witch-wife travels through the wood for four days with the stolen child, treating her with occasional kindness. On the fifth day, they emerge from the forest to a great lake with two eyots. The witch-wife leads them 
- [III: Of Skin-Changing](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iii-of-skin-changing.md): The witch reveals her ability to change her appearance, terrifying the child Birdalone when she appears in a different form the next morning. She explains that she changes her skin for journeys and reassures the child th
- [IV: Of the Waxing of the Stolen Child](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iv-of-the-waxing-of-the-stolen-child.md): Birdalone grows up in isolation between water and wood, cared for but seldom spoken to by the witch-wife. She learns the ways of nature, befriends wild creatures, and becomes strong and merry. At twelve winters old, her 
- [Of Birdalone, and How She Is Grown Into Maidenhood](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/v-of-birdalone-and-how-she-is-grown-into-maidenhood.md): Birdalone has grown into a maiden of seventeen summers, living a life of hard work and solitude under the witch-wife's thrall. She becomes increasingly aware of her mistress's wickedness and her own powerlessness, feelin
- [VI: Herein Is Told of Birdalone’s Raiment](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vi-herein-is-told-of-birdalone-s-raiment.md): Birdalone, scantily clad in a grey coat and smock, timidly asks the witch-wife for more womanly attire. The dame gruffly gives her a deerskin to make shoes, which Birdalone embroiders with oak-leaves, flowers, and animal
- [VII: Birdalone Hath an Adventure in the Wood](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vii-birdalone-hath-an-adventure-in-the-wood.md): Birdalone goes into the wood on a hot day, removes her clothes, and while sewing under an oak tree, encounters a naked wood-woman named Habundia. Habundia reassures her, describes Birdalone's beauty in detail, and gives 
- [VIII: Of Birdalone and the Witch-Wife](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/viii-of-birdalone-and-the-witch-wife.md): Birdalone returns home from the wood, flushed and light-footed, causing the witch-wife to suspect her. The witch questions her sharply about her day and whether she saw a woman in the wood. Birdalone, using newfound guil
- [IX: Of Birdalone’s Swimming](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ix-of-birdalone-s-swimming.md): Birdalone takes a holiday and swims across the lake to Green Eyot, where she reflects on her desire for freedom. After a long swim that leaves her exhausted, she returns to the eyot, rests, and later sees the witch obser
- [X: Birdalone Comes on New Tidings](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/x-birdalone-comes-on-new-tidings.md): Birdalone ventures eastward along the lake, overcoming her childhood fear of a serpent in the dark wood, and discovers a strange, heavy boat floating in a creek near Rock Eyot. She examines the oarless, sailless craft, n
- [XI: Of Birdalone’s Guilt and the Chastisement Thereof](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xi-of-birdalone-s-guilt-and-the-chastisement-thereof.md): Birdalone returns to the witch's house and is questioned about her day. When she inadvertently mentions the lake and the boat, the witch flies into a violent rage, nearly killing her. The witch relents, pardons her, but 
- [XII: The Words of the Witch-Wife to Birdalone](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xii-the-words-of-the-witch-wife-to-birdalone.md): The witch-wife speaks to Birdalone after transforming her into a milk-white hind, warning her against disobedience and fleeing, while also promising future encounters with handsome men and a life of love and dominion if 
- [XIII: Birdalone Meeteth the Wood-Woman Again](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xiii-birdalone-meeteth-the-wood-woman-again.md): Fifteen days after her punishment, Birdalone is sent to mow the meadow by the witch-wife. After a week of hard labor, she finally returns to the Oak of Tryst and meets Habundia, who now looks strikingly like her. Birdalo
- [XIV: Of Birdalone's Fishing](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xiv-of-birdalone-s-fishing.md): Birdalone goes fishing at the witch-wife's command, but secretly hides her serpent-ring in her hair before departing. The witch searches Birdalone's clothes while she is swimming but finds nothing. Birdalone enjoys a pea
- [XV: Birdalone Weareth Her Serpent-Ring](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xv-birdalone-weareth-her-serpent-ring.md): Birdalone continues her routine of fishing and swimming, but also secretly visits Habundia in the wood. One night, she observes the witch wife performing a blood ritual on the Sending Boat, using her own blood to animate
- [XVI: Birdalone Meeteth Habundia Again; and Learneth Her First Wisdom of Her](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xvi-birdalone-meeteth-habundia-again-and-learneth-her-first-wisdom-of-her.md): Birdalone longs to visit Habundia but waits until the witch-wife grants her leave. She meets Habundia at the Oak of Tryst, recounts her progress in learning the boat spell, and decides to observe the witch one more time 
- [XVII: The Passing of the Year Into Winter](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xvii-the-passing-of-the-year-into-winter.md): As autumn turns to winter, Birdalone continues to secretly follow the witch to the Sending Boat, but the deepening snow and the witch's growing suspicion make her more cautious. She visits the Trysting Tree more often, l
- [XVIII: Of Spring-Tide and the Mind of Birdalone](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xviii-of-spring-tide-and-the-mind-of-birdalone.md): Spring has come, and Birdalone has blossomed into a fuller beauty. She has learned the Sending Boat magic for the third time and feels she is now as wise as the witch-wife. However, she is troubled by her own use of guil
- [XIX: They Bid Farewell, Birdalone and the Wood-Mother](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xix-they-bid-farewell-birdalone-and-the-wood-mother.md): In May, Birdalone and the wood-mother Habundia meet at the Oak of Tryst. They acknowledge that their time together is ending, and Birdalone plans to attempt the Sending Boat the next day. Habundia fears for her, but Bird
- [XX: Of Birdalone and the Sending Boat](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xx-of-birdalone-and-the-sending-boat.md): Birdalone wakes on the morning of her planned escape, finds the witch-wife absent, and prepares by mingling the wood-mother's hair with her own and packing food. She swims to Green Eyot for a last visit, but upon returni
- [The Second Part: Of the Wondrous Isles](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/the-second-part-of-the-wondrous-isles.md): Birdalone continues her journey through the wondrous isles, encountering magical and perilous adventures that test her courage and resolve.
- [I: The First Isle](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/i-the-first-isle.md): Birdalone escapes the House of Captivity in the Sending Boat, naked and without provisions, but takes heart from the wood-mother's promise. She crosses the lake, sleeps, and awakens to find herself on a fair, uninhabited
- [II: Birdalone Falleth in with New Friends](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ii-birdalone-falleth-in-with-new-friends.md): Birdalone awakens refreshed and is met by a golden-gowned woman, Aurea, who warns her that she has landed in the realm of the Queen, sister to the Witch Under the Wood, and fears she will be sent back. Aurea shares food 
- [III: Birdalone Is Brought Before the Witch-Wife’s Sister](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iii-birdalone-is-brought-before-the-witch-wife-s-sister.md): Birdalone is brought before the witch-wife's sister, a proud and cruel lady seated on a golden throne in a grand hall. The lady accuses Birdalone of being a thief for fleeing her sister and declares she will not kill her
- [IV: Of the Witch’s Prison in the Wailing-Tower](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iv-of-the-witch-s-prison-in-the-wailing-tower.md): Birdalone is led by Atra to the Wailing-Tower prison under the witch's orders. Atra reveals her secret alliance with Birdalone and Aurea, promising to keep her safe and well-fed. She shackles Birdalone lightly to avoid s
- [V: They Feast in the Witch’s Prison](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/v-they-feast-in-the-witch-s-prison.md): Birdalone is awakened by Atra and Viridis, who bring her a lavish feast in the witch's prison. They remove her hand-shackles and serve her, speaking of the witch's cruelty and their plan to help Birdalone escape the next
- [VI: Atra Tells of How They Three Came Unto the Isle of Increase Unsought](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vi-atra-tells-of-how-they-three-came-unto-the-isle-of-increase-unsought.md): Atra recounts the story of how she, Aurea, and Viridis were born and raised in a land southwest along the Great Water, became childhood friends, and grew into maidenhood and womanhood. They were wooed by many but loved o
- [VII: The Three Damsels Take Birdalone Out of the Witch’s Prison](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vii-the-three-damsels-take-birdalone-out-of-the-witch-s-prison.md): Birdalone thanks Atra for her tale and learns more about the witch's cruelty from Aurea. The three damsels—Atra, Aurea, and Viridis—coordinate to free Birdalone from her prison at dawn. Atra shackles Birdalone again temp
- [VIII: In What Wise Birdalone Was Clad, and How She Went Her Ways from the Isle of Increase Unsought](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/viii-in-what-wise-birdalone-was-clad-and-how-she-went-her-ways-from-the-isle-of-increase-unsought.md): The three damsels—Atra, Aurea, and Viridis—clothe Birdalone with their own garments and jewels, each giving her a token to deliver to their respective lovers: Baudoin the Golden Knight, Hugh the Green Knight, and Arthur 
- [IX: How Birdalone Came to the Isle of the Young and the Old](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ix-how-birdalone-came-to-the-isle-of-the-young-and-the-old.md): Birdalone voyages to the Isle of the Young and the Old, where she encounters two small children and an old man. She demonstrates her gentle power over animals by charming rabbits, and after the old man drinks a potent me
- [X: Birdalone Comes to the Isle of the Queens](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/x-birdalone-comes-to-the-isle-of-the-queens.md): Birdalone awakens to find the Sending Boat approaching a fair, green isle with a white palace. She lands and, trembling with dread, approaches the silent hall. Inside, she finds a company of women frozen at table, all de
- [XI: And Now She Comes to the Isle of the Kings](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xi-and-now-she-comes-to-the-isle-of-the-kings.md): Birdalone arrives at the forbidding Isle of the Kings, where she finds a white, battle-ready castle. She enters the great hall to find it filled with motionless, armed men and three crowned kings with drawn swords, along
- [XII: Of Birdalone, How She Came Unto the Isle of Nothing](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xii-of-birdalone-how-she-came-unto-the-isle-of-nothing.md): Birdalone awakens to find her boat has landed on a barren, featureless isle. She explores but finds no life or variation, and after wandering in circles, she becomes lost in a thick mist. Despairing, she remembers the tr
- [The Third Part: Of the Castle of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/the-third-part-of-the-castle-of-the-quest.md): The chapter describes the Castle of the Quest, its setting, and the characters within, as Birdalone and the champions prepare for their quest.
- [Birdalone Comes to the Castle of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/i-birdalone-comes-to-the-castle-of-the-quest.md): Birdalone, exhausted and nearly starving after her journey across the water, arrives at a castle that has a strict oath forbidding women to enter. The castellan and the priest, moved by her beauty and desperate need, all
- [II: Of Birdalone, and How She Rested the Night Through in a Bower Without the Castle of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ii-of-birdalone-and-how-she-rested-the-night-through-in-a-bower-without-the-castle-of-the-quest.md): Birdalone is led by the priest to a small bower outside the Castle of the Quest, where she learns the castle's custom of refusing entry to women because the lords are on a quest for their lost loves. The priest advises h
- [How Birdalone Dight Her for Meeting the Champions of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iii-how-birdalone-dight-her-for-meeting-the-champions-of-the-quest.md): Birdalone awakens before sunrise, feeling happy and restful, and recalls her friends on the Isle of Increase Unsought. After falling back asleep, she wakes to full sunshine and hurries to bathe in a nearby stream. She dr
- [IV: And Now She Meets the Champions](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iv-and-now-she-meets-the-champions.md): Birdalone encounters the three knights—Baudoin the Golden Knight, Hugh the Green Knight, and Arthur the Black Squire—on the road. She delivers tokens from their speech-friends (Aurea, Viridis, and Atra) and is warmly wel
- [V: Birdalone Has True Tokens from the Champions of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/v-birdalone-has-true-tokens-from-the-champions-of-the-quest.md): Birdalone is brought to a fair chamber and then to the great hall where the three lords await her. After a meal, she insists on delivering her errand privately to each lord, using tokens given by their loves. Baudoin the
- [How the Champions Would Do Birdalone to Be Clad Anew in the Castle of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vi-how-the-champions-would-do-birdalone-to-be-clad-anew-in-the-castle-of-the-quest.md): Birdalone tells the Champions that her errand is to guide them to the Isle of Increase Unsought to rescue their speech-friends. She explains the Sending Boat and how she used it to escape. The Champions believe her and w
- [VII: Of Birdalone, How She Told the Champions All Her Tale](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vii-of-birdalone-how-she-told-the-champions-all-her-tale.md): Birdalone spends eight days with the three Champions while her raiment is made, and at their urging she tells them the full story of her life, omitting only the wood-mother. The Champions react with love and pity: Baudoi
- [VIII: In the Meanwhile of the Departing of the Champions, They Would Pleasure Birdalone with Feats of Arms and Games of Prowess](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/viii-in-the-meanwhile-of-the-departing-of-the-champions-they-would-pleasure-birdalone-with-feats-of-arms-and-games-of-prowess.md): As the days pass quickly before the Champions' departure, they and their household entertain Birdalone with feats of arms, archery, and footraces. Birdalone proves skilled with the bow, but refrains from competing in the
- [IX: Birdalone Cometh Before the Champions in Her New Array](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ix-birdalone-cometh-before-the-champions-in-her-new-array.md): Birdalone, dressed in her finest new raiment and bearing the keepsakes of the three champions, enters the hall and presents each with his gift. She declares her part in the quest complete and asks the champions to rememb
- [X: The Champions Go Their Ways in the Sending Boat](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/x-the-champions-go-their-ways-in-the-sending-boat.md): At sunrise, the three Champions—Sir Baudoin, Hugh the Green Knight, and Arthur the Black Squire—load the Sending Boat with provisions and weapons, following Birdalone's instructions. Birdalone, dressed plainly and barefo
- [The Fourth Part: Of the Days of Abiding](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/the-fourth-part-of-the-days-of-abiding.md): Birdalone and the three champions (Sir Baudoin, Sir Aymeris, and Sir Hugh) settle into a period of waiting at the castle of the Green Knight, where they prepare for the quest ahead. Birdalone learns more about the champi
- [I: Of Birdalone’s Grief; and of Leonard the Chaplain](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/i-of-birdalone-s-grief-and-of-leonard-the-chaplain.md): Birdalone awakens to grief after the Champions' departure, dresses in black, and wanders the castle in sorrow. The castellan brings her back from the meadow, and later Leonard the chaplain visits, offering to escort her 
- [II: Birdalone Learneth Lore of the Priest. Ten Days of Waiting Wear](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ii-birdalone-learneth-lore-of-the-priest-ten-days-of-waiting-wear.md): Birdalone passes the days after the Champions' departure by talking with her women, learning to read from the priest Leonard, and broidering a pair of shoon for Atra. As the ninth day arrives, she anxiously awaits the re
- [III: Now Would Birdalone Ride Abroad](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iii-now-would-birdalone-ride-abroad.md): Birdalone, restless and longing for her speech-friend, tries to occupy herself with lessons and embroidery but is consumed by worry over the delayed return of the champions. She asks the castellan, Sir Aymeris, for permi
- [IV: Of Birdalone’s Faring Abroad](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iv-of-birdalone-s-faring-abroad.md): Birdalone struggles with longing for her friends but resolves to endure and focus on her studies. After three weeks, the castellan arranges an expedition into the wildwood, where Birdalone enjoys hunting, bathing, and a 
- [V: Sir Aymeris Showeth Birdalone the Mountains Afar Off](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/v-sir-aymeris-showeth-birdalone-the-mountains-afar-off.md): Birdalone awakens from a nightmare of the witch and her own isolation, feeling burdened by longing and uncertainty about the fate of the Champions. Sir Aymeris takes her on a ride to see the distant mountains, where she 
- [VI: Birdalone Heareth Tell Tales of the Black Valley of the Greywethers](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vi-birdalone-heareth-tell-tales-of-the-black-valley-of-the-greywethers.md): Birdalone, heavy-hearted and longing for tidings, learns from priest Leonard the perilous legend of the Black Valley of the Greywethers—stone giants that awaken and grant desires to those bold enough to speak the ritual 
- [VII: Birdalone Beguileth the Priest to Help Her to Outgoing](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vii-birdalone-beguileth-the-priest-to-help-her-to-outgoing.md): Birdalone, heartsick and longing for the return of the Champions, persuades Sir Leonard the priest to help her secretly leave the castle to venture alone into the Black Valley of the Greywethers, despite his offer to acc
- [VIII: Birdalone Fares on Her Adventure](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/viii-birdalone-fares-on-her-adventure.md): Birdalone departs the castle at dawn with the priest Leonard's help, taking her bow and arrows. She asks Leonard to wait three days before revealing her absence to Sir Aymeris. Leonard confesses his love for her, and she
- [IX: Birdalone Comes to the Black Valley](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ix-birdalone-comes-to-the-black-valley.md): Birdalone journeys to the knoll above the Black Valley of the Greywethers, arriving at noon. She observes the stony landscape and three ravens, then eats and drinks before hesitantly entering the valley. She rides throug
- [X: How Birdalone Fell in with a Man in the Black Valley of the Greywethers](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/x-how-birdalone-fell-in-with-a-man-in-the-black-valley-of-the-greywethers.md): Birdalone encounters a mysterious Black Knight in the Black Valley of the Greywethers. He startles her by hiding behind a stone, then insists on accompanying her up the dale despite her fear and reluctance. She is uneasy
- [XI: Birdalone Is Led Up the Black Valley](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xi-birdalone-is-led-up-the-black-valley.md): The Black Knight leads Birdalone up the Black Valley, recounting tales of the land-wights, a past battle between the mountain-folk and the plainsmen, and the Stony People. Birdalone's fear of the knight diminishes as he 
- [XII: How Those Twain Get Them from Out of the Black Valley of the Greywethers](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xii-how-those-twain-get-them-from-out-of-the-black-valley-of-the-greywethers.md): Birdalone and the Black Knight, having dined, debate whether to wake the Greywethers. Birdalone confesses her fear of the knight's desire and her determination to resist. The knight admits he wants her to stay longer. Bi
- [XIII: Now They Rest for the Night in the Strait Pass](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xiii-now-they-rest-for-the-night-in-the-strait-pass.md): After traveling for about six hours through a narrow mountain pass, the knight and Birdalone stop to rest. Birdalone is exhausted and nearly falls from her horse. The knight lifts her down, makes a bed for her, covers he
- [XIV: The Black Knight Tells the Truth of Himself](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xiv-the-black-knight-tells-the-truth-of-himself.md): Birdalone and the Black Knight continue through the secret pass, and he confesses his true identity as a trusted kinsman of the Red Knight, sent to capture her. He admits his betrayal but declares his love for her, vowin
- [XV: The Black Knight Brings Birdalone to the Bower in the Dale](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xv-the-black-knight-brings-birdalone-to-the-bower-in-the-dale.md): The Black Knight leads Birdalone through a thicket to a hidden dale with a bower by a river. They rest and share a meal; Birdalone bathes and considers the knight's love for her, hoping he will guide her toward the Castl
- [XVI: Yet a Day and a Night They Tarry in the Dale](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xvi-yet-a-day-and-a-night-they-tarry-in-the-dale.md): Birdalone awakes in the dale and asks the Black Knight to take her to the Castle of the Quest. He proposes instead that they go to Greenford, where he can betray the Red Knight and win power and marriage with Birdalone. 
- [I: Of Sir Leonard’s Trouble and the Coming of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/i-of-sir-leonard-s-trouble-and-the-coming-of-the-quest.md): Sir Leonard, the chaplain, is tormented by his love for Birdalone and fears for her safety after helping her leave the castle. He attempts to confess to Sir Aymeris but is repeatedly ignored as the castle erupts in excit
- [II: Now Ask They of Birdalone, and Sir Leonard Speaks](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ii-now-ask-they-of-birdalone-and-sir-leonard-speaks.md): The champions return to the castle with Aurea, Hugh, Arthur, and Atra. They ask for Birdalone, but the chaplain Leonard reveals she is missing and in peril. Arthur reacts violently, but Baudoin calms him. The ladies are 
- [III: How They Follow the Slot of Birdalone and the Black Knight](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iii-how-they-follow-the-slot-of-birdalone-and-the-black-knight.md): The three champions, having learned from the priest of Birdalone's abduction, set out with a squire and a sergeant to track her and the Black Knight through the Black Valley of the Greywethers. They face treacherous weat
- [IV: Of the Slaying of Friend and Foe](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iv-of-the-slaying-of-friend-and-foe.md): The champions ambush the Red Knight in a woodland clearing, but in the sudden attack Sir Baudoin is slain. Birdalone, found tethered and bearing a severed head, recounts her capture and rescue by Sir Thomas of Estcliffe,
- [They Come Home to the Castle of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/v-they-come-home-to-the-castle-of-the-quest.md): The company returns to the Castle of the Quest after the death of their captain, Sir Baudoin. Sir Aymeris and his men mourn deeply, while Arthur the Black Squire remains stoic and aloof. Birdalone, weary and grief-strick
- [VI: Of the Talk Betwixt Birdalone and Viridis](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vi-of-the-talk-betwixt-birdalone-and-viridis.md): Birdalone wakes after a night's sleep and is visited by Viridis, who comforts her. They discuss the reactions of the fellowship to Baudoin's death and Birdalone's role in it. Viridis advises Birdalone to tell her full st
- [VII: Birdalone Telleth the Tale of Her Wandering Up the Valley of the Greywethers](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vii-birdalone-telleth-the-tale-of-her-wandering-up-the-valley-of-the-greywethers.md): Birdalone confesses to the Champions and ladies her journey to the Black Valley of the Greywethers, seeking fulfilment of desire. She recounts her adventures with the strange knight, his death, and her return. The group 
- [VIII: Atra and Birdalone Talk Together While the Lords Sit at the Murder-Council](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/viii-atra-and-birdalone-talk-together-while-the-lords-sit-at-the-murder-council.md): While the lords (Hugh and Arthur) are in council planning the hosting against the Red Hold, Atra takes Birdalone aside into a shot-window. Atra confesses her conflicted feelings: she had hoped Hugh might die gloriously i
- [IX: Hugh Tells the Story of the Quest's Ending](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ix-hugh-tells-the-story-of-the-quest-s-ending.md): Hugh recounts the knights' journey across the isles, their encounter with the witch on the Isle of Increase Unsought, and the eventual rescue of the three maidens after the witch's destruction. The chapter ends with the 
- [X: How It Fared with the Three Ladies After the Escape of Birdalone](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/x-how-it-fared-with-the-three-ladies-after-the-escape-of-birdalone.md): Viridis recounts to Birdalone the events that transpired after Birdalone's escape. The three ladies return to the witch's house, disguise their involvement, and narrowly avoid suspicion. Later, two doves arrive with scro
- [XI: Birdalone and the Black Squire Talk Together in the Hall of the Castle](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xi-birdalone-and-the-black-squire-talk-together-in-the-hall-of-the-castle.md): After Sir Baudoin's burial, the knights prepare for war against the Red Hold. On the eve of departure, Birdalone seeks private talk with Arthur the Black Squire. They share an intimate conversation in the hall, where the
- [XII: The Knights and Their Fellows Betake Them to the Assaulting of the Red Hold](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xii-the-knights-and-their-fellows-betake-them-to-the-assaulting-of-the-red-hold.md): The knights depart for the Red Hold, leaving the ladies behind in the Castle of the Quest. Viridis clings to Birdalone, who busies herself with embroidery and scribe-craft under Sir Leonard's tutelage. A week later, a me
- [XIII: Birdalone Bethinks Her to Fulfil the Promise Made Unto Atra](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xiii-birdalone-bethinks-her-to-fulfil-the-promise-made-unto-atra.md): Birdalone resolves to leave the castle to fulfill her promise to Atra, despite the pleas of Viridis and the others. She arranges for an escort to Greenford, planning to earn her living by her crafts. Atra watches her clo
- [XIV: Birdalone Leaves the Castle of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xiv-birdalone-leaves-the-castle-of-the-quest.md): Birdalone bids farewell to Aurea and Atra, sends a comforting message to Viridis, and departs the Castle of the Quest with Arnold and four men-at-arms, beginning her journey into the unknown.
- [The Sixth Part: The Days of Absence](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/the-sixth-part-the-days-of-absence.md): This chapter covers the period of separation and waiting after the champions have departed on their quest, focusing on Birdalone's solitude and the passage of time.
- [I: Birdalone Rides to Greenford and There Takes Leave of Arnold and His Men](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/i-birdalone-rides-to-greenford-and-there-takes-leave-of-arnold-and-his-men.md): Birdalone rides to Greenford with Arnold and his men, where she is well received by the deputy of the burgrave. The next morning, she sends Arnold and the men back, then hires Gerard of the Clee and his two sons, Robert 
- [II: Of Birdalone and Her Fellowship, Their Faring Over the Downland](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ii-of-birdalone-and-her-fellowship-their-faring-over-the-downland.md): Birdalone rides with Gerard and his sons across the downland, resting in a dale where Gerard and his sons swear fealty to her. They travel for two days, sleeping under the sky and guesting with shepherd-folk, who are awe
- [III: They Come to the City of the Five Crafts, and Birdalone Meets with the Poor-Wife](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iii-they-come-to-the-city-of-the-five-crafts-and-birdalone-meets-with-the-poor-wife.md): Birdalone and her company arrive at the City of the Five Crafts, where she is amazed by its size and bustle. Gerard helps her find the embroiderers' guild, and she meets Master Jacobus, who admires her needlework and arr
- [Of the Love of Gerard's Sons and of Jacobus for Birdalone](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iv-of-the-love-of-gerard-s-sons-and-of-jacobus-for-birdalone.md): Birdalone lives in peace and prosperity with her mother Audrey, having been taken into the broiderers' guild. She maintains Gerard and his sons as her men, but becomes troubled by the love that Robert and Giles Gerardson
- [V: Of the Death of Audrey, Mother to Birdalone. She Is Warned in a Dream to Seek the Black Squire, and Is Minded to Depart the City of the Five Crafts, and Seek Again the Castle of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/v-of-the-death-of-audrey-mother-to-birdalone-she-is-warned-in-a-dream-to-seek-the-black-squire-and-is-minded-to-depart-the-city-of-the-five-crafts-and-seek-again-the-castle-of-the-quest.md): After five years of peace in the Five Crafts, Birdalone's mother Audrey dies of a plague, followed by her friend Master Jacobus. Grief-stricken and feeling the city unfriendly, she dreams of the witch-wife taunting her a
- [VI: Of the Sundering of Birdalone from Gerard and His Sons](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vi-of-the-sundering-of-birdalone-from-gerard-and-his-sons.md): Birdalone, disguised as a young man in light armor, departs from the City of the Five Crafts with Gerard and his sons. After a five-day journey, they stop at a place where the road turns from Mostwyke. There, Birdalone a
- [VII: Birdalone Cometh to Greenford, and Hears of the Wasting of the Castle of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/vii-birdalone-cometh-to-greenford-and-hears-of-the-wasting-of-the-castle-of-the-quest.md): Birdalone arrives in Greenford disguised as a squire and learns from townsmen and chapmen that the Castle of the Quest has been abandoned and that Arthur the Black Squire left the Red Hold three and a half years ago, pos
- [VIII: Birdalone Cometh to the Castle of the Quest, Heareth the Tale Thereof from Leonard, and Departeth Thence by the Sending Boat](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/viii-birdalone-cometh-to-the-castle-of-the-quest-heareth-the-tale-thereof-from-leonard-and-departeth-thence-by-the-sending-boat.md): Birdalone returns to the Castle of the Quest, where she meets Leonard the priest, who tells her that the Black Squire and the others have departed due to uncanny apparitions. She learns that the witch-mistress has sent a
- [IX: Birdalone Findeth the Isle of Nothing Greatly Bettered, and Is Kindly Entreated There](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ix-birdalone-findeth-the-isle-of-nothing-greatly-bettered-and-is-kindly-entreated-there.md): Birdalone journeys to the Isle of Nothing, which she finds transformed into a green and fertile land with orchards and homesteads. She meets four young, peaceful inhabitants, disarms herself to show trust, and is warmly 
- [X: Of Birdalone’s Flitting from the Isle of Nothing](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/x-of-birdalone-s-flitting-from-the-isle-of-nothing.md): Birdalone departs from the Isle of Nothing despite the kindness of its inhabitants, who provide her with provisions. She performs a sacrifice to the boat's wight before gliding away, leaving the folk to wonder if she was
- [XI: Coming to the Isle of Kings Birdalone Findeth There a Score and Two of Fair Damsels Who Would Fain Have Her Company](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xi-coming-to-the-isle-of-kings-birdalone-findeth-there-a-score-and-two-of-fair-damsels-who-would-fain-have-her-company.md): Birdalone arrives at the Isle of Kings at dawn and is greeted by a score and two fair damsels who mistake her for a man and offer themselves as her slaves. She is perplexed and attempts to leave, but they weep and plead 
- [XII: Birdalone Cometh Again to the Isle of Queens, and Findeth a Perilous Adventure Therein](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xii-birdalone-cometh-again-to-the-isle-of-queens-and-findeth-a-perilous-adventure-therein.md): Birdalone returns to the Isle of Queens at dawn, and after a moment of fear, she bathes in the lake. She is then approached by a grizzled knight named Otter, who initially mistakes her for a young man. He reveals that he
- [XIII: Coming to the Isle of the Young and the Old, Birdalone Findeth It Peopled with Children](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xiii-coming-to-the-isle-of-the-young-and-the-old-birdalone-findeth-it-peopled-with-children.md): Birdalone arrives at the Isle of the Young and the Old, where she finds only children living without any adults. A tall lad of about fifteen leads her to their dwelling, offers her food, and explains how they sustain the
- [XIV: The Sending Boat Disappeareth from the Isle of Increase Unsought, and Birdalone Seeketh to Escape Thence by Swimming](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xiv-the-sending-boat-disappeareth-from-the-isle-of-increase-unsought-and-birdalone-seeketh-to-escape-thence-by-swimming.md): Birdalone returns to the Isle of Increase Unsought, now a barren and poisoned waste, and finds the Sending Boat gone. In despair, she strips off her armor and clothes, burns two hairs from Habundia's tress as a plea for 
- [XV: Birdalone Lacketh Little of Drowning, but Cometh Latterly to the Green Eyot](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xv-birdalone-lacketh-little-of-drowning-but-cometh-latterly-to-the-green-eyot.md): Birdalone swims from the evil isle, guided by the stars, and after hours of struggle and near-drowning, finds refuge on a floating tree bole. She sleeps and awakens to find herself carried to the familiar shores of Green
- [XVI: Birdalone Findeth Her Witch-Mistress Dead](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xvi-birdalone-findeth-her-witch-mistress-dead.md): Birdalone awakens after noon and, though fearful, approaches the witch's dwelling. She finds the witch dead on the bench, with kine lowing to be milked. After confirming death, she milks the cows, drinks, enters the hous
- [XVII: Birdalone Layeth to Earth the Body of the Witch, and Findeth the Sending Boat Broken Up](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xvii-birdalone-layeth-to-earth-the-body-of-the-witch-and-findeth-the-sending-boat-broken-up.md): Birdalone buries the witch, tends to the house and livestock, and later discovers the Sending Boat has fallen apart. She sees a serpent emerge from the wreckage, then returns home, lights a fire, mends her gown, and slee
- [XVIII: The Wood-Mother Cometh to Birdalone and Heareth Her Story](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xviii-the-wood-mother-cometh-to-birdalone-and-heareth-her-story.md): Birdalone meets Habundia, the wood-mother, at the Oak of Tryst. They embrace and Birdalone weeps for joy. Habundia notes Birdalone's physical and emotional changes, and Birdalone confesses her grief and loss. Habundia as
- [XIX: Habundia Hideth Birdalone’s Nakedness with Faery Raiment](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xix-habundia-hideth-birdalone-s-nakedness-with-faery-raiment.md): Birdalone meets Habundia at the Trysting Tree, who gifts her with exquisite faery raiment. Birdalone joyfully dons the new clothes, but her pleasure is tempered by thoughts of how she will appear to her beloved. She then
- [XX: Birdalone Telleth Habundia of Her Love for Arthur, and Getteth from Her Promise of Help Therein](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xx-birdalone-telleth-habundia-of-her-love-for-arthur-and-getteth-from-her-promise-of-help-therein.md): Birdalone confesses to Habundia her deep love for Arthur the Black Squire, recounting her story with shame but without concealment. Habundia listens kindly, though she finds Birdalone's passion somewhat strange. At dusk,
- [XXI: How the Wood-Wife Entered the Cot, and a Wonder That Befell Thereon](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxi-how-the-wood-wife-entered-the-cot-and-a-wonder-that-befell-thereon.md): On the sixth day since their last meeting, Birdalone sees Habundia approaching from the wood. Habundia brings a green hunting-gown for Birdalone and proposes they venture into the wildwood. Birdalone invites her into the
- [XXII: Birdalone Wendeth the Wildwood in Fellowship with Habundia](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxii-birdalone-wendeth-the-wildwood-in-fellowship-with-habundia.md): Birdalone and Habundia journey through the wildwood together. Habundia questions Birdalone about the sapphire ring given by Arthur, and Birdalone reveals it was originally given to another woman. Habundia hints they are 
- [XXIII: The Wood-Wife Bringeth Birdalone to the Sight of Arthur in the Wildwood](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxiii-the-wood-wife-bringeth-birdalone-to-the-sight-of-arthur-in-the-wildwood.md): Habundia leads Birdalone through the forest to a hidden dale where they find Arthur, now living wild and clad in deerskins, tormented by grief and rage. Birdalone reveals herself, but Arthur mistakes her for a tormenting
- [XXIV: The Wood-Mother Changeth Her Form to That of a Woman Stricken in Years](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxiv-the-wood-mother-changeth-her-form-to-that-of-a-woman-stricken-in-years.md): Birdalone awakens to find Habundia transformed into an old woman, who explains she is now the image of Birdalone's future self. Habundia insists Birdalone return home alone, promising that Arthur will follow once he is s
- [XXV: The Wood-Wife Healeth and Tendeth the Black Squire](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxv-the-wood-wife-healeth-and-tendeth-the-black-squire.md): The wood-wife Habundia heals Arthur the Black Squire in her cave, tending to his sleep and providing him with fresh raiment and a sword. When Arthur awakens and sees Birdalone's sapphire ring about his neck, he becomes d
- [XXVI: The Black Squire Telleth the Wood-Wife of His Doings Since Birdalone Went from the Castle of the Quest](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxvi-the-black-squire-telleth-the-wood-wife-of-his-doings-since-birdalone-went-from-the-castle-of-the-quest.md): Arthur the Black Squire recounts to Habundia his years of despair and wandering after Birdalone's departure from the Castle of the Quest. He describes his descent into a beast-like state in the wildwood of Evilshaw, his 
- [XXVII: Sir Arthur Cometh to the House Under the Wood](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxvii-sir-arthur-cometh-to-the-house-under-the-wood.md): Sir Arthur crosses a stream and enters a familiar-looking house, where he is joyfully reunited with his beloved. Overcome with emotion, they embrace and exchange words of love and longing, acknowledging past grief and se
- [XXVIII: Fair Days in the House of Love](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxviii-fair-days-in-the-house-of-love.md): Birdalone and Arthur spend idyllic days together in the house by the Great Water, with Birdalone taking joy in domestic tasks and cherishing Arthur. She dresses in her woodland green and her wonder-raiment, and they walk
- [XXIX: Those Twain Will Seek the Wisdom of the Wood-Wife](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxix-those-twain-will-seek-the-wisdom-of-the-wood-wife.md): Birdalone and Arthur spend a day of rest and intimacy, during which Birdalone recounts her full history with the wood-wife Habundia and her escape from the witch. Arthur shares his own sorrows and his love for Birdalone,
- [XXX: They Have Speech with Habundia Concerning the Green Knight and His Fellows](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxx-they-have-speech-with-habundia-concerning-the-green-knight-and-his-fellows.md): Birdalone and Arthur meet Habundia in the woods. Arthur swears allegiance to her, and she agrees to help them find their lost companions, including the Green Knight and Viridis. She instructs them to wait fourteen days f
- [XXXI: Habundia Cometh with Tidings of Those Dear Friends](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxxi-habundia-cometh-with-tidings-of-those-dear-friends.md): Birdalone and Arthur spend joyful days together in the meadows and woods, swimming, fishing, and exploring. Habundia meets them at the Oak of Tryst and reveals that their friends are alive and in Evilshaw, but are being 
- [XXXII: Of the Fight in the Forest and the Rescue of Those Friends from the Men of the Red Company](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxxii-of-the-fight-in-the-forest-and-the-rescue-of-those-friends-from-the-men-of-the-red-company.md): At dawn, Birdalone and Arthur hear rough voices and women's shrieks. They ambush a band of the Red Company who have captured Atra, Aurea, and Viridis. Birdalone blows a horn that summons green-clad men-at-arms, and toget
- [XXXIII: Viridis Telleth the Tale of Their Seeking](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/xxxiii-viridis-telleth-the-tale-of-their-seeking.md): Viridis recounts the quest of Hugh, herself, Aurea, and Atra to find Birdalone and Arthur. They journey from the Green Mountains to Greenford and the Castle of the Quest, where they learn of Birdalone's departure and enc
- [The Seventh Part: The Days of Returning](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/the-seventh-part-the-days-of-returning.md): Birdalone and her companions return from their quest, reflecting on their journey and the changes they have undergone.
- [I: Sir Hugh Asketh Birdalone Where She Would Have the Abode of Their Fellowship to Be](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/i-sir-hugh-asketh-birdalone-where-she-would-have-the-abode-of-their-fellowship-to-be.md): Hugh asks Birdalone where she wishes their fellowship to dwell, offering to follow her anywhere. Birdalone reveals her bond with the wood-woman Habundia and proposes they settle in Utterhay, near the forest of Evilshaw. 
- [II: Birdalone Taketh Counsel with Her Wood-Mother Concerning the Matter of Sir Hugh](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/ii-birdalone-taketh-counsel-with-her-wood-mother-concerning-the-matter-of-sir-hugh.md): Birdalone meets with her wood-mother Habundia at the Oak of Tryst to seek counsel about Sir Hugh the Green Knight's desire to return to his lands under the Green Mountains to fetch his goods and folk. Habundia advises ag
- [Of the Journeying Through the Forest of Evilshaw Unto the Town of Utterhay](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iii-of-the-journeying-through-the-forest-of-evilshaw-unto-the-town-of-utterhay.md): Birdalone leads Sir Hugh to the Oak of Tryst, where he departs with three men-at-arms. Over the following weeks, Birdalone introduces her three friends to Habundia, and Atra in particular grows close to the wood-mother, 
- [IV: Of the Abiding in Utterhay in Love and Contentment](https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_water_of_the_wondrous_isles_se/chapters/iv-of-the-abiding-in-utterhay-in-love-and-contentment.md): The chapter describes the peaceful and prosperous life of the company in Utterhay after their arrival. The mayor hosts a great feast in their honor, and Hugh and Arthur are made war-dukes to lead the town's defenses. A c

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