Chapter 4 Summary

Chapter 4 opens with a part of the legend of the Lord of Light that describes the Rakasha imprisoned in Hellwell. The Rakasha, it is explained, were the powerful original inhabitants of the planet who have great powers and can assume any shape. The Lord of Light, concerned about the "state of the world," went to Hellwell to bargain with the chief of the Rakasha.

The action resumes with Sam walking deliberately up the treacherous and narrow path that leads to the door to Hellwell. The door is high on a mountain called Channa, a massive metal door with a large ring. Sam reaches the door and rests on the narrow ledge in front of it. After eating his lunch, he makes some gestures with his hands on a plate on the door and it opens. He pulls it open, steps inside, and closes...