Book 1, Prologue and Munchkinlanders Summary

As four travelers rest in a wood, they discuss the rumors about the Wicked Witch of the West. Nearby, the Witch hides and listens to the various theories about the root of her wickedness. Just as the witch spots the jeweled slippers on Dorothy, it begins to rain. She takes refuge from the rain in the roots of a tree and waits to confront Dorothy another time.

In "The Root of Evil," Melena and Frex prepare for the birth of their first child. Frex, a Unionist minister, remains committed to preaching against all forms of indulgence, as his religion purports, despite Melena's condition. He primps and prepares for a long trip of preaching against the invading Clock of the Time Dragon, which Frex feels distracts the Munchkins from their Unionist roots. Though Melena vows to support Frex...