Book 1, Part 1, Chapters 1-3 Summary

In the opening of the book, Susannah and Roland have traveled about a mile from their campsite to a clearing where Roland is schooling Susannah in shooting technique. Susannah is at first not as serious about her shooting as Roland wants her to be. He cures this joviality by reminding Susannah of people who were cruel to her in the past. These memories anger Susannah and she shoots well, hitting five of the targets and clipping the final one. Roland is pleased with Susannah's shooting efforts but Susannah is angry with Roland for bringing to mind her past pain.

As they talk after the lesson, Susannah senses there is something wrong with Roland. After some consideration, Roland finally decides to tell Susannah the truth that he feels he is going crazy. He is interrupted, however, by the...