Overview
Lionel Prescott, also called Dr. Prescott, is a deceased figure in “The Palisade.” His estate sale brings Matthew Saaland into contact with the ritual instructions that lead to the palisade.
Role
Prescott is the author of a self-published manual copyrighted in 1996. The book describes the ritual Matthew uses to reach the palisade.
Although Prescott is dead before the story begins, his influence defines the realm. Edith says he manifested the palisade and placed a Rosetta Stone-like marker near Matthew’s arrival point. The cottage contains Prescott’s books, preferred drink, and childhood foods, and its pantry and icebox replenish themselves according to his tastes.
Prescott is also associated with a small mystic order. Edith belongs to its fringes, though she says its members have largely stopped visiting the palisade by the time Matthew arrives.