Contents
Chapter 58: Courting
Overview
Stalled and anxious, Kvothe is taken to the Maer’s private rooms and learns the Maer seeks a secret marriage to produce an heir. Only Meluan Lackless fits the political constraints, yet she is highly pursued. The Maer enlists Kvothe to craft letters and songs, directing discreet research through Caudicus with an iron ring.
Summary
Kvothe endures two days without a summons, fretting over the Maer’s silence and his pawned lute. Relief comes when Stapes personally escorts him to the Maer’s private rooms, where Alveron appears markedly weaker, pained, and quietly angry about seeming much older than his forty years.
The Maer confides his central problem: he has no heir and, due to politics and pride, refuses to cede power to the king by marrying one of the crown’s wards. Only one suitable woman lies beyond the king’s control—young, educated, beautiful, and much courted—making his chances as a sick, aging suitor uncertain. He rejects the idea of “buying” a wife with status.
Pressed for discretion, the Maer names Meluan Lackless and asks Kvothe to help court her. Kvothe agrees but insists he must know more about her to be effective. The Maer tasks him with crafting letters and songs and directs him to gather background from Caudicus on family histories.
To authorize this inquiry without revealing the marriage plan, Alveron gives Kvothe an iron ring for Caudicus, warns him to keep the matter secret, and abruptly ends the meeting to take medicine. As Kvothe leaves, the Maer, drifting into fitful sleep, mutters about the nature of power.
Who Appears
- KvotheRestless from inaction; summoned privately; enlisted to court Meluan for the Maer via letters and songs; given an iron ring for Caudicus.
- Maer Alveron (Alveron)Ill and irritable; reveals need for an heir; targets Meluan Lackless; refuses to exploit rank; commands secrecy and authorizes research.
- StapesThe Maer’s weary manservant; personally escorts Kvothe to the Maer’s private rooms.
- CaudicusCourt arcanist and historian; to provide family background for Meluan; will recognize Kvothe’s authority by the Maer’s iron ring.
- Meluan LacklessEligible noblewoman beyond the king’s control; the Maer’s intended bride; cultured, young, and sought by many suitors.