Contents
Chapter 50: Chasing the Wind
Overview
Shunned after his trial, Kvothe accepts Count Threpe’s introduction to the Maer Alveron in Vintas, seizing a rare patronage chance. Elodin reframes his departure as true “chasing the wind,” urging mindful risk. To fund the journey, Kvothe leaves prized collateral with Devi—most painfully Denna’s ring—for a year and a day.
Summary
Kvothe ends winter term by giving his Admissions tile to Fela, then drifts through an idle, restricted season as classes resume without him. Shunned in Imre’s polite circles after his trial, he spends time at the Eolian with Stanchion, Deoch, and the distant Threpe, and considers leaving the University.
Threpe arrives with news: the Maer Alveron of Vintas seeks a clever, discreet wordsmith-musician. Seeing rare opportunity, Kvothe agrees to go at once. He hurriedly bids farewell to friends and masters, receiving cautious encouragement from Kilvin, Arwyl, and Dal, and leaving a note for the elusive Elodin.
On Stonebridge, Elodin speaks with Kvothe about edges, danger, and the old meaning of “chasing the wind”—leaving to awaken the sleeping mind and seek the wind’s name. He urges Kvothe to take risks in moderation and sends him on with a boyish “spit for luck.”
Before departing, Kvothe visits Devi to settle his debt but lacks funds after provisioning for the journey and necessary courtly clothing. They negotiate collateral: Rhetoric and Logic, Kvothe’s sympathy lamp, his Eolian pipes, and Denna’s ring. Kvothe insists the ring be kept safe and unworn. They agree to a term of a year and a day, postponing repayment as Kvothe sets off for Severen.
Who Appears
- KvotheProtagonist; accepts journey to Vintas for Maer’s patronage, receives Elodin’s counsel, and leaves collateral with Devi to fund travel.
- Count ThrepeBrings the Maer Alveron’s request and drafts Kvothe’s letter of introduction, catalyzing Kvothe’s departure.
- Master ElodinDiscusses edges, naming, and ‘chasing the wind,’ urging Kvothe to embrace measured risk before he leaves.
- DeviMoneylender; negotiates collateral—book, lamp, Eolian pipes, and Denna’s ring—for a year and a day.
- StanchionEolian keeper; shares drinks and gossip with Kvothe during his idle weeks.
- DeochEolian doorman; friendly company while Kvothe lingers in Imre.
- WilemFriend; offers a heartfelt farewell as Kvothe departs.
- SimmonFriend; bids Kvothe goodbye and marks spring’s arrival with characteristic humor.
- KilvinMaster artificer; gruffly supportive, asks Kvothe to note lamp ideas while away.
- Master ArwylHead of the Medica; assures Kvothe there will be a place for him on return.
- FelaReceives Kvothe’s Admissions tile as a token of luck.
- AuriWaves farewell to Kvothe as he prepares to leave.
- MolaInforms Kvothe that Devi is on holiday, easing his worry.
- AnkerAgrees to store Kvothe’s belongings and keep his garret for music.