Contents
Chapter 70: Clinging
Overview
Kvothe surprises Denna with a secret visit to the Maer’s gardens, presenting her with blooming selas and deepening their intimacy. Their near-romantic moment is interrupted by the Maer and Meluan, confirming Kvothe’s status to Denna. She declines an introduction, and their heightened mood settles as the adventure’s illicit charm fades.
Summary
Kvothe meets Denna late at night outside the Four Tapers after she has seen her patron, Master Ash. He invites her on a clandestine outing and leads her via a hayloft and rooftop into the Maer’s private gardens, bantering as they go.
Wanting to give Denna something meaningful, Kvothe brings her to a tunnel of blooming selas, the flower he once said suited her. The intimate setting deepens their connection; Denna reflects on how Kvothe’s careful restraint contrasts with other men, and she quietly invites closer contact.
Before the moment can progress, Denna hears approaching footsteps and pulls Kvothe into a hedge. From hiding, they see the Maer Alveron and Meluan Lackless strolling, overhearing the Maer promise her roses. The scene amuses Denna and confirms to her that Kvothe truly serves the Maer.
Kvothe offers to introduce Denna, revealing he had meant his earlier claims sincerely. Denna admits she had assumed exaggeration but now believes him, and she declines to meet the pair, citing grass stains. They emerge, tidy themselves, and continue walking, acknowledging that the thrill faded once they had permission, and the charged moment between them cools.
Who Appears
- KvotheNarrator; arranges a secret garden visit to show Denna selas, handles the moment with respectful restraint.
- DennaMeets Kvothe after seeing her patron; moved by the selas, acknowledges Kvothe’s gentleness; declines meeting the Maer.
- Maer AlveronSpotted strolling with Meluan; unwittingly interrupts Kvothe and Denna; his presence confirms Kvothe’s claims.
- Meluan LacklessWalks with the Maer in the gardens; shares an intimate, lighthearted moment, signaling progress in their courtship.