Contents
Chapter 66: Within Easy Reach
Overview
The Maer installs Kvothe in rooms connected to his own and commissions songs and letters to woo Meluan, timing her visit with month-long festivities. Granted freedom to roam for inspiration, Kvothe immediately encounters Denna and rekindles their rapport, setting up a tension between his duty to the Maer and his feelings for Denna.
Summary
Kvothe settles into his newly assigned luxury rooms, appreciating their armless chairs for lute practice. He relaxes with wine and music until Maer Alveron enters via a private passage, revealing the move was intentional for convenient collaboration.
The Maer asks Kvothe to compose pieces and letters to aid his courtship of Meluan Lackless. He announces Meluan will visit in two days amid a month of festivities celebrating his recovery, and he secures frequent meetings through the connecting passage. Kvothe requests only paper, ink, and freedom to roam for inspiration, which Alveron grants.
With leave to wander, Kvothe heads into Severen-Low and almost immediately spots Denna on Tinnery Street, surprisingly easy to find after months of fruitless searching. He approaches her playfully.
They trade witty, intimate banter that acknowledges past hurts and attraction. The moment ends warmly as Denna links her arm with Kvothe’s, renewing their connection on the eve of the Maer’s planned courtship campaign.
Who Appears
- KvotheNarrator; moved to connected rooms, commissioned to compose for Meluan, gains freedom to roam, finds and reconnects with Denna.
- Maer Alveron (Alveron)Grateful patron; arranges connected rooms, plans festivities, tasks Kvothe with aiding his courtship of Meluan.
- DennaKvothe’s elusive love; encountered on Tinnery Street, exchanges playful, tender banter, renews closeness.