Contents
Chapter 124: Of Names
Overview
Kvothe’s ritual wound is tended, and Shehyn probes his past use of power, linking his foes to the Rhinta (Chandrian). She judges his Ketan lacking but promising. Magwyn names him Maedre, formalizing his place among the Adem.
Afterward, Kvothe learns Adem sexual customs from Vashet, shedding possessive beliefs and deepening his cultural assimilation.
Summary
Vashet teases Kvothe for showboating as she escorts him to Daeln, who expertly stitches his ritual cut. Later, with Shehyn, Kvothe is praised for his trial but questioned about using blood magic and lightning against bandits. Shehyn calls such leaders Rhinta, likely the Chandrian, and notes Kvothe’s intent to kill one.
Shehyn cautions that Kvothe’s Ketan is poor but promises he could match Tempi with a year’s training. Kvothe asks to learn more about the Rhinta; Shehyn will consider it, and he wisely avoids pressing.
Shehyn brings Kvothe to Magwyn for naming. After a probing examination, Magwyn names him Maedre and warns that true names are private and dangerous to share. Vashet and Shehyn react sharply when Vashet blurts dismay, reinforcing the ceremony’s gravity.
That evening, after a small celebration organized by Penthe, Kvothe seeks Vashet’s guidance about Penthe’s advances. Vashet clarifies Adem views: sex is intimate but not exclusive or possessive, distinct from deeper bonds like teacher-student intimacy. Kvothe recognizes his cultural assumptions and accepts Adem norms.
Who Appears
- KvotheProtagonist; recovers from ritual cut, seeks Rhinta knowledge, receives the name Maedre, and grapples with Adem views on sex.
- VashetTeacher; oversees Kvothe’s mending, supports his acceptance, advises on Rhinta request, and explains Adem sexual customs.
- ShehynSchool head; praises Kvothe’s trial, critiques his Ketan, identifies Rhinta, and initiates his naming.
- MagwynElder namer; examines Kvothe and gives him the private name Maedre, warning him to keep it secret.
- PentheAdem woman; hosts a small celebration and propositions Kvothe, prompting the discussion of Adem sexual norms.
- DaelnHealer; expertly stitches Kvothe’s ritual wound on his hand.