Chapter 67: Telling Faces

Kvothe spends two days under Stapes’ strict tutelage, relearning the fine points of Severen etiquette: how to handle utensils, bread, wine, and even which cheeses to pare. After six staged dinners, he dresses in leaf green and black for a formal banquet where he will sit to Meluan Lackless’s left.

At the table, Kvothe is struck by Meluan’s familiar features but recovers with polished flattery, framing it as the reading of “telling faces.” Their banter warms as courses arrive; nearby, the Viceroy of Bannis cheerfully ignores propriety, offering Kvothe candy almonds. The Maer’s seating and decorations isolate Meluan and Kvothe, enabling private conversation.

When Kvothe mentions travel and bandits, Meluan pointedly condemns “Ruh bandits,” revealing a deep-seated hatred of the Edema Ruh. Kvothe notes her tension while keeping the talk light, and the dinner proceeds pleasantly despite the revelation. He confirms she is intelligent, poised, and responsive to boldness, though not immune to romance.

After the banquet, Kvothe returns to his room and rapidly drafts multiple letters, an outline of a song, and notes for future verses. The Maer arrives seeking impressions and strategy. Kvothe presents a first letter designed to seize Meluan’s imagination before rival suitors overwhelm her with attention.

Though the Maer doubts the boldness of the approach, Kvothe insists on speed and secrecy, arguing that only swift, evocative letters can stand out amid the inevitable deluge. He sets expectations plainly: there are no certainties, only hopes, but he pledges that if success is possible, he will achieve it within a month.