Chapter 67: Telling Faces

Kvothe spends several days under Stapes’ instruction, relearning precise Vintic dining etiquette. He internalizes counterintuitive rules—licking a knife clean, leaving portions of bread and milk, avoiding rustic comments, and not mistaking cheese rind as edible—preparing for a crucial banquet where he will sit beside Meluan Lackless.

At the banquet, Kvothe arrives in tailored finery and escorts Meluan to her seat. Struck by her familiar features, he recovers with playful “face reading,” winning a measured smile. He observes surrounding guests, including the Viceroy of Bannis sneak-eating candy almonds, while elaborate courses are served.

Kvothe and Meluan exchange light banter about theater and the Maer’s seating, but tension surfaces when she refers to “Ruh bandits” with cold disdain, revealing a deep-seated hatred of the Edema Ruh. Kvothe deflects, and the evening proceeds agreeably; he keeps conversation easy and attentive, noting her poise and tastes while avoiding missteps such as signaling dishes away with his napkin.

After dinner, Kvothe drafts multiple letters, a song outline, and notes for the Maer’s courtship. When Alveron visits, Kvothe urges a swift, secret, romantic letter to seize Meluan’s imagination before rival suitors flood her with attention. Despite the Maer’s doubts, Kvothe advises boldness, admits uncertainties, and confidently pledges that if she can be won, he can do it within a month.