The Kingkiller Chronicle, #2
The Wise Man’s Fear
by Patrick Rothfuss
Contents
Chapter 124: Of Names
Overview
Vashet teases Kvothe after his dramatic trial, then brings him to Daeln to stitch his hand. In private, Shehyn questions Kvothe’s power, the bandit hunt, and the Rhinta, prompting his vow to kill one. Magwyn names him Maedre, binding him to secrecy. That night, Kvothe celebrates and, guided by Vashet, accepts Adem attitudes toward sex and intimacy.
Summary
Walking the hills, Vashet needles Kvothe for his showy sword-tree gesture but admits he impressed Shehyn and muted rival schools’ complaints. She takes Kvothe to Daeln to stitch his self-inflicted cut, pointedly avoiding an apothecary tied to Carceret. Bandaged, Kvothe joins Shehyn in a study, where Shehyn notes the stir his test has caused.
Shehyn asks about the Eld bandits. Kvothe confirms using blood magic and calling lightning, and Shehyn gauges his motives for seeking the Ketan. Turning to the bandit leader, Shehyn names such beings Rhinta, akin to the Chandrian. Kvothe admits he has met one and intends, with purpose, to kill one. Shehyn warns they are hard to kill, judges his Ketan poor but promising with long training, and says she may speak more of the Rhinta later.
Shehyn then leads Kvothe and Vashet to a hidden cliff-home for a naming. The elder Magwyn examines Kvothe and, after a piercing look, names him Maedre. Vashet reacts uneasily, but Shehyn silences her. Magwyn warns Kvothe to keep the name private, then dismisses them.
That evening Kvothe attends a modest celebration arranged by Penthe. Later, beside Vashet, he asks her to remind Shehyn of his desire to hear the Rhinta story, and Vashet cautiously agrees. Kvothe also relates Penthe’s sexual interest; Vashet clarifies Adem norms—sex is not exclusive or shameful and is distinct from deeper intimacy—assuring him she would not be offended if he accepts Penthe’s offer.
Who Appears
- KvotheProtagonist; recovers from his sword-tree cut, vows to kill a Rhinta/Chandrian, receives the private name Maedre, and learns Adem sexual norms.
- VashetKvothe’s teacher; teases and guides him, chooses Daeln to mend his hand, mediates with Shehyn, and explains Adem views on sex and intimacy.
- ShehynHead of the school; praises Kvothe’s trial, probes his power and intent regarding Rhinta, critiques his Ketan, and initiates his naming.
- MagwynElder namer; examines Kvothe and bestows the private Adem name ‘Maedre,’ warning him to keep it secret.
- PentheAdem fighter who hosts a small celebration and expresses sexual interest in Kvothe, prompting discussion of Adem customs.
- DaelnHealer who stitches Kvothe’s self-inflicted palm cut with deft, tiny stitches.