The Kingkiller Chronicle, #1
The Name of the Wind
by Patrick Rothfuss
Contents
CHAPTER FORTY-TWO Bloodless
Overview
In the Medica after his whipping, Kvothe is examined by Master Arwyl, who discovers Kvothe used nahlrout to remain composed and presses him for the truth. Re’lar Mola stitches Kvothe without anesthetic. Impressed by Kvothe’s control and honesty, Arwyl invites him to study at the Medica if he avoids tearing his stitches.
Summary
In the Medica, Master Arwyl examines Kvothe’s two clean, shallow back cuts from the whipping. Kvothe declines additional anesthetic, already dulled by nahlrout. When Arwyl notices the lack of bleeding and signs of numbing, he confronts Kvothe and demands an honest explanation.
Kvothe admits his past self-stitching in Tarbean and explains he used nahlrout to avoid fainting and to project invulnerability to rivals and Master Hemme’s allies. Arwyl, acknowledging the realities of cruelty among students, accepts the truth but insists on professional treatment.
Re’lar Mola arrives to practice stitching. Guided by Arwyl, she cleans, sterilizes, and sutures the wounds without anesthetic, warning she’ll restrain Kvothe if he moves. Kvothe endures the procedure with control while Arwyl offers instruction and commentary, and assistant Geri observes.
Mola bandages Kvothe and gives strict aftercare: avoid stretching, quick movements, and wetting the bandage; remove it after two days. Once the others leave, Arwyl, impressed by Kvothe’s composure and practicality, invites him to return in four days and promises him a place to study at the Medica if he keeps from tearing his stitches.
Who Appears
- KvotheWounded from a whipping; admits using nahlrout to avoid weakness; endures stitching without anesthetic; offered a chance to study at the Medica.
- Master ArwylHead physicker; probes Kvothe’s truthfulness, supervises treatment, and invites him to study at the Medica if he heals properly.
- Re’lar MolaMedica student who cleans, stitches, and bandages Kvothe efficiently, delivering aftercare instructions and professional firmness.
- GeriYoung Medica assistant who fetches help and observes the procedure silently.