A Court of Frost and Starlight
Chapter 14: Rhysand
by Maas, Sarah J.The chapter opens with Rhysand reflecting on the slow reconstruction of Velaris, particularly along the Sidra River, where Hybern’s forces caused the most destruction. The once-grand estates now lie in ruins, their gardens overgrown and boathouses partially submerged. Rhysand recalls his childhood memories of these homes, filled with parties and summer boat races, and laments their unexpected demise. The families who once lived there have no immediate plans to return, with some considering selling their properties rather than rebuilding.
Mor joins Rhysand for a walk through the snow-dusted ruins, marking a rare moment of solitude between them. Their relationship remains strained, with unspoken tensions lingering from the war and past traumas. Rhysand observes the emotional toll on Mor, particularly after her recent encounters with her father, Keir, and Eris. He acknowledges her pain but respects her autonomy, recognizing that some wounds are hers alone to address.
The conversation shifts to Keir’s impending visit to Velaris, a prospect that fills Mor with dread. Rhysand reveals that Keir is likely to arrive in spring, and while he offers to shield Mor from the encounter, she refuses to hide. Rhysand reassures her of his support and mentions that Cassian and Azriel have been preparing extensive security measures. Despite the tension, their dialogue reveals a deep mutual trust and understanding.
The chapter concludes with a lighter moment as they discuss Solstice preparations and gifts, including Rhysand’s mysterious present for Feyre. Mor’s brief laughter and their shared banter provide a respite from the heavier themes, highlighting the enduring bond between them. The interplay of past trauma, present challenges, and fleeting moments of warmth encapsulates the complex dynamics of their relationship.
FAQs
1. What is the current state of the southeastern bend of the Sidra river, and why does this hold significance for Rhysand?
Answer:
The southeastern bend of the Sidra remains largely in ruins after Hybern’s attack, with little more than rubble left of the once-great estates and homes. The gardens are overgrown, and boathouses are half-sunken in the river. This area holds personal significance for Rhysand as he grew up attending parties and spending summers there. The facades of these homes were as familiar to him as friends’ faces, and he expected them to outlast him. Their destruction represents both the physical and emotional scars left by the war, as well as the passage of time and loss of childhood landmarks (pages 120-121).2. Analyze the complex relationship between Mor and Rhysand as revealed in this chapter. What tensions exist beneath their camaraderie?
Answer:
While Mor and Rhysand share a deep bond as cousins and allies, their relationship carries unhealed wounds from the war and their shared history. Rhysand acknowledges they’ve both avoided this walk, suggesting unresolved tensions. Mor’s trauma stems from working with her abusive father Keir and Eris during the war—males who harmed her centuries ago. Rhysand feels guilt for forcing this collaboration, though he deemed it necessary for victory. Their conversation reveals mutual care (Rhysand offers to keep Mor away during Keir’s visit) but also unspoken pain, particularly regarding Mor’s past. Their trust remains, but the chapter highlights how war has dimmed Mor’s spirit and created emotional distance (pages 121-123).3. How does Rhysand characterize Keir’s motivations for wanting to visit Velaris, and what does this reveal about the ongoing political tensions?
Answer:
Rhysand believes Keir’s primary motivation for visiting Velaris is to torment Mor, his estranged daughter, rather than genuine curiosity. This reveals the deep-seated personal animosity within political alliances. Rhysand also reflects that containing the Hewn City’s residents for so long may have worsened their narrow-mindedness, making them curious about Velaris. The situation underscores the fragile balance Rhysand maintains as High Lord: he needed Keir’s military support during the war but now must uphold his end of the bargain, even if it risks Mor’s wellbeing. This illustrates the moral compromises inherent in leadership (pages 122-123).4. What protective measures are being taken regarding Keir’s potential visit, and what do they reveal about the inner circle’s dynamics?
Answer:
Azriel and Cassian have been planning extensive security protocols for months to monitor Keir and his party during any visit, demonstrating their protective instincts toward Mor. Rhysand also offers to arrange for Mor to be absent if she chooses, though she refuses to show weakness. These preparations highlight the inner circle’s loyalty—they anticipate threats and prioritize Mor’s safety even without her asking. The mention of missing Amren’s intimidating presence also shows how the group’s defensive strategies have changed post-war, relying more on structured plans than sheer power (pages 123-124).5. How does the chapter use physical settings to reflect emotional states? Provide specific examples.
Answer:
The chapter powerfully uses ruined landscapes as metaphors for internal damage. The shattered estates along the Sidra mirror Rhysand’s nostalgia for lost childhood stability and the irreversible changes wrought by war. The winter-dry weeds and cracked stone parallel Mor’s emotional barrenness when discussing Keir. Conversely, the active rebuilding efforts represent hope amidst damage. The icy river—once a site of summer joy—now reflects the cold tension between past and present. Even Rhysand’s choice of a warm jacket (unlike his wings-bearing friends) symbolizes his attempt to shield himself from emotional exposure during difficult conversations (pages 120-124).
Quotes
1. “I’d grown up in these houses, attending the parties and feasts that lasted long into the night, spending bright summer days lazing on the sloping lawns, cheering the summer boat races on the Sidra. Their facades had been as familiar as any friend’s face. They’d been built long before I was born. I’d expected them to last long after I was gone.”
This quote captures Rhysand’s poignant reflection on the destruction of his childhood landmarks, emphasizing the permanence he once associated with them and the emotional weight of their loss post-war. It sets the tone for the chapter’s themes of memory, change, and resilience.
2. “I wasn’t stupid enough to believe that though the war had ended, all wounds had been healed. Especially between Mor and me.”
This reveals the lingering tensions and unresolved history between Rhysand and Mor, highlighting that physical battles may be over but emotional scars remain. It underscores the chapter’s exploration of complex relationships and the cost of war beyond the battlefield.
3. “But those were her deaths to claim. They always had been. I had never asked why she’d waited so long.”
This powerful statement about Mor’s unresolved trauma with Keir and Eris demonstrates Rhysand’s respect for her agency while acknowledging centuries of unaddressed pain. It reflects the chapter’s deeper examination of justice, vengeance, and the boundaries of intervention in others’ struggles.
4. “I’d told myself it had been worth it. Keir’s Darkbringers had been crucial in our victory. And he’d suffered losses because of it. The male was a prick in every sense of the word, but he’d come through on his end.”
This quote encapsulates the moral compromises of leadership during war - working with despicable allies for greater good. It shows Rhysand’s internal conflict between pragmatism and personal ethics, a central tension in the chapter.
5. “Whatever you decide, I’ll support you.”
This simple yet profound declaration to Mor represents Rhysand’s growth in their relationship - offering unwavering support while respecting her autonomy. It serves as an emotional anchor in their conversation about facing past traumas, demonstrating the chapter’s emphasis on found family and solidarity.
Quotes
1. “I’d grown up in these houses, attending the parties and feasts that lasted long into the night, spending bright summer days lazing on the sloping lawns, cheering the summer boat races on the Sidra. Their facades had been as familiar as any friend’s face. They’d been built long before I was born. I’d expected them to last long after I was gone.”
This quote captures Rhysand’s poignant reflection on the destruction of his childhood landmarks, emphasizing the permanence he once associated with them and the emotional weight of their loss post-war. It sets the tone for the chapter’s themes of memory, change, and resilience.
2. “I wasn’t stupid enough to believe that though the war had ended, all wounds had been healed. Especially between Mor and me.”
This reveals the lingering tensions and unresolved history between Rhysand and Mor, highlighting that physical battles may be over but emotional scars remain. It underscores the chapter’s exploration of complex relationships and the cost of war beyond the battlefield.
3. “But those were her deaths to claim. They always had been. I had never asked why she’d waited so long.”
This powerful statement about Mor’s unresolved trauma with Keir and Eris demonstrates Rhysand’s respect for her agency while acknowledging centuries of unaddressed pain. It reflects the chapter’s deeper examination of justice, vengeance, and the boundaries of intervention in others’ struggles.
4. “I’d told myself it had been worth it. Keir’s Darkbringers had been crucial in our victory. And he’d suffered losses because of it. The male was a prick in every sense of the word, but he’d come through on his end.”
This quote encapsulates the moral compromises of leadership during war - working with despicable allies for greater good. It shows Rhysand’s internal conflict between pragmatism and personal ethics, a central tension in the chapter.
5. “Whatever you decide, I’ll support you.”
This simple yet profound declaration to Mor represents Rhysand’s growth in their relationship - offering unwavering support while respecting her autonomy. It serves as an emotional anchor in their conversation about facing past traumas, demonstrating the chapter’s emphasis on found family and solidarity.
— Unknown
FAQs
1. What is the current state of the southeastern bend of the Sidra river, and why does this hold significance for Rhysand?
Answer:
The southeastern bend of the Sidra remains largely in ruins after Hybern’s attack, with little more than rubble left of the once-great estates and homes. The gardens are overgrown, and boathouses are half-sunken in the river. This area holds personal significance for Rhysand as he grew up attending parties and spending summers there. The facades of these homes were as familiar to him as friends’ faces, and he expected them to outlast him. Their destruction represents both the physical and emotional scars left by the war, as well as the passage of time and loss of childhood landmarks (pages 120-121).
2. Analyze the complex relationship between Mor and Rhysand as revealed in this chapter. What tensions exist beneath their camaraderie?
Answer:
While Mor and Rhysand share a deep bond as cousins and allies, their relationship carries unhealed wounds from the war and their shared history. Rhysand acknowledges they’ve both avoided this walk, suggesting unresolved tensions. Mor’s trauma stems from working with her abusive father Keir and Eris during the war—males who harmed her centuries ago. Rhysand feels guilt for forcing this collaboration, though he deemed it necessary for victory. Their conversation reveals mutual care (Rhysand offers to keep Mor away during Keir’s visit) but also unspoken pain, particularly regarding Mor’s past. Their trust remains, but the chapter highlights how war has dimmed Mor’s spirit and created emotional distance (pages 121-123).
3. How does Rhysand characterize Keir’s motivations for wanting to visit Velaris, and what does this reveal about the ongoing political tensions?
Answer:
Rhysand believes Keir’s primary motivation for visiting Velaris is to torment Mor, his estranged daughter, rather than genuine curiosity. This reveals the deep-seated personal animosity within political alliances. Rhysand also reflects that containing the Hewn City’s residents for so long may have worsened their narrow-mindedness, making them curious about Velaris. The situation underscores the fragile balance Rhysand maintains as High Lord: he needed Keir’s military support during the war but now must uphold his end of the bargain, even if it risks Mor’s wellbeing. This illustrates the moral compromises inherent in leadership (pages 122-123).
4. What protective measures are being taken regarding Keir’s potential visit, and what do they reveal about the inner circle’s dynamics?
Answer:
Azriel and Cassian have been planning extensive security protocols for months to monitor Keir and his party during any visit, demonstrating their protective instincts toward Mor. Rhysand also offers to arrange for Mor to be absent if she chooses, though she refuses to show weakness. These preparations highlight the inner circle’s loyalty—they anticipate threats and prioritize Mor’s safety even without her asking. The mention of missing Amren’s intimidating presence also shows how the group’s defensive strategies have changed post-war, relying more on structured plans than sheer power (pages 123-124).
5. How does the chapter use physical settings to reflect emotional states? Provide specific examples.
Answer:
The chapter powerfully uses ruined landscapes as metaphors for internal damage. The shattered estates along the Sidra mirror Rhysand’s nostalgia for lost childhood stability and the irreversible changes wrought by war. The winter-dry weeds and cracked stone parallel Mor’s emotional barrenness when discussing Keir. Conversely, the active rebuilding efforts represent hope amidst damage. The icy river—once a site of summer joy—now reflects the cold tension between past and present. Even Rhysand’s choice of a warm jacket (unlike his wings-bearing friends) symbolizes his attempt to shield himself from emotional exposure during difficult conversations (pages 120-124).
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