A Court of Frost and Starlight
Chapter 26: Rhysand
by Maas, Sarah J.The chapter opens with Rhysand observing a group of young Illyrian girls reluctantly participating in combat training under Devlon’s supervision. Though their numbers are small and their enthusiasm lacking, their presence marks a significant step toward challenging traditional Illyrian gender norms. Rhysand notes the symbolic taunt of Illyrian bows placed nearby—a weapon many males struggle to wield—and privately vows to personally train any girl who dares to attempt mastering them. The scene is set against the stark backdrop of Windhaven camp, freshly covered in snow, emphasizing the harshness of both the environment and the societal barriers the girls face.
Rhysand, Cassian, and Azriel discuss the sparse attendance of female trainees, attributing it to families being away for Solstice. The conversation shifts to the growing dissent within Illyrian camps, particularly from the rival Ironcrest clan led by the troublesome Kallon. Cassian’s restrained reaction to Kallon’s provocations reveals his respect for Illyrian traditions like the Rite, despite Azriel’s darker suggestions for dealing with the agitator. The tension underscores the broader struggle to reform Illyrian culture while navigating its deeply ingrained hierarchies and rivalries.
The dynamics between the three leaders take center stage as Rhysand attempts to reassure Cassian about the progress represented by the girls’ training. Azriel’s presence, met with fear by the camp’s women, highlights his complex relationship with his Illyrian heritage. Cassian’s stoic demeanor hints at unresolved personal wounds tied to their mission of fostering change. Rhysand’s internal reflections reveal his understanding of Cassian’s emotional stakes, emphasizing the slow, arduous nature of their efforts to transform Illyrian society.
The chapter closes with a moment of solidarity as Rhysand offers Cassian encouragement, acknowledging the incremental nature of their progress. Cassian’s insistence on long-term commitment over quick wins reflects the depth of his investment in empowering Illyrian females. The final lines—”Our world might very well depend on it”—elevate their personal mission to a cosmic scale, suggesting that societal reform is intertwined with the survival of their world. The chapter masterfully balances intimate character moments with broader themes of resistance and cultural evolution.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the girls training with daggers in the Windhaven camp, and how does this reflect the broader social tensions in Illyrian society?
Answer:
The girls training with daggers represents a small but meaningful step toward gender equality in the deeply patriarchal Illyrian society. While Devlon only provides halfhearted instruction (demonstrating lingering resistance), the mere presence of female trainees challenges traditional norms. Rhysand notes the males keep their distance “as if frightened of catching some deadly disease,” highlighting the deep-seated prejudice. This tension is further emphasized by the broader context of malcontents like Kallon stirring up dissent against Cassian and Rhysand’s progressive reforms. The scene illustrates both the potential for change and the substantial resistance it faces in Illyrian culture.2. Analyze the different perspectives Cassian, Azriel, and Rhysand have regarding how to handle Kallon’s dissent. What does this reveal about their characters?
Answer:
The characters show distinct approaches: Rhysand pragmatically suggests letting “accidents happen in the Rite,” demonstrating his willingness to use ruthless methods when necessary. Azriel takes a colder approach, proposing similar “accidents in the skies,” reflecting his shadowsinger persona and preference for subtle solutions. Cassian, however, insists on not dishonoring the Rite and facing challenges directly (“do it to my face”), showcasing his warrior’s honor code and personal investment in Illyrian traditions. This contrast reveals Cassian’s emotional connection to Illyrian culture, Azriel’s detached efficiency, and Rhysand’s balanced leadership style that considers multiple options.3. How does the chapter use the Illyrian bow as a symbol of both oppression and potential empowerment?
Answer:
The Illyrian bow serves as a powerful symbol—its presence by the training ring acts as a taunt, representing the physical and cultural barriers females face in mastering traditionally male skills. Rhysand’s recollection of the painful years required to master it (“whip of the string against my cheek”) underscores its difficulty and exclusivity. Yet his vow to personally train any girl who attempts it transforms the bow into a symbol of potential empowerment. This duality reflects the broader struggle: the weapons that once enforced gender roles could become tools of liberation if access is granted.4. What does Azriel’s complex relationship with his Illyrian heritage reveal about identity in this society?
Answer:
Azriel embodies the tension of dual identity—while the camp women fear him as a mythic shadowsinger, he still wears Illyrian leathers and keeps his tattoos, suggesting an unresolved connection to his roots. Rhysand observes that “some part of him was Illyrian still,” highlighting how heritage persists despite trauma (Azriel’s abusive childhood). The chapter suggests identity isn’t easily discarded, even when painful. Azriel’s presence also serves as a reminder that progress (like female training) often requires confronting uncomfortable histories, as his visit forces the camp to face its own shadows.5. Why does Cassian reject Azriel’s proposed bet about the girls’ continued training, and what does this reveal about his motivations?
Answer:
Cassian refuses to bet because this mission represents a deeply personal commitment rather than a casual wager. The text notes it stems from “a wound that had never really healed,” likely referencing his mother’s oppression or broader gender injustices he’s witnessed. His insistence on evaluating success only after consistent participation (“twenty girls… for a month straight”) shows his understanding that real change requires sustained effort, not token gestures. This reveals Cassian’s emotional investment in creating lasting equality rather than seeking superficial victories, distinguishing his reformist goals from mere games or competitions.
Quotes
1. “If one of the girls decided to take up the Illyrian bow, I’d oversee her lessons myself.”
This quote shows Rhysand’s personal commitment to female empowerment in Illyrian society, particularly in defying traditional gender roles. It establishes his protective stance and willingness to personally intervene to support progress.
2. “Accidents happen in the Rite… We won’t dishonor the Rite by tampering with it… If the whelp wants to bust my balls, he can grow a pair himself and do it to my face.”
This exchange between Rhysand, Cassian, and Azriel reveals their different approaches to dealing with dissenters. It highlights Cassian’s honor-bound nature and preference for direct confrontation over subterfuge, even against enemies.
3. “This is a good sign, Cass… Small steps, brother. Small steps. For all of us. Our world might very well depend on it.”
These closing lines capture the chapter’s central theme of gradual progress and reform. Rhysand frames their efforts to change Illyrian society as both necessary and urgent, while acknowledging the slow nature of cultural transformation.
Quotes
1. “If one of the girls decided to take up the Illyrian bow, I’d oversee her lessons myself.”
This quote shows Rhysand’s personal commitment to female empowerment in Illyrian society, particularly in defying traditional gender roles. It establishes his protective stance and willingness to personally intervene to support progress.
2. “Accidents happen in the Rite… We won’t dishonor the Rite by tampering with it… If the whelp wants to bust my balls, he can grow a pair himself and do it to my face.”
This exchange between Rhysand, Cassian, and Azriel reveals their different approaches to dealing with dissenters. It highlights Cassian’s honor-bound nature and preference for direct confrontation over subterfuge, even against enemies.
3. “This is a good sign, Cass… Small steps, brother. Small steps. For all of us. Our world might very well depend on it.”
These closing lines capture the chapter’s central theme of gradual progress and reform. Rhysand frames their efforts to change Illyrian society as both necessary and urgent, while acknowledging the slow nature of cultural transformation.
— Unknown
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the girls training with daggers in the Windhaven camp, and how does this reflect the broader social tensions in Illyrian society?
Answer:
The girls training with daggers represents a small but meaningful step toward gender equality in the deeply patriarchal Illyrian society. While Devlon only provides halfhearted instruction (demonstrating lingering resistance), the mere presence of female trainees challenges traditional norms. Rhysand notes the males keep their distance “as if frightened of catching some deadly disease,” highlighting the deep-seated prejudice. This tension is further emphasized by the broader context of malcontents like Kallon stirring up dissent against Cassian and Rhysand’s progressive reforms. The scene illustrates both the potential for change and the substantial resistance it faces in Illyrian culture.
2. Analyze the different perspectives Cassian, Azriel, and Rhysand have regarding how to handle Kallon’s dissent. What does this reveal about their characters?
Answer:
The characters show distinct approaches: Rhysand pragmatically suggests letting “accidents happen in the Rite,” demonstrating his willingness to use ruthless methods when necessary. Azriel takes a colder approach, proposing similar “accidents in the skies,” reflecting his shadowsinger persona and preference for subtle solutions. Cassian, however, insists on not dishonoring the Rite and facing challenges directly (“do it to my face”), showcasing his warrior’s honor code and personal investment in Illyrian traditions. This contrast reveals Cassian’s emotional connection to Illyrian culture, Azriel’s detached efficiency, and Rhysand’s balanced leadership style that considers multiple options.
3. How does the chapter use the Illyrian bow as a symbol of both oppression and potential empowerment?
Answer:
The Illyrian bow serves as a powerful symbol—its presence by the training ring acts as a taunt, representing the physical and cultural barriers females face in mastering traditionally male skills. Rhysand’s recollection of the painful years required to master it (“whip of the string against my cheek”) underscores its difficulty and exclusivity. Yet his vow to personally train any girl who attempts it transforms the bow into a symbol of potential empowerment. This duality reflects the broader struggle: the weapons that once enforced gender roles could become tools of liberation if access is granted.
4. What does Azriel’s complex relationship with his Illyrian heritage reveal about identity in this society?
Answer:
Azriel embodies the tension of dual identity—while the camp women fear him as a mythic shadowsinger, he still wears Illyrian leathers and keeps his tattoos, suggesting an unresolved connection to his roots. Rhysand observes that “some part of him was Illyrian still,” highlighting how heritage persists despite trauma (Azriel’s abusive childhood). The chapter suggests identity isn’t easily discarded, even when painful. Azriel’s presence also serves as a reminder that progress (like female training) often requires confronting uncomfortable histories, as his visit forces the camp to face its own shadows.
5. Why does Cassian reject Azriel’s proposed bet about the girls’ continued training, and what does this reveal about his motivations?
Answer:
Cassian refuses to bet because this mission represents a deeply personal commitment rather than a casual wager. The text notes it stems from “a wound that had never really healed,” likely referencing his mother’s oppression or broader gender injustices he’s witnessed. His insistence on evaluating success only after consistent participation (“twenty girls… for a month straight”) shows his understanding that real change requires sustained effort, not token gestures. This reveals Cassian’s emotional investment in creating lasting equality rather than seeking superficial victories, distinguishing his reformist goals from mere games or competitions.
0 Comments