A Court of Silver Flames
Chapter Forty
by J, Maas, SarahThe chapter opens with a rain-soaked Velaris, where Nesta accompanies Cassian to a centuries-old blacksmith’s shop on the city’s outskirts. Despite the inclement weather, Nesta remains composed, her calm demeanor contrasting with the harsh conditions. Cassian, a regular patron of the shop, brings her to learn about blade-making, as Illyrian blacksmiths would not welcome a female apprentice. The blacksmith, a skilled but gruff High Fae, initially hesitates but eventually agrees to demonstrate the process after Nesta’s polite request and Cassian’s flattery about the artistry of blades.
Inside the workshop, Nesta observes the blacksmith’s detailed explanation of blade forging, from ore selection to design. Though she speaks little, her focus is evident. When she asks to try hammering a blade herself, the blacksmith relents, providing a half-made sword for her to practice on. Her initial attempts are clumsy, but she persists, gradually improving with each strike. The blacksmith, surprisingly patient, guides her through the process, and Cassian notes her determination and growing skill, reminiscent of her resilience during the war with Hybern.
Nesta’s progress becomes more apparent as she moves on to hammering a dagger, her movements surer and her confidence increasing. Sweat beads on her brow, but she continues with focused intensity, even managing a slight smile. Cassian feels a surge of pride as he watches her, recognizing the strength and focus she has developed. The blacksmith, usually reserved, smiles at her for the first time, acknowledging her dedication and natural aptitude for the craft.
The chapter culminates with Nesta tackling a great sword, her strikes precise and powerful, as if moving to an internal rhythm. Cassian is captivated by her transformation, seeing her as a force emerging from the heat and shadows of the forge. The rain and wind outside provide a backdrop to her rhythmic hammering, leaving Cassian to wonder what new strength and purpose will arise from this experience. The chapter closes with a reflection on the challenges of swordplay, hinting at the continued growth of Nesta and her companions in their training.
FAQs
1. How does the setting of the blacksmith’s shop contrast with Nesta’s usual environment, and what significance does this have for her character development?
Answer:
The blacksmith’s shop represents a stark contrast to Nesta’s usual environments—either the sheltered spaces of Velaris or the training grounds. The chapter describes it as a centuries-old, gray-stoned, thatched-roof establishment filled with heat, soot, and the intense labor of forging. This setting forces Nesta to confront raw physicality and craftsmanship, which parallels her own “forging” process. Her ability to adapt here—showing respect, curiosity, and unexpected skill—demonstrates her growing resilience and willingness to engage with unfamiliar challenges. The shop becomes a metaphorical crucible where Nesta begins to reshape herself, much like the blades she hammers into form.2. Analyze the significance of Nesta’s request to move away from the forge’s fire. How does this detail reflect her psychological state?
Answer:
Nesta’s request to move away from the roaring fires suggests lingering trauma or discomfort with intense heat, possibly tied to past experiences (such as the war with Hybern or her personal struggles). This momentary vulnerability contrasts with her later mastery of hammering blades near those same fires, symbolizing her gradual confrontation of fears. The chapter notes she controlled her breathing rhythmically, indicating a conscious effort to self-regulate. This detail underscores Nesta’s complex relationship with power and pain: she avoids triggers initially but later channels them into focused action, mirroring her broader arc of reclaiming agency.3. What does Cassian’s observation about Nesta’s hammering technique reveal about her growth and potential?
Answer:
Cassian observes that Nesta’s hammering evolves from clumsy strikes to a rhythmic, almost musical precision, particularly with the great sword. This progression mirrors her training journey—initial struggle giving way to innate talent when fully engaged. The description of her movements as a “dance” and the blacksmith’s unprecedented smile highlight her natural aptitude for channeling intensity into skill. Cassian’s reflection that she is “forged during the war but different—stronger” suggests her trauma has been transformed into disciplined strength. The scene foreshadows her potential to master not just weapons but her own power.4. How does the blacksmith’s changing attitude toward Nesta reflect broader themes of respect and transformation in the chapter?
Answer:
Initially, the blacksmith is hesitant (“I don’t need an apprentice”) and scrutinizes Nesta skeptically. His shift to gentleness and eventual smile marks a pivotal moment: her perseverance and respect for his craft earn his approval. This mirrors the chapter’s theme that true respect is earned through action, not status. The blacksmith—a traditionally “gruff,” no-nonsense craftsman—becomes a mirror for Nesta’s authenticity. His acceptance signals that her transformation is visible to others, not just Cassian, validating her efforts to redefine herself beyond her past.5. Why might the author have chosen to include the detail about the Illyrian blacksmiths’ exclusion of females, and how does this contrast with Nesta’s experience here?
Answer:
The mention of Illyrian blacksmiths’ exclusion of females underscores the systemic barriers Nesta would face in male-dominated spaces, contextualizing her journey within the series’ broader critique of gendered limitations. By contrast, the Velaris blacksmith (though initially wary) judges her based on merit, not gender. This dichotomy highlights the possibility of progress in inclusive societies. Nesta’s success here—later hammering with “the same intensity she brought to training”—becomes a quiet rebellion against those exclusionary norms, suggesting her path could inspire broader change.
Quotes
1. “I want her to learn how much work and skill goes into the process. To show her that a blade is not merely a tool for killing, but a piece of art as well.”
This quote captures Cassian’s deeper philosophy about weapons and craftsmanship, revealing his respect for the artistry behind violence. It sets up the chapter’s exploration of Nesta’s transformation through physical discipline and appreciation for skilled work.
2. “She pounded the sword to a music no one but she could hear.”
This poetic description of Nesta’s blacksmithing demonstrates her natural talent and the almost spiritual connection she forms with the work. It marks a pivotal moment where she finds unexpected mastery and purpose.
3. “Here she was, that female who’d been forged during the war with Hybern. But different—more focused. Stronger.”
Cassian’s observation highlights Nesta’s character growth, comparing her war-hardened past to her current disciplined self. This represents the chapter’s central theme of personal transformation through challenging work.
4. “Learning swordplay was no easy task—it required repetition and muscle memory and patience—but Nesta, Emerie, and Gwyn were game.”
This quote encapsulates the chapter’s broader message about perseverance and the value of disciplined practice. It shows the trio’s determination to master difficult skills despite adverse conditions.