A Court of Silver Flames
Chapter Seventeen
by J, Maas, SarahNesta approaches Clotho, the priestess of the library, with a proposition to train the priestesses in physical combat and mental discipline. She clarifies that Cassian, not herself, will oversee the training, emphasizing his respectful nature. Clotho hesitates, predicting few participants, but ultimately grants her blessing. Nesta posts a sign-up sheet, though initially, no names appear. Despite the lack of immediate interest, she remains committed to the idea, checking the list daily while continuing her own rigorous training regimen with Cassian.
Nesta’s personal training intensifies as Cassian teaches her foundational combat skills, including proper stance and weighted exercises to build strength. She pushes her limits by attempting to climb the library’s massive staircase, incrementally increasing her progress each night. Exhaustion dominates her days, but small gestures—like a mysterious bouquet of flowers—hint at unseen support. Meanwhile, her shelving duties become an extension of her training as she incorporates lunges while carrying heavy books, drawing curious glances from the priestesses.
Despite her persistent efforts, the sign-up sheet remains blank, testing Nesta’s resolve. Cassian encourages her to “keep reaching out your hand,” but she begins to doubt the impact of her outreach if no one responds. The chapter highlights her internal struggle between determination and discouragement, as well as her growing physical and mental resilience. The absence of participants contrasts with her own progress, underscoring the isolation she feels despite her efforts to connect.
The chapter culminates with Cassian instructing Nesta on proper punching technique, emphasizing precision and body mechanics over brute force. Their banter reveals a dynamic of mutual respect and challenge, with Cassian balancing critique with encouragement. Nesta’s progress in training mirrors her broader journey of self-improvement, even as she grapples with unanswered outreach. The chapter leaves her at a crossroads, physically stronger but emotionally uncertain about whether her efforts will ever be met with reciprocity.
FAQs
1. What is Nesta’s proposition to Clotho, and what does it reveal about her character development?
Answer:
Nesta proposes that the priestesses in the library train with her in the training ring at the top of the House, under Cassian’s supervision. She emphasizes that the training would help strengthen their bodies, defend themselves, and clear their minds. This reveals significant growth in Nesta’s character, as she shifts from self-destructive behavior to actively seeking ways to help others. Her insistence on Cassian’s respectfulness and her persistence despite initial disinterest from the priestesses show her emerging leadership and empathy, marking a departure from her previously isolated and bitter demeanor.2. How does Cassian’s advice, “Keep reaching out your hand,” reflect the chapter’s themes of perseverance and connection?
Answer:
Cassian’s advice encapsulates the chapter’s central themes of perseverance and the importance of human connection. Despite the sign-up sheet remaining empty day after day, Nesta continues to check it and maintain her training routine, demonstrating her determination to change and connect with others. Cassian’s words serve as a reminder that growth often requires vulnerability and persistence, even when met with silence or rejection. This theme is reinforced by Nesta’s physical and emotional struggles, highlighting that meaningful change is a gradual process requiring patience and resilience.3. Analyze the significance of the smutty novel and the autumnal flowers in Nesta’s relationship with the House of Wind.
Answer:
The smutty novel and the autumnal flowers symbolize Nesta’s evolving relationship with the House of Wind and its mystical presence. By leaving the novel as a “present,” Nesta engages in a gesture of kindness, which the House reciprocates with flowers. This exchange suggests a mutual recognition and growing bond between Nesta and the House, contrasting with her earlier hostility toward her surroundings. The flowers, vibrant and alive, mirror Nesta’s own gradual reawakening to hope and connection, underscoring the theme that small acts of generosity can foster unexpected relationships.4. How does Cassian’s training methodology with Nesta reflect his understanding of her needs and limitations?
Answer:
Cassian’s training approach is methodical and patient, focusing on foundational skills like footwork, body positioning, and proper fist formation before advancing to punches or kicks. He emphasizes the importance of technique and breath control, tailoring exercises to Nesta’s current physical limitations (e.g., adding weights gradually). This reflects his deep understanding of her need for structure and his respect for her progress. His encouragement—both practical (“keep your thumb atop your knuckles”) and motivational (“keep reaching out your hand”)—shows his dual role as both instructor and emotional supporter, helping Nesta rebuild her confidence.5. What does the empty sign-up sheet represent, and how does Nesta’s reaction to it illustrate her internal conflict?
Answer:
The empty sign-up sheet symbolizes Nesta’s fear of rejection and her lingering self-doubt. Despite her efforts to offer help, the lack of response triggers her insecurity, leading her to question whether her outreach matters. This internal conflict is evident in her alternating determination (“I’d like to offer”) and despair (“what would it matter if no one bothered to reach back?”). The sheet becomes a metaphor for her struggle to believe in her own worth and the possibility of connection, highlighting the emotional vulnerability beneath her physical training regimen.
Quotes
1. ““Would you allow your priestesses to train with me every morning in the ring at the top of the House? Not all of them—just whoever might be interested.””
This quote marks Nesta’s pivotal initiative to bridge her world with the priestesses’, offering them physical and mental empowerment. It represents her growing leadership and desire to create connections in her new environment.
2. ““Keep reaching out your hand.””
Cassian’s advice to Nesta encapsulates the chapter’s theme of persistence and vulnerability. It underscores the emotional challenge of continuing to offer help even when met with silence or rejection.
3. “But what would it matter, she began to wonder, if no one bothered to reach back?”
This introspective moment reveals Nesta’s growing doubt and emotional struggle. It highlights the central tension between her efforts to change and the fear that her transformation might go unnoticed or unreciprocated.
4. ““Apparently, it takes brains to be a brute.””
This witty exchange between Nesta and Cassian demonstrates their developing rapport and the chapter’s exploration of physical discipline as intellectual work. It reframes combat training as a thoughtful practice rather than mere violence.
5. “Every day, she checked the sign-up sheet on the pillar beyond Clotho’s desk. Empty. Day after day after day.”
This repetitive action symbolizes Nesta’s quiet perseverance in the face of discouragement. It visually represents the chapter’s exploration of patience and the often-unrewarded work of personal growth.