Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass)
Chapter 13
by Maas, Sarah J.The chapter opens with Dorian and Rowan fleeing a catastrophic event, with the night sky illuminated by stars and the aftermath of destruction visible behind them. The scene emphasizes a sense of relief mixed with lingering trauma, as smoke still lingers in the sky and the distant screams fade into silence. The protagonists are on a small skiff, heading toward the Dead Islands, with Rowan demonstrating his resourcefulness by stealing the boat and navigating the open sea using his magic. Dorian remains largely silent, overwhelmed by the loss of his city and his people, and burdened by feelings of helplessness and guilt.
As they sail, Rowan advises Dorian on the importance of maintaining his physical and magical strength through proper nourishment. Rowan explains that magic drains energy from the user and warns of the dangers of losing control, comparing it to a living entity that can consume its wielder if not mastered. Dorian, haunted by the death of Sorscha, struggles with feelings of inadequacy and despair, feeling that his magic is inherently destructive. Rowan’s insights serve as a stark reminder of the delicate balance required to wield power responsibly, and Dorian’s internal conflict deepens as he confronts his own limitations and fears.
The conversation shifts to their broader political situation, with Rowan revealing that he and Dorian are fleeing their respective losses—Rowan’s mate was murdered, and Dorian’s kingdom is in ruins. Rowan warns Dorian that he will hate himself and the world if he succumbs to despair, emphasizing the importance of leadership and hope. Dorian expresses doubts about his ability to lead and questions his next steps, feeling lost and uncertain whether he has truly abandoned his throne or merely fled from it. Rowan advises him to clarify his intentions to his people, framing his departure as a strategic move to seek aid and rally support against their enemies.
In the final section, Rowan discusses their plans to approach the Dead Islands, highlighting the strategic importance of forming alliances with pirates and enemies of Erawan. Rowan suggests that Dorian leverage relationships with pirates like Rolfe, promising him rewards and privileges in exchange for military support. The dialogue underscores the necessity of political cunning and diplomacy in their quest to rebuild and challenge their foes. Dorian’s curiosity about pirates reveals his unfamiliarity with such figures, but Rowan’s reassurance hints at the potential for unexpected alliances. The chapter concludes with a moment of vulnerability as Dorian seeks Rowan’s guidance on magic, and Rowan recognizes the strength in asking for help, emphasizing the importance of humility and leadership in times of crisis.
FAQs
1. What are the symbolic and thematic significances of the stars and the open ocean in this chapter?
Answer:
The stars and the open ocean serve as powerful symbols in this chapter, representing both hope and the vast unknown. The stars, which Dorian had not seen in a long time, symbolize guidance, clarity, and a connection to something greater—possibly hope for redemption or future stability. The open ocean, with its calm yet endless expanse, reflects the characters’ feelings of uncertainty, isolation, and the journey ahead. The vastness underscores their vulnerability and the daunting task of navigating their troubled worlds. Together, these celestial and natural elements evoke themes of exploration, destiny, and the search for purpose amid chaos and destruction.2. How does Rowan’s advice about magic reflect broader themes of control and self-awareness in the chapter?
Answer:
Rowan emphasizes that magic is both a part of the individual and a separate entity that can consume them if not mastered. His advice that magic feeds on one’s energy and can destroy if left unchecked highlights the importance of self-control and awareness. This reflects broader themes of internal struggle and the necessity of mastery over one’s power and emotions. Rowan’s warning underscores that true strength comes from discipline, and the inability to control one’s magic can mirror a loss of self, leading to destruction. It also parallels Dorian’s internal conflict, emphasizing that understanding and managing one’s inner darkness is crucial for survival and growth.3. In what ways does the chapter explore the concept of leadership through Dorian’s internal monologue and Rowan’s guidance?
Answer:
The chapter explores leadership as a complex interplay of responsibility, self-awareness, and strategic thinking. Dorian’s reflection on his broken kingdom and uncertainty about his role demonstrates the burdens of leadership, especially when one is fleeing and uncertain of their future. Rowan’s advice about making his intentions clear to his people—whether he is abandoning or seeking help—illustrates that effective leadership requires transparency and strategic communication. Rowan’s mentorship further emphasizes that true leadership involves humility and the willingness to seek help, as seen in his own admission of past vulnerabilities. Overall, the chapter suggests that leadership is rooted in clarity, honesty, and the ability to navigate difficult circumstances with integrity.4. How does the chapter depict the theme of trust and alliance-building through Dorian’s considerations of the Pirate Lord and Rolfe?
Answer:
The chapter presents trust and alliance-building as essential yet delicate processes. Dorian’s contemplation of turning the pirates into privateers and his consideration of Rolfe as an ally highlight the pragmatic approach necessary for survival and strategic advantage. Rowan suggests that convincing Rolfe to see Dorian as an advantageous ally—rather than a threat—could gain them access to a powerful fleet. This underscores the importance of diplomacy, reputation, and mutual benefit in forging alliances. The theme suggests that trust must be earned through promises of benefit, such as wealth and privileges, especially in a treacherous political landscape where allegiances can shift quickly.5. What does Dorian’s request to Rowan about learning magic reveal about his character development and the chapter’s message on vulnerability?
Answer:
Dorian’s request to learn magic reflects his recognition of his limitations and his desire for growth and mastery over his own power. It signifies a shift from passivity and helplessness to a proactive stance, acknowledging that understanding his magic is vital for his survival and leadership. This plea also reveals his vulnerability, as admitting the need for help and guidance requires humility, especially for a prince who is used to authority. The chapter’s message emphasizes that true strength involves vulnerability and the willingness to seek help, highlighting that even those in positions of power must acknowledge their weaknesses and learn from others to overcome challenges.
Quotes
1. “Your magic feeds on your energy—feeds on you. The more rested you are, the greater the strength. More important, the greater the control. Your power is both part of you and its own entity. If left to its own devices, it will consume you, wield you like a tool.”
This quote highlights the fundamental nature of magic as an internal force that requires mastery and control, emphasizing the danger of neglecting one’s own well-being and the importance of discipline in wielding power. It underscores a key lesson Rowan imparts to Dorian about the peril and responsibility inherent in magic.
2. “It only wishes to destroy.”
Dorian’s reflection on the destructive potential of his magic, especially in the context of loss and trauma, encapsulates the chapter’s exploration of inner darkness and the threat of unmastered power. It reveals his inner struggle and foreshadows the ongoing battle between control and chaos within him.
3. “You’re going to hate the world, Dorian. You are going to hate yourself. You will hate your magic, and you will hate any moment of peace or happiness. But I had the luxury of a kingdom at peace and no one depending upon me. You do not.”
This stark warning from Rowan captures the emotional and moral toll of leadership and loss, emphasizing that Dorian’s circumstances are more burdensome and complex. It reflects the chapter’s themes of sacrifice, responsibility, and the difficult path toward healing and mastery.
4. “Your people will have learned by now that you were not among the dead. It is upon you to tell them how to interpret it—if they are to see you as abandoning them, or if they are to see you as a man who is leaving to find help—to save them.”
This quote underscores the importance of perception and leadership in times of crisis, illustrating that Dorian’s next actions will define his role and his people’s trust. It emphasizes the chapter’s focus on strategic decision-making and the burden of command.
5. “I have known many kings in my life, Dorian Havilliard. And it was a rare man indeed who asked for help when he needed it, who would put aside pride.”
Rowan’s words serve as a powerful reminder of humility and vulnerability as strengths in leadership. It encapsulates a central message of the chapter: true strength lies in recognizing one’s limits and seeking aid when necessary.