Empire of Storms (Throne of Glass)
Chapter 60
by Maas, Sarah J.In this chapter, Aelin and Ansel share a moment of camaraderie over wine in the galley, preparing for their imminent voyage back to Terrasen. The scene is infused with a mix of levity and underlying tension, as Aelin reflects her desire to undertake her mission independently, despite the concerns of her allies. The chapter highlights her determination to reclaim her homeland and the sacrifices involved, emphasizing her resolve to act swiftly and decisively in the face of mounting threats. The camaraderie among the characters reveals their complex relationships, blending humor, loyalty, and unspoken worries about the dangerous road ahead.
The narrative delves into political and military strategizing, with Ansel revealing crucial intelligence about Melisande’s defenses and her own plans to gather more forces. Aelin’s request for more men leads her to seek out the lost Crochan witches, hinting at their potential importance in the ongoing war. The chapter explores themes of trust, power, and the delicate balance of alliances, as Aelin navigates her authority and the fragile loyalties of her allies. Manon’s reaction to promises made by Aelin underscores the tension between personal loyalty and political promises, illustrating the complex dynamics among the witches and other factions.
Further, the chapter explores the history and struggles of the Crochan witches, with Aelin contemplating their possible involvement and the significance of their queen’s summons. Aelin’s strategic mindset aims to destabilize Erawan’s influence by sowing chaos in Melisande’s territory, while also preparing her forces for the larger conflict looming on the horizon. Ansel’s willingness to venture north and her personal connection to her homeland add depth to her character, emphasizing her loyalty and the sacrifices she’s made. The narrative underscores the importance of clandestine operations and intelligence in shaping the broader war effort.
In the closing moments, the chapter shifts to a poignant reflection on Ansel’s past struggles and her efforts to survive against all odds. Her history of fighting for her throne and her determination to rescue Aelin from Endovier reveal her resilience and unwavering loyalty. The chapter ends on an emotional note, with Aelin acknowledging Ansel’s sacrifice and their shared understanding of the sacrifices necessary for their cause. This layered narrative weaves together themes of friendship, betrayal, strategy, and perseverance, setting the stage for the intense conflicts to come.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What are Aelin and her allies planning to do with the Crochan witches, and what strategic importance does this hold in their broader campaign?
Answer:
Aelin is instructing Ansel to find the lost Crochan witches, who are in hiding but potentially possess significant numbers and power. She promises to share control of the Wastes with them if they prove to be better than their Matrons, offering land in Briarcliff and the South. This strategy aims to rally more forces and leverage the witches’ strength, which could be crucial in their fight against Erawan and his forces. By doing so, Aelin seeks to expand her army, gain allies with powerful magic, and strengthen her position for the upcoming battles, emphasizing the importance of uniting different factions for a collective victory.2. Question 2
How does Ansel’s background and her previous actions reflect her character and her relationship with Aelin?
Answer:
Ansel’s background as a fierce, resourceful leader who once fought her way onto the throne and her willingness to return to aid Aelin highlight her resilience and loyalty. Her past actions—such as fighting Loch, defending her throne, and attempting to rescue Aelin from Endovier—show her determination and sense of honor. Her conversation with Aelin reveals a deep mutual respect, as Aelin recognizes Ansel as her mirror, acknowledging her bravery and strategic mind. Their exchange underscores a relationship built on shared hardships, mutual trust, and a common goal to oppose Erawan, despite past differences or distances.3. Question 3
Discuss the significance of the political and military alliances hinted at in this chapter, particularly in relation to Melisande, Manon, and the Crochan witches.
Answer:
The chapter hints at complex political alliances and conflicts. Melisande’s reluctance to admit her forces lacked Morath-bred horrors and her alliance with Erawan suggest her questionable loyalty and the moral ambiguity of her leadership. Manon’s fierce protectiveness of her homeland and her initial resistance to promises made by Aelin reflect the fragile nature of alliances. The Crochan witches, believed to be almost extinct, represent a potential powerful ally if they are found and persuaded to join the fight. These relationships emphasize the importance of alliances based on trust, shared interests, and strategic necessity, illustrating how political and military considerations intertwine in shaping the broader conflict.4. Question 4
What does Ansel’s recounting of her journey to aid Aelin, and her feelings about her past actions, reveal about her character and her motivations?
Answer:
Ansel’s recounting of her journey—her fight against Lord Loch, her decision to stay to defend her throne, and her attempt to rescue Aelin—reveals her as a loyal and courageous leader driven by a strong sense of duty and honor. Her feelings of regret and admiration toward Aelin, especially when she notes Aelin’s sacrifice and her own inability to reach Rifthold, highlight her personal sense of guilt and longing. Her words reflect a character motivated by loyalty, a desire to right past wrongs, and a deep respect for Aelin’s resilience. Her willingness to return and assist underscores her commitment to the broader cause and her recognition of Aelin as a kindred spirit.5. Question 5
How does the chapter explore themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and leadership through the interactions and decisions of the characters?
Answer:
The chapter vividly portrays loyalty through Ansel’s dedication to Aelin and her willingness to risk her life for her friend’s cause. Sacrifice is evident in Ansel’s recounting of her efforts to fight for her throne and her attempt to rescue Aelin, emphasizing the personal costs of leadership and loyalty. Aelin’s strategic decisions, such as seeking out the Crochan witches and rallying allies, demonstrate her leadership and her willingness to make difficult choices for the greater good. The characters’ interactions—Manon’s defensiveness, Lysandra’s playful support, and Aelin’s commanding presence—highlight the complex interplay of loyalty and sacrifice that underpin their leadership in the ongoing war, emphasizing that true leadership often involves personal risk and unwavering commitment.
Quotes
1. “Here’s to dramatic entrances.”
This playful toast captures Aelin’s bold personality and her love for surprising others, setting the tone for her strategic yet flamboyant approach to leadership and warfare. It highlights her confidence and penchant for theatrics, which are central to her character in this chapter.
2. “You want me to find me the lost Crochan witches… They might have significant numbers. Promise to share the Wastes with them.”
This quote underscores Aelin’s strategic focus on rallying hidden allies and her willingness to make bold promises to secure crucial support. It reflects the chapter’s theme of alliance-building and the importance of uniting disparate forces against a common foe.
3. “They’d see about that. Aelin laid a hand flat on the table. ‘Send anything and anyone you find north,’ she said to Ansel. ‘Sacking Melisande’s capital on the sly will at least piss off Erawan, but we don’t want to be stuck down here when Terrasen is attacked.’”
This passage emphasizes Aelin’s pragmatic and forward-thinking leadership, prioritizing actions that weaken the enemy while safeguarding her homeland. It encapsulates her tactical mindset and the urgency of her plans.
4. “There was not one hour that I did not think about what I did in the desert. How you fired that arrow after twenty-one minutes. You told me twenty, that you’d shoot even if I wasn’t out of range. I was counting; I knew how many it had been. You gave me an extra minute.”
This intimate reflection reveals the deep connection and understanding between Aelin and Ansel, highlighting themes of sacrifice, trust, and shared resilience. It is a powerful moment that adds emotional depth to the chapter.
5. “If you and your people prove to be better than your Matrons, there will be a place for you in that land, too.”
This statement signifies Aelin’s hope for redemption and integration for the Ironteeth witches, emphasizing her belief in potential change and the possibility of a better future through merit and strength. It encapsulates the chapter’s underlying message of hope amidst conflict.
Quotes
1. “Here’s to dramatic entrances.”
This playful toast captures Aelin’s bold personality and her love for surprising others, setting the tone for her strategic yet flamboyant approach to leadership and warfare. It highlights her confidence and penchant for theatrics, which are central to her character in this chapter.
2. “You want me to find me the lost Crochan witches… They might have significant numbers. Promise to share the Wastes with them.”
This quote underscores Aelin’s strategic focus on rallying hidden allies and her willingness to make bold promises to secure crucial support. It reflects the chapter’s theme of alliance-building and the importance of uniting disparate forces against a common foe.
3. “They’d see about that. Aelin laid a hand flat on the table. ‘Send anything and anyone you find north,’ she said to Ansel. ‘Sacking Melisande’s capital on the sly will at least piss off Erawan, but we don’t want to be stuck down here when Terrasen is attacked.’”
This passage emphasizes Aelin’s pragmatic and forward-thinking leadership, prioritizing actions that weaken the enemy while safeguarding her homeland. It encapsulates her tactical mindset and the urgency of her plans.
4. “There was not one hour that I did not think about what I did in the desert. How you fired that arrow after twenty-one minutes. You told me twenty, that you’d shoot even if I wasn’t out of range. I was counting; I knew how many it had been. You gave me an extra minute.”
This intimate reflection reveals the deep connection and understanding between Aelin and Ansel, highlighting themes of sacrifice, trust, and shared resilience. It is a powerful moment that adds emotional depth to the chapter.
5. “If you and your people prove to be better than your Matrons, there will be a place for you in that land, too.”
This statement signifies Aelin’s hope for redemption and integration for the Ironteeth witches, emphasizing her belief in potential change and the possibility of a better future through merit and strength. It encapsulates the chapter’s underlying message of hope amidst conflict.
— Unknown
FAQs
1. Question 1
What are Aelin and her allies planning to do with the Crochan witches, and what strategic importance does this hold in their broader campaign?
Answer:
Aelin is instructing Ansel to find the lost Crochan witches, who are in hiding but potentially possess significant numbers and power. She promises to share control of the Wastes with them if they prove to be better than their Matrons, offering land in Briarcliff and the South. This strategy aims to rally more forces and leverage the witches’ strength, which could be crucial in their fight against Erawan and his forces. By doing so, Aelin seeks to expand her army, gain allies with powerful magic, and strengthen her position for the upcoming battles, emphasizing the importance of uniting different factions for a collective victory.
2. Question 2
How does Ansel’s background and her previous actions reflect her character and her relationship with Aelin?
Answer:
Ansel’s background as a fierce, resourceful leader who once fought her way onto the throne and her willingness to return to aid Aelin highlight her resilience and loyalty. Her past actions—such as fighting Loch, defending her throne, and attempting to rescue Aelin from Endovier—show her determination and sense of honor. Her conversation with Aelin reveals a deep mutual respect, as Aelin recognizes Ansel as her mirror, acknowledging her bravery and strategic mind. Their exchange underscores a relationship built on shared hardships, mutual trust, and a common goal to oppose Erawan, despite past differences or distances.
3. Question 3
Discuss the significance of the political and military alliances hinted at in this chapter, particularly in relation to Melisande, Manon, and the Crochan witches.
Answer:
The chapter hints at complex political alliances and conflicts. Melisande’s reluctance to admit her forces lacked Morath-bred horrors and her alliance with Erawan suggest her questionable loyalty and the moral ambiguity of her leadership. Manon’s fierce protectiveness of her homeland and her initial resistance to promises made by Aelin reflect the fragile nature of alliances. The Crochan witches, believed to be almost extinct, represent a potential powerful ally if they are found and persuaded to join the fight. These relationships emphasize the importance of alliances based on trust, shared interests, and strategic necessity, illustrating how political and military considerations intertwine in shaping the broader conflict.
4. Question 4
What does Ansel’s recounting of her journey to aid Aelin, and her feelings about her past actions, reveal about her character and her motivations?
Answer:
Ansel’s recounting of her journey—her fight against Lord Loch, her decision to stay to defend her throne, and her attempt to rescue Aelin—reveals her as a loyal and courageous leader driven by a strong sense of duty and honor. Her feelings of regret and admiration toward Aelin, especially when she notes Aelin’s sacrifice and her own inability to reach Rifthold, highlight her personal sense of guilt and longing. Her words reflect a character motivated by loyalty, a desire to right past wrongs, and a deep respect for Aelin’s resilience. Her willingness to return and assist underscores her commitment to the broader cause and her recognition of Aelin as a kindred spirit.
5. Question 5
How does the chapter explore themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and leadership through the interactions and decisions of the characters?
Answer:
The chapter vividly portrays loyalty through Ansel’s dedication to Aelin and her willingness to risk her life for her friend’s cause. Sacrifice is evident in Ansel’s recounting of her efforts to fight for her throne and her attempt to rescue Aelin, emphasizing the personal costs of leadership and loyalty. Aelin’s strategic decisions, such as seeking out the Crochan witches and rallying allies, demonstrate her leadership and her willingness to make difficult choices for the greater good. The characters’ interactions—Manon’s defensiveness, Lysandra’s playful support, and Aelin’s commanding presence—highlight the complex interplay of loyalty and sacrifice that underpin their leadership in the ongoing war, emphasizing that true leadership often involves personal risk and unwavering commitment.
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