The Assassin and the Desert
Chapter Seven
by Maas, Sarah J.Celaena and Ansel face the consequences of their reckless decision to steal Asterion horses, realizing their actions have already reached the Master. Upon returning to the fortress, they are met by Mikhail and other assassins, forcing them to kneel before the Master in his receiving chamber. As the Master approaches, Celaena recalls a traumatic memory of Arobynn’s violence and Sam’s desperate threats, momentarily distracting her from the present. The tension escalates as Ansel attempts to justify their actions, while Celaena remains silent, fearing the Master’s wrath and the potential loss of her training opportunity.
The Master’s disapproval is palpable as he examines the two young assassins, his silence amplifying their dread. Ansel takes the lead in apologizing, suggesting stable duty as a fitting punishment, while Celaena unexpectedly claims responsibility for the theft. The Master’s reaction is inscrutable, but his subtle amusement hints at leniency. To their relief, he assigns them morning stable duty, sparing them harsher consequences. However, the moment takes a surprising turn when the Master signals Celaena’s long-awaited first lesson, leaving her elated and hopeful for her remaining time at the fortress.
The next day, Celaena and Ansel endure the grueling task of cleaning the livestock pens, a punishment far more unpleasant than their usual training. Despite the physical exhaustion, Celaena’s anticipation for her sunset lesson with the Master grows, overshadowing her fatigue. Ansel offers encouragement as Celaena prepares for the unknown, her nerves mingling with excitement. When the time arrives, she ascends to the fortress rooftop, where the Master awaits, gazing across the desert, his intentions still a mystery.
The chapter concludes with Celaena standing on the rooftop, surrounded by torchlight and the vast desert landscape. The Master’s silence and the presence of a covered reed basket heighten the suspense, leaving Celaena—and the reader—curious about what her first lesson will entail. This moment marks a turning point for Celaena, as she finally earns the Master’s approval and steps closer to her goal, though the challenges ahead remain uncertain.
FAQs
1. How does Celaena’s reaction to the Master’s approach reveal her past trauma and current mindset?
Answer:
Celaena’s physical and emotional reactions to the Master’s approach reveal deep-seated trauma from her past experiences with Arobynn, the King of the Assassins. When the Master’s footsteps echo in the chamber, Celaena flinches, recalling the “phantom bruises” from Arobynn’s beatings. This triggers a vivid memory of Sam’s desperate threats during her assault, showing how past violence still haunts her. Her expectation of being struck—bracing for impact despite the Master’s nonviolent intent—demonstrates how abuse has conditioned her responses. This moment also contrasts her defensive instincts with the Master’s actual gentleness, highlighting her journey toward trust in a new mentor figure.2. Analyze the significance of Ansel’s role in mediating between the Master and Lord Berick. How does this reflect her character and aspirations?
Answer:
Ansel’s role as mediator between the Master and Lord Berick underscores her frustration with her stagnant position at the fortress. Though skilled, she resents being relegated to diplomatic tasks rather than receiving advanced training. The “bitterness” in her voice suggests she craves greater purpose—echoed in Celaena’s observation that Ansel wants to “do something with her life.” This dynamic reveals Ansel’s ambition and discontent with perceived limitations. Her proactive suggestion for punishment (stable duty) also shows pragmatism and a desire to retain her place at the fortress, where she still hopes to achieve her goals despite setbacks.3. Why does the Master finally agree to train Celaena, and what does this decision reveal about his teaching philosophy?
Answer:
The Master agrees to train Celaena after observing her genuine remorse and willingness to protect Ansel by taking blame (“It was my idea”). His “sad smile” and later approval suggest he values accountability and self-awareness over perfection. By choosing sunset for their first lesson—a time symbolizing transition—he emphasizes patience and reflection. His rooftop setting, overlooking the desert, further implies that his teaching will focus on perspective and discipline rather than brute force. This aligns with his silent, deliberate actions throughout the chapter, highlighting his belief in learning through observation and emotional readiness.4. Compare Celaena and Ansel’s attitudes toward their punishment. What does this reveal about their differing motivations?
Answer:
Celaena initially resents stable duty (“almost choked” at the suggestion), viewing it as menial labor, while Ansel accepts it pragmatically as a fair consequence. Ansel’s focus is on maintaining her place at the fortress to achieve long-term goals, whereas Celaena chafes at tasks that don’t align with her self-image as a skilled assassin. However, Celaena’s later endurance (“would have begged to take the six-mile run instead”) shows grudging growth. Their reactions highlight Ansel’s perseverance for a larger purpose versus Celaena’s struggle with humility, though both value the Master’s approval enough to comply.5. How does the chapter use sensory details (e.g., sound, touch) to build tension and characterize the Master?
Answer:
The Master’s deliberate use of sound—his footsteps “scraping softly” to heighten dread—creates psychological tension, contrasting with his ability to move silently when he chooses. His calloused fingers under Celaena’s chin evoke both vulnerability (her flinch) and gentleness (his sad smile), revealing his nuanced authority. The “whispering” of his robes and the torchlit rooftop setting later emphasize quietude and contemplation, mirroring his teaching style. These details paint him as a figure who commands through presence rather than force, using silence and subtlety to provoke self-reflection in his students.
Quotes
1. “She felt each footstep, the phantom bruises on her face throbbing with the memory of Arobynn’s fists. And suddenly, as the memory of that day echoed through her, she remembered the words Sam kept screaming at Arobynn as the King of the Assassins beat her, the words that she somehow had forgotten in the fog of pain: I’ll kill you!”
This quote reveals Celaena’s traumatic past and the lingering psychological impact of Arobynn’s abuse. The sudden recollection of Sam’s defiant words adds depth to her backstory and hints at unresolved tensions in her relationships.
2. “‘It was my idea,’ Celaena blurted, her words too loud in the empty chamber. ‘I didn’t feel like walking back here, and I thought it would be useful to have horses. And when I saw the Asterion mares … I thought we might as well travel in style.’”
This moment shows Celaena taking responsibility to protect Ansel, demonstrating her growing loyalty and willingness to face consequences. Her attempt at humor (“travel in style”) reveals her characteristic bravado even in tense situations.
3. “‘You’re to report to him at sunset tomorrow. For your first lesson.’”
This pivotal quote marks Celaena’s hard-won acceptance by the Master after proving herself. The brief statement carries significant weight as it represents the turning point where her training and deeper journey truly begin.
4. “Whatever he had seen in her face, whatever she had said … somehow, she’d proven herself to him at last.”
This introspective conclusion captures Celaena’s quiet triumph after her emotional confrontation with the Master. It underscores the chapter’s theme of earning respect through authenticity rather than force or deception.