The Assassin and the Desert
Chapter Seven
byMaas, Sarah J.
In Chapter Seven of “The Assassin and the Desert,” Celaena and Ansel face the repercussions of their risky horse theft involving Asterion mares. Their return to the fortress reveals that their actions have been quickly reported to the Master, who is waiting with other assassins, signaling that their stunt has serious consequences. Celaena remains silent and submissive as they kneel before the Master, aware that her chances of gaining his favor or training are now diminished. The ominous atmosphere underscores the gravity of their actions, emphasizing the danger and tension that pervade their environment, where silence and restraint are crucial for survival.
As the chapter progresses, Celaena’s memories of past abuse resurface, specifically the violent beating she endured at the hands of Arobynn, which she had forgotten amid her pain. This recollection intensifies her emotional state, heightening her awareness of her vulnerability in the current moment. The Master’s disapproval is palpable as he scrutinizes their actions, and Celaena’s attempt to explain her impulsive decision reveals her desire to justify her behavior. Her apology is sincere, yet her nervousness underscores her precarious position, caught between her own instincts and the strict discipline of her captors.
The Master’s response is measured; he considers Ansel’s proposal to assign them to stable duty as a form of leniency. Ansel’s willingness to accept responsibility and her desire to be useful hint at her deeper motivation to find purpose beyond mere survival. Celaena’s relief at receiving a reprieve is tempered by the awareness that her next challenge will be her training. The Master’s subtle recognition of her effort signals a potential shift in their dynamic, and Celaena’s cautious optimism is fueled by the hope of finally earning his trust and progressing toward her goal of leaving the fortress.
The chapter concludes with Celaena’s physical labor in the stables, cleaning all livestock pens—an arduous task that consumes her morning. Despite her longing to escape the stables, her anxiety about the upcoming training session grows as she spends the afternoon sparring and preparing for her first lesson. The scene shifts to her secret ascent to the rooftop, where the Master awaits her in silence, overlooking the desert. This moment marks a pivotal point, as Celaena prepares to confront her future head-on, with the rooftop setting symbolizing both her isolation and her determination to succeed.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What does Celaena realize about her situation after returning to the fortress and seeing Mikhail and the other assassins, and how does this realization affect her attitude during the confrontation?
Answer:
Celaena realizes that word of her and Ansel’s horse escapade has already reached the Master, evidenced by Mikhail and three other assassins waiting for her. This awareness of being watched and possibly judged by the Master causes her to adopt a submissive posture—kneeling with her head bowed—and to keep her mouth shut, understanding that her attempt at deception has failed. Her realization that her actions have consequences influences her to accept her fate quietly, and she recognizes that her chances of persuading the Master to train her are slim at this point. This moment underscores her understanding of the dangerous environment she’s in and her need to be cautious and strategic.2. Question 2
Analyze the significance of the memory of Sam screaming “I’ll kill you!” in the context of Celaena’s emotional state during her encounter with the Master. How does this memory influence her perception of her situation?
Answer:
The vivid memory of Sam’s furious declaration “I’ll kill you!” during Arobynn’s abuse surfaces unexpectedly, highlighting Celaena’s underlying trauma and emotional resilience. This memory intensifies her awareness of violence and danger, making her more acutely aware of her vulnerability in the Master’s presence. It also reveals her deep-seated anger and desire for justice, contrasting with her current submissive stance. The memory acts as a reminder of her past pain and her fight to survive, fueling her determination to prove herself even in a moment of fear. It emphasizes her internal conflict—her longing for strength and independence amid a threatening environment.3. Question 3
What does Ansel’s suggestion to do stable duty in exchange for leniency reveal about her character and her relationship with Celaena?
Answer:
Ansel’s proposal to handle stable duty as a form of penance demonstrates her pragmatic and selfless nature. She recognizes her mistake and seeks to mitigate the consequences through an act of service, showing her willingness to accept responsibility. Her suggestion also indicates her desire to stay close to Celaena and support her ambitions, as she hopes to help her by staying involved in the training and environment that might lead to a better future. This act of self-sacrifice highlights her loyalty and her understanding of the importance of patience and perseverance. It also underscores the bond between her and Celaena, as she is willing to endure hardship for her friend’s benefit.4. Question 4
How does the Master’s decision to assign Celaena to report for her first lesson at sunset reflect his approach to training and discipline?
Answer:
The Master’s choice to schedule Celaena’s first lesson at sunset signifies a deliberate, measured approach to training that emphasizes control and timing. By assigning her a specific, somewhat symbolic time—sunset—the Master may be testing her patience, discipline, and willingness to follow instructions. It also shows that he values strategic planning over impulsive action, possibly aiming to observe her behavior and readiness in a controlled setting. This decision underscores his role as a strict, calculating instructor who uses timing and observation to assess his students, reinforcing the idea that discipline and patience are vital in their training.5. Question 5
What is the significance of the rooftop setting at the end of the chapter, and how might it relate to the themes of the story or Celaena’s character development?
Answer:
The rooftop setting, high above the fortress, symbolizes a moment of transition and heightened awareness for Celaena. It represents a vantage point—both literally and metaphorically—where she can reflect on her circumstances and the challenges ahead. The small, enclosed space with a covered reed basket and burning torches creates an atmosphere of anticipation, hinting that something pivotal is about to happen. This setting may also symbolize her ascent toward mastery and independence, as she prepares for her first lesson. In terms of character development, it signifies a moment of elevation—physically and emotionally—marking her ongoing journey from vulnerability to strength, and her readiness to face her future with resolve.
Quotes
1. “Her face burned. He hadn’t been about to hit her. He’d wanted her to look at him, to tell him her side of the story.”
This quote highlights the Master’s nuanced approach to discipline and understanding, emphasizing that even in moments of perceived threat, there is an underlying desire for acknowledgment and communication. It reveals his complex character and the subtlety in his authority.
2. “Whatever he saw on Ansel’s face suddenly made him nod. Ansel quickly bowed her head. ‘Before you decide on a punishment… Since we like horses so much, maybe we could … be on stable duty? For the morning shift. Until Celaena leaves.’”
This moment demonstrates the chapter’s theme of redemption and the possibility of earning trust through humility and effort, as the characters seek to prove their worth rather than rely on defiance.
3. “It turned out that they weren’t just responsible for shoveling horse dung. Oh, no—they were responsible for cleaning the pens of all the four-legged livestock in the fortress, a task that took them from breakfast until noon.”
This passage underscores the harsh realities of their training and the physical toll of their responsibilities, symbolizing the often unglamorous path toward discipline and mastery.
4. “She found herself in the open air, high atop the fortress… The roof couldn’t have been more than twenty square feet, and the only thing on it was a covered reed basket placed in the center.”
This description sets the scene for a significant moment of reflection or challenge, highlighting the isolation and focus necessary for the chapter’s upcoming turning point.
Quotes
1. “Her face burned. He hadn’t been about to hit her. He’d wanted her to look at him, to tell him her side of the story.”
This quote highlights the Master’s nuanced approach to discipline and understanding, emphasizing that even in moments of perceived threat, there is an underlying desire for acknowledgment and communication. It reveals his complex character and the subtlety in his authority.
2. “Whatever he saw on Ansel’s face suddenly made him nod. Ansel quickly bowed her head. ‘Before you decide on a punishment… Since we like horses so much, maybe we could … be on stable duty? For the morning shift. Until Celaena leaves.’”
This moment demonstrates the chapter’s theme of redemption and the possibility of earning trust through humility and effort, as the characters seek to prove their worth rather than rely on defiance.
3. “It turned out that they weren’t just responsible for shoveling horse dung. Oh, no — they were responsible for cleaning the pens of all the four-legged livestock in the fortress, a task that took them from breakfast until noon.”
This passage underscores the harsh realities of their training and the physical toll of their responsibilities, symbolizing the often unglamorous path toward discipline and mastery.
4. “She found herself in the open air, high atop the fortress… The roof couldn’t have been more than twenty square feet, and the only thing on it was a covered reed basket placed in the center.”
This description sets the scene for a significant moment of reflection or challenge, highlighting the isolation and focus necessary for the chapter’s upcoming turning point.
FAQs
1. Question 1
What does Celaena realize about her situation after returning to the fortress and seeing Mikhail and the other assassins, and how does this realization affect her attitude during the confrontation?
Answer:
Celaena realizes that word of her and Ansel’s horse escapade has already reached the Master, evidenced by Mikhail and three other assassins waiting for her. This awareness of being watched and possibly judged by the Master causes her to adopt a submissive posture—kneeling with her head bowed—and to keep her mouth shut, understanding that her attempt at deception has failed. Her realization that her actions have consequences influences her to accept her fate quietly, and she recognizes that her chances of persuading the Master to train her are slim at this point. This moment underscores her understanding of the dangerous environment she’s in and her need to be cautious and strategic.
2. Question 2
Analyze the significance of the memory of Sam screaming “I’ll kill you!” in the context of Celaena’s emotional state during her encounter with the Master. How does this memory influence her perception of her situation?
Answer:
The vivid memory of Sam’s furious declaration “I’ll kill you!” during Arobynn’s abuse surfaces unexpectedly, highlighting Celaena’s underlying trauma and emotional resilience. This memory intensifies her awareness of violence and danger, making her more acutely aware of her vulnerability in the Master’s presence. It also reveals her deep-seated anger and desire for justice, contrasting with her current submissive stance. The memory acts as a reminder of her past pain and her fight to survive, fueling her determination to prove herself even in a moment of fear. It emphasizes her internal conflict—her longing for strength and independence amid a threatening environment.
3. Question 3
What does Ansel’s suggestion to do stable duty in exchange for leniency reveal about her character and her relationship with Celaena?
Answer:
Ansel’s proposal to handle stable duty as a form of penance demonstrates her pragmatic and selfless nature. She recognizes her mistake and seeks to mitigate the consequences through an act of service, showing her willingness to accept responsibility. Her suggestion also indicates her desire to stay close to Celaena and support her ambitions, as she hopes to help her by staying involved in the training and environment that might lead to a better future. This act of self-sacrifice highlights her loyalty and her understanding of the importance of patience and perseverance. It also underscores the bond between her and Celaena, as she is willing to endure hardship for her friend’s benefit.
4. Question 4
How does the Master’s decision to assign Celaena to report for her first lesson at sunset reflect his approach to training and discipline?
Answer:
The Master’s choice to schedule Celaena’s first lesson at sunset signifies a deliberate, measured approach to training that emphasizes control and timing. By assigning her a specific, somewhat symbolic time—sunset—the Master may be testing her patience, discipline, and willingness to follow instructions. It also shows that he values strategic planning over impulsive action, possibly aiming to observe her behavior and readiness in a controlled setting. This decision underscores his role as a strict, calculating instructor who uses timing and observation to assess his students, reinforcing the idea that discipline and patience are vital in their training.
5. Question 5
What is the significance of the rooftop setting at the end of the chapter, and how might it relate to the themes of the story or Celaena’s character development?
Answer:
The rooftop setting, high above the fortress, symbolizes a moment of transition and heightened awareness for Celaena. It represents a vantage point—both literally and metaphorically—where she can reflect on her circumstances and the challenges ahead. The small, enclosed space with a covered reed basket and burning torches creates an atmosphere of anticipation, hinting that something pivotal is about to happen. This setting may also symbolize her ascent toward mastery and independence, as she prepares for her first lesson. In terms of character development, it signifies a moment of elevation—physically and emotionally—marking her ongoing journey from vulnerability to strength, and her readiness to face her future with resolve.
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