The Priory of the Orange Tree
Twenty-One
by Shannon, SamanthaLoth prepares to leave the Palace of Salvation under the cover of night, aware that he is infected with the Draconic plague after touching the Flesh King. Carrying supplies and weapons, he is accompanied by his friend Kit, who reluctantly joins him despite the dangers. They descend into the hidden depths of Cárscaro, following directions from the Donmata Marosa, who awaits them at the base of a secret stair. She reveals a forgotten escape route through the mountains, warning them of the Draconic creatures lurking outside, and equips them with ice staves for their treacherous journey.
The Donmata entrusts Loth with an iron box, urging him to complete his mission for the sake of Virtudom. Loth promises to send help back to Cárscaro and assures her she won’t be left to die alone. After a poignant farewell, Loth and Kit step into the dark passageway, surrounded by volcanic glass and pumice. The eerie environment reminds Loth of childhood tales about the Nameless One, heightening the tension as they navigate the uncertain path. Kit attempts to lighten the mood with humor, but the gravity of their situation weighs heavily on both.
As they press forward, the ground suddenly rumbles, signaling an earthquake. Panicked, Loth shouts for Kit to run, but the chaos separates them. The tunnel collapses around them, trapping Loth in darkness as debris rains down. Fear overtakes him, and he braces for death, coughing on dust and shattered glass. The violent tremors eventually cease, leaving him disoriented and alone, uncertain of Kit’s fate or whether the passage ahead remains intact.
The chapter ends on a cliffhanger, with Loth surviving the quake but facing an uncertain path forward. The emotional stakes are high, as his promise to the Donmata and his loyalty to Kit hang in the balance. The physical and psychological toll of the journey is palpable, emphasizing the dire circumstances of their mission. The narrative leaves readers questioning whether Loth will reunite with Kit and whether they can escape the treacherous mountains alive.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the Draconic plague in this chapter, and how does it affect Loth’s decisions?
Answer:
The Draconic plague serves as both a physical and psychological burden for Loth, significantly influencing his actions. After being infected by a mere touch from the Flesh King, Loth experiences a growing sense of impending madness, described as “the fine grains of his sanity” slipping away. This affliction adds urgency to his mission, as he knows his time is limited. Despite recognizing the danger, he proceeds with his journey through the mountains, demonstrating his commitment to the Donmata Marosa’s task. The plague also heightens the tension in the narrative, as it underscores the stakes of Loth’s choices—his physical and mental deterioration could jeopardize the mission entirely.2. Analyze the relationship between Loth and Kit. How does their dynamic contribute to the chapter’s themes of loyalty and sacrifice?
Answer:
Loth and Kit’s friendship is a central pillar of the chapter, embodying themes of loyalty and sacrifice. Kit insists on accompanying Loth despite the obvious dangers, showcasing his unwavering devotion. Their banter, such as Kit’s remark about preferring to wake up beside Kate Withy, provides moments of levity amid the grim circumstances, reinforcing their bond. When Loth expresses regret about wanting a simpler life, Kit’s presence becomes a source of emotional support. Their dynamic also highlights the sacrifices inherent in their quest—both men give up safety and comfort for a greater cause. This relationship deepens the narrative by humanizing their struggles and emphasizing the power of camaraderie in adversity.3. How does the setting of the hidden passageway contribute to the tone and atmosphere of the chapter?
Answer:
The hidden passageway beneath Cárscaro is a claustrophobic, perilous environment that amplifies the chapter’s tension and dread. Descriptions of “volcanic glass,” “pumice,” and echoing footsteps create a sense of unease, while the darkness and irregular terrain symbolize the uncertainty of Loth’s mission. The tunnel’s unnatural features, likened to being “carved by a basilisk,” evoke a mythological danger, foreshadowing the earthquake that later strikes. This setting mirrors Loth’s internal turmoil—his fear of the Draconic plague and the weight of his task. The abrupt earthquake shatters the already precarious environment, plunging the characters into chaos and reinforcing the chapter’s themes of vulnerability and unpredictability.4. Evaluate the role of the Donmata Marosa in this chapter. What does her character reveal about the political and emotional stakes of the story?
Answer:
The Donmata Marosa serves as a pivotal figure who bridges the personal and political conflicts of the narrative. Her trapped existence in the tower reflects Yscalin’s broader imprisonment under Fýredel’s rule. By entrusting Loth with the iron box and the mission, she places hope in external aid, revealing her desperation and strategic thinking. Her brief smile when Loth promises help humanizes her, showing the emotional toll of her isolation. Her failed attempt to send word earlier—resulting in the death of one of her ladies—underscores the lethal consequences of resistance. Through her, the chapter explores themes of leadership, survival, and the fragile nature of trust in a tyrannical regime.5. The chapter ends with a sudden earthquake. How does this event serve as a narrative turning point, and what might it foreshadow?
Answer:
The earthquake acts as a dramatic climax that disrupts Loth and Kit’s journey, marking a shift from tension to outright crisis. The violent shaking and collapsing tunnel symbolize the destabilization of their plans and the unpredictable dangers of their world. Loth’s momentary fear and the extinguishing of Kit’s torch leave them vulnerable, foreshadowing potential separation or further obstacles. The event also mirrors the internal “quake” of Loth’s plague-induced deterioration, suggesting that external and internal chaos are intertwined. This abrupt ending leaves readers questioning the characters’ survival, heightening suspense and setting the stage for future challenges in their mission.
Quotes
1. “The Draconic plague was inside him. One touch to the brow of the Flesh King, a prickle in his hand, and an hourglass had turned over in his mind. Soon enough, the fine grains of his sanity would begin to course between his fingers.”
This vivid metaphor captures Loth’s internal crisis as he grapples with infection and impending madness. The hourglass imagery underscores the irreversible, time-sensitive nature of his condition, setting the tone for his desperate journey.
2. “‘It is the opposite of a good idea.’ ‘Piracy was the better option.’ ‘Undeniably.’”
This darkly humorous exchange between Loth and Kit highlights their dire circumstances while revealing their camaraderie. The banter contrasts with the gravity of their situation, showing how they cope with impossible choices.
3. “‘You have a kind heart, Lord Arteloth,’ she said. ‘If you do get back to Inys, give Sabran and Aubrecht my regards.’”
The Donmata’s farewell carries emotional weight as she acknowledges Loth’s virtue while hinting at her own tragic resignation. This moment crystallizes the chapter’s themes of sacrifice and fragile hope.
4. “‘I never wanted an adventure,’ Loth said wearily. ‘Not even one. At this moment, I want to be at Briar House with a cup of mulled wine, preparing to walk my queen to the altar.’”
Loth’s lament reveals his fundamental character - a reluctant hero longing for normalcy. This introspection provides depth to his journey and underscores the personal costs of his mission.
5. “The Knight of Courage fled from him, and he whimpered like a child. The darkness blinded him. Rock smashed. Glass shattered and rang.”
This visceral description of the earthquake’s terror marks a pivotal physical and psychological turning point. The sensory details and religious imagery (the fleeing Knight) amplify the scene’s chaos and vulnerability.