Tower of Dawn
Chapter Sixty-Six
by Maas, Sarah J.Nesryn, exhausted yet unable to rest, finds herself drawn to Kadara’s minaret after the group’s return to Antica. She deliberately avoids Chaol and Yrene’s reunion, understanding their need for privacy after Chaol’s near-death experience. As she contemplates finding new quarters for herself and her companions—including Borte and Falkan, who joined them—a page delivers a letter from her uncle. The message, dated two weeks prior, causes her hands to tremble before she races up the minaret stairs, urgency propelling her forward.
Upon reading the letter, Nesryn swiftly mounts her ruk, Salkhi, and flies to her uncle’s home in the Runni Quarter. The ruk’s dramatic arrival stirs awe and fear among the onlookers. When her family bursts through the gates—her father standing at the forefront—Nesryn collapses to her knees, overwhelmed with emotion. The reunion is tearful and joyous, with her family recounting their perilous journey to Antica and their decision to stay during the war. Nesryn’s bond with Salkhi, whom she claimed as her own after his previous rider’s death, symbolizes her newfound strength and identity.
Two hours later, Prince Sartaq arrives, drawn by the commotion caused by the ruks in the street. He greets Nesryn’s father with respect, causing Sayed Faliq visible shock. The children’s exuberant reaction to Kadara and Salkhi lightens the mood, with even Nesryn’s sister, Delara, momentarily forgetting her embarrassment in the presence of the prince. Sartaq’s unexpected visit and warm interaction with her family stir deep emotions in Nesryn, hinting at their growing connection. Delara’s teasing glance and Nesryn’s playful response underscore the familial bonds and Nesryn’s personal growth.
The chapter culminates in a blend of personal and political significance. Nesryn’s reunion with her family reaffirms her roots, while Sartaq’s presence signals his support and the deepening alliance between them. The children’s reverence for the ruks mirrors Nesryn’s own journey from uncertainty to confidence. The scene captures a moment of respite and joy amidst the looming war, highlighting themes of family, identity, and the bonds forged through shared trials. The chapter ends on a hopeful note, with Nesryn poised between her past and her future.
FAQs
1. How does Nesryn’s emotional state evolve throughout the chapter, and what key events trigger these changes?
Answer:
Nesryn begins the chapter emotionally drained, wanting to sleep for weeks after her intense experiences. Her exhaustion shifts to urgency when she receives a letter from her uncle, causing her fingers to tremble. The emotional climax occurs when she reunites with her family, falling to her knees in tears of joy. Finally, she experiences a swelling of emotion “to the point of pain” when Prince Sartaq arrives to welcome her family personally. These transitions show her journey from weariness to vulnerability, then to overwhelming happiness and deep emotional connection.2. Analyze the significance of Nesryn bonding with Salkhi and what this reveals about her character development.
Answer:
Nesryn’s claiming of Salkhi—a ruk whose original rider died—demonstrates her growing confidence and sense of belonging among the rukhin. The moment is poignant as she formally introduces herself with her full lineage, showing newfound pride in her identity. Salkhi’s acceptance (“bowed his head to her”) symbolizes Nesryn’s earned place in this culture. This bond contrasts with her earlier outsider status and foreshadows her later public ride through Antica, where she guides Salkhi with ease, demonstrating her complete transformation into a skilled ruk rider.3. How does the author use contrasting reactions to the ruks to highlight cultural perspectives in Antica?
Answer:
The chapter presents a spectrum of reactions: vendors abandon carts in terror, children gawk and grin, while Nesryn’s family shows reverence mixed with familial concern (“her sister and aunt had glared”). The dramatic arrival of two ruks in the city street becomes a cultural litmus test—some see danger, others see wonder. This contrast emphasizes how Nesryn now operates between worlds: she understands common Antican fears but has also internalized the rukhin’s perspective, where these creatures are respected companions rather than threats.4. What does Sartaq’s unexpected appearance at Nesryn’s family home reveal about their evolving relationship?
Answer:
Sartaq’s decision to personally welcome Nesryn’s family—a gesture beyond protocol—signals deep respect and affection. His easy laughter at the children’s antics and handshake with Nesryn’s father show he’s willing to bridge royal and commoner spheres for her sake. The moment gains additional weight as Nesryn’s sister recognizes their mutual “smitten” state. This scene contrasts with their earlier formal interactions, demonstrating how their shared trials have fostered an intimate bond that transcends their differing social statuses.5. How does the chapter use physical gestures to convey emotional truths when words are insufficient?
Answer:
Key emotional moments are communicated through gestures: Nesryn’s trembling hands when opening the letter, her kneeling weep upon seeing her family, and Sartaq’s inclined head to her father. Even the ruks “lowering themselves to the ground” becomes a nonverbal act of kindness to the children. These physical expressions—more powerful than dialogue—reveal vulnerability (Nesryn’s tears), respect (Sartaq’s bow-like head movement), and acceptance (the ruks permitting touch). The chapter suggests that in moments of profound emotion, bodies speak more eloquently than words.
Quotes
1. “She had gone right to the nests, where he had still waited for a rider who would never return, and looked deep into his golden eyes. Had told him that her name was Nesryn Faliq, and she was daughter of Sayed and Cybele Faliq, and that she would be his rider, if he would have her.”
This poignant moment captures Nesryn’s emotional bonding with Salkhi, the ruk whose previous rider died. It represents a turning point in her journey, marking her official acceptance as a ruk rider and her connection to her heritage.
2. “Nesryn fell to her knees and wept.”
This powerful, succinct sentence conveys the overwhelming emotion of Nesryn’s reunion with her family after their dangerous journey. It serves as the emotional climax of the chapter, showing the relief and joy after prolonged separation and uncertainty.
3. “I heard Captain Faliq’s family had at last arrived safely. I thought I’d come to welcome you myself.”
Prince Sartaq’s thoughtful gesture demonstrates his growing relationship with Nesryn and his respect for her family. This quote highlights the developing personal connections amidst the larger political events, showing Sartaq’s character and the deepening bond between him and Nesryn.
4. “Delara gave Nesryn a sharp look that said, ‘Oh, you are so smitten it’s not even a laughing matter.’”
This humorous moment provides levity while subtly confirming the romantic tension between Nesryn and Sartaq. The sisterly interaction adds warmth and realism to the family reunion scenes.