Tower of Dawn
Chapter Thirty-Seven
by Maas, Sarah J.Nesryn finds herself constrained by time as Falkan’s recovery delays their planned journey to the southern watchtowers. Despite her attempts to persuade Prince Sartaq to proceed without the shape-shifter, he insists on waiting, prioritizing safety even with Borte’s added support. Instead, Sartaq fills their days by introducing Nesryn to various rukhin clans across the northern and western aeries. These visits range from warm receptions with feasts and celebrations to more reserved encounters, like with the Berlad, where hospitality is minimal. Through these interactions, Nesryn begins to adapt to the rukhin culture, even enduring their potent fermented goat’s milk, which initially leaves her choking but earns her respect.
As Nesryn immerses herself in the rukhin way of life, she discovers a newfound sense of belonging. She impresses the clans with her archery skills while learning to shoot in challenging conditions, guided by Sartaq during their flights through mountain passes. Riding Kadara alone leaves her feeling exhilarated and free, a stark contrast to her former life. Sartaq ensures her active participation in clan activities, from mundane chores like cleaning ruk droppings to teaching archery, reinforcing the principle that no task is beneath anyone, regardless of rank. These experiences gradually quiet Nesryn’s restlessness, replacing her memories of Rifthold’s rigid palace life with a deeper connection to the mountains and their people.
Nesryn’s transformation becomes evident as she reflects on her past. The structured world of Adarlan’s guards and city barracks feels distant, almost unreal, compared to the vibrant storytelling and communal fires of the rukhin. One evening, Houlun, the hearth-mother, invites Nesryn to share a tale from Adarlan. Though hesitant, Nesryn surprises everyone—including herself—by offering to sing a song from her mother’s homeland. The moment is poignant, as she reveals a personal connection to her heritage, bridging her dual identity as a child of both Adarlan and the rukhin lands. Borte’s softened expression and Sartaq’s attentive silence underscore the significance of this cultural exchange.
As Nesryn begins to sing, her voice resonates through the Mountain-Hall of Altun, weaving a tapestry of memory and emotion. The fire’s crackle accompanies her, and the weight of her mother’s legacy fills the space. Sartaq’s stillness hints at his deep appreciation, while Borte’s earlier defiance gives way to quiet solidarity. This chapter captures Nesryn’s evolving identity, as she sheds the constraints of her former life and embraces the freedom and purpose found among the rukhin. Her song becomes a symbol of shared humanity, transcending borders and forging bonds in the heart of the mountains.
FAQs
1. How does Nesryn’s perspective on her previous life in Adarlan change during her time with the rukhin?
Answer:
Nesryn undergoes a significant shift in perspective regarding her former life in Adarlan. Initially, she recalls her duties as a guard in Rifthold—standing watch on street corners and attending formal palace meetings—as mundane and isolating. However, after spending time with the rukhin, engaging in communal tasks, and experiencing the freedom of flying with Sartaq, she finds herself unable to envision returning to that life. The chapter emphasizes her newfound sense of belonging and purpose among the rukhin, where she feels “unburdened and unbridled” (p. 428). The contrast highlights her emotional growth and preference for the rukhin’s communal, active lifestyle over the rigidity of her past.2. Analyze the significance of Nesryn’s decision to sing for the rukhin. How does this moment reflect her cultural identity and personal growth?
Answer:
Nesryn’s choice to sing a traditional Adarlanian song represents a pivotal moment of cultural reconciliation and vulnerability. Though she grew up enthralled by her father’s stories of the southern lands, she admits she rarely explored her Adarlanian heritage. By sharing her mother’s song—a rare piece of her childhood—she bridges her dual identity and honors her roots. The act also symbolizes her deepening trust with the rukhin, particularly Borte, who shares a similar loss (p. 430). Sartaq’s silent attentiveness further underscores the moment’s emotional weight, marking Nesryn’s transition from outsider to someone who actively contributes to the community’s cultural exchange.3. What does Sartaq’s leadership style reveal about rukhin values, as demonstrated through his interactions with Nesryn and others?
Answer:
Sartaq embodies the rukhin values of humility, equality, and communal responsibility. Despite his royal status, he insists on participating in menial tasks like cleaning ruk droppings, stating, “No one is above work” (p. 428). He also consistently includes Nesryn, pushing her to engage with the clan rather than remain an observer. This leadership style reflects the rukhin’s emphasis on collective effort over hierarchy. His visits to various hearths—celebrating births, tending to the sick, and assessing training—further highlight his hands-on approach and dedication to his people’s well-being. These actions reinforce the chapter’s theme of leadership as service rather than privilege.4. How does the chapter use contrasting reactions from different rukhin clans to develop the worldbuilding of the southern territories?
Answer:
The chapter contrasts the warm receptions of some clans (feasting and archery demonstrations) with the aloofness of others, like the Berlad, who offer minimal hospitality (p. 427-428). These differences illustrate the diversity and independence of the rukhin clans, suggesting varying levels of allegiance or cultural practices. For instance, the Berlad’s refusal to share fermented goat’s milk—a notable tradition—hints at deeper political or social tensions. Meanwhile, the enthusiastic exchanges elsewhere, such as Nesryn teaching archery, showcase the rukhin’s warrior culture and openness to outsiders. These contrasts enrich the worldbuilding by presenting a nuanced, lived-in society rather than a monolithic group.5. Evaluate how the chapter portrays the theme of healing—both physical and emotional—through the characters of Nesryn and Falkan.
Answer:
The chapter intertwines physical and emotional healing through Falkan’s recovery and Nesryn’s personal transformation. Falkan’s 10-day convalescence (p. 427) forces Nesryn to pause her mission, but this delay becomes an opportunity for her to heal emotionally. Immersed in rukhin life, she moves past her guardedness, symbolized by her singing—an act of vulnerability tied to her mother’s memory (p. 430). Falkan, though still injured, begins reintegrating socially by attending the fireside gathering. Both characters’ arcs emphasize that healing is not just about physical recovery but also about finding belonging and purpose, as seen in Nesryn’s rejection of her former isolation and embrace of community.
Quotes
1. “She’d never felt so unleashed. So unburdened and unbridled and yet settled in herself.”
This quote captures Nesryn’s transformative experience riding Kadara alone, symbolizing her personal growth and newfound sense of freedom and self-acceptance in the rukhin culture.
2. “No matter his rank, no matter his status as captain, he did every chore without a word of complaint. No one was above work, he told her when she’d asked one night.”
This reveals Prince Sartaq’s humble leadership style and the egalitarian values of the rukhin society, contrasting sharply with the hierarchical structures Nesryn knew in Adarlan.
3. “Another lifetime, another world. Here in the deep mountains, breathing in the crisp air… She could not remember that life before. And did not want to go back to it.”
This powerful reflection shows Nesryn’s complete emotional transition and sense of belonging in her new environment, marking a significant turning point in her character arc.
4. “Nesryn gave her a small, subtle nod. It is a weight we both bear.”
This moment of silent understanding between Nesryn and Borte about maternal loss creates an emotional bridge between their cultures and deepens their connection.
5. “And then she opened her mouth and sang. The crackle of the fire her only drum, Nesryn’s voice filled the Mountain-Hall of Altun.”
This climactic moment represents Nesryn fully embracing her heritage and sharing her culture with the rukhin, symbolizing the merging of her dual identities.