Tower of Dawn
Chapter Thirty-Three
by Maas, Sarah J.Nesryn and Sartaq approach the Watchtower of Eidolon, a crumbling structure nestled among mist-covered pines and overshadowed by the imposing Dagul Fells. The tower, once a vantage point for spotting threats from the mountains, now stands in ruins. As they fly closer on Kadara, Sartaq explains the significance of the Fells, marking the territory of the kharankui. Nesryn observes the barren, lifeless slopes, marveling at the idea of Houlun flying over such treacherous terrain. Their banter lightens the mood, though the gravity of their mission lingers beneath the surface.
The pair had departed in secrecy, armed and prepared for potential danger despite planning to return by sunset. Borte, though irritated at being excluded, braided Nesryn’s hair tightly—a practical gesture for their flight. Kadara circles the watchtower, revealing no signs of life or the rumored library. The ruins, weathered and broken, suggest a long-abandoned past. Sartaq directs Kadara to land nearby, trusting the tower’s unstable walls too little to support the ruk. The whistling communication system of the rukhin is highlighted, emphasizing their preparedness for emergencies.
As they ascend toward the tower, Sartaq’s tracking skills reassure Nesryn of their safety, though the looming Fells remain unnerving. The chilly air and scattered stone blocks hint at the harsh conditions that may have driven the tower’s occupants away. Upon reaching the archway, they discover weathered owl statues—symbols of Silba—flanking the entrance. Sartaq urges haste, sensing the need to avoid lingering. Nesryn, ever vigilant, takes up her rearguard position, scanning the forest for threats before following him inside.
Inside the tower, the ruins are exposed to the sky, with a crumbling staircase and archer slits hinting at its former purpose. Nesryn’s trained eye assesses the space for exits and dangers, but the structure offers little of note. When Sartaq moves toward a dark stairwell, she stops him, wary of unseen threats. Their dynamic—her caution balancing his boldness—underscores the tension of their mission as they stand on the brink of uncovering whatever secrets the watchtower holds.
FAQs
1. What is the significance of the Watchtower of Eidolon’s location, and how does its setting contribute to the atmosphere of the chapter?
Answer:
The Watchtower of Eidolon is situated atop a low-lying peak overlooking the Dagul Fells, a barren and foreboding mountain range that marks the territory of the kharankui. This isolated and mist-shrouded location, surrounded by pine forests and crumbling ruins, creates a tense and eerie atmosphere. The tower’s proximity to the Fells—described as a “wall of hard stone” and “a tidal wave of lethal glass” in Nesryn’s imagination—heightens the sense of danger and mystery. The cold, desolate environment, even in summer, reinforces the tower’s abandonment and the potential threats lurking nearby, setting the stage for the characters’ exploration.2. How does the relationship between Nesryn and Sartaq evolve in this chapter, and what details reveal their growing camaraderie?
Answer:
Nesryn and Sartaq’s relationship shows signs of deepening trust and camaraderie in this chapter. Their playful banter about Borte’s scolding and Nesryn’s joking remark about Sartaq’s “limp” reveal a comfort with each other. Physical closeness is also noted when Sartaq leans into Nesryn during their flight, and Borte’s act of braiding Nesryn’s hair—a gesture of kinship—further ties them to the rukhin culture. Their shared secrecy about the mission and mutual preparedness (bringing supplies and weapons) demonstrate their alignment as partners. These small but meaningful interactions highlight their developing bond beyond mere allies.3. Analyze the symbolic importance of the owl statues at the tower’s entrance. How might they connect to broader themes or lore in the story?
Answer:
The weathered owl statues flanking the tower’s archway symbolize Silba, the goddess associated with the Torre, suggesting a historical or spiritual connection between the watchtower and the healing traditions of the Torre. Owls often represent wisdom or vigilance, which aligns with the tower’s original purpose as a lookout post. Their presence hints at a deeper lore—perhaps the Fae who once occupied the tower shared ties with Silba’s followers. This detail could foreshadow future revelations about the kharankui, the Fae, or the tower’s role in the world’s history, adding layers to the narrative’s mythological framework.4. What strategic considerations do Nesryn and Sartaq demonstrate during their approach to the tower, and what does this reveal about their characters?
Answer:
Nesryn and Sartaq exhibit caution and tactical awareness throughout their approach. Sartaq scans for signs of kharankui activity (noting the absence of webs) and chooses a safe landing spot for Kadara, while Nesryn acts as rearguard, mirroring her training from Rifthold’s sewers. Their silent communication (Sartaq’s finger to his lips) and Nesryn’s quick intervention to stop him from descending the dark stairwell show their complementary skills: his knowledge of the terrain and her vigilance. Bringing supplies despite a short planned trip underscores Nesryn’s practicality, while Sartaq’s familiarity with rukhin whistles highlights his cultural expertise. Together, they balance preparedness and adaptability.5. How does the chapter use sensory details and imagery to immerse the reader in the setting? Provide specific examples.
Answer:
The chapter employs vivid sensory descriptions to create an immersive atmosphere. Visual imagery dominates, such as the tower “jutting up from the mist-shrouded pines like the shard of a broken sword” and the Fells’ “barren slopes of boulders and shards of rock.” Tactile details like the “chilly” shade under the trees and the “tight, elegant plait” of Nesryn’s hair ground the reader in physical sensations. Auditory elements are sparse but deliberate—the silence of the forest and the implied sound of whistling arrows deepen the tension. Nesryn’s fleeting vision of “lethal glass” adds a surreal, almost hallucinatory quality, blending danger with the uncanny. These details collectively paint a stark, haunting landscape.
Quotes
1. “The Watchtower of Eidolon jutted up from the mist-shrouded pines like the shard of a broken sword.”
This opening line vividly sets the scene with striking imagery, establishing the ancient, foreboding atmosphere of the watchtower that serves as the chapter’s central location.
2. ““There,” Sartaq whispered, as if fearful that any might hear while he pointed toward the enormous mountains lurking beyond. “Over that lip, that is the start of kharankui territory, the Dagul Fells.””
This whispered revelation introduces the dangerous territory beyond the watchtower, creating tension and foreshadowing potential threats while establishing the geographical stakes of their mission.
3. ““I don’t blame them for abandoning it if it’s this cold in the summer,” Nesryn muttered. “Imagine it in winter.””
This moment of levity between the characters provides insight into their relationship dynamic while subtly emphasizing the harsh conditions of their environment.
4. “She turned a heartbeat later, assessing efficiently, as she had always done, even before her training: marking exits, pitfalls, possible sanctuaries.”
This passage reveals Nesryn’s professional instincts and survival mindset, showcasing her character development and the constant danger they face in their exploration.
5. “Sartaq approached, his long knife gleaming like quicksilver in the watery light as he studied the statues. ‘Ruks?’ The question was a mere breath.”
This tense moment captures the careful, guarded approach the characters must maintain while investigating the mysterious tower, with the quicksilver knife imagery heightening the sense of danger.