Tower of Dawn
Chapter Twenty-Eight
by Maas, Sarah J.In Chapter Twenty-Eight of *Tower of Dawn*, Yrene and Chaol face a tense situation after an unseen assailant threatens Yrene outside their suite. Recognizing the danger, Yrene summons Prince Kashin, who arrives swiftly and organizes a thorough security detail to protect them. Chaol, confined to his wheelchair, reflects on his limited ability to defend Yrene, calculating that his best option would be to throw his weapons to buy her time. The chapter highlights his internal struggle with helplessness and his determination to prioritize Yrene’s safety over his own.
The encounter reveals the looming threat of Morath, as the assailant is suspected to be a Valg agent. Yrene maintains remarkable composure while recounting the incident to Kashin, though she omits her suspicions about the attacker’s motives. Kashin, furious and protective, orders a heavy guard presence around the suite and the palace. His concern for Yrene is evident, but she surprises both men by insisting she feels safer staying with Chaol, despite his physical limitations. This moment underscores the growing trust between Yrene and Chaol.
Kashin’s departure leaves Chaol and Yrene alone, where their unspoken bond becomes more apparent. Yrene’s decision to stay with Chaol rather than return to the Torre under guard speaks volumes about their evolving relationship. Chaol, though touched by her trust, remains vigilant, knowing the Valg’s capabilities firsthand. The tension lingers as they prepare for a sleepless night, with Chaol refusing to leave his chair and Yrene reluctantly settling into the bed, still shaken by the ordeal.
The chapter closes with a poignant exchange as Yrene asks Chaol about the experience of killing someone, revealing her inner turmoil. Chaol admits his own inexperience with killing, hinting at his unresolved trauma. This moment of vulnerability between them deepens their connection, setting the stage for further emotional and physical challenges as they navigate the threats surrounding them. The chapter masterfully blends suspense, character development, and the fragile beginnings of trust in the face of danger.
FAQs
1. How does the chapter illustrate the relationship dynamics between Chaol, Yrene, and Prince Kashin?
Answer:
The chapter reveals complex relationship dynamics between the three characters. Yrene instinctively seeks Chaol’s protection despite his physical limitations, showing deep trust (“I feel safer here”). Kashin displays clear concern for Yrene and subtle rivalry with Chaol, evident when his gaze hardens with “disappointment and warning” toward Chaol. Chaol himself observes Kashin’s qualities objectively, noting he’s “gallant and dedicated,” while also feeling protective of Yrene. The silent communication between Chaol and Yrene when explaining the attack to Kashin demonstrates their growing默契, contrasting with Yrene’s dismissive nod to Kashin later.2. What does the chapter reveal about Chaol’s psychological state and personal growth?
Answer:
Chaol shows significant psychological complexity in this chapter. Despite his physical limitations, he immediately strategizes how to protect Yrene, calculating that “a well-timed throw of his dagger and sword might save them,” showing his adaptive thinking. His self-deprecating thought about being “as good as carrion” in the chair reveals lingering insecurity, yet his primary concern remains Yrene’s safety. The chapter also shows him processing multiple emotional burdens - Nesryn’s letter, Shen’s revelation, and now Yrene’s attack. His admission about being “new to” killing when asked by Yrene demonstrates uncharacteristic vulnerability, marking growth from his typically guarded nature.3. How does the author build tension and suspense throughout the chapter?
Answer:
The author builds tension through multiple techniques. The immediate threat is established through the barred door and Yrene’s panic, with lingering uncertainty about the attacker’s identity (“Male or female. Just one of them”). Physical details like the “cracked door to Chaol’s bedroom” create visual unease. Kashin’s extensive security measures (placing guards at multiple locations) heightens the sense of ongoing danger. Chaol’s vigilance (“He’d seen what one Valg could do against multiple men”) and decision to stay awake all night maintain suspense. The chapter’s tension oscillates between external threat and the characters’ internal emotional states, particularly Yrene’s barely-contained terror shown through small behaviors like her “brittle” movements.4. What thematic significance can be found in Yrene’s choice to stay with Chaol rather than accept Kashin’s protection?
Answer:
Yrene’s choice carries multiple thematic layers. It demonstrates that true safety isn’t just physical but emotional, as she finds more security in Chaol’s presence than armed guards. This challenges conventional notions of protection, especially meaningful given Chaol’s disability. Her decision also represents a rejection of traditional power structures (symbolized by the prince) in favor of a more authentic connection. The moment subtly critiques societal expectations, as Kashin’s visible disappointment shows he assumes Yrene should prefer his princely protection. Additionally, it foreshadows developing intimacy, as Yrene’s comfort with Chaol allows her to ask vulnerable questions like “What is it like—to kill someone?” that she wouldn’t ask Kashin.5. How does the chapter use physical space and movement to convey character relationships and emotions?
Answer:
Physical positioning powerfully conveys relationships. Yrene’s movement from “lingered behind Chaol’s chair” to standing “close enough that the heat of her warmed his shoulder” shows growing comfort. Chaol’s wheelchair becomes both a literal and symbolic space - he’s physically constrained yet becomes Yrene’s chosen sanctuary. The barred door represents initial separation, while its opening marks their united front against danger. Kashin’s “lingering glance” at the doorway shows his emotional exclusion. The bedroom becomes a contested space - first a place of threat (the cracked door), then transformed into shared refuge. Even small movements like Yrene’s “brittle” climbing into bed or Chaol monitoring guards through garden doors reveal their psychological states through physicality.
Quotes
1. “He hadn’t cared—not really. Not about what it meant for him. But about how much time that throw might buy her.”
This quote reveals Chaol’s selfless nature and his willingness to sacrifice himself for Yrene’s safety, even in his disabled state. It highlights the depth of his protective instincts and sets the tone for their evolving relationship.
2. “With him. She felt safer here with him.”
A pivotal moment showing Yrene’s unexpected trust in Chaol despite his physical limitations. This simple statement carries significant emotional weight, contrasting with Kashin’s armed protection offer and demonstrating their growing bond.
3. “Chaol knew it wasn’t for Yrene alone. Knew that the prince had good reason to join the hunt, that there was likely still a white banner hanging from his windows.”
This insight into Kashin’s motivations adds political depth to the scene, suggesting larger conflicts at play beyond the immediate threat. It shows Chaol’s perceptiveness about court dynamics while maintaining tension about unseen dangers.
4. “What is it like—to kill someone?”
This abrupt, vulnerable question from Yrene marks a turning point in their interaction, shifting from physical danger to psychological aftermath. It reveals her shaken state and foreshadows deeper conversations about violence and its consequences.
5. “He’d seen what one Valg could do against multiple men. He’d seen Aelin move, one assassin through a field of men. And cut them down in heartbeats.”
This quote effectively conveys the persistent threat they face and Chaol’s traumatic past experiences. It explains his vigilance while subtly referencing key events from the larger series narrative.