Kvothe continues to research the Amyr while waiting for the admissions lottery, frustrated with the lack of information. He speculates that the Amur destroyed information about themselves during and after their disbandment. Wilem and Simmon have varying levels of belief in this theory.

Master Elxa Dal stops Kvothe in the courtyard and they share lunch in a tavern. After asking Kvothe what he thinks about his future, Dal makes vague suggestions about taking a break and shares a story in which academic knowledge loses out to practical knowledge. Later, Kvothe’s friends explain that Dal was suggesting he take a semester off classes entirely. Kvothe sees the wisdom after they explain that the University is outraged at the attention his trial brought.

While struggling to find direction for his semester off, Kvothe runs into Threpe, who shows him part of a letter from Maer Alveron. The man, essentially the king of Vintas in all but title, needs a performer with a gift with words. Kvothe decides to leave the next day, and Threpe composes his letter of introduction. Kvothe tends to some final business and bids his farewells, running into Elodin as he leaves town. Elodin advises him to seek the name of the wind as Kvothe departs.