Prince Nikolas

Prince Nikolas is presented through a report of Rose Melhorn’s arrival at the Palace of Glas, where his threat to kill her unless she cures his headaches turns a welcome into a dangerous test of her abilities and of the law protecting Curse-Breakers.

Appearance at the Palace of Glas

The account places Prince Nikolas at the Palace of Glas, which is buried in ice and snow. Queen Iskyla of Iss sits at his right hand. The scene gives him no further background or description, but establishes his position within the palace’s courtly setting.

Threat to Rose Melhorn

Prince Nikolas threatens Rose Melhorn with death unless she cures his headaches. The report contrasts this reception with the more congenial welcome another Curse-Breaker received, marking Rose’s arrival as unusually hostile. Although harming a Curse-Breaker is illegal, the narrator allows that Prince Nikolas may not know the law. Rose has Dust Boots, and her temperament is judged well suited to the problem; the account also expresses concern for her and offers to send help if she needs it. No cure or later consequence of the threat is given.