Sacrifice for the Greater Good

Sacrificing one's needs and desires for a higher purpose is a continuing theme in this novel, as Fitz continually obeys the commands of his King, sacrificing his love for Molly and his desire for a peaceful life. Verity gives the ultimate sacrifice by merging with a dragon to save his people from the Red Ships.

Queen Kettricken was raised with the concept of sacrificing as the greatest duty a royal person has with regard to their people. This theme is repeated throughout every character in different ways. Fitz rails against his duty to sacrifice his purpose to Verity's needs, but he does follow the commands to the letter, no matter how he would rather be hunting with Nighteyes.

Nighteyes continually forgoes his own safety for that of the pack, the Fool surrenders himself to the destiny of the White Prophet and the Catalyst. Regal...