Queen of Shadows

The amethyst ring Chaol gifted Celaena Sardothien during the competition for the King’s Champion in Throne of Glass symbolizes their romantic relationship. When Aelin returns from Wendlyn in Queen of Shadows, Chaol looks “to the empty finger where his amethyst ring had once been” (43). Aelin no longer wears the ring, despite her parting words to him on the docks several months ago, which suggested they’d continue their romance when she returned. Aelin has changed in the months she’s been away. In reclaiming her old identity, she has shed the persona of Celaena Sardothien—the assassin Chaol fell in love with. In keeping with this transformation, the ring has become dented and scratched, showing the wear and tear that has destroyed the formerly beautiful romance.

In turn, Aelin’s empty ring finger is indicative of the murderer Chaol believes Aelin has become: Its “skin was soaked with the blood that had seeped in through the fabric” (43). Chaol’s code of honor and integrity can’t accept the blood on Aelin’s hands. He distrusts her now that he knows that Celaena was a put-on persona, fearing her magic and her ruthlessness. When Aelin returns the ring to Chaol, he decides to pawn it, which signifies that its value is now purely monetary rather than sentimental.