Ranking the Power of Every Fae Court in Pyrthian from A Court of Thorns & Roses

A Court of Thorns and Roses invites readers into the enchanting world of Prythian and its various Fae courts. While several courts have been highlighted throughout the series, the inner workings of all but the Night Court remain largely enigmatic, with one fallen court shrouded in mystery. Each court possesses unique characteristics and magical abilities shaped by its High Lord and the distinct nature of its inhabitants. It is important to remember that the term “weak”is relative in this universe, as each court exhibits its own strengths. Underestimating any of Prythian’s courts would be a significant error.

While the courts are influenced by their rulers, their political dynamics and internal conflicts form a complex web. Author Sarah J. Maas has focused primarily on certain courts, though the upcoming A Court of Thorns and Roses book six may provide greater insights. Nonetheless, we have enough understanding to discern which courts are stable, which have weaknesses, and which are destabilizing from within. Ultimately, the health of Prythian hinges on the unity among its courts, rather than their divisions.

Solar Court	High Lord	High Lord Age
Dusk Court	N/A	N/A
Dawn Court	Thesan	No more than 500 years
Day Court	Helion Spell-Cleaver	500+ years
Night Court	Rhysand & Feyre	538 years & 22 years
Seasonal Court	High Lord	High Lord Age
Spring Court	Tamlin	510 years
Summer Court	Tarquin	82 years
Autumn Court	Beron Vanserra	500+ (unknown, but he is the oldest High Lord)
Winter Court	Kallias	No more than 500 years

8 Dusk Court

Current Ruler: N/A

ACOTAR COVER_ART (7) — Custom image by Marisa Pangaro

The Dusk Court, once a part of Prythian, is now a mere whisper of history, often spoken of in myths. Its existence is confirmed, yet the reasons for its disappearance remain a puzzle, an intriguing fact given the detailed chronicles maintained by the Fae. Given their long lifespans, there should be records of the Dusk Court and its fate. Nevertheless, Maas remains known for sacrificing continuity to create suspense around a forthcoming revelation.

In light of events in A Court of Silver Flames, the narrative surrounding the Fae held captive within the mountain is anticipated to play a significant role in the next installment of the ACOTAR series.

The prevailing theory about the Dusk Court’s fate is compelling: it is believed to be linked to the Prison island. The voices that Nesta discerns and the images she perceives of individuals trapped in the mountain may in fact belong to the lost inhabitants of the Dusk Court. Speculation suggests Elain may be the key to its liberation in future books, yet the mystery of this court continues to linger.

7 Spring Court

Current Ruler: Tamlin

Fan art of Tamlin from A Court of Thorns & Roses — Art by morgana0anagrom

Had this assessment been compiled after the first book or during part of A Court of Mist and Fury, it’s plausible that the Spring Court would have secured a higher position in the rankings. At that time, Tamlin was recognized as a formidable High Lord, particularly in his beast form, with a loyal cadre of supporters like Lucien bolstering his strength. Given its proximity to human lands, the Spring Court maintained a significant military presence, essential for its defenses. Tamlin’s renowned power in his beastial form set a high standard for physical prowess among his peers.

However, Tamlin’s emotional breakdown revealed that the Spring Court’s resilience was limited to his own strength. While all High Fae courts require strong leadership, Tamlin failed to realize that true strength is derived from nurturing alliances. With his downfall, the court experienced chaos, lacking the support necessary to sustain it. Even the anticipated redemption arc may not restore the Spring Court to its former glory.

6 Dawn Court

Current Ruler: Thesan

Fan art of Thesan in ACOTAR by morgana0anagrom

The Dawn Court possesses considerable potential due to its areas of specialization, yet it ranks lower on this list because much remains unknown about its intricacies. Thesan, the High Lord, is relatively mysterious; while Rhysand regards him as an essential ally in the ongoing struggle against Hybern, details about Thesan himself and his remarkable healing abilities are scarce.

However, the Dawn Court proudly boasts a skilled legion of winged Fae called the Peregryn, led by Thesan’s partner. Although their strength may not equal that of the Illyrians, they are formidable allies in battle. A notable attribute of the Dawn Court is its reputation for intelligence and innovation, excelling in arts, science, and engineering. The Dow Court’s creation of the antidote for Hybern’s deadly faebane poison underscores its ingenuity and critical role in Prythian’s safety.

5 Autumn Court

Ruler: Beron Vanserra

Superficially, the Autumn Court commands respect and fear across Prythian. High Lord Beron Vanserra enforces a strict, oppressive rule, ensuring absolute loyalty among his subjects. Anyone who dares to oppose him faces severe punishment, including the horrific Blood Duel. Even among his family, namely his sons like Lucien, Beron’s authoritarian nature is evident. His stronghold, the Forest House, is fortified and heavily patrolled by a highly organized and fearsome guard unit.

However, Beron may be unaware of the brewing dissent within his court. His power dynamics are shifting, particularly with his son Eris secretly collaborating with Rhysand and the Night Court. With these internal conflicts and the hidden lineage of Lucien, the fragility of the Autumn Court is more significant than Beron may anticipate. His fate by the series’ conclusion looms uncertain, but it’s clear that an inevitable clash awaits.

4 Summer Court

Ruler: Tarquin

Fan art of Tarquin in ACOTAR by morgana0anagrom

Tarquin embodies the spirit of a promising young leader; however, his youth and inexperience have already led to setbacks, such as the betrayal by Feyre and Rhys which left his court vulnerable. The Fae High Lords thrive on gossip, and the news of such a breach surely undermined his authority, exacerbating his ongoing struggles as an emerging ruler.

Despite past challenges, the Summer Court has demonstrated fierce independence, especially during Hybern’s invasion. Tarquin’s vision and bravery show immense potential for future growth. He dreams of reforming the outdated traditions of the Fae and carving a fresh path for his people. The Summer Court’s naval capabilities, combined with Tarquin’s aspirations, position it for greatness in time, possibly rivaling even the Night Court.

3 Winter Court

Ruler: Kallias (and Viviane if she has her way)

As the northernmost court in Prythian, the Winter Court has developed resilience amid harsh climates. High Lord Kallias, though typically reserved, is cunning and deeply committed to his people. His love for Viviane speaks volumes of his character, and their partnership is a testament to the strength and power they embody together, making them one of Prythian’s strongest pairs.

Additionally, the Winter Court benefits from the unique presence of polar bears, which act as sentinels in times of conflict. Nevertheless, the court’s ranking is hampered by its mysterious internal affairs. While Kallias’s and Viviane’s relationship adds depth, their court’s overall power dynamics and capabilities remain largely undiscovered. Yet with such rulers in place, the Winter Court holds promise for the future.

2 Day Court

Ruler: Helion Spell-Cleaver

Fan art of Helion from acotar — Art by morgana0anagrom

The respect that Helion commands among his fellow High Lords is noteworthy. His character serves as a powerful counterpart to Rhysand, forming the critical balance within Prythian. His charming bravado masks a significant reserve of strength and shrewd capabilities. While many High Lords share basic abilities, Helion stands out with a diverse skill set, including healing, telepathy, and manipulation of light.

The Day Court is also recognized for its wealth of knowledge and innovation, filled with the minds that drive Prythian’s progress. Should Lucien, Helion’s son, step into leadership, there’s potential for the Day Court to become a nexus of power, possibly rivaling even the Night Court.

1 Night Court

Ruler: Rhysand and Feyre Archeron

Unsurprisingly, the Night Court claims the top position as the most powerful and influential of all Prythian courts. Rhysand, as the High Lord, is unmatched in strength, with capabilities that have historically allowed him to defeat entire armies with ease.

The Night Court’s dominance further stems from its formidable Inner Circle. Azriel, the spymaster, excels at intelligence gathering, ensuring that Rhysand has access to crucial information. Cassian leads the Illyrian forces with unparalleled skill, and Nesta has reinvigorated the Valkyrie corps. Additionally, Morrigan is steeped in mystery, possibly linked to divine elements of war and fate, while Amren’s ancient power instills fear into the hearts of many. Together, this team forms a comprehensive strategy without exposing any significant vulnerabilities. In A Court of Thorns and Roses, the Night Court is unparalleled in strength, unity, and effectiveness.

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