Importance of The Water Wraith's Tithe

Tamlin requires a monthly tithe from each person in his realm. At one point, Fayre gives a water wraith the money to pay her tithes. From Fayre's point of view, the tithe is unfair and symbolizes Tamlin's greed as he exerts his power over those who cannot really afford to pay. Tamlin is furious and says that Fayre's actions have undermined his authority. To the wraith, the gift symbolizes a debt that must be repaid, and they do repay it by saving Fayre when she almost drowns.