Chapter 23

Rand brings the group by Portal Stone to Chaendaer above Rhuidean, nearly collapsing from the strain despite an angreal. Moiraine partially Heals him and rebukes his risk. Two Aiel camps watch tensely as four Wise Ones arrive, declaring the peace of Rhuidean. Rhuarc greets Amys; Heirn’s presence hints at protection from hostile Shaido led by the volatile Couladin.

Before the Wise Ones, Rand formally asks entry to Rhuidean “by right of blood,” and is granted permission despite Couladin’s fury. Startlingly, the Wise Ones reveal that Rand’s father was Aiel. When Mat also asks entry, Couladin attacks, but Amys and Melaine, revealed as channelers, throw him back with Air. After debate over changing times, the Wise Ones allow Mat to accompany Rand. Both men surrender all weapons and begin the long descent on foot.

The Wise Ones then turn to Aviendha, declaring her time as a Maiden ended; she must become a Wise One. Despite protest, Aviendha yields her weapons and clothing, and is told to enter Rhuidean’s three rings to see her possible futures. She runs after Rand and Mat. Egwene, Moiraine, and Lan are welcomed to water and shade; Lan is sent away as the women speak.

Inside the tent, the Wise Ones explain ji’e’toh and gai’shain, and discuss dreamwalking limits and uncertainties. They admit their Dreams showed only possibilities: Rand’s survival requires coming here; Moiraine’s presence and Lan’s matter; and Moiraine must go through the rings. Moiraine strips and runs toward Rhuidean to the rings, forbidding Lan to follow.

Egwene asks to learn Dreaming. The Wise Ones postpone in-depth instruction until night but begin with strict rules: she must obey, avoid Tel’aran’rhiod until permitted, and learn fundamentals. Bair outlines dangers of the World of Dreams — injuries are real, death is death, and entering too completely risks losing the body — as Egwene commits to training while others face Rhuidean’s trials.