Chapter 35

In Tel'aran'rhiod’s Heart of the Stone, Egwene meets Elayne, who experiments with Sea Folk garb. They exchange news: Egwene recounts Rand’s emergence from Rhuidean, his dragon marks, the summons to Alcair Dal, and Aiel channeling among Wise Ones. Elayne reveals the Windfinder Jorin and other Sea Folk can channel, begs secrecy from the Tower, and says Wavedancer is speeding toward Tanchico with Nynaeve, Thom, and Juilin. The Sea Folk believe Rand is their Coramoor.

Elayne worries over letters she left Rand and Berelain’s proximity, but before Egwene can answer, she is violently yanked from the dream. She awakens to Amys, who delivers a terrifying “sharp lesson,” blocking Egwene from the Source and forcing her to confront the danger of entering Tel’aran’rhiod alone. Shaken, Egwene yields, accepts Amys’s terms, and agrees to childlike braids until she proves she keeps her word. Amys agrees to accompany future meetings.

Amys brings Egwene, blanket-clad, to a sweat tent where Moiraine, Aviendha, and the Wise Ones wait. They debate how to ensure Rand survives and the Aiel endure his coming. Rhuarc provides guards, but the Wise Ones insist Rand needs guidance to avoid missteps that could alienate clans. They also need forewarning of his plans to protect their people and fulfill prophecy.

Bair assigns Aviendha to remain at Rand’s side from waking to sleep, to listen and report. Aviendha angrily refuses, then admits she hates Rand; under firm pressure, and after Egwene appeals to her nearsister bond and Elayne’s interest, Aviendha relents, claiming she will do it “for Elayne.” The council resolves to summon a gathering at Alcair Dal. In the steam’s quiet, Moiraine, fresh from Rhuidean, speaks icily of fading visions and her absolute commitment to readying Rand for the Last Battle, above all else.