Contents
23 Wolfbrother
Overview
Perrin awakens alone on the east bank of the Arinelle, then tracks and reunites with Egwene and Bela. After weighing dangers, Perrin proposes traveling overland to Caemlyn instead of waiting or heading to Whitebridge. They agree to meet Moiraine there if possible, with Tar Valon as a fallback.
Summary
Perrin wakes hidden under cedar branches on the east bank of the Arinelle, cold, hungry, and alone. After assessing the quiet river and scant cover, he decides time is best spent searching downriver for Egwene, reasoning she would have crossed below his point.
Moving cautiously between sparse copses, Perrin discovers a horseshoe print bearing Master Luhhan’s double crossbar. Following the faint trail, he pushes into a dense stand of trees and finds Egwene and Bela sheltering by a small fire. Relieved, they share dry bread and cheese salvaged from Egwene’s saddlebags.
They discuss their companions’ fates and the risks of waiting versus moving. Perrin argues that hoping for rescue is not a plan and that Whitebridge will be watched by Fades and Trollocs. Acknowledging their need for Moiraine but wary of enemies, Perrin suggests an unexpected route: go overland to Caemlyn and wait for the others there.
Egwene, surprised to defer to Perrin’s lead, agrees that villages along the way can guide them. Perrin adds a contingency: if Moiraine does not find them in Caemlyn within a few days, they will continue to Tar Valon and appeal to the Amyrlin Seat. With supplies limited and Perrin still wet, they nonetheless douse the fire and set out.
Who Appears
- Perrin AybaraWakes alone, tracks Bela’s hoofprints, reunites with Egwene, and decides they should head overland to Caemlyn.
- Egwene al'VereSurvives by clinging to Bela, shares food, debates plans, and agrees to Perrin’s proposal to go to Caemlyn.
- BelaSturdy mare who towed Egwene across the river; provides transport and supplies.