Chapter 36

Juin guides the group through Stedding Tsofu as Loial grows anxious under the attention of Ogier women. Inside a great Ogier hall, the Elders, led by Alar, weigh Verin’s urgent request to use the Waygate. To show the danger, they present Trayal, an Ogier who returned from the Ways a living shell; Verin confirms he is “empty.”

Despite the warning, Alar agrees due to the Horn’s peril, but she extracts from Rand a vow to look after Loial and return him safely to Stedding Shangtai. Outside, light banter over Erith’s gift to Loial momentarily recalls simpler times, then Alar leads them to the Waygate beyond the stedding’s boundary.

Verin opens the Waygate, and Rand sees absolute blackness within. Recognizing Machin Shin, he shouts for it to be closed. The Black Wind does not emerge, but its presence forces them to abandon this route. Ingtar, frustrated, considers returning to Cairhien for answers, while Rand insists Fain and the Horn are bound for Toman Head.

Seeking alternatives, Hurin suggests Portal Stones to shorten the journey. Verin admits knowledge of their use, while Rand reluctantly agrees he can find the Stone they used before—driven by Mat’s worsening condition and the need to recover the Horn and dagger, yet fearing to channel. Alar then reveals a Portal Stone stands nearby, sparing them the delay.

With the Ways deemed lost to the Shadow and time pressing, Verin orders they go to the Stone immediately. The company shifts its pursuit strategy, and Rand’s promise to protect Loial underscores the personal stakes as they aim to reach Toman Head by the Stone.